Black Actors You Won’t Believe Are Turning 50 Next Year

Time seems to move differently in Hollywood, where many stars maintain a youthful appearance that defies the calendar. As we approach 2026, a surprising cohort of talented Black actors is preparing to celebrate their milestone 50th birthdays. These men have entertained audiences for decades, transitioning from breakout roles in the 90s to becoming distinguished veterans of film and television. The following list highlights these performers who were born in 1976 and will hit the half-century mark next year.

Sterling K. Brown

Born in April 1976, this acclaimed actor has become a household name through his powerful dramatic performances. Sterling K. Brown gained massive recognition and an Emmy Award for his portrayal of Randall Pearson in the hit series ‘This Is Us’. His versatility was further showcased in ‘Black Panther’ where he played the pivotal role of N’Jobu. Recently, he delivered a compelling performance in the film ‘American Fiction’, cementing his status as a Hollywood heavyweight. It is a testament to his energy and presence that he is approaching his fifth decade.

Mike Colter

Best known for his imposing physical presence and calm demeanor, Mike Colter celebrates his 50th birthday in August 2026. He rose to global fame portraying the bulletproof superhero Luke Cage in the Marvel series ‘Luke Cage’ and ‘Jessica Jones’. Colter successfully transitioned to supernatural drama with his lead role as David Acosta in the series ‘Evil’. Audiences also saw him take command in the action thriller ‘Plane’ alongside Gerard Butler. His career continues to thrive with roles that demand both authority and charisma.

David Oyelowo

David Oyelowo, a British-Nigerian actor known for his intense and transformative performances, was born in April 1976. He received widespread critical acclaim for his portrayal of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in the historical drama ‘Selma’. His range is evident in projects like the dystopian series ‘Silo’ and the western anthology ‘Lawmen: Bass Reeves’. Oyelowo has consistently chosen challenging roles that highlight his dramatic depth and classical training. As he turns 50, he remains a dynamic force in both British and American cinema.

Jaleel White

It may shock fans of 90s television to learn that the man behind the cultural icon Steve Urkel is turning 50 in November 2026. Jaleel White immortalized the character in the long-running sitcom ‘Family Matters’, earning a permanent place in pop culture history. Since shedding the suspenders, he has built a diverse career including hosting duties and roles in films like ‘Hustle’. White has also appeared in various television series, proving his longevity beyond his child star origins. His youthful energy remains a defining characteristic as he approaches this major milestone.

Darius McCrary

Another alumnus of the classic sitcom era, Darius McCrary was born in May 1976 and is best known for playing Eddie Winslow on ‘Family Matters’. Beyond his on-screen acting, he has utilized his distinct voice for the character Jazz in the blockbuster film ‘Transformers’. McCrary also had a significant tenure on the daytime drama ‘The Young and the Restless’ as Malcolm Winters. He continues to work in television and film, maintaining the charm that first won over audiences three decades ago.

Mustafa Shakir

Mustafa Shakir, born in August 1976, has carved out a niche for himself playing complex, often intense characters. He captivated viewers as the villainous Bushmaster in the Netflix series ‘Luke Cage’, bringing a unique depth to the antagonist role. Anime fans appreciated his embodiment of Jet Black in the live-action adaptation of ‘Cowboy Bebop’. Shakir also appeared in the historical thriller ‘Emancipation’, showcasing his dramatic range. His physicality and screen presence make it hard to believe he is entering his fifties.

RonReaco Lee

RonReaco Lee has been a consistent presence on screen since his early days as a child actor in the film ‘Glory’. Born in August 1976, he became a familiar face to television audiences through his role as Tyreke Scott in the popular sitcom ‘Sister, Sister’. He later starred as Reggie Vaughn in the sports comedy-drama ‘Survivor’s Remorse’, displaying his ability to handle mature, nuanced roles. Lee continues to work steadily, recently appearing in ‘First Wives Club’, and remains a youthful figure in the industry.

Page Kennedy

Known for his comedic timing and multi-hyphenate talents, Page Kennedy turns 50 in November 2026. He gained significant attention as a main cast member in the series ‘Blue Mountain State’ and for his role as U-Turn in ‘Weeds’. Kennedy successfully transitioned to blockbuster films, appearing in ‘The Meg’ and its sequel ‘Meg 2: The Trench’. In addition to acting, he has cultivated a strong following as a rapper and social media content creator. His high-energy persona often masks the fact that he is a veteran entertainer.

Hassan Johnson

Hassan Johnson, born in November 1976, is instantly recognizable to fans of gritty crime dramas. He delivered a memorable performance as Roland “Wee-Bey” Brice in the critically acclaimed HBO series ‘The Wire’. His career includes roles in films such as ‘Brooklyn’s Finest’ and ‘Belly’, where he held his own alongside major stars. Recently, he appeared in the Showtime series ‘Flatbush Misdemeanors’, continuing to bring authenticity to his New York-based characters. Johnson maintains a cool, ageless quality that defies his approaching 50th birthday.

Kevin Daniels

A Juilliard-trained actor born in December 1976, Kevin Daniels has built an impressive resume across stage and screen. He is perhaps best recognized by television audiences for his recurring role as Longinus in the hit comedy ‘Modern Family’. Daniels also starred as Hank St. Clare in the comedy series ‘Sirens’ and had a prominent role in the film ‘Ladder 49’. Recently, he joined the cast of the crime drama ‘Will Trent’, continuing to showcase his range from comedy to drama. His career longevity and fresh face make his upcoming milestone a surprise to many.

Tell us which of these actors’ ages surprised you the most in the comments.