African-American Actors Who Are National Treasures

The history of American cinema is inextricably linked to the talent and resilience of African-American actors who have defined generations of storytelling. These men have moved beyond the confines of restricted roles to become the faces of global franchises and critically acclaimed dramas. Their collective work has challenged societal norms and brought visibility to diverse human experiences. Each of the following individuals has made a lasting impact that cements their status as a national treasure.

Sidney Poitier

Sidney Poitier was the first Black actor to win the Academy Award for Best Actor for his role in ‘Lilies of the Field’. He paved the way for future generations by portraying dignified and complex characters during the Civil Rights movement. His performances in ‘In the Heat of the Night’ and ‘Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner’ challenged racial prejudices on a global scale. He received the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his artistic and humanitarian contributions.

James Earl Jones

James Earl Jones is renowned for his deep and resonant voice which became iconic through ‘Star Wars’ and ‘The Lion King’. He built a distinguished career on Broadway and in film with powerful roles in ‘The Great White Hope’ and ‘Field of Dreams’. His presence on screen and stage earned him the Triple Crown of Acting including two Tony Awards. He is widely considered one of the greatest stage and screen actors in American history.

Morgan Freeman

Morgan Freeman is celebrated for his authoritative presence and calm delivery in dozens of major motion pictures. He won an Academy Award for his role in ‘Million Dollar Baby’ and received acclaim for ‘The Shawshank Redemption’. His narration work has become a cultural phenomenon because of its soothing and wise quality. He remains one of the most prolific and respected figures in the entertainment industry today.

Denzel Washington

Denzel Washington is a titan of the screen known for his intense performances and incredible range. He has won two Academy Awards for his work in ‘Glory’ and ‘Training Day’. His career includes legendary portrayals of historical figures like ‘Malcolm X’ and ‘Hurricane’. He continues to lead major productions while also finding success as a director and producer.

Samuel L. Jackson

Samuel L. Jackson is one of the highest-grossing actors of all time thanks to his roles in massive franchises. He became a household name following his breakthrough performance in ‘Pulp Fiction’. Fans recognize him as Nick Fury in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and Mace Windu in the ‘Star Wars’ prequels. His distinctive acting style and frequent collaborations with top directors have made him a global icon.

Laurence Fishburne

Laurence Fishburne gained international fame for his portrayal of Morpheus in the ‘Matrix’ trilogy. He received an Academy Award nomination for his powerful depiction of Ike Turner in ‘What’s Love Got to Do with It’. His career began at a young age with a role in the classic film ‘Apocalypse Now’. He is also a celebrated stage actor with a Tony Award to his credit.

Forest Whitaker

Forest Whitaker is known for his transformative acting style and deep character studies. He won an Academy Award for his terrifying and brilliant performance as Idi Amin in ‘The Last King of Scotland’. His filmography includes diverse roles in ‘The Butler’ and ‘Arrival’. He is also an accomplished director and a dedicated humanitarian worker for global peace.

Danny Glover

Danny Glover is best known for his role as Roger Murtaugh in the successful ‘Lethal Weapon’ film series. He has balanced his career between big-budget action movies and socially conscious dramas like ‘The Color Purple’. Beyond his acting work he is a prominent activist for civil rights and labor unions. His longevity in Hollywood has made him a beloved figure across multiple generations.

Harry Belafonte

Harry Belafonte was a multi-talented entertainer who used his stardom to fund and support the Civil Rights movement. He starred in several significant films including ‘Carmen Jones’ and ‘Island in the Sun’. While he was a famous singer he made indelible marks on cinema and television throughout the mid-twentieth century. He remained an outspoken advocate for justice until his passing.

Billy Dee Williams

Billy Dee Williams became a definitive screen heartthrob and a sci-fi legend as Lando Calrissian in ‘The Empire Strikes Back’. He delivered smooth and charming performances in classic films such as ‘Lady Sings the Blues’ and ‘Mahogany’. His career spans over six decades and includes significant work in both film and television. He is widely regarded as one of the most charismatic leading men in Hollywood history.

Louis Gossett Jr.

Louis Gossett Jr. made history as the first Black man to win the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. He earned this honor for his unforgettable performance as a drill instructor in ‘An Officer and a Gentleman’. His career spanned several decades and included a memorable role in the groundbreaking television miniseries ‘Roots’. He remained a respected figure in Hollywood until his passing in early 2024.

Keith David

Keith David is a versatile actor known for his commanding voice and strong screen presence. He has appeared in cult classics like ‘The Thing’ and ‘They Live’ as well as mainstream hits like ‘Platoon’. His voice acting career is equally impressive with notable roles in ‘Gargoyles’ and ‘The Princess and the Frog’. He is a frequent collaborator with top-tier directors and a staple of American character acting.

