Black Actors Who Don’t Deserve the Hate They Get

The entertainment industry is a complex landscape where public perception can shift rapidly based on a single role or interview. Black male actors often face unique challenges ranging from typecasting and script quality to intense scrutiny from franchise fanbases. This list highlights forty talented performers who have weathered unfair criticism or disproportionate backlash throughout their careers. These men have continued to work hard and deliver memorable performances despite the negativity directed toward them.

John Boyega

Boyega became a global star after being cast as Finn in ‘Star Wars: The Force Awakens’ (2015). He faced immediate racist backlash from a toxic segment of the fanbase that objected to a Black stormtrooper. The actor later voiced his frustration with how his character was sidelined in the subsequent films of the trilogy. His willingness to speak out about his treatment by the studio sparked necessary conversations about race in Hollywood. Boyega has since proven his immense talent in critically acclaimed projects like ‘Small Axe’ (2020).

Ahmed Best

Best provided the voice and motion capture for Jar Jar Binks in ‘Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace’ (1999). Audiences and critics reacted negatively to the character and viewed him as a racial caricature. The intense vitriol directed at Best took a severe toll on his mental health and nearly ended his acting career. He was unfairly blamed for the creative decisions made by the director and writers of the film. The fandom has recently begun to embrace him after he returned to the franchise as a Jedi Master.

Tyler Perry

This filmmaker and actor built a massive empire by creating content that resonates with underserved audiences. Critics frequently pan his movies for relying on broad stereotypes and formulaic storytelling. Detractors argue that his recurring role as Madea sets back the representation of Black characters in cinema. However Perry provides consistent employment for Black actors and tells stories that Hollywood often ignores. His commercial success proves that there is a dedicated audience for his unique brand of entertainment.

Kevin Hart

Hart is one of the most commercially successful comedians in the world but often faces criticism for his ubiquity. Audiences sometimes complain that he plays the same loud and diminutive character in every film. His past comedic material has also been scrutinized and led to him stepping down from hosting duties at the Oscars. Despite the noise he continues to evolve by taking on dramatic roles in films like ‘The Upside’ (2017). His work ethic remains undeniable as he juggles acting and stand-up tours.

Jaden Smith

The son of a Hollywood legend has faced accusations of nepotism since his debut in the industry. His performance in ‘After Earth’ (2013) was panned by critics and audiences alike. People often mock his philosophical tweets and eclectic fashion choices rather than focusing on his artistic growth. Smith has quietly built a respectable resume with voice work and roles in projects like ‘The Get Down’ (2016). He continues to experiment with music and acting despite the shadow of his famous father.

Anthony Mackie

Mackie took on the mantle of Captain America and faced predictable resistance from certain corners of the internet. Some viewers argued that the character should remain white or that Mackie lacked the presence of his predecessor. The actor handled the pressure with grace and delivered a grounded performance in ‘The Falcon and the Winter Soldier’ (2021). He has worked steadily for decades in films like ‘The Hurt Locker’ (2008) before landing his Marvel role. His career trajectory shows he earned his spot in the superhero pantheon.

Steve Toussaint

Toussaint was cast as Corlys Velaryon in the hit fantasy series ‘House of the Dragon’ (2022). He became the target of racist trolling from fans who claimed Black Valyrians contradicted the source material. The actor responded to the hate by delivering one of the most commanding performances in the show. His portrayal of the Sea Snake added gravitas and complexity to the political drama of the series. The backlash highlighted the ongoing struggle for diverse representation in high fantasy settings.

Ismael Cruz Cordova

This actor played the elf Arondir in ‘The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power’ (2022). He faced a barrage of harassment from individuals who believed elves could not be people of color. Córdova revealed that his inbox was filled with hateful messages but he refused to step down. He trained extensively for the role and performed many of his own stunts to ensure authenticity. His resilience paved the way for more inclusive casting in future fantasy adaptations.

Caleb McLaughlin

McLaughlin grew up in the public eye as Lucas Sinclair on the massive hit ‘Stranger Things’ (2016). He has spoken openly about receiving less support and fewer social media followers than his white co-stars. The young actor faced racism at conventions and online from the very beginning of the show. He continued to deliver a charming and emotional performance despite feeling treated differently by the fanbase. His experience sheds light on the difficulties child actors of color face in massive franchises.

