The career of Dana Elaine Owens, known globally as Queen Latifah, is a masterclass in entertainment longevity. From pioneering hip-hop to earning an Academy Award nomination, her film and television portfolio is one of the most versatile in Hollywood. As of late 2025, her career continues to evolve with exciting new film projects and a major update on her long-running, hit TV series that has fans buzzing about a potential comeback.
This deep dive explores the latest developments in her career, including her highly anticipated upcoming films, the surprising news about her current TV show, and a comprehensive look at the 25 most essential movies and TV shows that solidify her status as a true entertainment icon.
Queen Latifah: Biography and Profile
The Queen's journey from a hip-hop pioneer to a major Hollywood power player is a story of consistent reinvention. Her influence spans across music, film, and television, making her one of the most respected figures in the industry.
- Full Name: Dana Elaine Owens
- Born: March 18, 1970
- Age (as of 2025): 55
- Birthplace: Newark, New Jersey, U.S.
- Professions: Rapper, Songwriter, Actress, Film Producer, Television Producer, Talk Show Host.
- Career Milestones: First female hip-hop artist to be nominated for an Academy Award. She is a recipient of a Golden Globe Award, a Grammy Award, and a Primetime Emmy Award.
- Notable Roles: Khadijah James in Living Single, Matron "Mama" Morton in Chicago, Robyn McCall in The Equalizer, and Motormouth Maybelle in Hairspray.
The Latest Buzz: Queen Latifah's 2025-2027 Movies and TV Status
The current chapter of Queen Latifah’s career is defined by a mix of high-profile sequels, executive-produced projects, and the surprising cancellation of her most recent hit television series.
The Shocking Status of The Equalizer (Robyn McCall)
The biggest news in her recent television career is the status of the CBS crime drama, The Equalizer. The series, which saw Latifah take on the iconic role of vigilante Robyn McCall, was a ratings success, running for five seasons.
In May 2025, the show was officially cancelled by CBS. However, the story might not be over. Reports indicate that Queen Latifah agreed to concessions regarding the show’s budget and production costs, which could potentially increase the odds of the series finding a new home or being revived in a limited capacity. Fans of the crime drama are holding out hope that Robyn McCall will make a comeback.
Upcoming Film Projects: Sequels and Biopics
Latifah’s film slate is packed with highly anticipated projects that span comedy, drama, and animation, demonstrating her continued versatility.
- Girls Trip 2 (TBA): The sequel to the 2017 smash-hit comedy is officially in development. Fans are eagerly awaiting the reunion of the 'Flossy Posse'—Latifah, Jada Pinkett Smith, Regina Hall, and Tiffany Haddish—for another hilarious adventure.
- JUST WRIGHT 2: A CHRISTMAS FULL COURT MIRACLE (2025): A sequel to the beloved 2010 romantic comedy Just Wright is slated for a 2025 release, bringing her back to the world of holiday romance and basketball.
- King of the South (TBA/2025): Latifah is set to star in this eagerly awaited biographical film about the life and legacy of iconic hip-hop mogul Master P. This role is expected to be a major dramatic turn.
- Ice Age: Boiling Point (2027): She will reprise her long-running voice role as Ellie, the woolly mammoth, in the next installment of the popular animated franchise.
- Untitled Queen Latifah Biopic: Will Smith’s Westbrook Studios is reportedly working on a biopic about Queen Latifah’s own life story, which she will executive produce. This project underscores her incredible impact on music and film.
25 Essential Queen Latifah Movies and TV Shows for Topical Authority
To truly understand the depth of Queen Latifah’s career, one must look at the breadth of her filmography. This list highlights the 25 most essential and memorable roles, covering everything from her breakout TV sitcom to her Oscar-nominated performance.
The Groundbreaking and Critically Acclaimed Roles
These projects represent the apex of her dramatic and musical career, earning her major awards and nominations.
- Chicago (2002): Latifah earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress, a Golden Globe nomination, and a SAG Award nomination for her role as Matron "Mama" Morton, the corrupt but charismatic jail warden.
- Bessie (2015): She won a Golden Globe Award and earned an Emmy nomination for her powerful portrayal of legendary blues singer Bessie Smith in this HBO film, which she also executive produced.
- Set It Off (1996): A defining role as Cleo, one of four friends who decide to rob banks. This film is considered a cult classic and a powerful action-drama.
- The Secret Life of Bees (2008): Latifah delivered a moving performance as August Boatwright in this critically acclaimed drama based on the best-selling novel.
- Living Single (1993–1998): As Khadijah James, the editor and publisher of Flavor magazine, she anchored this groundbreaking sitcom that paved the way for many female-led comedies.
The Blockbuster Comedies and Family Favorites
Latifah has a powerful track record in mainstream comedy and family entertainment, often leading box office hits.
- Last Holiday (2006): A beloved holiday classic where she plays Georgia Byrd, who decides to live life to the fullest after a terminal diagnosis.
- Girls Trip (2017): The massive box office hit that revitalized the R-rated female comedy genre, where she starred as Sasha Franklin.
- Bringing Down the House (2003): A major box office success co-starring Steve Martin, establishing her as a comedic force.
- Hairspray (2007): She brought her musical chops to the screen as the soulful Motormouth Maybelle in the film adaptation of the Broadway musical.
- Beauty Shop (2005): A successful spin-off of the Barbershop franchise, where she stars as Gina Norris.
- Taxi (2004): Co-starring with Jimmy Fallon in this action-comedy remake.
- Barbershop 2: Back in Business (2005): Reprising her role as Gina Norris.
- Just Wright (2010): A charming romantic comedy where she plays a physical therapist who falls for a basketball star.
Recent and Notable Dramas and Voice Roles
Her recent work continues to showcase her range, from streaming hits to her long-standing animated character.
- The Equalizer (2021–2025): Her starring role as Robyn McCall, a former CIA operative who helps the defenseless.
- Hustle (2022): A critically acclaimed Netflix sports drama where she played Teresa Sugerman, the wife of Adam Sandler's character.
- Ice Age: The Meltdown (2006): The first of many films where she voiced Ellie, the woolly mammoth.
- Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs (2009): Continuing her role as Ellie.
- Ice Age: Continental Drift (2012): The fourth installment in the franchise.
- Ice Age: Collision Course (2016): The fifth film, cementing her voice role legacy.
- End of the Road (2022): A Netflix action-thriller where she plays Brenda, a mother fighting for her family's survival.
- The Tiger Rising (2022): A family-friendly drama where she plays Willie May.
- The Wiz Live! (2015): Her role as the powerful and mysterious Wiz in the live television musical.
- Star (2019): A guest-starring role in the musical drama television series.
- Life Support (2007): An HBO film where she played an HIV-positive woman, earning her a Golden Globe win.
- Jungle Fever (1991): An early, uncredited role in Spike Lee's film, marking one of her first major screen appearances.
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