The Tallest African-American Actors in Hollywood

The landscape of Hollywood has been shaped by performers whose physical presence is as commanding as their acting range. Among African-American actors, height often contributes to a performer’s ability to inhabit certain types of roles, from imposing action heroes to authoritative leaders. This list highlights fifty of the tallest male African-American actors who have made significant contributions to the film and television industry. Each entry includes their confirmed height and a brief overview of their notable professional work.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

Standing at a towering 7’2″, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is recognized as one of the tallest actors to appear in major film productions. Although he is most famous for his legendary basketball career, his transition into acting included a memorable fight scene in the 1978 film ‘Game of Death’. He later showcased his comedic range in the 1980 parody film ‘Airplane!’, playing the role of co-pilot Roger Murdock. His immense height has allowed him to play visually striking characters in both live-action and animated projects throughout his career.

Shaquille O’Neal

Shaquille O’Neal measures 7’1″ and has maintained a prolific presence in Hollywood following his athletic career. He took on the lead role in the 1996 fantasy film ‘Kazaam’ and portrayed a superhero in the 1997 DC Comics adaptation ‘Steel’. Beyond his leading roles, O’Neal has appeared as himself or in character parts in numerous comedies such as ‘Grown Ups 2’. His physical stature often serves as a focal point for humor or spectacle in his various cinematic appearances.

John Salley

Measuring 6’11”, John Salley successfully transitioned from professional sports into a diverse acting and hosting career. He is perhaps best known for his role as Fletcher in the ‘Bad Boys’ franchise, appearing alongside Will Smith and Martin Lawrence. His height and charismatic personality made him a frequent choice for roles that require an imposing yet approachable presence. Salley has also contributed to various television series and independent film projects throughout his decades in the industry.

Kevin Garnett

Kevin Garnett, who stands 6’11”, earned critical acclaim for his performance in the 2019 crime thriller ‘Uncut Gems’. In the film, he plays a fictionalized version of himself, demonstrating significant dramatic depth alongside Adam Sandler. While primarily known for his dominance on the basketball court, his venture into cinema was met with praise for his natural screen presence. His height played a central role in the film’s narrative, emphasizing the physical contrast between him and the other characters.

Quinton Aaron

Quinton Aaron is known for his massive frame and stands at 6’8″. He rose to international prominence for his portrayal of Michael Oher in the 2009 biographical drama ‘The Blind Side’. His performance earned him several award nominations and established him as a talented actor capable of delivering quiet, emotional intensity. Since his breakout role, he has continued to work in various independent films and television guest spots.

Lester Speight

Lester Speight stands at 6’6″ and is often recognized for his muscular build and commanding height. He is widely known for his portrayal of Terry Tate in a series of popular commercials, but he has also appeared in major films like ‘Transformers: Dark of the Moon’. His career includes a significant amount of work in television, where he often plays physically dominant characters. Speight’s background as a former professional football player and wrestler contributed to his unique screen presence.

Michael Clarke Duncan

The late Michael Clarke Duncan stood 6’5″ and was celebrated for his immense size and gentle demeanor. He received an Academy Award nomination for his breakout role as John Coffey in the 1999 drama ‘The Green Mile’. Duncan’s height allowed him to play a variety of roles, from the villainous Kingpin in ‘Daredevil’ to comedic parts in ‘Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby’. His career was marked by his ability to balance physical intimidation with genuine emotional vulnerability.

Winston Duke

Winston Duke, who is 6’5″, quickly became a household name for his portrayal of M’Baku in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, starting with ‘Black Panther’. His physical presence was essential for the role of the formidable tribal leader, providing a striking contrast to other characters. Duke also starred in Jordan Peele’s psychological horror film ‘Us’ and the action-comedy ‘Spenser Confidential’. His height and athletic build have made him one of the most prominent leading men in modern Hollywood.

Tommy Lister Jr.

Thomas ‘Tiny’ Lister Jr. stood 6’5″ and was one of the most recognizable character actors in the industry. He is perhaps best remembered for his role as Deebo in the ‘Friday’ film series, where his height made him a truly intimidating antagonist. Lister also appeared in ‘The Fifth Element’ as the Galactic President and had a significant career in professional wrestling. Despite his nickname, his massive frame was his most distinguishing professional trademark.

