Cicely Tyson  (December 19, 1924 – January 28, 2021) was an American  actress  and  fashion model . In a career spanning more than seven decades, she became known for her portrayal of strong  African-American women . [3] [4]  Tyson was the recipient of three  Primetime Emmy Awards , four  Black Reel Awards , one  Screen Actors Guild Award , one  Tony Award , an  honorary Academy Award , and a  Peabody Award .