Black Actors With Crazy Hobbies

Hollywood often showcases the public personas of its biggest stars, but many actors lead fascinating lives behind the scenes. From mastery in martial arts to a passion for beekeeping, these performers possess skills that extend far beyond the screen. This list explores the diverse and sometimes unexpected pastimes of some of the most prominent Black male actors in the industry today.

Terry Crews

Terry Crews is a highly skilled illustrator and painter who once supported himself through his artwork. Before his roles in series like ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’, he attended the Interlochen Center for the Arts on a prestigious scholarship. He has been known to sketch portraits for his fellow cast members and has even designed his own line of luxury furniture. His artistic talent is so refined that he once worked as a courtroom sketch artist during his early career.

Morgan Freeman

Morgan Freeman took up beekeeping later in life as a way to contribute to environmental conservation. He converted his 124-acre ranch in Mississippi into a dedicated honeybee sanctuary with over two dozen hives. Freeman does not wear a protective suit while feeding his bees, claiming he has never been stung because he remains calm. He emphasizes the importance of bees to the planet’s ecosystem and views the hobby as a serious commitment.

Idris Elba

Idris Elba is not only a celebrated actor in ‘Luther’ but also a professional kickboxer. He spent a year training for his professional debut, a journey that was documented in the series ‘Idris Elba: Fighter’. In addition to his combat sports career, he is a world-renowned DJ and music producer who has performed at major festivals like Coachella. His dedication to these physically and creatively demanding hobbies showcases his multifaceted nature.

Will Smith

Will Smith is an avid fan of fencing and used to practice the sport regularly with high-profile friends. He reportedly enjoyed the discipline and focus required for the matches, which he engaged in alongside Tom Cruise and David Beckham. While his career in ‘King Richard’ focused on tennis, his personal interest in the sword remains a unique part of his fitness routine. Smith has described the sport as a great way to stay active while learning a classical skill.

Tyrese Gibson

Tyrese Gibson has a highly unusual hobby of building elaborate replicas of commercial establishments in his own backyard. The actor, known for his role in the ‘Fast & Furious’ franchise, constructed a fully functional Benihana-style restaurant at his home. He also famously built a private Starbucks and a nightclub on his property to entertain guests. These projects allow him to host elaborate dinner parties without ever having to leave his estate.

Terrence Howard

Terrence Howard is deeply invested in the study of sacred geometry and what he calls “Terryology.” He spends much of his free time exploring mathematical theories and has even filed several patents for his geometric discoveries. The actor from ‘Empire’ claims to spend hours every day working with plastic structures to prove his unconventional logic. This intellectual pursuit is a central part of his life away from the cameras and movie sets.

Michael B. Jordan

Michael B. Jordan is a massive fan of anime and spends a significant amount of his leisure time watching and collecting memorabilia. He has cited ‘Naruto’ and ‘Dragon Ball Z’ as major influences on his work, particularly during the filming of ‘Creed III’. His hobby went so far as to inspire a fashion collaboration featuring designs based on his favorite series. He frequently discusses the storytelling and character development found in Japanese animation as a source of creative inspiration.

Anthony Mackie

Anthony Mackie is a passionate handyman who enjoys carpentry and restoring classic cars. The ‘Captain America: Brave New World’ star once owned a bar in Brooklyn that he helped build and renovate himself. He often spends his downtime working on construction projects or tinkering with vintage engines in his garage. Mackie has stated that working with his hands provides a sense of accomplishment that differs from his professional acting work.

Samuel L. Jackson

Samuel L. Jackson has a legendary obsession with golf and includes a “golf clause” in most of his film contracts. This legal agreement allows him to take time off during production to play rounds at local courses twice a week. He has played on some of the world’s most famous greens and often travels with his own set of clubs. Despite his busy schedule in the ‘Marvel Cinematic Universe’, he rarely misses an opportunity to hit the fairways.

Forest Whitaker

Forest Whitaker is a dedicated practitioner of martial arts and holds a black belt in Kenpo Karate. He also practices Arnis, a traditional Filipino martial art that involves stick-fighting and bladed weapons. His disciplined approach to physical training helps him maintain focus for intense roles like those seen in ‘The Last King of Scotland’. Whitaker often incorporates the philosophy of martial arts into his daily life and preparation for diverse characters.

Mahershala Ali

Mahershala Ali was a highly talented basketball player long before he won his Academy Awards. He played Division I college basketball at Saint Mary’s College of California under his birth name, Mahershalalhashbaz Gilmore. Although he eventually chose acting over a professional sports career, he still follows the game closely and plays recreationally. His athletic background often informs the physical presence he brings to his roles in films like ‘Moonlight’.

