Black Actors Who Won’t Do Horror Movies

The horror genre has a complicated history with Black representation, often relegating characters to early deaths or supporting tropes. While modern cinema has seen a renaissance of Black-led horror films, there remains a significant number of prominent Black male actors who have steered clear of the genre entirely. Whether due to personal fear, career strategy, or a simple dislike for the macabre, these entertainers have built their legacies in drama, comedy, and action without venturing into the world of jump scares and gore. The following list highlights actors who have avoided horror roles throughout their extensive careers or have explicitly stated their aversion to the genre.

Anthony Mackie

Known globally as the new Captain America, Anthony Mackie has been vocal about his personal disdain for horror movies. During a roundtable discussion, the actor admitted that he has hated the genre since childhood because it scares him too much. While he has tackled action-heavy roles in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and sci-fi drama in ‘Black Mirror’, he avoids projects that rely on supernatural terror. His career choices reflect a preference for grounded storytelling or high-octane action rather than being chased by slashers. Mackie has made it clear that he prefers to be the hero who fights back rather than the victim in a scary movie scenario.

Tyler Perry

Media mogul Tyler Perry has famously stated that he does not enjoy horror movies and is easily frightened. Although he created the film ‘Boo! A Madea Halloween’, the project was a comedy spoof designed to laugh at the genre rather than embrace it. Perry acted in the film as his famous character Madea, reacting with comedic terror rather than genuine fear. He has built an empire on family dramas, stage plays, and comedies, consciously avoiding serious horror roles. Perry’s brand is strictly focused on uplifting or humorous content, leaving the dark and demonic themes to other filmmakers.

Kevin Hart

Comedian Kevin Hart is another superstar who has built a brand around his refusal to be in scary situations. While he appeared in the ‘Scary Movie’ franchise early in his career, those roles were strictly parodies that mocked horror tropes. In real life, Hart has frequently been filmed reacting poorly to haunted houses and jump scares, reinforcing his public stance against the genre. His filmography is dominated by buddy comedies and action films where the stakes are high but never supernatural. Hart has stated in interviews that he has no interest in serious horror because he does not enjoy the sensation of being afraid.

Denzel Washington

Two-time Academy Award winner Denzel Washington is celebrated for his intense dramatic performances and commanding screen presence. Throughout his decades-long career, he has starred in grit-filled thrillers like ‘The Bone Collector’ and ‘Fallen’, but he has carefully skirted the line of pure horror. Washington prefers psychological tension and crime procedural elements over gore or slasher theatrics. His characters are usually law enforcement officers or complex anti-heroes who confront human evil rather than supernatural monsters. This distinction has kept his filmography firmly rooted in drama and action-thriller territory.

Sidney Poitier

The late legend Sidney Poitier broke barriers in Hollywood with dignified roles that challenged racial stereotypes. His career was defined by serious dramas such as ‘In the Heat of the Night’ and ‘Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner’, with no entries in the horror genre. Poitier focused on films that addressed social issues and human rights, which often precluded the exploitation themes common in horror films of his era. He maintained a curated image of strength and intellect that did not align with the victimhood often portrayed in scary movies. Poitier’s legacy remains untainted by the B-movie horror craze that swept through Hollywood during his prime.

Harry Belafonte

Harry Belafonte was a multi-talented artist who used his platform for civil rights activism and dramatic storytelling. His film roles, such as in ‘Carmen Jones’ and ‘Island in the Sun’, were focused on music, romance, and social commentary. Belafonte avoided the horror genre entirely, likely due to the lack of substantial or respectful roles for Black actors in that space during the mid-20th century. He prioritized projects that elevated Black culture rather than those that relied on fear or violence. His career stands as a testament to choosing roles that align with personal and political values.

Chadwick Boseman

Before his untimely passing, Chadwick Boseman crafted a career defined by playing iconic historical figures and superheroes. From Jackie Robinson in ’42’ to T’Challa in ‘Black Panther’, Boseman selected roles that embodied heroism, dignity, and strength. He never ventured into the horror genre, preferring biographies and action dramas that offered inspirational narratives. His filmography is devoid of slasher films or supernatural chillers, focusing instead on the human spirit’s resilience. Boseman’s legacy is firmly cemented in the realm of dramatic excellence and cultural impact.

