Cicely Tyson

Cicely Tyson Profile Photo

Characters played by Cicely Tyson

Constantine Jefferson — The Help (2011)

Constantine was the Phelan family's maid and had a close, important place in Skeeter's childhood. Charlotte initially claims that she quit, but later confesses that she fired Constantine during a luncheon because of a humiliating family incident. Heartbroken, Constantine moved away and later died.

Sipsey — Fried Green Tomatoes (1991)

Sipsey is the Threadgoode family's cook and later works at the Whistle Stop Cafe with Idgie and Ruth. She secretly kills Ruth's abusive husband with a cast-iron skillet after he attempts to take his infant son, then helps conceal the crime by disposing of the vehicle.

Stephanie St. Clair — Hoodlum (1997)

Referred to as Madame Queen in the plot, she is Harlem's crime boss whose numbers operation is threatened by Schultz. Bumpy initially works for her, repels assassins, and later takes over her business. Imprisoned for gambling, she eventually rejects Bumpy's escalating violence and criminal path.

Nana Mama — Alex Cross (2012)

Alex Cross's mother, who lives with him, his pregnant wife, and their children in their suburban home. The plot summary identifies her as part of Alex's family but does not describe her involvement in the investigation or other events.

Gloria Dump — Because of Winn-Dixie (2005)

A blind, African-American recovering alcoholic who becomes a close friend and mentor to Opal. She shares life stories and shows Opal her backyard mistake tree decorated with beer bottles representing past regrets. She later co-hosts a community party with Opal.

Ola — Why Did I Get Married Too? (2010)

Porter's wife who accompanies him to the beach retreat. She is present during the accidental ash incident that lands on Angela, and joins him for dinner at Sheila's invitation, providing a brief supportive presence to the main group.

Alice — A Fall from Grace (2020)

An elderly resident at Sarah's facility who attempts to escape, alerting Jasmine to the illegal confinement of older women in the basement. Represents the victims of the syndicate's scheme.

Myrtle — Diary of a Mad Black Woman (2005)

Helen's grandmother and an elder matriarch. Represents the traditional family values and spiritual foundation that guide Helen's journey toward redemption and faith.

Myrtle — Madea's Family Reunion (2006)

Helen's mother, placed in nursing home.

Rebecca Morgan — Sounder (1972)

Resilient mother and wife who sustains her family through poverty and injustice.

Elaine — The Concorde... Airport '79 (1979)

Ground crew member handling passenger services or terminal logistics during the flight disruption.

Sweets — A Hero Ain't Nothin' But a Sandwich (1977)

Sweets, also called Raylene, is Benjie's mother and Butler's partner. She urges Butler to try to build a fatherly relationship with Benjie, though Benjie initially rejects his efforts. She and Butler struggle to communicate with Benjie and argue as the family faces his addiction; after Butler moves out, they reconcile because they love each other.

Career Overview

Cicely Tyson has 83 screen credits in a career dating back to 1944. Their work spans 5 cinematic universes — most prominently Madea Collection with 2 titles. Signature works include Because of Winn-Dixie, Fried Green Tomatoes, The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman. Explore the interactive character relationship maps on each title page to trace how their roles connect across franchises.

Personal Facts

Known For
Acting
Gender
female
Known Credits
83
Birth Date
1924-12-19
Birth Place
New York City, New York, USA

Known For

Associated Universes

Universe traveler — spans 5 universes

Frequent Collaborators

Credits

Content sources

Related entry on Wikidata (Q238081), public domain (CC0).