The Tallest Black Actors in Hollywood

Hollywood has always been home to actors whose physical stature matches their immense talent on screen. For many Black male actors, their height has contributed to their ability to portray powerful, commanding, and unforgettable characters across various genres. From legendary athletes who transitioned into cinema to classically trained dramatic performers, these individuals have used their presence to leave a lasting impact on the industry. This list explores fifty of the tallest Black male actors who have made significant contributions to film and television.

Billy Brown

Billy Brown stands at 6’2″ and is widely recognized for his commanding physical presence in dramatic roles. He gained significant fame for his role as Detective Nate Lahey in the legal thriller series ‘How to Get Away with Murder’. Throughout the show, his height and athletic build contributed to his character’s persona as a formidable investigator. He has also appeared in other high-profile projects such as ‘Sons of Anarchy’ and ‘Dexter’. His screen presence is consistently defined by a blend of intensity and physical stature.

Jesse L. Martin

Jesse L. Martin is an accomplished actor of stage and screen who measures 6’2″ in height. He is best known to television audiences for his long-running role as Detective Ed Green on the procedural drama ‘Law & Order’. Later, he took on the role of Joe West in the superhero series ‘The Flash’, where his paternal and authoritative nature was central to the plot. Martin is also a celebrated musical theater performer, having originated the role of Tom Collins in the Broadway production of ‘Rent’. His height often adds a distinguished quality to the many professional characters he portrays.

Lance Reddick

The late Lance Reddick was a prolific actor known for his distinct voice and 6’2″ frame. He delivered iconic performances in critically acclaimed series like ‘The Wire’, where he played Cedric Daniels, and ‘Fringe’, as Phillip Broyles. In the film world, he became a staple of the ‘John Wick’ franchise, portraying the elegant and efficient concierge, Charon. His height and poised demeanor made him the perfect choice for high-ranking officials and mysterious figures. Reddick’s contribution to the entertainment industry remains highly regarded by peers and fans alike.

Richard Roundtree

Richard Roundtree, often cited as the first Black action hero, stood 6’2″ tall. He became an international superstar for his portrayal of the title character in the 1971 film ‘Shaft’, a role that defined the blaxploitation genre. His tall stature and charismatic presence were essential to the cool, confident image of the private detective. Roundtree continued to work steadily for decades, appearing in sequels and various television series like ‘Being Mary Jane’. He is remembered as a trailblazer who changed the landscape of American cinema.

Keith Powers

Keith Powers is a rising star in Hollywood who stands at 6’2″. He first gained widespread attention for his portrayal of Tyree in the film ‘Straight Outta Compton’. Following that success, he took on the role of Ronnie DeVoe in ‘The New Edition Story’, where his height and dancing ability helped him capture the essence of the real-life performer. He also starred in the series ‘Famous in Love’ and the film ‘The Tomorrow War’. His background in modeling is often evident in his poised and confident screen presence.

Julius Tennon

Julius Tennon is a veteran actor and producer who measures 6’2″ in height. He has appeared in numerous films throughout his career, including ‘Dazed and Confused’ and ‘Small Soldiers’. Recently, he was seen in ‘The Woman King’ alongside his wife, Viola Davis, where he played a significant supporting role. As a co-founder of JuVee Productions, he has become a major force behind the scenes in Hollywood. His physical stature often leads him to play grounded, reliable, and strong-willed characters.

Shamier Anderson

Shamier Anderson is a Canadian actor who has made a significant mark in Hollywood with his 6’2″ height. He gained international recognition for his role as the Tracker in the action blockbuster ‘John Wick: Chapter 4’. Anderson has also appeared in the science fiction series ‘Invasion’ and the film ‘Stowaway’. His athletic build and height make him a natural fit for high-stakes action and dramatic roles. He is also the co-founder of B.L.A.C.K., an organization dedicated to supporting Black talent in the arts.