Tyler Perry

Tyler Perry stands at 6’5″ and is a multifaceted powerhouse in Hollywood as an actor, director, and producer. While he often plays multiple characters in his ‘Madea’ films, his actual height is frequently hidden behind costumes or camera angles. Perry has also taken on dramatic roles in films like ‘Gone Girl’ and ‘Alex Cross’, where his stature adds to his authoritative screen presence. He has built a massive media empire while remaining a consistent face in front of the camera.

Tony Todd

Tony Todd is 6’5″ and is widely regarded as a legend in the horror genre. He is most famous for playing the titular character in ‘Candyman’, where his height and resonant voice created an iconic cinematic figure. Todd has appeared in over 100 films and television shows, including the ‘Final Destination’ series and ‘The Man from Earth’. His physical stature often grants him an aura of mystery or power that defines many of his most famous roles.

Dwayne Johnson

Dwayne Johnson stands at 6’5″ and is currently one of the highest-paid actors in the world. His transition from professional wrestling to Hollywood began with ‘The Mummy Returns’ and led to leading roles in the ‘Fast & Furious’ and ‘Jumanji’ franchises. Johnson’s height and muscular physique are central to his image as a dominant action hero. He consistently uses his physical presence to anchor big-budget blockbusters that appeal to global audiences.

Boris Kodjoe

Boris Kodjoe stands at 6’4″ and is known for both his modeling background and his extensive acting career. He gained popularity through the television series ‘Soul Food’ and later appeared in films like ‘Resident Evil: Afterlife’. His height and lean build have allowed him to play romantic leads as well as action-oriented roles. Kodjoe has also been a regular fixture on the series ‘Station 19’, where he portrays a high-ranking fire captain.

Bill Duke

Bill Duke stands 6’4″ and is known for his intense screen presence and imposing physical stature. He delivered memorable performances in 1980s action classics like ‘Predator’ and ‘Commando’. Beyond his work as an actor, Duke is an accomplished director, helming films such as ‘A Rage in Harlem’ and ‘Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit’. His height often led to him being cast as military leaders or high-stakes authority figures throughout his long career.

Dennis Haysbert

Dennis Haysbert, who stands 6’4″, is recognized for his commanding voice and stately physical presence. He is widely known for his role as President David Palmer in the hit series ’24’ and for his long-standing work in Allstate commercials. His film credits include ‘Far from Heaven’ and ‘Heat’, where he consistently portrays characters of great integrity. Haysbert’s height often reinforces the sense of stability and authority that his characters project on screen.

Danny Glover

Danny Glover stands at 6’4″ and has had a prolific career spanning several decades in Hollywood. He is most famous for his role as Roger Murtaugh in the ‘Lethal Weapon’ film series alongside Mel Gibson. Glover has also starred in critically acclaimed films like ‘The Color Purple’ and ‘To Sleep with Anger’. His height has been a consistent part of his physical profile, contributing to his versatility in both action and dramatic roles.

Delroy Lindo

Delroy Lindo is 6’4″ and is known for his powerful, often intense performances in film and theater. He has collaborated frequently with director Spike Lee on films such as ‘Malcolm X’, ‘Clockers’, and ‘Da 5 Bloods’. Lindo’s height and deep, expressive voice give him a formidable presence that has defined many of his most complex characters. He recently received widespread acclaim for his starring role in the legal drama series ‘The Good Fight’.

Henry Simmons

Henry Simmons stands 6’4″ and is best known for his roles in long-running television dramas. He portrayed Detective Baldwin Jones on ‘NYPD Blue’ and later played Alphonso ‘Mack’ Mackenzie on the Marvel series ‘Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.’. His height and athletic physique often see him cast in roles involving law enforcement or military backgrounds. Simmons’ physical presence is a key component of the leadership qualities he often portrays on screen.

Keith David

Keith David stands at 6’3″ and is celebrated for both his on-screen acting and his extensive voice-over work. He has had memorable roles in cult classics like ‘The Thing’ and ‘They Live’, often playing strong, reliable characters. His height and distinctive, resonant voice have made him a mainstay in Hollywood for over forty years. David also starred in the television series ‘Greenleaf’ and provided the voice for the Arbiter in the ‘Halo’ video game franchise.

