by Tim Gordon

Inspired by Turner Classic Movies’ beloved “Summer Under the Stars” tradition, we proudly present Summer Madness, a celebration of Black brilliance on screen.

Each day throughout August, we’ll shine the spotlight on one extraordinary Black actor, honoring their achievements, their artistry, and the unforgettable films that shaped their legacy. This series is more than a viewing guide; it’s a journey through decades of cinematic history, paying tribute to the trailblazers, icons, and storytellers who transformed the screen and continue to inspire the world.

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Pam Grier

Pam Grier is the original screen goddess of Black power, beauty, and badassery. Rising to fame during the Blaxploitation era of the 1970s, she shattered the mold with bold characters who weren’t afraid to take control, fight back, and look flawless doing it.

As Coffy, Foxy Brown, and Sheba, Baby, Grier wasn’t just an action star — she was a cultural shift. She gave Black women a cinematic image of empowerment and agency that had never existed before. Decades later, Quentin Tarantino paid tribute by casting her in Jackie Brown (1997), a comeback performance that reminded the world she never really left.

With a career that spans five decades and a legacy etched into cinematic history, Pam Grier is not only a pioneer — she’s a legend.

Recommended Films:
Coffy (1973)
Foxy Brown (1974)
Sheba, Baby (1975)
Jackie Brown (1997)