Michael B. Jordan

Michael B. Jordan has become a powerhouse in Hollywood through roles in ‘Creed’, ‘Fruitvale Station’, and ‘Black Panther’. Despite his versatility and physical prowess, he has yet to star in a dedicated horror film. Jordan’s career trajectory has been laser-focused on character-driven dramas and blockbuster action franchises. While he has expressed interest in expanding his directing and producing portfolio, his acting credits have steered clear of traditional horror tropes. He seems to prefer roles where he can display physical dominance or emotional depth rather than vulnerability to supernatural forces.

Don Cheadle

Don Cheadle is known for his incredible range, moving seamlessly between serious dramas like ‘Hotel Rwanda’ and blockbusters like the ‘Avengers’ series. His extensive resume includes comedies and heist films, but it lacks a pure horror entry. Cheadle tends to choose scripts with strong social commentary or complex character studies, which are less common in mainstream horror. Even his darker roles are grounded in reality rather than fantasy terror. He continues to be a major player in Hollywood without ever needing to scream at a ghost onscreen.

David Oyelowo

British-Nigerian actor David Oyelowo is best known for his portrayal of Martin Luther King Jr. in ‘Selma’. His career is characterized by prestigious dramas and period pieces that highlight his classical training. Oyelowo has avoided the horror genre, opting instead for thrillers or sci-fi dramas like ‘The Cloverfield Paradox’, which lean more toward science fiction than pure horror. His choices reflect a desire to tell important stories with historical or emotional weight. You will not find Oyelowo running from a masked killer in a slasher flick.

Terrence Howard

Terrence Howard made a name for himself with intense performances in ‘Hustle & Flow’ and the hit TV series ‘Empire’. His acting style is often reserved and intense, suited perfectly for dramas and crime thrillers. Howard has not ventured into the horror genre, sticking to roles that explore human relationships and societal struggles. His filmography suggests a preference for grounded storytelling over the supernatural or fantastical. He remains a fixture in the drama category, leaving the scares to others.

Martin Lawrence

comedic icon Martin Lawrence has spent his career making audiences laugh in sitcoms and movies like ‘Bad Boys’ and ‘Big Momma’s House’. While he has dealt with criminals and high-stakes situations in his action-comedies, he has never crossed over into serious horror. Lawrence’s brand is built on physical comedy and verbal wit, which clashes with the tone of a traditional scary movie. He has successfully stayed in his lane of comedy and action, avoiding the need to participate in the horror genre. His fans expect laughter, not screams, when they see his name on a marquee.

Chris Tucker

Chris Tucker became an international sensation with the ‘Rush Hour’ franchise and his breakout role in ‘Friday’. His high-energy comedic style is his trademark, and he has been very selective with his roles throughout his career. Tucker has never appeared in a horror movie, preferring to stick to comedy and action scripts. His hiatuses from acting have been long, and when he returns, it is usually for a project that allows him to showcase his comedic timing. Horror does not appear to be a genre that interests him or fits his specific set of skills.

Steve Harvey

King of Comedy Steve Harvey has conquered stand-up, sitcoms, radio, and game show hosting. His acting career, though more limited in recent years, focused entirely on comedy films like ‘The Original Kings of Comedy’ and family-friendly fare. Harvey has never taken a role in a horror movie, and his on-air persona suggests he would have no patience for it. He often jokes about Black people’s practical reactions to horror scenarios, implying he would never put himself in those situations, fictional or otherwise. Harvey remains firmly planted in the world of unscripted television and comedy.

Cedric the Entertainer

As one of the Original Kings of Comedy, Cedric the Entertainer has a long list of credits in sitcoms and comedic films. From ‘Barbershop’ to ‘The Neighborhood’, his roles are designed to bring joy and laughter to audiences. He has avoided the horror genre, likely because his persona is too warm and jovial for dark, terrifying narratives. Cedric’s career is a testament to the success one can find by mastering a specific genre like comedy. He has never needed to branch out into horror to maintain his relevance in Hollywood.

Damon Wayans

A member of the legendary Wayans family, Damon Wayans is a master of sketch comedy and sitcoms. While his brothers have dabbled in horror spoofs like ‘Scary Movie’, Damon’s resume is filled with action-comedies like ‘The Last Boy Scout’ and ‘Major Payne’. He has stayed away from acting in straight horror films, preferring roles that allow him to be the funny man or the action hero. His comedic sensibilities are distinct, and he has not sought out roles that require him to be the victim. Wayans has built a legacy on laughter rather than fear.