Jeffrey Wright

Jeffrey Wright is a critically acclaimed actor known for his ability to disappear into diverse and intellectual roles. He has received praise for his work in the ‘James Bond’ series and the television drama ‘Westworld’. His performance in ‘Angels in America’ earned him both a Tony Award and an Emmy Award. He continues to be a sought-after talent in both independent cinema and major blockbusters.

Mahershala Ali

Mahershala Ali rose to prominence with a series of powerful and nuanced performances in the late twenty-teens. He won two Academy Awards for Best Supporting Actor for his roles in ‘Moonlight’ and ‘Green Book’. His work in the television series ‘True Detective’ further established him as a premier leading man. He is currently set to take on iconic roles in upcoming major film franchises.

Sterling K. Brown

Sterling K. Brown became a household name through his emotional and complex role in the series ‘This Is Us’. He won an Emmy Award for his portrayal of Christopher Darden in ‘The People v. O. J. Simpson’. His film career includes significant roles in ‘Black Panther’ and ‘American Fiction’. He is praised for his vulnerability and technical precision as a performer.

Giancarlo Esposito

Giancarlo Esposito is widely recognized for his chilling and calculated performance as Gus Fring in ‘Breaking Bad’. He has a long history in film with early roles in Spike Lee productions like ‘Do the Right Thing’. His career has seen a resurgence with major parts in ‘The Mandalorian’ and ‘The Boys’. He is considered one of the most effective and talented character actors of his generation.

Eddie Murphy

Eddie Murphy is a comedic genius who revitalized ‘Saturday Night Live’ and became a global movie star in the eighties. He led massive hits such as ‘Beverly Hills Cop’ and ‘Coming to America’. His voice work as Donkey in ‘Shrek’ introduced him to a whole new generation of fans. He received an Academy Award nomination for his dramatic turn in the musical ‘Dreamgirls’.

Will Smith

Will Smith transitioned from a successful rap career to become one of the biggest movie stars in the world. He starred in the long-running sitcom ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’ before leading blockbusters like ‘Independence Day’. He won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Richard Williams in ‘King Richard’. His charisma and box office draw have made him a central figure in modern Hollywood.

Jamie Foxx

Jamie Foxx is a rare talent who has excelled in comedy, music, and dramatic acting. He won an Academy Award for his incredible transformation into Ray Charles in the biopic ‘Ray’. His diverse filmography includes ‘Django Unchained’ and ‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’. He remains a prolific entertainer and producer with a massive influence on popular culture.

Don Cheadle

Don Cheadle is a highly respected actor known for his versatility and dedication to his craft. He received an Academy Award nomination for his lead role in the powerful drama ‘Hotel Rwanda’. Marvel fans know him as James Rhodes in the ‘Iron Man’ and ‘Avengers’ films. He has also starred in acclaimed series like ‘House of Lies’ and ‘Black Monday’.

Andre Braugher

Andre Braugher was celebrated for his gravitas and impeccable timing in both dramas and comedies. He gained fame for his role as Frank Pembleton in ‘Homicide: Life on the Street’. Later in his career he became a fan favorite as Captain Raymond Holt in ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’. His sudden passing in 2023 was mourned by fans and colleagues who valued his immense talent.

Delroy Lindo

Delroy Lindo is a powerful character actor who has worked frequently with director Spike Lee in films like ‘Malcolm X’. He received widespread critical acclaim for his intense lead performance in ‘Da 5 Bloods’. His career includes a wide array of roles in films such as ‘Get Shorty’ and ‘The Cider House Rules’. He is known for his commanding screen presence and deep emotional resonance.

Courtney B. Vance

Courtney B. Vance is a distinguished actor of stage and screen with a reputation for excellence. He won an Emmy Award for his masterful portrayal of Johnnie Cochran in ‘The People v. O. J. Simpson’. His career includes notable roles in ‘The Hunt for Red October’ and ‘Lovecraft Country’. He is also a Tony Award winner who has been a mainstay of the American theater for decades.

David Alan Grier

David Alan Grier first gained national attention as a versatile cast member on the sketch comedy show ‘In Living Color’. He has since built a diverse career that includes Broadway success and numerous film roles. He is a multi-time Tony Award nominee and won for his role in ‘A Soldier’s Play’. His ability to balance broad comedy with serious drama has made him a lasting industry figure.

Ernie Hudson

Ernie Hudson is best known to audiences worldwide as Winston Zeddemore in the ‘Ghostbusters’ franchise. He has maintained a steady career with hundreds of credits in film and television over five decades. His roles in ‘The Crow’ and the series ‘Oz’ showcased his range beyond the comedy genre. He remains an active and beloved performer who frequently interacts with his dedicated fanbase.