Mike Colter

Mike Colter measures 6’3″ and rose to international fame playing the title character in the Marvel series ‘Luke Cage’. His impressive height and muscular build were essential for portraying a character with superhuman strength and impenetrable skin. Colter has also appeared in films like ‘Million Dollar Baby’ and the television series ‘Evil’. His physical stature often dictates the types of authoritative or physically capable characters he is selected to play.

Terry Crews

Terry Crews stands at 6’3″ and is known for his transition from professional football to a successful career in comedy and action. He gained fame for his role in ‘Everybody Hates Chris’ and as the lovable Sergeant Terry Jeffords on ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’. His height and exceptionally muscular physique are often used for comedic effect, contrasting with his characters’ sensitive personalities. Crews has also appeared in action films like ‘The Expendables’ franchise.

Bernie Mac

The late Bernie Mac stood 6’3″ and was one of the most influential comedians and actors of his generation. He starred in the semi-autobiographical sitcom ‘The Bernie Mac Show’, where his physical presence often emphasized his tough-love parenting style. In film, he was a member of the ‘Ocean’s Eleven’ ensemble and played the lead in the baseball comedy ‘Mr. 3000’. His height and expressive facial movements made him a standout performer in every scene he occupied.

Bill Nunn

Bill Nunn stood at 6’3″ and was a frequent collaborator with Spike Lee, most notably playing Radio Raheem in ‘Do the Right Thing’. His height and broad shoulders made him a physically imposing figure in his many film roles. He also appeared as Robbie Robertson in Sam Raimi’s ‘Spider-Man’ trilogy and had a significant role in the film ‘Sister Act’. Nunn’s career was characterized by his ability to bring humanity and depth to physically large characters.

Coby Bell

Coby Bell stands 6’3″ and is a familiar face to television audiences through his work on several popular dramas. He is well-known for his roles in ‘Third Watch’ as Ty Davis and in the spy series ‘Burn Notice’ as Jesse Porter. His height often complements his roles as law enforcement officers or athletic professionals. Bell currently stars in the series ‘Walker’, where his physical stature continues to serve his portrayal of authoritative figures.

Lamman Rucker

Lamman Rucker is 6’3″ and is widely recognized for his work in both film and television, particularly in Tyler Perry productions. He starred in ‘Why Did I Get Married?’ and its sequel, as well as the television series ‘Meet the Browns’. His height and leading-man looks have made him a popular choice for romantic dramas and soap operas. Rucker also played a prominent role in the series ‘Greenleaf’, showcasing his dramatic range.

Gbenga Akinnagbe

Gbenga Akinnagbe stands 6’3″ and is best known for his chilling portrayal of Chris Partlow on the HBO series ‘The Wire’. His height added a layer of physical intimidation to his character, who served as a highly efficient enforcer. Beyond that iconic role, he has appeared in films like ‘The Savages’ and the series ‘The Deuce’. Akinnagbe is also an activist and writer, using his platform to address various social issues.

Wood Harris

Wood Harris stands 6’3″ and is acclaimed for his portrayal of drug kingpin Avon Barksdale on the seminal series ‘The Wire’. His height and lean frame gave him a commanding yet elusive presence on screen. Harris also starred as Julius Campbell in the classic sports drama ‘Remember the Titans’. He continues to be a versatile actor, appearing in major franchises like ‘Creed’ and ‘Ant-Man’.

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II stands at 6’3″ and has quickly ascended to the top of the Hollywood A-list. He won an Emmy for his role in the ‘Watchmen’ limited series and played the villainous Black Manta in ‘Aquaman’. His height and athletic build were also on display when he played Morpheus in ‘The Matrix Resurrections’. He is known for combining a powerful physical presence with sophisticated and nuanced acting.

Rick Worthy

Rick Worthy stands 6’3″ and has built a long career with a particular focus on science fiction and fantasy television. He is well known for his roles in ‘The Magicians’ as Dean Fogg and for playing multiple characters across the ‘Star Trek’ franchise. His height gives him a natural air of authority that is often utilized in his portrayals of leaders or supernatural beings. Worthy’s consistent work in television has made him a recognizable figure for genre fans.

Ato Essandoh

Ato Essandoh stands at 6’3″ and has appeared in a wide variety of high-profile television series and films. He had significant roles in ‘Altered Carbon’, ‘Chicago Med’, and the film ‘Jason Bourne’. His height and versatile look allow him to seamlessly fit into historical dramas, sci-fi epics, and modern thrillers. Essandoh is praised for bringing intelligence and a steady presence to his characters.