Tracy Morgan

Tracy Morgan is known for his erratic, hilarious characters on ‘Saturday Night Live’ and ’30 Rock’. His acting style is unique and often surreal, fitting perfectly into the world of absurdity and comedy. Morgan has never starred in a horror film, and it is difficult to imagine his comedic energy fitting into a serious terrifying narrative. He has overcome real-life tragedies and uses his comedy as a way to connect with people. Horror does not seem to fit the brand of humor and heart that Morgan brings to the screen.

Regé-Jean Page

Regé-Jean Page burst onto the scene as the romantic lead in the hit series ‘Bridgerton’. Since then, he has taken on roles in action blockbusters like ‘The Gray Man’ and ‘Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves’. Page is currently building a career as a leading man in action and adventure, steering clear of horror productions. His suave, charismatic screen presence is currently being utilized for heroism and romance. There are no horror credits in his growing filmography as he targets major franchise roles.

John David Washington

Son of Denzel Washington, John David Washington has carved out his own path with lead roles in ‘Tenet’ and ‘BlacKkKlansman’. Like his father, he gravitates toward intense thrillers, action epics, and dramatic pieces. He has not appeared in a horror film, preferring scripts that challenge the mind or offer high-concept sci-fi elements. Washington’s background in professional football gives him a physicality that suits action roles better than the typical horror victim trope. He appears focused on working with auteur directors on prestigious projects outside the horror realm.

Alfonso Ribeiro

Best known as Carlton Banks on ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’, Alfonso Ribeiro has transitioned from acting to hosting major television shows. His acting credits are almost exclusively in sitcoms and family-friendly entertainment. Ribeiro has never been associated with the horror genre, maintaining a clean, approachable image throughout his career. His current work on shows like ‘America’s Funniest Home Videos’ reinforces his brand of wholesome entertainment. Horror movies are a stark contrast to the lighthearted content Ribeiro is known for.

Malcolm-Jamal Warner

Malcolm-Jamal Warner grew up on television as Theo Huxtable and has maintained a steady career in television dramas like ‘The Resident’. He is a respected actor and musician who focuses on character-driven storytelling. Warner has avoided the horror genre, sticking to roles that allow for dramatic expression and emotional resonance. His career has been defined by longevity in the television industry without relying on genre fads. Warner remains a staple of American TV drama, far removed from the world of horror.

Shemar Moore

Shemar Moore is a heartthrob known for his long-running roles on ‘Criminal Minds’ and ‘S.W.A.T.’. While ‘Criminal Minds’ deals with serial killers and dark themes, it is a police procedural, not a horror movie. Moore plays the hero who catches the bad guys, never the helpless victim running for his life. He has built a massive fanbase through action and drama roles that highlight his toughness and charisma. Moore has not crossed over into the horror film genre, preferring to stay in the realm of law enforcement action.

Dennis Haysbert

With his deep, commanding voice, Dennis Haysbert is best known for playing the President in ’24’ and for his Allstate commercials. His film career includes dramas like ‘Far from Heaven’ and action hits like ‘Heat’, but no horror movies. Haysbert’s authoritative presence makes him well-suited for leadership roles rather than characters in peril. He exudes a sense of calm and control that is the antithesis of the panic found in horror films. Haysbert continues to work steadily in dramas and thrillers that utilize his gravitas.

Ludacris

Chris “Ludacris” Bridges successfully transitioned from a rap superstar to a Hollywood actor, primarily known for the ‘Fast & Furious’ franchise. His acting roles are usually in action films or comedies where he plays the comic relief or the tech expert. Ludacris has not taken on roles in the horror genre, likely because the ‘Fast’ franchise keeps him busy with global action set pieces. His brand is built on cool confidence and humor, which fits better in action blockbusters than in scary movies. He seems content with high-speed chases rather than slow-building tension.

Common

Rapper and actor Common has won an Academy Award for his music and appeared in numerous action films like ‘John Wick: Chapter 2’. His acting career focuses on gritty dramas and high-stakes action roles where he often plays a hitman or a person of authority. Common has steered clear of horror, choosing projects that align with his serious and soulful public persona. His filmography is filled with crime thrillers and social dramas, leaving no room for supernatural horror. He brings a sense of intensity to his roles that is grounded in reality.

Yasiin Bey

Yasiin Bey, formerly known as Mos Def, is an acclaimed lyricist and actor with credits in ‘The Italian Job’ and ’16 Blocks’. He has a quirky, thoughtful acting style that works well in sci-fi and indie comedies. Bey has not pursued roles in the horror genre, preferring scripts that are offbeat or socially conscious. His artistic choices are often eclectic, but they do not include standard horror fare. He remains a respected figure in hip-hop and film who follows his own unique artistic path.

