The Forgotten First Black Child Star Who Changed Hollywood Forever

Before Hollywood had sound, before fame took the shape it holds today, there was a little boy with a smile so bright it could break barriers. His name was Ernest Fredric “Ernie” Morrison — but the world knew him as Sunshine Sammy.

At just 3 years old, he made history as the first Black child movie star, earning $10,000 a year in the 1920s—an astonishing amount, especially when most adults earned far less. His infectious smile and undeniable charm lit up the screen in Our Gang (later known as The Little Rascals), and he went on to appear in over 145 films, becoming an icon in his own right.

Sunshine Sammy wasn’t just a child star; he was a pioneer. He shared the stage with legends, entertained soldiers during WWII, and played an instrumental role in reshaping Hollywood’s landscape. Though he eventually stepped away from the spotlight and built a quiet life, his impact was far from forgotten.

In 1987, he was honored in the Black Filmmakers Hall of Fame, a well-deserved tribute to his groundbreaking career. Two years later, he passed away, but his legacy never dimmed.

 Sunshine Sammy wasn’t just an actor—he was a trailblazer. His joy, talent, and courage broke down the walls of prejudice and paved the way for future generations of Black actors and filmmakers.

 A smile that changed Hollywood forever. The world may have moved on, but his story remains a testament to the power of resilience and joy in the face of adversity.