The Best Black Actors Under 20

The next generation of Hollywood talent is already making waves, with a remarkable group of young Black actors delivering powerful performances in everything from blockbuster superhero movies to acclaimed dramas. These rising stars are stealing scenes, leading huge franchises, and voicing some of our favorite animated characters, all while still being in their teens or even younger. Whether they are making us laugh in sitcoms or bringing us to tears in serious roles, these young men are proving they have the range and charisma to carry the industry forward for years to come.

Ja’Siah Young

You likely recognize this talented young man as the superpowered lead in the hit series ‘Raising Dion’ (2019–2022). At just 14 years old in 2025, he has already carried a major Netflix show on his shoulders, showcasing an impressive mix of innocence and intensity. He also appeared in ‘The Manns’ (2017) and continues to build his resume with voice work and other projects. His ability to act alongside seasoned veterans makes him a standout in his age group.

Jalyn Hall

Best known for his role as Dillon James in the sports drama ‘All American’ (2018–2024), this actor has shown incredible range as he transitioned from a child star to more mature roles. He delivered a critically acclaimed performance as Emmett Till in the film ‘Till’ (2022), proving he can handle heavy, historical dramatic material. Now 19 years old, he is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after young actors in the business. His work ethic and emotional depth set him apart from many of his peers.

Elisha Williams

Taking on the lead role of Dean Williams in the reboot of ‘The Wonder Years’ (2021–2023) was a huge responsibility, and he handled it with charm and grace. He perfectly captured the curiosity and awkwardness of growing up, winning over audiences and critics alike. At 16 years old in 2025, he has demonstrated a knack for voiceover work as well, contributing to ‘Puppy Dog Pals’. His comedic timing and relatable narration style have made him a favorite among young viewers.

JD McCrary

This multi-talented artist gained massive recognition as the voice of young Simba in the live-action remake of ‘The Lion King’ (2019). Beyond his voice acting, he showed off his singing chops on the soundtrack and has released his own music, proving his versatility. Now 18 years old, he has also appeared in ‘The Paynes’ (2018) and ‘Little’ (2019), showcasing his on-screen acting ability. His distinct voice and musical background give him a unique edge in the entertainment world.

Lonnie Chavis

Capturing hearts as the younger version of Randall Pearson in the smash hit ‘This Is Us’ (2016–2022), he delivered tear-jerking performances that rivaled those of his adult co-stars. He also starred in the thriller ‘The Boy Behind the Door’ (2020), showing he can handle terrifying suspense just as well as family drama. At 18 years old, he continues to expand his filmography with diverse roles that challenge his acting abilities. His expressive face and emotional intelligence are rare for someone his age.

Keith L. Williams

Known for his hilarious breakout role in the comedy ‘Good Boys’ (2019), he has a natural gift for making audiences laugh with his deadpan delivery. He also brought his comedic talents to the superhero film ‘Secret Headquarters’ (2022) alongside major Hollywood stars. Now 18 years old in 2025, he has proven he can hold his own in ensemble casts and lead comedy films. His timing and ability to play lovable, relatable characters ensure he will be a comedy staple for years.

Isaiah Russell-Bailey

This actor gained popularity playing Shaka McKellan in the sitcom ‘Family Reunion’ (2019–2022), where he charmed viewers with his smart and funny portrayal of a city kid adjusting to country life. He recently took on a more adventurous role in the sci-fi movie ‘Crater’ (2023), leading a group of friends on a lunar journey. At 19 years old, he is transitioning smoothly into young adult roles that showcase his action and dramatic skills. His dedication to his craft is evident in every performance he gives.

Dallas Dupree Young

After joining the cast of ‘Cobra Kai’ (2018–2025) as Kenny Payne, he quickly became a fan favorite by portraying a bullied kid who transforms into a fierce martial artist. His physical dedication to the role and his ability to convey anger and vulnerability impressed viewers worldwide. Now 19 years old, he has also appeared in ‘The Good Place’ and ‘Ready Player One’. His ability to handle intense physical choreography along with emotional scenes makes him a dynamic action star in the making.

