Cicely Tyson is an American actress who has been in the entertainment industry for over six decades. She is best known for her roles in The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman, Sounder, and The Help. Her career began in the 1950s when she was cast in the Broadway production of The Blacks. She has won numerous awards, including three Emmy Awards, a Tony Award, and a Screen Actors Guild Lifetime Achievement Award. She was also awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2016. Tyson is also known for her role as Dr. Charlotte Beverly on the television series, 'The Cosby Show.' Her most recent role was in the 2018 film, 'A Wrinkle in Time.' Her nickname is 'Tyso, ' which is derived from her maiden name, Tyson.