Kingsley Ben-Adir

Kingsley Ben-Adir is a British actor known for his versatility and 6’2″ frame. He received critical acclaim for his portrayal of Malcolm X in the film ‘One Night in Miami…’, where his height helped him match the real-life figure’s presence. He further demonstrated his range by playing the lead role in the biopic ‘Bob Marley: One Love’. Ben-Adir has also appeared in popular series such as ‘Peaky Blinders’ and ‘Secret Invasion’. His ability to inhabit complex historical figures has made him one of the most sought-after actors of his generation.

Hakeem Kae-Kazim

Hakeem Kae-Kazim is a British-Nigerian actor who stands 6’2″ tall and is known for his work in international cinema. He gained significant fame for his role as Mr. Scott in the pirate drama series ‘Black Sails’. His deep voice and tall stature have also been utilized in films like ‘Hotel Rwanda’ and ‘X-Men Origins: Wolverine’. Kae-Kazim is frequently cast in roles that require a sense of ancient wisdom or formidable power. He has also performed extensive voice work for various high-profile video games.

David Harewood

David Harewood is a celebrated English actor who measures 6’2″ in height. He is widely known for his dual role as J’onn J’onzz and Hank Henshaw in the television series ‘Supergirl’. Before his success in the superhero genre, he delivered a powerful performance in the thriller series ‘Homeland’ as David Estes. His height and authoritative delivery have made him a frequent choice for playing leaders and military figures. Harewood was also the first Black actor to play the title role in ‘Othello’ at the National Theatre in London.

Brian Tyree Henry

Brian Tyree Henry is an Academy Award-nominated actor who stands 6’2″ tall. He rose to prominence with his role as Alfred ‘Paper Boi’ Miles in the acclaimed FX series ‘Atlanta’. Henry has since transitioned into major film roles, appearing in ‘Eternals’ as Phastos and ‘Causeway’ as James Aucoin. His height and expressive acting style allow him to navigate between broad comedy and deeply moving drama with ease. He remains a prominent figure in both independent cinema and large-scale studio productions.

Colman Domingo

Colman Domingo is a highly versatile actor and playwright who stands 6’2″ tall. He received an Academy Award nomination for his titular role in the film ‘Rustin’, where he portrayed civil rights leader Bayard Rustin. Fans also recognize him for his long-standing role as Victor Strand in the series ‘Fear the Walking Dead’. Domingo’s height and sophisticated style have made him a standout presence on red carpets and in high-fashion photography. His career spans Broadway, television, and film, showcasing a wide range of artistic talents.

Djimon Hounsou

Djimon Hounsou is a Beninese-American actor and model who measures 6’2″ in height. He first gained major attention for his role in ‘Amistad’ and later received Academy Award nominations for ‘In America’ and ‘Blood Diamond’. His striking physical presence and height were prominently featured in ‘Gladiator’, where he played the warrior Juba. Hounsou has also become a part of major franchises, appearing in both the Marvel Cinematic Universe and the DC Extended Universe. He is known for bringing a sense of soulful intensity and physical power to every role.

Samuel L. Jackson

Samuel L. Jackson is one of the highest-grossing actors of all time and stands at 6’2″. He became a cultural icon through his collaboration with Quentin Tarantino in films like ‘Pulp Fiction’ and ‘Jackie Brown’. Jackson is globally recognized for playing Nick Fury in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and Mace Windu in the ‘Star Wars’ prequel trilogy. His height and legendary screen presence have allowed him to dominate the frame in over 150 films. He continues to be one of the most prolific and recognizable figures in the history of cinema.

Morgan Freeman

Morgan Freeman is a legendary actor and narrator who stands 6’2″ tall. He is renowned for his calm demeanor and authoritative voice, which have led him to play God in ‘Bruce Almighty’ and the President in ‘Deep Impact’. Freeman earned an Academy Award for his role in ‘Million Dollar Baby’ and delivered a definitive performance in ‘The Shawshank Redemption’. His height adds to his stately presence, making him a natural fit for roles involving mentorship and wisdom. He remains one of the most respected voices and faces in the entertainment industry.