Christian Isaiah

Best recognized for his long-running role as Liam Gallagher in the gritty drama ‘Shameless’ (2011–2021), he grew up on screen before our eyes. Handling mature themes and dark comedy from a very young age, he held his own against a powerhouse cast. At 18 years old in 2025, he has also appeared in the action movie ’21 Bridges’ (2019). His experience on a long-running premium cable show has given him a level of professionalism and grit that is hard to match.

Jahzir Bruno

This rising star made a spooky splash starring alongside Anne Hathaway in the adaptation of Roald Dahl’s ‘The Witches’ (2020). He also appeared in ‘The Christmas Chronicles: Part Two’ (2020), proving he is comfortable in big-budget fantasy and holiday films. Now 19 years old, he continues to secure roles that allow him to work with some of the biggest names in the business. His charming on-screen presence makes him a perfect fit for family-friendly blockbusters.

Seth Carr

After appearing as the young Killmonger in the massive hit ‘Black Panther’ (2018), he took the lead in the WWE film ‘The Main Event’ (2020). His ability to balance action-packed scenes with genuine heart made him an instant hit with younger audiences. At 18 years old in 2025, he has also had recurring roles in ‘Bosch’ and ‘Knight Squad’. He brings a cool, confident energy to his roles that makes him a natural lead for adventure and sports movies.

Evan Alex

Horror fans know him from his dual role in Jordan Peele’s terrifying film ‘Us’ (2019), where he played both the innocent son and his menacing doppelgänger. That performance required an incredible amount of control and versatility, which he delivered effortlessly. Now 17 years old, he continues to act in television and film, exploring different genres. His ability to switch between lovable and unsettling makes him a unique talent to watch.

Terrence Little Gardenhigh

As the star of the superhero comedy ‘Danger Force’ (2020–2024), he plays Miles, a hero with teleportation powers who provides much of the show’s humor. His comedic timing and expressive energy fit perfectly in the colorful, fast-paced world of Nickelodeon. At 18 years old in 2025, he has also starred in the film ‘Coffee & Kareem’ (2020). He has a natural charisma that lights up the screen, making him a favorite among kids and teens.

Maceo Smedley

Starting his career early in the acclaimed series ‘Underground’ (2016–2017), he proved he could handle serious dramatic work as a young child. He later showed his lighter side in the sitcom ‘All About the Washingtons’ and the Disney film ‘Noelle’. Now 18 years old, he has built a solid resume that includes both drama and comedy. His ability to play smart, observant characters has kept him steadily working in the industry.

Chase W. Dillon

He stole every scene he was in as the studious and observant Homer in the critically acclaimed series ‘The Underground Railroad’ (2021). More recently, he showed his comedic chops in Disney’s ‘Haunted Mansion’ (2023), playing a tour guide with a surprising amount of expertise. At 16 years old in 2025, he is known for his intelligence and poise on camera, often playing characters who are wise beyond their years. Critics consistently praise his ability to command attention even in small roles.

Ethan Hutchison

Viewers watched him grow up as Blue Bordelon in the drama series ‘Queen Sugar’ (2016–2022), where he delivered heartfelt performances for seven seasons. Being a series regular for that long allowed him to develop his character deeply, a rare opportunity for a child actor. Now 15 years old, he has gained invaluable experience working with top-tier directors and writers. His grounded and realistic acting style makes him perfect for character-driven dramas.

Jordan A. Nash

This British talent gained international attention starring in the fantasy film ‘Come Away’ (2020) alongside Angelina Jolie. He brings a whimsical and soulful quality to his roles, often appearing in projects that require a touch of magic and wonder. At 18 years old in 2025, he has also appeared in the hit series ‘Aladdin’ on the West End stage and various TV projects. His background in theater gives his screen performances a disciplined and polished feel.

