This year, two black actors are nominated for Academy Awards: Viola Davis for her role in "Doubt" and Taraji P.

CNN: Black actors still face Oscar challenges

Penelope Cruz is is also nominated for "Vicky Cristina Barcelona, " and as we just mentioned, Taraji Henson and Viola Davis.

NPR: How Diverse Is 'Oscar'?

The other major performers in "Doubt" -- Amy Adams, Philip Seymour Hoffman and Viola Davis -- also were nominated in supporting categories.

CNN: 'Benjamin Button' hooks 13 Oscar nominations

Ms. Williams is nominated for best actress at the Oscars, though Viola Davis of "The Help" and Meryl Streep of "The Iron Lady" are considered the favorites.

WSJ: 'Artist' Wins Best Picture at Spirit Awards

There is Taraji, and there is also Viola Davis...

NPR: How Diverse Is 'Oscar'?

When Meryl Streep, George Clooney, Brad Pitt and Viola Davis strut down the red carpet to the Kodak Theatre for the Academy Awards ceremony on February 26, it may be for the last time.

FORBES: Kodak To Give Up Naming Rights To Oscars Venue

The people whose lives he intrudes upon treat him with great kindness, including a woman (Viola Davis) whose husband (Jeffrey Wright) is leaving her even as the boy is rattling on in her face.

NEWYORKER: Lost Love

With George Clooney, Natascha McElhone, and Viola Davis.

NEWYORKER: Solaris