Leslie Uggams, the celebrated American actress and singer, has enjoyed an extraordinary career that stretches over seven decades. She stepped into the spotlight at just six years old and quickly made history as a trailblazer in entertainment. Uggams became the first African American to hold a regular role on a variety show and later earned Emmy and Golden Globe nods for her unforgettable portrayal of Kizzy Reynolds in Roots. Her brilliance on stage also shone brightly, winning her a Tony Award for her role in Hallelujah, Baby!
Her personal life is just as inspiring. While attending the Professional Children’s School in New York, Leslie met Grahame Pratt, who would later become her husband. Even after Pratt returned to his native Australia, love reunited them, and they married in 1965—a bold step at a time when interracial marriage was still illegal in parts of the United States.
Their nearly six-decade marriage has endured prejudice and hate, including cruel letters condemning their union. Yet Leslie credits their lasting bond to laughter and a shared sense of humor, which helped them weather every storm.
Pratt himself had never dated a Black woman before Leslie, and when his mother met her, her only question was whether Leslie was Presbyterian—a lighthearted detail in their love story. Leslie admits that marrying a non-American white man made certain challenges easier, but prejudice was still very real.
Despite it all, the couple built a strong and loving family with two children, Danielle and Justice, who both followed artistic paths in theater. Now 81, Leslie continues to captivate audiences, most recently as Blind Al in Deadpool. Her remarkable career and enduring marriage remain a testament to resilience, talent, and the timeless power of love. ❤️✨
