African-American Actresses Who Deserve Way More Attention

Hollywood is filled with immense talent that often flies under the radar despite delivering powerful performances. African-American actresses have historically faced barriers to entry but continue to break ground in film and television. Many of these performers consistently steal scenes or carry independent projects without receiving the widespread acclaim they merit. This list highlights forty gifted women who have showcased exceptional range and dedication to their craft.

Nicole Beharie

Nicole Beharie delivers performances grounded in emotional truth and resilience. She garnered critical acclaim for her leading role in the independent film ‘Miss Juneteenth’. She previously built a loyal fanbase starring in the supernatural series ‘Sleepy Hollow’. Her ability to convey complex internal struggles makes her a standout dramatic actress. Beharie consistently brings depth and dignity to every character she portrays.

Dominique Fishback

Dominique Fishback possesses a chameleon quality that allows her to disappear into diverse roles. She earned significant praise for her supporting performance in ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’. Her work in ‘Project Power’ demonstrated her ability to hold her own alongside major action stars. She brings a poetic vulnerability to her characters that resonates deeply with audiences. Fishback is a rising talent who commands attention in every scene.

DeWanda Wise

DeWanda Wise exudes charisma and strength in her on-screen appearances. She became a breakout star leading the modern adaptation of ‘She’s Gotta Have It’ on Netflix. Wise recently showcased her action capabilities in the blockbuster ‘Jurassic World Dominion’. Her commanding presence allows her to tackle both comedic and dramatic material with ease. She remains a versatile performer with a promising trajectory.

Taylour Paige

Taylour Paige burst onto the scene with her raw and energetic performance in ‘Zola’. She showcased her physical prowess and acting range in ‘Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom’. Paige commits fully to her roles and brings an intense authenticity to her work. Critics have noted her ability to navigate chaotic narratives with focus and precision. She is quickly establishing herself as a fearless actress in independent cinema.

Emayatzy Corinealdi

Emayatzy Corinealdi first caught the attention of critics with her role in Ava DuVernay’s ‘Middle of Nowhere’. She carries a quiet intensity that works perfectly for complex character studies. Her recent work in the television series ‘Reasonable Doubt’ displays her ability to lead a legal drama. Corinealdi brings sophistication and emotional intelligence to her performances. She consistently delivers nuanced work that deserves a wider platform.

Adepero Oduye

Adepero Oduye is a powerful character actress known for her devastating performance in ‘Pariah’. She has provided strong supporting work in major films like ’12 Years a Slave’ and ‘The Big Short’. Oduye conveys deep emotion with subtle facial expressions and body language. Her stage background translates into a disciplined and impactful screen presence. She remains an underrated asset in both independent and studio productions.

Kiki Layne

Kiki Layne made a stunning debut as the lead in Barry Jenkins’ ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’. She proved her versatility by taking on an action-heavy role in ‘The Old Guard’. Layne possesses a classic movie star quality that lights up the screen. Her ability to switch between tender romance and high-stakes action is impressive. She continues to select diverse projects that challenge her growing range.

Teyonah Parris

Teyonah Parris has steadily built an impressive resume with roles in ‘Dear White People’ and ‘Chi-Raq’. She reached new heights of popularity with her dynamic performance in the Marvel series ‘WandaVision’. Parris balances strength and vulnerability in a way that makes her characters instantly relatable. She commands the screen with a vibrant energy that elevates her costars. Her transition from indie darling to blockbuster star highlights her broad appeal.

Moses Ingram

Moses Ingram earned an Emmy nomination for her standout role in ‘The Queen’s Gambit’. She navigated the high pressure of the ‘Star Wars’ universe in the series ‘Obi-Wan Kenobi’. Ingram brings a focused intensity to her performances that draws viewers in. Her training at the Yale School of Drama is evident in her technical precision. She is a formidable talent capable of tackling highly dramatic material.

Jayme Lawson

Jayme Lawson made a memorable impression as a political candidate in ‘The Batman’. She also delivered a compelling performance as a young Michelle Obama in ‘The First Lady’. Lawson possesses a regal presence and an articulate delivery that suits authoritative roles. She graduated from Juilliard and immediately began booking high-profile projects. Her career is just beginning but she already exhibits the poise of a veteran.

Kylie Bunbury

Kylie Bunbury showcased her leading lady potential in the baseball drama series ‘Pitch’. She brings a natural warmth and determination to her characters. Her role in the thriller series ‘Big Sky’ allowed her to explore a grittier side of her acting ability. Bunbury consistently delivers grounded performances in both genre and dramatic storytelling. She deserves more opportunities to anchor major film and television projects.

Logan Browning

Logan Browning navigated complex satire and drama as the lead in ‘Dear White People’. She demonstrated her range by playing a terrifying perfectionist in the horror film ‘The Perfection’. Browning handles dialogue-heavy scripts with sharp timing and emotional clarity. Her ability to play unlikable or flawed characters with empathy is a testament to her skill. She remains one of the most compelling actresses of her generation.