Mahershala Ali

Mahershala Ali is a two-time Academy Award winner who measures 6’2″ in height. He won his first Oscar for his role as Juan in ‘Moonlight’ and a second for portraying Don Shirley in ‘Green Book’. Ali’s height and elegant posture have been key features of his performances in ‘House of Cards’ and ‘True Detective’. He has been cast as the lead in the upcoming ‘Blade’ film for the Marvel Cinematic Universe. His ability to convey deep emotion with minimal dialogue has made him a leading actor of his era.

Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje

Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje is a British actor and former model who stands 6’2″ tall. He is best known for his intense roles as Simon Adebisi in ‘Oz’ and Mr. Eko in ‘Lost’. His height and muscular build made him a formidable presence in action films like ‘The Mummy Returns’ and ‘Suicide Squad’, where he played Killer Croc. In addition to acting, he has ventured into directing with the autobiographical film ‘Farming’. His physical stature often complements the complex and sometimes villainous characters he portrays.

Forest Whitaker

Forest Whitaker is an acclaimed actor, director, and producer who stands 6’2″ tall. He won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his terrifying and brilliant portrayal of Idi Amin in ‘The Last King of Scotland’. Throughout his career, he has appeared in iconic films such as ‘Platoon’, ‘Ghost Dog: The Way of the Samurai’, and ‘The Butler’. His height often adds a sense of gravity and physical weight to his dramatic performances. Whitaker is also known for his humanitarian work and his role as a UNESCO Special Envoy.

Omar Sy

Omar Sy is a French actor and comedian who gained international fame and stands 6’3″ tall. He became a household name following his award-winning performance in the film ‘The Intouchables’. He later took the lead in the hit Netflix series ‘Lupin’, where his height and charm helped him portray the master thief Assane Diop. Sy has also appeared in major Hollywood blockbusters like ‘Jurassic World’ and ‘X-Men: Days of Future Past’. His towering frame and infectious energy have made him a favorite in both French and American cinema.

Corey Hawkins

Corey Hawkins is a talented actor who stands at 6’3″ and has quickly risen to prominence. He earned widespread praise for his portrayal of Dr. Dre in the biopic ‘Straight Outta Compton’. Hawkins also starred in the action series ’24: Legacy’ and the musical film ‘In the Heights’. His height and stage training from Juilliard have made him a strong presence in both film and Broadway productions. He recently appeared in the film ‘The Last Voyage of the Demeter’, continuing to showcase his range in the horror genre.

Wood Harris

Wood Harris is an actor known for his gritty and realistic performances who stands 6’3″ tall. He is most famous for playing the drug kingpin Avon Barksdale in the legendary HBO series ‘The Wire’. His height and focused intensity made the character one of the most memorable antagonists in television history. Harris also starred as Julius Campbell in the beloved sports drama ‘Remember the Titans’. He has continued to work in high-profile projects, including the ‘Creed’ film franchise.

Peter Mensah

Peter Mensah is a Ghanaian-British actor known for his remarkably athletic physique and 6’3″ height. He is best recognized for his role as Oenomaus in the television series ‘Spartacus’ and its various sequels. His height and striking features were also utilized in the film ‘300’, where he played the Persian Messenger. Mensah has appeared in other major projects like ‘Avatar’ and the series ‘Midnight, Texas’. His physical presence often leads him to be cast in roles involving warriors, leaders, or supernatural beings.

Jimmy Akingbola

Jimmy Akingbola is a British actor who stands 6’3″ tall and has found success on both sides of the Atlantic. He is currently well-known for playing Geoffrey the butler in the ‘Bel-Air’ reboot series. Akingbola has also had significant roles in ‘Arrow’ as Baron Reiter and the comedy series ‘Kate & Koji’. His height and versatile acting style allow him to play a wide array of characters, from stern villains to comedic sidekicks. He is also the founder of Triforce Creative Network, which promotes diversity in the industry.