Thaddeus J. Mixson

Making a name for himself in the inspirational sports movie ‘Safety’ (2020), he played a young brother being secretly raised on a college campus. He followed that up with a role in the blockbuster ‘Creed III’ (2023), further establishing his place in major film franchises. Now 17 years old, he balances charm and emotional depth in his performances. He has a natural likability that makes audiences root for his characters instantly.

Keivonn Woodard

Breaking barriers in Hollywood, this young actor delivered a stunning performance as Sam in the hit HBO series ‘The Last of Us’ (2023). Being deaf, he brought authentic representation to the screen and earned an Emmy nomination for his touching portrayal. At just 12 years old in 2025, he has already made history and inspired countless viewers. His expressive acting relies on body language and emotion, proving that you don’t need dialogue to captivate an audience.

Amir O’Neil

Starting out playing one of the kids in the sitcom ‘Marlon’ (2017–2018), he learned the ropes of comedy early on. He recently took on a more dramatic and athletic role in the series ‘The Crossover’ (2023), based on the popular book. At 19 years old in 2025, he has shown he can handle both the physical demands of sports roles and the timing of a sitcom. His twin brother is also an actor, and they are both making their mark in Hollywood.

Ramon Reed

Disney Channel fans know him from the unique show ‘Just Roll With It’ (2019–2021), which combined scripted comedy with improv improvisation. He also showcased his musical theater talents in the Netflix film ’13: The Musical’ (2022). Now 19 years old, he is a versatile performer who can sing, dance, and act with equal skill. His experience with live audience formats gives him a confidence that shines through on screen.

Jaylin Fletcher

He brought a great energy to the post-apocalyptic train in the series ‘Snowpiercer’ (2020–2024), playing a savvy kid navigating a frozen world. He also appeared in the mystery series ‘Clickbait’ (2021), showing his ability to work in tense, dramatic thrillers. At 19 years old in 2025, he has a cool and relaxed acting style that fits well in modern dramas. He consistently picks interesting projects that push him out of the typical child star mold.

Hero Hunter

Another standout from ‘Tyler Perry’s Young Dylan’ (2020–2025), he plays the cousin Charlie, providing a perfect straight-man balance to the show’s chaotic energy. His character often has to be the voice of reason, requiring a grounded performance amidst the comedy. At 14 years old, he has grown up on the set and developed great chemistry with his castmates. His ability to play smart and slightly neurotic characters is always entertaining.

Samuel Goergen

Joining the cast of ‘Tyler Perry’s Young Dylan’ later in the series, he quickly fit right in as the character Booder. He brings a fun, youthful energy to the ensemble and has great comedic instincts for someone so young. Now 12 years old in 2025, he is just at the beginning of his career but shows a lot of promise. His fearlessness in performing physical comedy makes him a joy to watch.

Braelyn Rankins

He was part of the quirky and beloved DC series ‘Doom Patrol’ (2019–2023), where he played a young version of the character Cyborg. He also appeared in the holiday comedy ‘8-Bit Christmas’ (2021), showing he can handle lighter fare as well. At 17 years old, he is building a diverse portfolio of roles in both superhero and family genres. His performances are often marked by a quiet intensity that draws viewers in.

Percy Daggs IV

This young actor recently garnered attention for his role in the survival horror film ‘Never Let Go’ (2024), starring alongside Halle Berry. Working in a tense, small-cast environment required him to carry a significant emotional load, which he did impressively. Now 17 years old in 2025, he is positioning himself as a strong dramatic actor. His ability to convey fear and resilience suggests a bright future in serious cinema.

Anthony B. Jenkins

Appearing in the film ‘The Deliverance’ (2024), this young actor is quickly making a name for himself in intense dramatic roles. He has also been cast in upcoming projects that promise to showcase his growing talent. At just 13 years old in 2025, he is already working with major directors and experienced casts. His naturalistic acting style makes his characters feel authentic and relatable.

