Viola Davis is one of the most important and influential actresses today, thanks to her mastery of the craft, her transcendent style choices, and her compelling speeches. Here's a look through her stunning transformation.

Davis has shared a lot of tough truths about her childhood, so it's not hard to understand how she's able to ooze such natural resilience in her work. She was born on a former plantation in Saint Matthews, South Carolina in a home that had no running water. Her mother was a maid, her father was a horse trainer, and she was the fifth of six children. The Davis clan relocated to Central Falls, Rhode Island shortly after her birth, and they suffered through extreme poverty throughout her early life.

Because of her firsthand experience with destitution, Davis has since become a vocal advocate for "Hunger Is", an organization that provides breakfast to millions of children in need. Keep watching to see how Viola Davis' Transformation Is Seriously Turning Heads!

#ViolaDavis

Growing up fast | 0:00

Inspired to shine | 1:29

Taking the stage | 2:35

Big and small screen beginnings | 3:21

Breaking out with Doubt | 4:50

Letting her hair out | 5:59

Murder in Shondaland | 6:50

Here comes the bride, again and again | 8:10

Finally nabbing that Oscar | 9:12

Bidding farewell and looking ahead | 10:14