Bernie Mac

The late Bernie Mac was a beloved comedian and actor who stood 6’3″ tall. He was a member of ‘The Original Kings of Comedy’ and starred in his own long-running sitcom, ‘The Bernie Mac Show’. His height and large personality were central to his comedic delivery and stage presence. In film, he appeared in the ‘Ocean’s Eleven’ franchise and played the title character in ‘Mr. 3000’. Bernie Mac is remembered for his unique voice and his ability to combine tough-love humor with genuine heart.

Yaphet Kotto

Yaphet Kotto was a distinguished actor known for his powerful screen presence and 6’3″ frame. He delivered a memorable performance as the villain Mr. Big in the James Bond film ‘Live and Let Die’. Sci-fi fans remember him as Parker in the original ‘Alien’ movie, where his height and strength were vital to the group dynamic. He also starred for many years as Al Giardello in the series ‘Homicide: Life on the Street’. Kotto’s career was marked by his ability to play authoritative and complex characters with great dignity.

Michael Dorn

Michael Dorn is an actor and voice artist who stands 6’3″ tall and is a staple of science fiction history. He is best known for his role as the Klingon officer Worf in ‘Star Trek: The Next Generation’ and ‘Star Trek: Deep Space Nine’. His height and deep, resonant voice helped make Worf one of the most iconic and physically imposing characters in the franchise. Dorn has appeared in more ‘Star Trek’ episodes than any other actor in history. Outside of the makeup, he is an accomplished pilot and has performed extensive voice work for animation.

Kevin Grevioux

Kevin Grevioux is an actor, screenwriter, and comic book writer who measures 6’3″ in height. He is famously known for his deep bass voice and for playing the werewolf Raze in the ‘Underworld’ film franchise, which he also co-created. His height and massive build have made him a frequent choice for roles that require a superhuman or monstrous physical presence. Grevioux has also appeared in films like ‘The Mask’ and ‘The Prodigy’. Beyond acting, he has written for major comic book publishers including Marvel and DC.

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II is a rapidly rising star who stands 6’3″ tall. He won an Emmy Award for his role as Cal Abar / Doctor Manhattan in the ‘Watchmen’ limited series. He is also widely recognized for playing the villain Black Manta in the ‘Aquaman’ films. His height and athletic frame helped him embody the iconic role of Morpheus in ‘The Matrix Resurrections’. Abdul-Mateen II continues to take on diverse and challenging roles in both major blockbusters and dramatic films.

Delroy Lindo

Delroy Lindo is a highly respected actor of stage and screen who stands 6’3″ tall. He has had a long and fruitful collaboration with director Spike Lee, appearing in films like ‘Malcolm X’, ‘Crooklyn’, and ‘Da 5 Bloods’. His height and booming voice give him a natural authority that he has used to play various law enforcement and mentor figures. Lindo also starred in the legal drama ‘The Good Fight’ as Adrian Boseman. His performances are often noted for their emotional depth and physical intensity.

Keith David

Keith David is a prolific actor and voice artist who stands 6’3″ tall and possesses one of the most recognizable voices in Hollywood. He has appeared in cult classic films such as ‘The Thing’, ‘They Live’, and ‘Platoon’. His height and physical presence have made him a standout in dramatic and action roles for decades. David is also a celebrated voice actor, providing the voice for Spawn in the animated series and the Arbiter in the ‘Halo’ video game franchise. He continues to work extensively across film, television, and theater.

Terry Crews

Terry Crews is a former NFL player turned actor and television host who stands 6’3″ tall. He is well-known for his comedic roles in ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’ as Terry Jeffords and ‘Everybody Hates Chris’ as Julius. His height and immensely muscular physique have also led to roles in action films like ‘The Expendables’ franchise. Crews is also the host of ‘America’s Got Talent’ and is famous for his high energy and signature pec-dancing. He has become a prominent advocate for health, fitness, and social issues.

