Hattie McDaniel was the first black performer to win an Academy Award . But , Watts added , `` McDaniel knew that 'If I reject these maid roles , [ black people ] wo n't be on the screen . ' Reporter says 2002 was a breakthrough year for black actors . In 80 years , 11 black actors have been awarded Oscars . Score: 6
Hattie McDaniel was the first black performer to win an Academy Award . Reporter says 2002 was a breakthrough year for black actors . In 80 years , 11 black actors have been awarded Oscars . Score: 6