Ncuti Gatwa

Gatwa rose to fame in ‘Sex Education’ (2019) before being cast as the Fifteenth Doctor. His announcement as the lead in ‘Doctor Who’ (1963–present) drew complaints from traditionalists who opposed a Black queer actor in the role. He brings a vibrant energy and charisma that revitalizes the long-running science fiction series. The actor focuses on the joy of the character rather than the negativity found in comment sections. His casting marks a significant and positive shift for the sixty-year-old British institution.

Marlon Wayans

Wayans is often dismissed for his roles in slapstick comedies like ‘Scary Movie’ (2000). Critics argue that his humor is lowbrow and relies too heavily on shock value or gross-out gags. However he has demonstrated impressive dramatic range in films such as ‘Requiem for a Dream’ (2000). He writes and produces many of his own projects to ensure he stays employed in a competitive industry. His comedic style appeals to a specific audience that appreciates his physical commitment to the bit.

Shawn Wayans

Shawn often collaborates with his brother Marlon and faces similar criticism for their shared projects. Films like ‘White Chicks’ (2004) were initially panned by critics but have since gained a cult following. People mocked the makeup and the absurdity of the premise without appreciating the comedic timing. Shawn stepped away from the spotlight for a while but his impact on early 2000s comedy is significant. He helped create a brand of humor that defined a generation despite critical disdain.

Tyrese Gibson

Gibson is frequently mocked on social media for his emotional outbursts and personal life drama. His role as Roman Pearce in the ‘Fast & Furious’ franchise is often criticized as being too goofy or repetitive. Audiences sometimes forget his strong dramatic debut in ‘Baby Boy’ (2001). He is a multi-talented entertainer who has achieved success in both R&B music and blockbuster films. The internet often prioritizes memes over acknowledging his long tenure in the industry.

Terrence Howard

Howard has been ridiculed for his unconventional theories regarding mathematics and logic. His departure from the Marvel Cinematic Universe after ‘Iron Man’ (2008) led to years of jokes about him missing out on a massive payday. He rebuilt his career with a powerhouse performance as Lucious Lyon in ‘Empire’ (2015). Critics sometimes call his acting style overly intense or whispery. He remains a unique presence in Hollywood who commits fully to every role he takes.

Nick Cannon

Cannon receives immense hate for his large family and his hosting gigs rather than his acting. He started his career as a talented young actor in ‘Drumline’ (2002) before pivoting to television hosting. People often dismiss him as a personality without remembering his roots in sketch comedy and film. He built a media empire with ‘Wild N Out’ that launched the careers of many other comedians. The public focus on his personal choices often overshadows his business acumen and talent.

Common

This rapper turned actor is sometimes criticized for having a wooden or monotonous delivery. Films like ‘Terminator Salvation’ (2009) saw him struggle to win over audiences who preferred his music. He has since improved significantly and delivered solid performances in ‘Selma’ (2014) and ‘John Wick: Chapter 2’ (2017). Common brings a quiet intensity to his roles that works well for stoic characters. He continues to secure steady work despite the initial skepticism about his transition to acting.

50 Cent

Curtis Jackson is known for his aggressive social media presence and feuds with other celebrities. His transition to acting was met with skepticism after the film ‘Get Rich or Die Tryin’ (2005). He proved his critics wrong by creating and starring in the hit series ‘Power’ (2014). While his acting range is sometimes questioned he has a commanding screen presence that suits crime dramas. He has become a major power player in television production despite the hate he stirs up online.

Taye Diggs

Diggs was once the go-to heartthrob for Black romantic comedies in the late 90s and early 2000s. He later faced backlash from the Black community for some of his comments on race and dating preferences. Internet users often labeled him as corny or out of touch with his core audience. He maintains a steady career in television and theater including a role in ‘All American’ (2018). His early work in ‘The Best Man’ (1999) remains a beloved classic.

Cuba Gooding Jr.

Gooding Jr. won an Academy Award for ‘Jerry Maguire’ (1996) but his career subsequently faltered. He appeared in a string of critically reviled comedies like ‘Snow Dogs’ (2002) and ‘Boat Trip’ (2002). Audiences and critics were harsh on him for “wasting” his potential on silly family movies. He later reminded everyone of his talent with his portrayal of O.J. Simpson in ‘American Crime Story’ (2016). The hate he received often ignored the difficulty of finding quality roles in Hollywood.

