Viola Davis Covers August 2011 Essence Magazine

Actress Viola Davis covers the August 2011 issue of Essence Magazine and according to them, she’s “Hollywood’s Best-Kept Secret.” Inside the pages journalist Lola Ogunnaike, travels to Pittsburgh to meet with Davis, where she happens to be filming a movie.

We’ve seen her on stage and on screen, big and small. She’s been nominated for an Oscar and has won two Tony Awards. From playing a maid to becoming a butterfly, Essence Magazine is able to provide a captivating spotlight on a dynamic woman, “I was — and still am — in awe of Viola Davis,” reveals Meryl Streep.

On the cover, Davis is styled by Freddie Leiba in a Lanvin gown, with Tom Binns Design Hoops, Catherine Malandrino belt, Cartier watch and bracelet, another bracelet by Melody Rogers and sandals by Edmundo Castillo.