We’ve all got to start somewhere, right? Especially when you’re talking about trying to crack into Hollywood and get your actor and actress on. AND ESPECIALLY when you’re a black actress, where the roles are so few and far between nowadays. Before the people on this list could host their own shows, star in a megahit James Cameron film and more, they had to pay some interesting dues. Click on through and get the tidbits on their ratchet and random early roles and work in the hood that is Hollywood.

*Note: Clips of these particular film roles can be found linked next to the actor’s name. Thanks!