André 3000

André Benjamin of OutKast is known for his eccentric style and musical genius, but his acting roles are surprisingly grounded. He has appeared in the crime drama ‘Four Brothers’ and the biopic ‘Jimi: All Is by My Side’. André has not ventured into horror, likely due to his selective nature when choosing projects. He tends to pick roles that challenge him dramatically or allow him to work with specific directors. The horror genre has not yet appealed to his distinct artistic sensibilities.

Big Boi

The other half of OutKast, Antwan “Big Boi” Patton, has also dabbled in acting with roles in ‘ATL’ and ‘Idlewild’. His on-screen appearances are often cool, charismatic extensions of his musical persona. Big Boi has avoided horror movies, sticking to urban dramas and musical films. His career in film is secondary to his music, and he chooses roles that fit his established brand. There are no slasher or monster movies in his diverse entertainment portfolio.

T.I.

Clifford “T.I.” Harris has established himself as an actor in the ‘Ant-Man’ franchise and urban dramas like ‘ATL’. His roles often capitalize on his swagger and quick-talking ability, usually within the action or heist genres. T.I. has not been involved in horror films, preferring projects that are action-oriented or comedic. His focus has been on building his empire in music and reality television alongside his acting. Horror does not seem to be a part of the trajectory he has set for his Hollywood career.

50 Cent

Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson turned his music fame into a massive business and acting career, most notably with the ‘Power’ television universe. He produces and stars in gritty crime dramas that reflect the streets and power struggles. 50 Cent has not starred in horror movies, as his brand is strictly built around toughness, crime, and wealth. He rarely plays characters who are vulnerable or afraid, which are essential elements of horror. His entertainment dominance is firmly rooted in the crime drama genre.

Reginald VelJohnson

Reginald VelJohnson is an icon of sitcom history as the dad from ‘Family Matters’ and the cop from ‘Die Hard’. He has played a police officer in numerous projects, becoming the archetype for the lovable lawman. VelJohnson has not starred in horror films, as his career has been defined by family-friendly comedy and action support roles. Audiences associate him with warmth and stability, not terror and gore. He remains a beloved figure in television history without a horror credit.

Robert Guillaume

The late Robert Guillaume was a distinguished actor known for his voice work as Rafiki in ‘The Lion King’ and his role in the sitcom ‘Benson’. His career was marked by sophisticated, witty performances in comedy and drama on stage and screen. Guillaume did not work in the horror genre, focusing instead on roles that showcased his incredible voice and comedic timing. He was a trailblazer for Black actors in television sitcoms. His legacy is one of class and talent, far removed from the horror industry.

Sherman Hemsley

Sherman Hemsley will always be remembered as George Jefferson from ‘The Jeffersons’, a character defined by his brash confidence and comedic energy. Hemsley’s career was dominated by sitcom work, where he excelled at physical comedy and verbal sparring. He did not venture into horror films, as his size and acting style were perfectly suited for television comedy. Hemsley’s brand was about making people laugh at his antics, not scream in terror. He remains a sitcom legend who stayed true to his genre.

Redd Foxx

Comedian Redd Foxx was a pioneer of stand-up and the star of the hit show ‘Sanford and Son’. His grumpy, heart-clutching character Fred Sanford is one of the most famous figures in TV history. Foxx’s career was entirely built around comedy, and he never transitioned into horror movies. His influence is seen in generations of comedians who followed him, but none of that influence came from scary movies. Foxx was a master of the punchline, having no interest in the macabre.

Arsenio Hall

Arsenio Hall is best known as a late-night talk show host and for his role as Semmi in ‘Coming to America’. His career is rooted in stand-up comedy and hosting, with occasional acting roles in comedies. Hall has never starred in a horror movie, preferring to stay in the lane of laughter and entertainment. His friendly, energetic persona is the opposite of what is typically found in horror protagonists. Hall continues to be a celebrated figure in comedy without any horror credits.

Sinbad

Stand-up comedian Sinbad was a huge movie star in the 90s with family comedies like ‘First Kid’ and ‘Jingle All the Way’. He is known for his clean comedy and high-energy storytelling. Sinbad has never done a horror movie, as his entire brand is built on being family-friendly and accessible to all ages. The darkness and violence of horror would be a complete contradiction to his established image. He remains a nostalgic favorite for comedy fans.