Will Smith

Will Smith stands 6’2″ and has been one of the world’s most recognizable stars for over three decades. From his beginnings on ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’ to his Oscar-winning performance in ‘King Richard’, his height has always been a part of his leading-man appeal. He has anchored numerous blockbusters, including ‘Independence Day’, ‘Men in Black’, and ‘Ali’. Smith’s physical stature and charismatic energy have helped him maintain his status as a top-tier action and dramatic actor.

Samuel L. Jackson

Samuel L. Jackson stands 6’2″ and is one of the highest-grossing actors of all time. His height and iconic voice have made him a staple of modern cinema, appearing in franchises like ‘Star Wars’, the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and ‘Jurassic Park’. He is a frequent collaborator with Quentin Tarantino, starring in classics like ‘Pulp Fiction’ and ‘The Hateful Eight’. Jackson’s presence is often central to the cool and authoritative characters he portrays.

Morgan Freeman

Morgan Freeman stands 6’2″ and is one of the most respected figures in the history of motion pictures. Known for his distinctive voice and calm demeanor, his height often adds to the gravitas of the wise or powerful characters he plays. His most famous works include ‘The Shawshank Redemption’, ‘Driving Miss Daisy’, and ‘Million Dollar Baby’. Freeman has frequently played figures of high authority, including the President of the United States.

Mahershala Ali

Mahershala Ali stands 6’2″ and is a two-time Academy Award winner for his work in ‘Moonlight’ and ‘Green Book’. Before his success in film, he was a collegiate basketball player, which is reflected in his athletic 6’2″ frame. He has appeared in major television series like ‘House of Cards’ and ‘True Detective’, often playing composed and calculated characters. Ali is known for his ability to command a room through subtle movements and a dignified physical presence.

Eriq La Salle

Eriq La Salle stands at 6’2″ and is most famous for his role as Dr. Peter Benton on the long-running medical drama ‘ER’. His height and intense acting style helped establish his character as one of the most respected surgeons on the show. He has also appeared in films such as ‘Coming to America’ and ‘Logan’. In addition to acting, La Salle has developed a successful career as a director for various television programs.

Colman Domingo

Colman Domingo stands 6’2″ and is an accomplished actor, playwright, and director. He gained significant attention for his role as Victor Strand in ‘Fear the Walking Dead’ and for his performance in ‘Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom’. His height and elegant style often make him a standout on the red carpet and in his various screen roles. Domingo has recently received critical acclaim for his leading role in the biographical drama ‘Rustin’.

Brian Tyree Henry

Brian Tyree Henry stands at 6’2″ and rose to fame with his role as Alfred ‘Paper Boi’ Miles on the series ‘Atlanta’. His height and physical presence allow him to play characters that range from intimidating to deeply sensitive. He has since transitioned into major film roles, including ‘Eternals’, ‘Bullet Train’, and ‘Causeway’. Henry is known for his incredible emotional range and his ability to bring a unique energy to every project.

Reg E. Cathey

The late Reg E. Cathey stood 6’2″ and was known for his deep, gravelly voice and commanding physical stature. He won an Emmy for his role as Freddy Hayes in ‘House of Cards’ and was a key cast member on ‘The Wire’. His height often led to him playing authoritative or fatherly figures with a strong moral compass. Cathey’s presence was always unmistakable, whether he was appearing in independent films or big-budget superhero movies like ‘Fantastic Four’.

Forest Whitaker

Forest Whitaker stands 6’2″ and is an Academy Award-winning actor known for his intense character studies. He won the Oscar for his portrayal of Idi Amin in ‘The Last King of Scotland’, where his height helped him embody the dictator’s imposing nature. Whitaker has had a long and varied career, with roles in ‘Platoon’, ‘Ghost Dog: The Way of the Samurai’, and ‘Black Panther’. His physical presence is often balanced by a unique ability to convey soft-spoken wisdom or internal conflict.

Lance Reddick

The late Lance Reddick stood 6’2″ and was celebrated for his portrayal of stoic, high-ranking officials. He was a central figure in iconic series like ‘The Wire’, ‘Fringe’, and the ‘John Wick’ film franchise. His height and lean, upright posture contributed to the sense of discipline and authority his characters always projected on screen. Reddick was also a talented musician and voice actor, leaving behind a diverse and respected body of work.