Sterling K. Brown

Sterling K. Brown is an extreme fitness enthusiast who frequently participates in high-intensity marathons and obstacle courses. The ‘This Is Us’ star prioritizes a rigorous workout schedule that often starts in the early hours of the morning. He uses long-distance running as a way to clear his mind and prepare for the emotional demands of his performances. Brown often shares his progress and health tips with his fans to encourage a balanced lifestyle.

Omari Hardwick

Omari Hardwick is a prolific poet who has participated in numerous spoken word competitions throughout his life. He views poetry as his first love and often writes verses to process his experiences on and off the set of ‘Power’. He has released several spoken word albums and continues to perform at various literary events. For Hardwick, the rhythm of language is just as important as the physical portrayal of a character.

Common

Common is well-known for his music and acting in ‘John Wick: Chapter 2’, but he is also a dedicated practitioner of roller skating. He frequently visits local rinks to practice his moves and finds the activity to be a great source of joy and exercise. In addition to skating, he is a health advocate who enjoys exploring vegan culinary arts. Common often uses his platform to promote wellness and the benefits of staying active through unconventional sports.

Donald Faison

Donald Faison is an obsessive collector of Star Wars memorabilia and a huge fan of building Lego sets. The ‘Scrubs’ actor has a massive collection of action figures and models that he has curated over several decades. He often spends his free time constructing complex Lego structures, sometimes sharing the process on his social media platforms. His passion for the franchise is so well-known that he has even voiced characters in ‘Star Wars Resistance’.

Dulé Hill

Dulé Hill is a professional-level tap dancer who began his career on Broadway long before his roles in ‘Psych’. He trained under the legendary Gregory Hines and continues to incorporate dance into his life whenever possible. Hill often showcases his footwork during public appearances and has performed in several dance-centric stage productions. He credits tap dancing with giving him the rhythm and timing necessary for his comedic and dramatic performances.

Taye Diggs

Taye Diggs is a trained musical theater performer who remains deeply involved in the world of modern dance. He frequently shares videos of himself practicing various dance routines as a way to stay physically fit and creatively engaged. Beyond his work in ‘Rent’, he enjoys attending dance workshops and supporting the performing arts community. Diggs views movement as a primary form of expression that complements his work in television and film.

Shemar Moore

Shemar Moore is a passionate cyclist who frequently goes on long-distance rides to maintain his physique. The ‘S.W.A.T.’ star often participates in charity bike rides to raise money for multiple sclerosis research, a cause close to his heart. He documents his cycling adventures on social media, showing off his high-performance gear and scenic routes. For Moore, the sport is both a grueling workout and a way to connect with the outdoors.

Mike Colter

Mike Colter, known for his title role in ‘Luke Cage’, is a devotee of extreme strength training and bodybuilding. He spends hours in the gym lifting heavy weights to maintain the imposing physical presence required for his action roles. Colter also enjoys studying various nutritional programs to optimize his physical performance and recovery. His commitment to fitness is a central pillar of his lifestyle, often requiring him to follow strict dietary regimens.

David Harewood

David Harewood is a talented artist who spends much of his time away from ‘Supergirl’ sketching and drawing. He frequently shares his detailed artwork, which often includes portraits and abstract concepts, with his followers online. Harewood has found that drawing serves as a meditative practice that helps him unwind after long days of filming. He has expressed interest in showcasing his work in galleries and continues to refine his technique.

Blair Underwood

Blair Underwood is a licensed private pilot who enjoys spending his free time in the cockpit of small aircraft. He took up flying years ago as a way to challenge himself and experience a different perspective of the world. The actor from ‘Self Made’ finds the technical aspects of aviation to be a rewarding mental exercise. He often flies himself to various locations, enjoying the freedom that comes with navigating the open skies.

Courtney B. Vance

Courtney B. Vance is an enthusiastic woodworker who enjoys building custom furniture for his home. The ‘Lovecraft Country’ actor finds the process of transforming raw wood into a finished product to be deeply satisfying. He has a dedicated workshop where he spends hours crafting pieces that are both functional and artistic. Vance values the patience and precision required for the craft, seeing it as a perfect balance to his professional life.

Winston Duke

Winston Duke is a major fan of professional wrestling and niche sports like international rugby. The ‘Black Panther’ star often attends live wrestling events and has spoken at length about the athleticism and storytelling involved in the sport. He enjoys the theatrical nature of the ring and finds it to be a unique form of entertainment. Duke also follows various soccer leagues closely, maintaining a strong connection to his Caribbean roots through sport.

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II holds a degree in architecture from the University of California, Berkeley, and still enjoys architectural drawing. Before his career in ‘Aquaman’, he worked as a city planner in San Francisco, and he continues to study design in his spare time. He often sketches buildings and urban landscapes as a way to stay connected to his academic background. His understanding of space and structure often influences how he approaches the physicality of his characters.

