Gertrude Jeannette

Career overview

Gertrude Jeannette was an actress, producer, director, playwright, and cabdriver who worked across film, television, and the stage. Born in Urbana, Arkansas, she was married to Joe Jeanette and was involved in the civil rights movement. She was believed to be the first woman to drive a taxicab in New York City. During the Red Scare, she was blacklisted along with her friend Paul Robeson. She also founded the H.A.D.L.E.Y Players in Harlem, New York City, and remained active in mentoring African-American actors in the city.

In her performing and creative career, Jeannette worked as an actress and producer, with credits on Broadway and in various films. Her notable motion picture credits include the films Nothing But a Man from 1964, Cotton Comes to Harlem from 1970, and Shaft from 1971. She also appeared in a cast that included Elizabeth Ashley as Sabina, Alfred Drake as Mr. Antrobus, Martha Scott as Mrs. Antrobus, and Gertrude Jeannette as Ivy. Jeannette passed away in Harlem, Manhattan, New York City, at the age of 103.