Ron Galella/Ron Galella Collection via Getty ImagesDiahann Carroll, who made history in 1968 as the first African-American woman to star in a television series in a non-stereotypical role, passed away today at 84, Variety reports.
Her daughter, Suzannne Kay, confirmed that she died from cancer.
Carroll was a trailblazer who opened the door for black women on TV by starring as the title character in the sitcom Julia, from 1968 to 1971. Julia was a widowed single mother and nurse. Previous shows had starred black characters, they were usually domestic workers.
Carroll won a Golden Globe for