Kelvin Harrison, Jr.

Kelvin Harrison Jr. is a classically trained musician who is proficient in both the piano and the trumpet. Growing up in a musical family in New Orleans, he spent much of his youth performing in jazz bands and classical ensembles. The ‘Chevalier’ star continues to play regularly and often looks for roles that allow him to showcase his musical abilities. For him, music is a language that helps him understand the emotional depth of the scripts he reads.

Colman Domingo

Colman Domingo is a passionate interior designer who enjoys renovating and decorating homes in his downtime. The ‘Fear the Walking Dead’ actor has a keen eye for aesthetics and often takes on personal projects to transform living spaces. He views the design process as another form of storytelling, where every object in a room has a specific purpose or history. Domingo’s homes are often featured in design magazines, highlighting his sophisticated and eclectic taste.

Leslie David Baker

Leslie David Baker has a surprising passion for high-end scents and the art of candle making. The ‘The Office’ star spent time developing his own line of luxury candles, focusing on unique and soothing aromas. He enjoys the chemistry involved in blending different essential oils to create specific moods and atmospheres. This hobby provides a calm and fragrant contrast to the busy environments of television production sets.

Giancarlo Esposito

Giancarlo Esposito is a devoted practitioner of yoga and meditation, which he uses to ground himself between intense roles. The actor, famous for playing Gus Fring in ‘Breaking Bad’, credits these practices with helping him maintain a sense of peace. He often incorporates mindfulness techniques into his character preparation to ensure he remains present in every scene. Esposito frequently advocates for the mental health benefits of regular meditative practice.

Eriq La Salle

Eriq La Salle is a successful author who spends his time writing gritty crime thrillers and suspense novels. Known for his role in ‘ER’, he has published several books, including the ‘Martyr Maker’ series. He finds the process of world-building through prose to be a liberating experience compared to the constraints of a script. La Salle often participates in book signings and literary festivals to engage with his growing readership.

Rick Fox

Rick Fox transitioned from a career in professional basketball and acting to become a major figure in the e-sports industry. He founded an e-sports organization and has spent years advocating for the recognition of competitive gaming as a legitimate sport. Fox is often seen at major tournaments and is deeply involved in the day-to-day operations of his gaming teams. His passion for the digital arena has made him a respected voice in the global gaming community.

David Oyelowo

David Oyelowo is an avid tennis player who competes regularly to stay in peak physical condition. The ‘Selma’ actor finds the mental strategy required on the court to be similar to the preparation needed for a complex role. He often plays matches with other actors and professionals, using the sport as a primary way to socialize and exercise. Oyelowo’s competitive nature is well-suited to the high-stakes environment of individual sports.

Chiwetel Ejiofor

Chiwetel Ejiofor is a highly skilled chess player who has been playing the game since his childhood. He finds the strategic thinking and patience required for chess to be a helpful tool for his acting career. The ’12 Years a Slave’ star often has a chess board set up in his trailer to pass the time between filming scenes. He enjoys the intellectual challenge of outmaneuvering an opponent through careful planning and foresight.

Tyler Perry

Tyler Perry has a fascinating hobby of flying sophisticated remote-controlled planes and helicopters. He owns a large collection of high-tech RC aircraft and often spends his weekends at specialized flying fields. The media mogul finds the technical skill required to pilot these miniature machines to be a relaxing escape from his vast business responsibilities. Perry has even shared videos of his aerial maneuvers, showcasing his precision and control.

Keith David

Keith David is a talented jazz singer who frequently performs in clubs and concert halls when he isn’t acting. Known for his deep, resonant voice in ‘The Thing’, he has a passion for the Great American Songbook and classical jazz standards. He often collaborates with professional musicians to record albums and perform live sets that highlight his vocal range. For David, singing is a soulful extension of his performance art that allows for direct audience connection.

Lennie James

Lennie James is an accomplished playwright and screenwriter who writes extensively outside of his acting commitments. The ‘The Walking Dead’ star created and wrote the critically acclaimed series ‘Save Me’, showcasing his talent for narrative structure. He often spends his hiatus periods developing new scripts and exploring complex social themes through his writing. James views his work behind the pen as essential to his overall identity as a creative artist.

Paterson Joseph

Paterson Joseph is a history enthusiast who recently became a published author of historical fiction. He spent years researching the life of Charles Ignatius Sancho, the first Black man to vote in a British election, before writing a novel about him. The ‘Timeless’ actor often gives lectures and presentations on Black British history to raise awareness of overlooked figures. His hobby of historical research has turned into a significant second career as a writer and educator.