LeVar Burton

LeVar Burton became a cultural icon through his leading role in the historic miniseries ‘Roots’. He is also beloved for his long tenure as the host of ‘Reading Rainbow’ where he promoted literacy to millions of children. ‘Star Trek’ fans recognize him as Geordi La Forge from ‘The Next Generation’. His contributions to education and entertainment have earned him numerous prestigious awards.

Yaphet Kotto

Yaphet Kotto was a formidable actor known for his roles in ‘Alien’ and the Bond film ‘Live and Let Die’. He spent many years starring as Al Giardello in the acclaimed police drama ‘Homicide: Life on the Street’. His career was marked by his ability to play both intimidating villains and heroic figures with equal conviction. He is remembered as a pioneer for Black actors in the science fiction and action genres.

Ossie Davis

Ossie Davis was a legendary actor, director, and activist who was a central figure in the Civil Rights movement. He appeared in many Spike Lee films including ‘Do the Right Thing’ and ‘Get on the Bus’. Alongside his wife Ruby Dee he used his platform to advocate for social change and racial equality. His career spanned theater, film, and television over more than half a century.

Paul Robeson

Paul Robeson was a true Renaissance man who excelled as an athlete, singer, actor, and activist. He became a global star through his performance in ‘Show Boat’ and his legendary portrayal of ‘Othello’ on stage. Despite facing significant political persecution he remained a steadfast voice for human rights. He is remembered as one of the most influential African-American figures of the twentieth century.

Richard Pryor

Richard Pryor was a groundbreaking comedian who also left a significant mark on cinema as a leading man. He starred in popular films such as ‘Silver Streak’ and ‘Stir Crazy’ alongside Gene Wilder. His semi-autobiographical film ‘Jo Jo Dancer, Your Life Is Calling’ showcased his depth as a dramatic actor. He is widely considered the most influential stand-up comedian in history.

Anthony Mackie

Anthony Mackie gained widespread fame for his role as Sam Wilson in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. He has worked steadily in acclaimed dramas such as ‘The Hurt Locker’ and ‘Million Dollar Baby’. Recently he took on the mantle of Captain America in both television and upcoming films. His charisma and athleticism have made him one of the most prominent leading men in modern Hollywood.

Chadwick Boseman

Chadwick Boseman became a global phenomenon for his portrayal of T’Challa in the blockbuster ‘Black Panther’. He specialized in playing historical icons including Jackie Robinson in ’42’ and James Brown in ‘Get on Up’. His final performance in ‘Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom’ earned him a posthumous Academy Award nomination. He is remembered for his dignity, talent, and the massive cultural impact of his work.

Michael B. Jordan

Michael B. Jordan rose to stardom with his powerful performances in ‘Fruitvale Station’ and the ‘Creed’ series. He gained further acclaim as the complex antagonist Erik Killmonger in ‘Black Panther’. His career started at a young age with a memorable role in the legendary series ‘The Wire’. He has now expanded his career into directing and producing major film projects.

Terrence Howard

Terrence Howard received an Academy Award nomination for his breakthrough performance in ‘Hustle & Flow’. He is well known to television audiences for his leading role as Lucious Lyon in the hit drama ‘Empire’. His film credits include ‘Crash’ and the first ‘Iron Man’ movie. He is recognized for his unique acting style and his ability to play complex and often volatile characters.

Cuba Gooding Jr.

Cuba Gooding Jr. became a major star after winning an Academy Award for his role in ‘Jerry Maguire’. He delivered an iconic performance in the classic film ‘Boyz n the Hood’. His career includes a wide variety of roles in films like ‘Men of Honor’ and ‘American Gangster’. He later received an Emmy nomination for his portrayal of O. J. Simpson in ‘The People v. O. J. Simpson’.

Djimon Hounsou

Djimon Hounsou is a Beninese-American actor who earned international acclaim for his role in ‘Amistad’. He received Academy Award nominations for his work in ‘In America’ and ‘Blood Diamond’. His career includes major roles in franchises like ‘Gladiator’ and the Marvel Cinematic Universe. He is known for his incredible physical presence and his ability to bring gravitas to every role.

Ving Rhames

Ving Rhames is instantly recognizable for his deep voice and his role as Luther Stickell in the ‘Mission: Impossible’ series. He won a Golden Globe for his portrayal of Don King in the television movie ‘Don King: Only in America’. His performance as Marsellus Wallace in ‘Pulp Fiction’ remains one of the most memorable in modern cinema. He has maintained a consistent presence in Hollywood for decades as a reliable character actor.