Aja Naomi King

Aja Naomi King became a fan favorite for her role in the hit legal thriller ‘How to Get Away with Murder’. She held her own against powerhouse actors and delivered consistent emotional arcs. King also shone in the historical drama ‘The Birth of a Nation’. She brings a fierce intelligence and radiant energy to the screen. Her work consistently highlights her ability to balance toughness with vulnerability.

Lovie Simone

Lovie Simone is a standout young actress who led the Amazon film ‘Selah and the Spades’. She brought authenticity and heart to the horror sequel ‘The Craft: Legacy’. Simone captures the nuances of the teenage experience with maturity and grace. Her naturalistic acting style makes her performances feel intimate and real. She represents the next wave of talent ready for mainstream recognition.

Ebony Obsidian

Ebony Obsidian has built a strong following through her role in the Tyler Perry series ‘Sistas’. She also delivered a memorable supporting performance in ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’. Obsidian brings a relatable and grounded quality to her television roles. She navigates interpersonal drama and romantic storylines with genuine emotion. Her consistent work in ensemble casts proves she is ready for more central roles.

Bresha Webb

Bresha Webb is a comedic force who also possesses strong dramatic chops. She stole scenes in the comedy series ‘Run the World’ with her impeccable timing. Webb brings a lively and infectious energy to every project she joins. She proved her versatility in the thriller ‘A Fall from Grace’. Her ability to pivot between humor and suspense makes her a valuable addition to any cast.

Amber Stevens West

Amber Stevens West has been a reliable comedic actress in shows like ‘Greek’ and ‘The Carmichael Show’. She recently displayed her growth as a performer in the ensemble comedy ‘Run the World’. West brings a bright and effervescent presence that lights up the screen. She handles fast-paced dialogue and physical comedy with ease. Her consistency in the sitcom format deserves more appreciation.

Corbin Reid

Corbin Reid gained attention for her role in the fiercely funny series ‘Run the World’. She plays characters with a mix of neurosis and charm that is highly entertaining. Reid previously appeared in ‘How to Get Away with Murder’ in a dramatic capacity. She excels at playing women who are figuring out their lives in messy but relatable ways. Her comedic timing establishes her as a talent to watch.

Ryan Destiny

Ryan Destiny showcased her singing and acting talents in the musical drama ‘Star’. She brings a cool confidence and striking visual presence to her roles. Destiny recently portrayed a boxer in the drama ‘The Flint Strong’ which required intense physical dedication. She balances glamour with grit in her performance choices. Her crossover appeal in fashion and film makes her a unique star.

Brittany O’Grady

Brittany O’Grady has proven her versatility in musical series like ‘Star’ and ‘Little Voice’. She gained critical praise for her satirical turn in the first season of ‘The White Lotus’. O’Grady plays innocence and calculation with equal effectiveness. Her ability to convey subtext through subtle expressions served her well in the anthology format. She is a dynamic performer who continues to evolve.

Birgundi Baker

Birgundi Baker delivers raw and honest performances in the Chicago-set drama ‘The Chi’. She handles heavy storylines regarding trauma and family dynamics with great care. Baker brings a distinct realism to her portrayals of young women navigating difficult circumstances. Her work grounds the heightened drama of the series in emotional truth. She is an impactful actress who leaves a lasting impression.

Tiffany Boone

Tiffany Boone garnered praise for her role in the Amazon series ‘Hunters’. She also delivered a heartbreaking performance in the miniseries ‘Little Fires Everywhere’. Boone approaches her characters with a quiet strength and deep empathy. She commits fully to the emotional arcs of her roles regardless of the genre. Her rising profile reflects her consistent delivery of quality work.

Jerrika Hinton

Jerrika Hinton was a standout member of the ensemble cast in ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ for several seasons. She later took on a complex leading role in the HBO drama ‘Here and Now’. Hinton brings a sharp intelligence and dry wit to her characters. She excels at playing professional women who are dealing with personal turmoil. Her commanding screen presence merits more leading opportunities.

Susan Kelechi Watson

Susan Kelechi Watson won the hearts of millions as Beth Pearson on ‘This Is Us’. She created a character who was strong and supportive yet fully dimensional and flawed. Watson balances drama and comedy effortlessly within a single scene. Her background in theater informs her impeccable diction and emotional control. She redefined the role of the sitcom wife into something equal and powerful.

Rutina Wesley

Rutina Wesley is best known for her intense role in the vampire drama ‘True Blood’. She later anchored the family drama ‘Queen Sugar’ with a powerful lead performance. Wesley brings a raw physicality and deep emotional reservoir to her acting. She fearlessly tackles characters who are damaged or seeking redemption. Her work is consistently gritty and compelling to watch.

Dawn-Lyen Gardner

Dawn-Lyen Gardner delivered a tour de force performance in the long-running series ‘Queen Sugar’. She played a character with a complex history and messy personal life with absolute conviction. Gardner brings a theatrical training to her roles that results in precise and powerful acting. She navigates family secrets and betrayal with a captivating intensity. Her work in the drama was consistently praised by critics.