Jesse L. Martin

Jesse L. Martin stands at 6’2″ and is well known for his work in both musical theater and television drama. He originated the role of Tom Collins in the Broadway musical ‘Rent’ and later reprised it in the film adaptation. On television, he spent nearly a decade playing Detective Ed Green on ‘Law & Order’ and later starred in ‘The Flash’. His height and warm screen presence have made him a favorite among audiences for many years.

Mykelti Williamson

Mykelti Williamson stands 6’2″ and is widely recognized for his role as Bubba in the 1994 classic ‘Forrest Gump’. His height and warm screen presence have made him a staple in both film and television for decades. He has appeared in major films like ‘Con Air’ and ‘Heat’, as well as the television series ‘Justified’ and ‘Chicago P.D.’. Williamson is known for his ability to bring sincerity and a strong physical presence to every character he portrays.

James Earl Jones

James Earl Jones stands 6’1″ and possesses one of the most famous voices in the history of cinema. While he is legendary for voicing Darth Vader and Mufasa, his physical acting career includes powerful roles in ‘The Great White Hope’ and ‘Field of Dreams’. His height and broad build gave him a regal and imposing presence on stage and screen alike. Jones is one of the few performers to have achieved EGOT status, winning Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony awards.

Denzel Washington

Denzel Washington stands at 6’1″ and is widely considered one of the greatest actors of his generation. His height and athletic build have served him well in a variety of roles, from the historical figure Malcolm X to the corrupt cop in ‘Training Day’. He has received multiple Academy Awards and has directed several acclaimed films, including ‘Fences’. Washington’s screen presence is defined by a combination of physical confidence and immense dramatic intensity.

Shemar Moore

Shemar Moore stands 6’1″ and has had a long, successful career in television. He is best known for his roles as Malcolm Winters on ‘The Young and the Restless’, Derek Morgan on ‘Criminal Minds’, and the lead in ‘S.W.A.T.’. His height and fit physique are central to his image as an action lead and television heartthrob. Moore has consistently been a prominent figure in the industry, moving seamlessly between daytime soaps and primetime procedurals.

Aldis Hodge

Aldis Hodge stands at 6’1″ and has been acting since he was a child, appearing in ‘Die Hard with a Vengeance’. He gained recognition for his role as Alec Hardison on the series ‘Leverage’ and later played Hawkman in ‘Black Adam’. His height and muscular frame were particularly suited for his recent superhero role and his portrayal of Jim Brown in ‘One Night in Miami’. Hodge is known for his versatility and his dedication to physically demanding roles.

Michael Beach

Michael Beach stands 6’1″ and has been a prolific character actor in Hollywood for decades. He is well known for his roles in ‘Waiting to Exhale’, ‘Soul Food’, and the television series ‘Third Watch’. His height and sturdy build often see him cast in roles as a father, a police officer, or a high-ranking official. Beach has appeared in dozens of television shows and films, consistently providing a grounded and reliable performance.

Isaiah Washington

Isaiah Washington stands 6’1″ and is perhaps best known for his role as Dr. Preston Burke on the medical drama ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. His height and professional demeanor helped him portray one of the show’s most talented and intimidating surgeons. He has also had a significant film career, appearing in Spike Lee’s ‘Clockers’ and ‘Get on the Bus’. More recently, he starred in the science fiction series ‘The 100’ as Chancellor Jaha.

Sterling K. Brown

Sterling K. Brown stands at 6’0″ and has become one of the most acclaimed actors in modern television. He won multiple Emmy Awards for his roles in ‘The People v. O. J. Simpson: American Crime Story’ and ‘This Is Us’. His height and fit build have also allowed him to take on action roles in films like ‘The Predator’ and ‘Hotel Artemis’. Brown is celebrated for his deep emotional vulnerability and his precise, thoughtful approach to acting.

Andre Braugher

The late Andre Braugher stood 6’0″ and was known for his incredible gravitas and powerful voice. He first gained fame as Detective Frank Pembleton on ‘Homicide: Life on the Street’ and later showed his comedic genius as Captain Raymond Holt on ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’. His height often reinforced the sense of integrity and command that his characters possessed. Braugher’s career was marked by his ability to excel in both high-stakes drama and deadpan comedy.

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