# Phyllis Yvonne Stickney: The Underrated Hollywood Trailblazer
Phyllis Yvonne Stickney, a name synonymous with talent and tenacity, is a Hollywood legend who deserves far more recognition than she receives. Known for iconic roles in films like *What’s Love Got to Do With It* and *New Jack City*, Stickney is not just an actress but a poet, comedian, and cultural pioneer.
Born in Little Rock, Arkansas, and raised across various places, she emerged during an era when opportunities for Black actresses were scarce. Yet, her determination carved a path that broke barriers, making her a true powerhouse.
Stickney’s career is marked by groundbreaking achievements. She was among the first African American women to perform at the New York Shakespeare Festival, showcasing her versatility with classical roles.
Her comedic prowess shone at the Juste pour Rire Comedy Festival in Montreal, where she shared the stage with legends like John Candy, introduced by Ed Begley Jr. Her stand-up at the Apollo Theater was so impactful that it contributed to the creation of *Showtime at the Apollo*. In a historic feat, she became the first woman inducted into the Apollo Theater Legends Hall of Fame, cementing her influence on entertainment.
Despite her undeniable talent, Stickney remains underappreciated in Hollywood. Her authenticity and refusal to conform to industry norms may have played a role.
Known for speaking her mind on set, she challenged the “yes people” culture of Tinseltown. Stickney has been vocal about dismantling typecasting and stereotypes for Black women, fearlessly rejecting major roles that didn’t align with her values. This boldness earned her both admiration as a trailblazer and criticism as being “too much,” yet she continues to keep Hollywood buzzing with her unapologetic stance.
Her performances often carried raw, unscripted magic, as seen in *Jungle Fever*, where director Spike Lee encouraged improvisation, leading to powerful discussions on race and relationships.
Behind the scenes, Stickney acted as her own agent, negotiating deals and navigating an industry that often pigeonholed her into motherly roles due to age bias. Rumors swirl about her losing the role of Delilah in *How Stella Got Her Groove Back* to Whoopi Goldberg, sparking curiosity about Hollywood politics.
Stickney’s personal life adds layers to her enigmatic persona. She faced self-image struggles under Hollywood’s beauty standards, feeling overlooked early on, yet transformed this into fuel for overachievement.
From candid takes on love and interracial dating to surviving a stalker, her life brims with drama akin to a thriller. Despite industry sidelining, she’s empowered the next generation through advocacy, motivational speaking, and founding a production company for women and people of color.
With a net worth of approximately $850,000, Stickney’s legacy transcends wealth. Whispers of a major comeback, fueled by recent industry sightings, hint at a Renaissance.
Phyllis Yvonne Stickney isn’t just an actress; she’s a cultural icon whose fearless authenticity and talent ensure her story will inspire for generations.