Martin Lawrence

Lawrence is a comedy legend who faced criticism for his reliance on prosthetics and fat suits. The ‘Big Momma’s House’ franchise is often cited as an example of low-effort comedy that relies on tropes. Critics overlooked his physical comedy skills and the genuine heart he brought to the sitcom ‘Martin’ (1992). He has recently enjoyed a resurgence with the ‘Bad Boys’ sequels alongside Will Smith. His influence on modern stand-up and television comedy is undeniable.

Eddie Murphy

Murphy is an icon who faced a brutal period of criticism during the mid-2000s. Films like ‘The Adventures of Pluto Nash’ (2002) and ‘Norbit’ (2007) were mercilessly mocked and flopped at the box office. People claimed he had lost his edge and was only interested in making kid-friendly content. He roared back with a spectacular performance in ‘Dolemite Is My Name’ (2019). The hate he received during his slump ignored his decades of brilliance.

John David Washington

Washington faces constant accusations of nepotism as the son of Denzel Washington. His lead performance in ‘Tenet’ (2020) was criticized by some for being emotionally detached. Audiences often compare him unfairly to his father instead of judging him on his own merits. He has shown range in films like ‘BlacKkKlansman’ (2018) and ‘Malcolm & Marie’ (2021). Washington works hard to establish his own identity in an industry that loves to scrutinize lineage.

Justice Smith

Smith often plays anxious or nerdy characters in blockbusters like ‘Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom’ (2018). Some viewers find his character archetype annoying or repetitive across different films. He received mixed reactions for his live-action role in ‘POKÉMON Detective Pikachu’ (2019). The actor is talented and brings a relatable vulnerability to effects-heavy movies. He deserves the chance to branch out into more varied roles to show his full potential.

Ray Fisher

Fisher played Cyborg in ‘Justice League’ (2017) and later accused director Joss Whedon of misconduct. The studio and some fans tried to discredit his claims and labeled him as difficult to work with. His career stalled while he fought for accountability within the industry. The release of the ‘Zack Snyder’s Justice League’ (2021) vindicated his performance and restored his character’s arc. He took a massive professional risk to speak the truth about a toxic work environment.

Will Smith

Smith was one of the most beloved actors in the world until the incident at the 2022 Academy Awards. The slap polarized the public and led to a wave of condemnation that overshadowed his entire career. Many ignored his Best Actor win for ‘King Richard’ (2021) which occurred the same night. He has spent decades delivering blockbusters and heartfelt dramas that defined cinema for a generation. While the criticism for his actions was valid the total dismissal of his legacy was extreme.

Chris Rock

Rock is primarily known as a stand-up comic but receives criticism when he takes on serious acting roles. His performance in ‘Spiral’ (2021) was viewed by horror fans as distracting or miscast. Audiences struggle to separate his distinct speaking voice from the characters he attempts to portray. He successfully transitioned to serious acting in the fourth season of ‘Fargo’ (2020). He continues to take risks as an actor despite being pigeonholed as a comedian.

Chris Tucker

Tucker is famous for his high-pitched voice and fast-talking persona in ‘The Fifth Element’ (1997). Some viewers find his energy exhausting and his characters irritatingly loud. He famously took a long hiatus from acting which led to rumors and speculation about his career. When he returned in ‘Silver Linings Playbook’ (2012) he showed a more grounded and mature side. His comedic chemistry with Jackie Chan remains one of the best in action movie history.

Michael B. Jordan

Jordan faced racist backlash when he was cast as the Human Torch in ‘Fantastic Four’ (2015). Fans of the comic books were angry that the character was changed from white to Black. The movie itself failed but Jordan emerged unscathed to star in ‘Creed’ (2015). He also played one of the best villains in the MCU in ‘Black Panther’ (2018). He proved that talent eventually silences the initial hate over casting decisions.

Idris Elba

Elba has been a fan-favorite choice for James Bond for years but this sparked a heated debate. Detractors argued that Bond cannot be Black and attacked Elba for even entertaining the idea. The actor expressed frustration with the race-focused conversation overshadowing his actual work. He continues to lead major franchises and acclaimed series like ‘Luther’ (2010). The discourse around his casting says more about the audience than his suitability for the role.

