L.A. Law alum Blair Underwood has been a Hollywood staple for over four decades. Having started his career in the 1980s, Underwood has experienced distinct phases as a Black actor. The TV and film star opened up about his early Hollywood career and meeting Oscar winner Sidney Poitier.
Many know Underwood for his memorable role as the smooth-talking Jonathan Rollins on seven seasons of L.A. Law. However, before that role, he made his Hollywood debut in the cult classic Krush Groove. While his early roles were positive examples of Black representation, the Emmy winner opened up to the Jemele Hill Is Unbothered podcast about the limited roles Black actors (outside of Denzel Washington and Eddie Murphy) were offered during the 1980s. Underwood said:
