Diahann Carroll was a trailblazing African American actress, singer, and model who made history in the entertainment industry. She was born on July 17, 1935, in the Bronx, New York. Carroll broke barriers as one of the first black women to star in her own television series with the show "Julia," which debuted in 1968.

Her portrayal of Julia Baker, a widowed nurse and single mother, was groundbreaking at the time for its positive and non-stereotypical representation of a black woman on television. The show was a critical and commercial success and earned Carroll a Golden Globe award for Best Actress in a Television Series.

Carroll also made history as the first African American woman to win a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical for her role in the 1962 Broadway musical "No Strings." Throughout her career, she continued to challenge stereotypes and pave the way for future generations of black performers.

In addition to her acting career, Carroll was also a talented singer and released several successful albums. She was a versatile performer who excelled in both dramatic and musical roles, and her impact on Black history and the entertainment industry is significant and enduring. Diahann Carroll passed away on October 4, 2019, but her legacy as a trailblazer and icon in Black history lives on.