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II

This actor played the iconic role of Morpheus in ‘The Matrix Resurrections’ (2021). Fans were upset that Laurence Fishburne did not return and directed their disappointment at Abdul-Mateen. He also starred in the ‘Candyman’ (2021) reboot which polarized horror purists. He brings a physical dominance and emotional depth to every role he inhabits. The actor is building a strong resume despite stepping into shoes that are hard to fill.

Corey Hawkins

Hawkins took over the lead role in the ’24’ spinoff titled ’24: Legacy’ (2017). He faced inevitable comparisons to Kiefer Sutherland and the show was cancelled after one season. Audiences were harsh on the reboot and often blamed the casting for its failure. Hawkins proved his talent by playing Dr. Dre in ‘Straight Outta Compton’ (2015). He is a Juilliard-trained actor who delivers consistent performances on stage and screen.

O’Shea Jackson Jr.

Jackson Jr. made his debut playing his own father Ice Cube in ‘Straight Outta Compton’ (2015). People initially dismissed him as a nepotism hire who only got the job due to his looks. He has since carved out his own path with roles in ‘Den of Thieves’ (2018) and ‘Obi-Wan Kenobi’ (2022). He brings a natural charisma and humor to his supporting roles. He has worked hard to prove he is more than just a lookalike of his famous dad.

Donald Glover

Glover faces criticism for his perceived pretentiousness and his role as Lando Calrissian in ‘Solo: A Star Wars Story’ (2018). Some fans felt his performance was an impression rather than a genuine embodiment of the character. He is also scrutinized for his interviews and his approach to the show ‘Atlanta’ (2016). He acts, writes, directs, and makes music at a high level which can alienate some viewers. His creativity pushes boundaries even if it sometimes rubs people the wrong way.

Lakeith Stanfield

Stanfield is known for his eccentric behavior on social media and strange interviews. This has led some people to dismiss him or label him as difficult despite his talent. He has delivered incredible performances in films like ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’ (2021) and ‘Sorry to Bother You’ (2018). His acting style is unpredictable and magnetic which makes him one of the most interesting actors working today. The internet hate often focuses on his personality quirks rather than his art.

Terry Crews

Crews is beloved for his role in ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’ (2013) but faces backlash for his political comments. Twitter users have criticized his statements regarding race and Hollywood accountability. He is also sometimes dismissed as just a muscle-bound comedic actor without depth. He brings a unique vulnerability to his tough-guy roles that is rarely seen. His positive attitude often persists despite the frequent online storms he finds himself in.

Wesley Snipes

Snipes was a massive action star who fell from grace due to tax issues and on-set behavior rumors. His reputation took a hit after stories circulated about the production of ‘Blade: Trinity’ (2004). He spent time in prison which effectively halted his career for several years. He made a triumphant return in ‘Dolemite Is My Name’ (2019) reminding audiences of his charisma. He deserves credit for helping to launch the modern superhero movie era with ‘Blade’ (1998).

Tracy Morgan

Morgan has a distinct comedic style that can be polarizing for general audiences. His performance in ’30 Rock’ (2006) was acclaimed but some find his loud and absurd persona grating. He faced severe controversy for homophobic remarks in his stand-up which he apologized for. After surviving a tragic traffic accident he returned to acting with ‘The Last O.G.’ (2018). He has overcome significant physical and professional hurdles to remain a relevant comedian.

Ice Cube

Cube transitioned from gangsta rap to starring in family comedies like ‘Are We There Yet?’ (2005). Fans of his music often accused him of selling out and softening his image too much. He has also faced criticism for the quality of the scripts in the ‘Ride Along’ franchise. Despite the hate he is a savvy businessman who created the ‘Friday’ franchise. He successfully navigated a transition that few rappers have managed to pull off.

Ludacris

Chris Bridges is another rapper who is often teased for his acting roles. He plays the tech expert Tej in the ‘Fast & Furious’ movies where his character defies all laws of physics. Audiences mock the absurdity of his character’s evolution from a mechanic to a super-spy. However he provides the necessary comic relief and heart that keeps the franchise grounded. He has also shown dramatic chops in films like ‘Crash’ (2004).

Jaleel White

White is famously known for playing Steve Urkel on ‘Family Matters’ (1989). He became the breakout star of the show but faced resentment from castmates and typecasting from the industry. For years he could not book serious roles because audiences only saw him as the nerd character. He faced hate simply for being too good at playing an annoying character. He has continued to work and recently appeared in ‘Hustle’ (2022).

Share your thoughts on which actors you think are unfairly treated in the comments.