Isaiah Washington

Isaiah Washington is deeply involved in genealogy and DNA research to uncover his ancestral roots in Sierra Leone. He has spent years tracing his lineage and has even been granted citizenship in the country based on his findings. The ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ actor frequently travels to West Africa to participate in community projects and reconnect with his heritage. His dedication to this personal quest has become a central part of his public identity and activism.

Adrian Holmes

Adrian Holmes is a fan of performance car racing and often spends his time at professional tracks. The ‘Bel-Air’ star enjoys the adrenaline rush of high-speed driving and has taken several advanced racing courses to improve his skills. He often attends major automotive events and enjoys testing the limits of high-performance vehicles in a controlled environment. For Holmes, the racetrack offers a level of excitement and focus that is hard to find elsewhere.

Gary Dourdan

Gary Dourdan is a classic car enthusiast who specializes in the restoration of vintage European and American vehicles. The ‘CSI’ star is often found in his garage working on engines or refurbishing interiors to return cars to their original glory. He has a particular affinity for classic motorcycles and has built a significant collection of rare models over the years. Dourdan’s mechanical skills are self-taught, fueled by a lifelong love for automotive design and engineering.

John Boyega

John Boyega is an outspoken fan of anime and an avid collector of high-end action figures and statues. He often shares his latest acquisitions from franchises like ‘Attack on Titan’ and ‘Gundam’ with his social media followers. The ‘Star Wars’ actor has even visited animation studios in Japan to learn more about the production process of his favorite shows. His hobby is a significant part of his life, providing a creative outlet and a way to connect with fan culture.

Daniel Kaluuya

Daniel Kaluuya spent much of his youth writing plays and continues to develop his own scripts and stories. Before his breakout in ‘Get Out’, he was a member of a local theater group where he wrote and performed original material. He remains focused on creating opportunities for underrepresented voices through his production company and writing projects. Kaluuya’s passion for storytelling extends to every aspect of the medium, from the initial draft to the final edit.

Daveed Diggs

Daveed Diggs is a member of an experimental hip-hop group called ‘clipping.’ and spends his free time producing avant-garde music. The ‘Hamilton’ star enjoys pushing the boundaries of sound design, often incorporating industrial and noise elements into his tracks. He frequently tours with his band and views music as a vital platform for social commentary and artistic experimentation. For Diggs, the collaborative nature of the music scene is a perfect complement to his solo acting work.

Leslie Odom Jr.

Leslie Odom Jr. is an author who enjoys writing books aimed at inspiring the next generation of artists. He published a book titled ‘Failing Up’, which explores the lessons he learned during his journey to success on Broadway. Odom Jr. often spends his downtime reflecting on his experiences and crafting essays on the importance of perseverance and craft. He also enjoys collecting rare books and exploring the history of American theater.

Morris Chestnut

Morris Chestnut is a fitness and nutrition expert who has co-authored books on health and bodybuilding. He maintains a strict lifestyle focused on physical excellence and often helps others achieve their fitness goals through specialized programs. The ‘Best Man’ actor spends a significant portion of his day in the gym or preparing healthy meals to stay in peak condition. His dedication to wellness has made him a respected figure in the health community.

Dennis Haysbert

Dennis Haysbert is an expert at deep-sea fishing and spends much of his vacation time on the open ocean. He enjoys the challenge of catching large game fish and finds the solitude of the sea to be incredibly rejuvenating. When he isn’t on a boat, he is often on the golf course, competing in celebrity tournaments for various charities. Haysbert’s hobbies allow him to enjoy the outdoors while maintaining a high level of physical activity.

Andre Braugher

The late Andre Braugher was known among his friends and colleagues as a highly talented amateur chef. He enjoyed experimenting with complex recipes and hosting elaborate dinner parties for his family and close friends. Braugher found the precision and timing of professional-grade cooking to be a rewarding challenge that mirrored his approach to acting. His kitchen was a place of creativity where he could relax and share his love for fine cuisine.

Donald Glover

Donald Glover, also known as Childish Gambino, is deeply interested in technology and coding. He has spent time working on various digital projects, including developing apps and exploring the future of creative technology. The ‘Atlanta’ creator views the digital space as a new frontier for storytelling and often incorporates tech themes into his work. His curiosity about how software and hardware interact drives much of his innovative approach to media.

Regé-Jean Page

Regé-Jean Page is a lover of the outdoors who enjoys camping and exploring remote natural landscapes. The ‘Bridgerton’ star often takes solo trips into the wilderness to disconnect from the pressures of fame and recharge his creative energy. He is also a dedicated coffee enthusiast who enjoys learning about different brewing methods and bean origins from around the world. These simple pleasures help him maintain a grounded perspective despite his rapid rise to stardom.

Which of these actors’ hobbies surprised you the most, and are there any others you think should have made the list? Share your thoughts in the comments.