In “Hurt Locker”, Mackie plays Sgt. J.T. Sanborn, an army officer trying to survive during the Iraq War. The film also won a Gotham Independent Film Award for Best Ensemble.
02
Gabourey Sidibe – “Precious”
Gabourey Sidibe plays Claireeece “Precious” Jones, an obese, abused Harlem teenager trying to better her life. Her breakout performance has earned her a Best Actress nomination.
03
Mo’Nique – “Precious”
Actress and comedienne Mo’Nique’s performance in “Precious” has catapulted her from B-grade sitcoms to Oscar contender.
04
Morgan Freeman – “Invictus”
Morgan Freeman’s portrayal of Nelson Mandela in “Invictus” is being called his finest to date. Freeman plays the first democratically elected president of South Africa.
05
Blair Underwood – “In Treatment”
Last year Underwood was nominated for his role in the HBO drama “In Treatment” where he played a former Navy pilot seeking treatment after killing innocent civilians in Iraq.
06
Sean “Diddy” Combs – “A Raisin in the Sun”
Diddy’s portrayal of Walter Lee in “A Raisin in the Sun” earned him rave reviews and a Golden Globe nomination for the 2008 television movie.
07
Tracy Morgan – “30 Rock”
“Tina Fey and I had an agreement that if Barack Obama won, I would speak for the show from now on,” said comedian Tracy Morgan accepting a Golden Globe for the NBC comedy. Morgan plays Tracy Jordan, an unpredictable movie star.
08
“The Princess and The Frog”
Disney’s first film about an African-American princess has been getting great reviews. It’s been nominated for a Best Animated Feature.
09
“True Blood” – Best Television Series (nomination)
Just two season in and this HBO series has a cult following, especially for characters like Lafayette (Nelsan Ellis) the first gay African-American vampire. The series earned a Best Television Series nomination.
10
“Glee” – Nominated for Best Television Series (nomination)
This Fox series about a group of singing and dancing misfits is the season’s hottest television show. It’s been nominated for a Best Television Comedy – Musical or Comedy.