Wesley Snipes

Wesley Snipes was a major action star in the nineties known for his martial arts skills and screen presence. He redefined the superhero genre with his leading role in the ‘Blade’ trilogy. His dramatic work in films like ‘New Jack City’ and ‘White Men Can’t Jump’ demonstrated his versatility. He remains a significant figure in the history of Black cinema and action filmmaking.

Michael Clarke Duncan

Michael Clarke Duncan was a beloved actor known for his massive stature and gentle spirit. He received an Academy Award nomination for his heartbreaking role as John Coffey in ‘The Green Mile’. His career included memorable turns in ‘Armageddon’ and as the Kingpin in ‘Daredevil’. His sudden passing in 2012 was a great loss to the entertainment community.

Bernie Mac

Bernie Mac was a legendary stand-up comedian who found great success as a film and television actor. He starred in his own long-running sitcom ‘The Bernie Mac Show’ which won numerous awards. His film career included standout roles in ‘Ocean’s Eleven’ and ‘Bad Santa’. He is remembered for his unique comedic timing and his blunt but loving persona.

Gregory Hines

Gregory Hines was a legendary dancer and actor who brought tap dancing back into the mainstream. He starred in several notable films including ‘White Nights’ and ‘The Cotton Club’. His work on Broadway earned him a Tony Award for his performance in ‘Jelly’s Last Jam’. He is remembered as one of the greatest dancers of his time and a charismatic screen presence.

Robert Guillaume

Robert Guillaume was a pioneer in television who is best known for his role as Benson DuBois in ‘Soap’ and ‘Benson’. He won two Emmy Awards for his work on these series and broke barriers for Black actors in leading sitcom roles. He also provided the iconic voice for Rafiki in ‘The Lion King’. His career spanned decades across stage, screen, and voice acting.

Colman Domingo

Colman Domingo has become one of the most acclaimed actors of recent years with a series of powerful performances. He received an Academy Award nomination for his lead role in the biopic ‘Rustin’. His work in ‘Fear the Walking Dead’ and ‘Euphoria’ has earned him a massive following. He is also a gifted playwright and director with a deep commitment to the theater.

Glynn Turman

Glynn Turman is a veteran actor who has been a consistent presence in film and television for over sixty years. He gained early fame in the classic film ‘Cooley High’ and later starred in the series ‘A Different World’. He won an Emmy Award for his guest role in ‘In Treatment’ and received praise for his work in ‘Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom’. He is considered a mentor to many younger actors in the industry.

Blair Underwood

Blair Underwood rose to fame as a charming attorney on the legal drama ‘L.A. Law’. He has maintained a prolific career in television with roles in ‘In Treatment’ and ‘Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.’. His stage work includes acclaimed performances on Broadway and a Tony Award nomination. He is recognized for his leading-man charisma and his advocacy for diversity in Hollywood.

Joe Morton

Joe Morton is a highly respected character actor with a career spanning over five decades. He is widely recognized for his role as Rowan Pope in the hit series ‘Scandal’. His film work includes the cult classic ‘The Brother from Another Planet’ and ‘Terminator 2: Judgment Day’. He won an Emmy Award for his guest performance in ‘Scandal’ and remains a staple of American drama.

Dennis Haysbert

Dennis Haysbert is known for his authoritative voice and his role as President David Palmer in the series ’24’. He has appeared in numerous films including ‘Far from Heaven’ and ‘Major League’. Many audiences also recognize him as the longtime spokesperson for Allstate insurance. His steady and reliable presence has made him a household name in American media.

Wendell Pierce

Wendell Pierce gained widespread acclaim for his portrayal of Detective Bunk Moreland in ‘The Wire’. He continued to impress audiences with his leading role in the series ‘Treme’. His film career includes significant roles in ‘Selma’ and ‘Ray’. He is also a dedicated stage actor who has received praise for his performances in both New York and London.

Lance Reddick

Lance Reddick was a distinguished actor known for his elegant presence and intense delivery. He held key roles in several legendary television series including ‘The Wire’ and ‘Fringe’. Film audiences know him best as Charon in the ‘John Wick’ franchise. His passing in 2023 led to an outpouring of tributes from fans and fellow actors who admired his unique talent.

Clarence Williams III

Clarence Williams III became a household name as Linc Hayes on the classic series ‘The Mod Squad’. He later delivered a memorable performance as the father in the film ‘Purple Rain’. His career was defined by his ability to play cool and mysterious characters with great depth. He remained a respected figure in the industry for over half a century until his death in 2021.

Please share your thoughts on which of these legends has impacted you the most in the comments.