Bianca Lawson

Bianca Lawson has been a fixture in teen dramas for two decades but often in supporting parts. Her role in ‘Queen Sugar’ allowed her to explore a much deeper and more mature character arc. Lawson portrays vulnerability and addiction struggles with great sensitivity. She has successfully transitioned from eternal teenager roles to serious dramatic contender. Her longevity in the industry speaks to her adaptability.

Joy Bryant

Joy Bryant has a natural and easygoing screen presence seen in ‘Parenthood’. She starred in ‘Antwone Fisher’ early in her career and proved her dramatic capability. Bryant brings a grounded realism to roles involving family and relationships. She creates characters that feel like genuine people rather than caricatures. Her reliable and warm performances anchor the ensembles she joins.

Sharon Leal

Sharon Leal has delivered strong performances in films like ‘Dreamgirls’ and ‘This Christmas’. She possesses a powerful singing voice and a graceful acting style. Leal often plays the straight woman in chaotic narratives but infuses the roles with dignity. She brings emotional weight to melodramatic storylines in film and television. Her versatility allows her to fit into musicals and thrillers alike.

Yaya DaCosta

Yaya DaCosta transitioned from modeling to acting with impressive success in ‘Chicago Med’. She carries herself with a poise that suits high-pressure professional roles. DaCosta recently led the series ‘Our Kind of People’ with flair and confidence. She brings a fiery determination to her characters that keeps viewers engaged. Her evolution as an actress has been steady and impressive.

Sonequa Martin-Green

Sonequa Martin-Green made history as the first Black female lead of a ‘Star Trek’ series in ‘Discovery’. She anchors the sci-fi epic with a performance that is both intellectual and action-oriented. Martin-Green previously fought zombies in the horror hit ‘The Walking Dead’. She excels at playing survivors who must make difficult moral choices. Her leadership on screen is undeniable.

Simone Missick

Simone Missick broke out as the superhero Misty Knight in the Marvel Netflix series ‘Luke Cage’. She proved she could lead a network drama with her role in ‘All Rise’. Missick projects authority and compassion in equal measure. She handles heavy dialogue and legal jargon with a natural flow. Her commanding presence makes her a perfect fit for procedural dramas.

Anna Diop

Anna Diop brings a regal and otherworldly quality to her role as Starfire in ‘Titans’. She starred in the horror film ‘Nanny’ which won the Grand Jury Prize at Sundance. Diop uses her expressive eyes and physical presence to convey fear and strength. She is unafraid to take on roles that require heavy prosthetics or intense emotional states. Her range spans from superhero action to psychological horror.

Damaris Lewis

Damaris Lewis transitioned from modeling to play the villainous Blackfire in ‘Titans’. She brings a haughty elegance and lethal intensity to the role. Lewis commands attention with her stature and confident delivery. She holds her own against more experienced actors in high-stakes scenes. Her potential in the action and fantasy genres is significant.

Nafessa Williams

Nafessa Williams broke ground playing the first black lesbian superhero in ‘Black Lightning’. She balances the physical demands of a hero with the emotional struggles of a young adult. Williams brings a toughness and a protective energy to her character. She became a fan favorite for her authentic portrayal of complex relationships. Her work paved the way for more inclusive representation in the genre.

Christine Adams

Christine Adams played the matriarch in ‘Black Lightning’ with fierce intelligence and scientific prowess. She brings a cool sophistication to every role she inhabits. Adams has appeared in ‘Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.’ and brings gravitas to genre storytelling. She portrays women who are experts in their fields with believability. Her steady presence grounds fantastic elements in reality.

China Anne McClain

China Anne McClain has been acting since childhood and evolved into a powerful dramatic performer in ‘Black Lightning’. She conveys pain and rebellion with a raw intensity that surprises viewers. McClain is also a talented singer who brings musicality to her performances. She handles tragic storylines with a maturity beyond her years. Her transition to adult roles has been seamless and impressive.

Meagan Tandy

Meagan Tandy brought layers of complexity to her role in the superhero series ‘Batwoman’. She plays characters who are often torn between duty and personal desire. Tandy projects a polished exterior that hides deep internal conflict. She has been a consistent worker in teen dramas like ‘Teen Wolf’. Her ability to play morally gray characters makes her fascinating to watch.

Javicia Leslie

Javicia Leslie stepped into the cowl as the lead of ‘Batwoman’ and made the role her own. She brought a street-smart energy and athleticism to the character. Leslie performs action sequences with conviction and fluid movement. She balanced the dual identity of the superhero with humor and heart. Her run as the character proved she can carry a major franchise property.

Ashleigh Murray

Ashleigh Murray gained fame as the ambitious musician Josie McCoy in ‘Riverdale’. She brings a bright optimism and musical talent to her performances. Murray recently starred in the ‘Tom Swift’ series and displayed her leading lady charm. She plays characters with a drive for success that is inspiring to watch. Her energy is undeniable and she deserves more spotlight in diverse roles.

Please share which actress from this list you would like to see in more leading roles in the comments.