Tommy Davidson

Tommy Davidson was a breakout star of the sketch comedy show ‘In Living Color’, known for his impressions and physical humor. His film career includes comedies like ‘Booty Call’ and ‘Ace Ventura: When Nature Calls’. Davidson has not ventured into horror, sticking to projects that utilize his comedic gifts. His ability to transform into different characters has always been used for laughs rather than scares. Davidson continues to tour as a stand-up comedian.

Hannibal Buress

Hannibal Buress is known for his deadpan delivery and unique comedic voice, appearing in films like ‘Tag’ and ‘Neighbors’. He is a stand-up comedian first and an actor second, usually playing the funny best friend or the oddball observer. Buress has not taken roles in horror movies, as his low-energy, sarcastic style is specifically tuned for comedy. It is hard to imagine his laid-back persona reacting to a horror movie villain. He sticks to what he does best: making people laugh with his observations.

Jerrod Carmichael

Jerrod Carmichael is a stand-up comedian and filmmaker known for his introspective and often provocative comedy specials. He created the sitcom ‘The Carmichael Show’ and directed the dark comedy ‘On the Count of Three’. While his work can be dark and serious, it is not horror; it is grounded in social realism and personal trauma. Carmichael has not acted in traditional horror films, preferring to explore the horrors of real life through comedy and drama. His work challenges audiences intellectually rather than viscerally.

Wayne Brady

Wayne Brady is the master of improvisational comedy, known for ‘Whose Line Is It Anyway?’ and his daytime talk show. He is a singer, dancer, and actor who radiates positivity and charm. Brady has never starred in a horror movie, as his talents are best suited for variety shows and musical theater. He is one of the most versatile performers in Hollywood, but scaring people is not in his repertoire. Brady’s brand is safe, fun, and incredibly talented, leaving no room for horror.

Kenan Thompson

Kenan Thompson is the longest-serving cast member in ‘Saturday Night Live’ history, having grown up on sketch comedy since ‘All That’. While he has appeared in sketches that parody horror, he has not starred in a serious horror film. Thompson’s career is dedicated to sketch comedy and making audiences smile. He has voiced characters in animated films and starred in sitcoms, always in the comedy genre. His expressive face is made for reaction shots in sketches, not for genuine terror.

Kel Mitchell

Kel Mitchell, Kenan Thompson’s longtime comedic partner, is famous for his role in ‘Good Burger’ and ‘Kenan & Kel’. He is a physical comedian with a gift for playing lovable, dim-witted characters. Mitchell has largely stayed in the family and teen comedy space, avoiding horror movies. He recently returned to the spotlight with ‘Good Burger 2’, reaffirming his commitment to the characters fans love. Mitchell’s career is defined by orange soda and laughs, not jump scares.

Terry Crews

Former NFL player Terry Crews is a massive physical presence known for his roles in ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’ and ‘The Expendables’. Despite his intimidating size, he is most famous for playing gentle giants or high-energy comedic characters. Crews has appeared in horror spoofs like ‘Scary Movie 5’, but he does not do serious horror films. His persona is too lovable and comedic to fit into a bleak horror atmosphere. Crews prefers action and comedy roles that let him use his muscles for laughs or explosions.

Jesse L. Martin

Jesse L. Martin is a stage and screen veteran, famous for his role as Tom Collins in ‘Rent’ and Detective Joe West in ‘The Flash’. He has spent years on ‘Law & Order’, solidifying his place as one of TV’s most reliable dramatic actors. Martin has not crossed over into horror, sticking to crime procedurals, musicals, and superhero dramas. His warm, paternal presence is a staple of his recent work. He focuses on characters with heart and integrity rather than those facing supernatural doom.

Delroy Lindo

Delroy Lindo is a celebrated character actor known for his powerful performances in Spike Lee films like ‘Da 5 Bloods’ and ‘Malcolm X’. He brings a gravity and intensity to every role, usually in dramas or crime thrillers. Lindo has not pursued work in the horror genre, preferring scripts with deep character arcs and social relevance. His acting style is grounded and realistic, which clashes with the often fantastical nature of horror. Lindo remains one of the most respected actors working in drama today.

There are many talented Black actors who have chosen to entertain us through laughter, tears, and excitement rather than fear, proving that a successful career in Hollywood does not require a trip to the haunted house. Let us know in the comments which of these actors you would actually love to see break their rule and star in a scary movie!