Blake Cameron James

Viewers might recognize him from ‘The Sound of Christmas’ or ‘House of Manson’, where he showcased his ability to adapt to different genres. He has a distinct look and a presence that stands out even in smaller roles. Now 12 years old in 2025, he is gaining experience on various sets and building his skills. He is definitely one of the younger actors to keep an eye on as he grows.

Innocent Ekakitie

He charmed audiences in the children’s book adaptation ‘Ivy + Bean’ (2022) on Netflix. His performance was fun and energetic, fitting perfectly into the whimsical world of the movie. At 13 years old in 2025, he has also appeared in ‘Good Times’ and ‘Little Fires Everywhere’. His bright personality and infectious smile make him a natural fit for family entertainment.

Ethan William Childress

Best known for playing Johan Johnson in the ‘Black-ish’ spin-off ‘Mixed-ish’ (2019–2021), he was hilarious as the cool and slightly rebellious middle child. His chemistry with his on-screen siblings was a highlight of the show. Now 16 years old, he has proven he has the comedic chops to handle a sitcom workload. He continues to look for roles that allow him to show off his sharp wit.

Christian J. Simon

As the star of Disney Channel’s ‘Sydney to the Max’ (2019–2021), he played Leo, the best friend character who was always there with a joke or a scheme. He has also done voice work for ‘The Casagrandes’, showing his range as a performer. At 18 years old in 2025, he has a polished, professional delivery that works well in both live-action and animation. He is a reliable and entertaining actor who elevates every scene he is in.

Micah Abbey

He played the lovable and quirky Leaf in the Nickelodeon sitcom ‘Cousins for Life’ (2018–2019). More recently, he voiced the genius turtle Donatello in the hit animated film ‘Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem’ (2023). Now 18 years old, his unique voice and comedic timing have made him a standout in the voice-acting world. He brings a modern, relatable energy to iconic characters.

Danny Boyd Jr.

He had a memorable role in the critically acclaimed HBO series ‘Watchmen’ (2019), playing the son of a lead character in a complex narrative. He also appeared in ‘Stranger Things’ and ‘The Underground Railroad’, putting him in some of the most prestigious TV projects of the decade. At 15 years old in 2025, he has already worked on sets that many adult actors dream of. His resume reflects a preference for high-quality, storytelling-driven projects.

Peyton Jackson

He appeared in the Tyler Perry film ‘Nobody’s Fool’ (2018) and has had guest spots on shows like ‘Young Dylan’. He has a natural ease in front of the camera that works well for both comedy and light drama. At 15 years old in 2025, he is continuing to work his way up in the industry. His youthful energy allows him to play a variety of kid and teen roles effectively.

Ramone Hamilton

Also a key voice cast member of ‘Karma’s World’ (2021–2022), he voices the character Crash. He has also lent his voice to ‘Minions: The Rise of Gru’, showing he can work in major animated feature films. At 16 years old in 2025, he has a resume packed with voice credits, making him a specialist in the field. His ability to create distinct character voices is impressive for his age.

Trayce Malachi

Horror buffs might remember him from ‘Tales from the Hood 2’ (2018), but he has also appeared in ‘The Harder They Fall’ (2021). Working in both horror and western genres shows he is not afraid to step into stylized and intense worlds. At 17 years old in 2025, he is developing a reputation for being a versatile young character actor. He brings a unique look and energy to his roles.

Kyan Samuels

He starred as the central young boy in the 2020 adaptation of ‘The Witches’, sharing the screen with Jahzir Bruno. As a British actor, he brought a different flavor to the role and handled the special effects-heavy production like a pro. Now 16 years old, he is part of the new wave of talent crossing over between the UK and US markets. His performance was grounded and sympathetic, anchoring the fantasy chaos around him.

We’d love to hear which of these rising stars you are most excited to see more of, so please drop a comment below and share your favorites!