The Best Black TV Character of All Time

Great television characters leave a mark that outlives their shows because they reflect real struggles, big ambitions, and unforgettable voices. Across decades, Black TV characters have moved stories forward, changed the industry, and inspired new creators to take risks. From groundbreaking sitcom parents to complex antiheroes, these roles shaped conversations at home and in writers’ rooms. Here are ten characters whose impact still echoes on screens and in pop culture.

Omar Little

Omar Little is a stickup man who targets drug crews in ‘The Wire’ and operates by a strict personal code. Played by Michael K. Williams, the character became a focal point for exploring street economies and community rules. His courtroom testimony and whistle theme turned into defining moments for the series. The show ran on HBO, which gave the writers room to build a layered portrait of Baltimore.

Clair Huxtable

Clair Huxtable in ‘The Cosby Show’ is an accomplished attorney and the calm center of a busy household. Phylicia Rashad brought authority and warmth to scenes about parenting, education, and career balance. The character helped normalize images of a Black professional family in primetime. The series aired on NBC and reached huge weekly audiences.

Olivia Pope

Olivia Pope leads a crisis management firm in ‘Scandal’ and navigates Washington power with a mix of strategy and speed. Kerry Washington’s performance opened doors for more Black women leads in network dramas. Storylines covered political scandal, legal maneuvering, and personal cost. The show aired on ABC and anchored a popular night of programming.

Cookie Lyon

Cookie Lyon in ‘Empire’ returns from prison ready to rebuild a music dynasty and protect her family. Taraji P. Henson shaped the character with quick wit, sharp business sense, and memorable entrances. The series used original songs to move plot and develop artists inside the story. The show aired on Fox and delivered big premiere numbers for the network.

Michonne

Michonne arrives in ‘The Walking Dead’ as a lone survivor with a katana and a guarded past. Danai Gurira developed the role from wary outsider to a respected leader and partner. Key arcs follow her search for community, her work to secure safe zones, and her choices as new threats rise. The series aired on AMC and became a flagship for genre television.

Steve Urkel

Steve Urkel from ‘Family Matters’ starts as a neighbor with a knack for inventions and awkward timing. Jaleel White’s character grew into the show’s breakout with episodes built around science projects and family mishaps. Iconic gadgets and alter egos created running gags that viewers still quote. The series aired on ABC for most of its run before moving to CBS.

Earnest “Earn” Marks

Earnest Marks in ‘Atlanta’ manages his cousin’s rap career while trying to regain stability in his own life. Donald Glover shaped the character around hustles, small wins, and surreal detours through the city. Episodes experiment with format to explore race, class, and fame from different angles. The series aired on FX and drew attention for its bold storytelling.

Khadijah James

Khadijah James runs the magazine Flavor in ‘Living Single’ and balances deadlines with friendship and love. Queen Latifah’s character anchors the apartment ensemble with business focus and a dry sense of humor. Many plots follow startup challenges, media pitches, and neighborhood ties in Brooklyn. The show aired on Fox and helped define a sitcom era.

Philip Banks

Philip Banks in ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’ is a judge who sets high expectations while supporting his nephew’s growth. James Avery gave the character moral weight in episodes about class, family, and accountability. Memorable scenes include courtroom moments and tough conversations that still circulate widely. The series aired on NBC and became a staple of after-school reruns.

Issa Dee

Issa Dee in ‘Insecure’ works in the nonprofit world and uses music and mirror raps to sort through life changes. Issa Rae’s character navigates friendships, jobs, and relationships with an eye for everyday details. The show’s curated soundtrack and location choices helped map contemporary Los Angeles. The series aired on HBO and sparked ongoing talk about representation and creative ownership.

Tell us which character you would put at number one and why in the comments.