Ellen Holly

Ellen Holly, born on August 23, 1935, was an esteemed American actor best known for her groundbreaking role on the soap opera "One Life to Live" (ABC, 1968-1987, 1993), where she portrayed the character of Carla Benari. She made history as one of the first Black actors to have a prominent role in daytime television. Holly's portrayal of Carla brought important visibility to African-American characters on the soap opera, setting the stage for more diversity in the genre. Before "One Life to Live", she appeared in various television series and films, showcasing her versatility and talent. Her career spanned decades, and she continued to act in both television and film, with notable appearances in "School Daze" (1988), "In the Heat of the Night" (CBS, 1988-1995), and "10,000 Black Men Named George" (Showtime, 2002). Holly's work also included theater, and she was highly respected for her contributions to the arts and African-American representation in Hollywood. She passed away on December 6, 2023, at the age of 88, leaving behind a legacy of inspiring roles and cultural impact.