Mike Colter

Mike Colter is an actor best known for his physical roles, standing at a height of 6’3″. He gained global recognition for playing the title character in the Marvel series ‘Luke Cage’, where his height and strength were essential to the hero’s identity. Colter also stars as David Acosta in the supernatural drama series ‘Evil’. His screen presence is characterized by a calm, stoic demeanor that complements his large physical frame. He has appeared in various films, including ‘Million Dollar Baby’ and ‘Plane’.

Idris Elba

Idris Elba is a British actor, producer, and musician who stands 6’3″ tall. He first achieved fame in the United States for his role as Stringer Bell in the HBO series ‘The Wire’. Since then, he has become a major film star, appearing in the ‘Thor’ franchise as Heimdall and taking the lead in the series ‘Luther’. His height and suave persona have frequently led to him being mentioned as a top choice for iconic roles like James Bond. Elba remains one of the most influential and versatile actors in the industry today.

Bill Duke

Bill Duke is a legendary actor and director who measures 6’4.5″ in height. He became a familiar face in the 1980s with roles in high-octane action films like ‘Commando’ and ‘Predator’. His height and intense stare often led to him playing formidable characters on both sides of the law. Duke is also an accomplished director, having helmed films such as ‘A Rage in Harlem’ and ‘Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit’. He remains an influential figure in Black cinema through both his performance and his work behind the camera.

Harry Lennix

Harry Lennix is a distinguished actor known for his sophisticated delivery and 6’4″ frame. He has had a prominent role as Harold Cooper on ‘The Blacklist’ for many years. Lennix is also recognized for his work in the DC Extended Universe as General Swanwick, later revealed to be Martian Manhunter. His height and resonant voice have made him a natural fit for playing high-ranking government and military officials. He is also very active in the Chicago theater scene and has appeared in numerous Shakespearean productions.

Isaiah Mustafa

Isaiah Mustafa is an actor and former athlete who stands 6’4″ tall. He first became a cultural phenomenon as ‘The Man Your Man Could Smell Like’ in a series of popular Old Spice television commercials. Transitioning into film and television, he played the adult version of Mike Hanlon in the horror blockbuster ‘It Chapter Two’. Mustafa also had a starring role as Luke Garroway in the fantasy series ‘Shadowhunters’. His height and athletic background have served him well in both physical and comedic roles.

Isaac Hayes

The late Isaac Hayes was a legendary soul singer and actor who stood 6’4″ tall. While he was a pioneer in music, he also had a successful acting career, most notably voicing the character Chef on ‘South Park’. He appeared in films such as ‘Escape from New York’ and ‘I’m Gonna Git You Sucka’. His height and baritone voice made him an unmistakable presence in any medium he entered. Hayes was a trailblazer who became the first Black person to win an Academy Award in a non-acting category for his musical score for ‘Shaft’.

Danny Glover

Danny Glover is a veteran actor and activist who stands 6’4″ tall. He is globally recognized for his role as Roger Murtaugh in the ‘Lethal Weapon’ film series alongside Mel Gibson. Glover has appeared in a wide range of films, from ‘The Color Purple’ to ‘Predator 2’ and ‘To Sleep with Anger’. His height and empathetic acting style have allowed him to play both action heroes and deeply soulful dramatic characters. He is also well-known for his lifelong commitment to humanitarian causes and social justice.

Dennis Haysbert

Dennis Haysbert is an actor known for his incredibly deep voice and 6’4″ stature. He gained widespread fame for playing President David Palmer in the hit television series ’24’. Haysbert is also the recognizable face and voice of Allstate Insurance in their long-running commercial campaign. His height and commanding presence have led to roles as military leaders and authoritative figures in films like ‘Far from Heaven’ and ‘The Unit’. He continues to be a steady and respected presence in Hollywood.

Boris Kodjoe

Boris Kodjoe is an actor and former model who measures 6’4″ in height. He first rose to fame in the series ‘Soul Food’ and has since become a fixture on American television. He currently stars in the ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ spin-off ‘Station 19’ as Captain Robert Sullivan. His height and physical fitness are often highlighted in his roles, which range from romantic leads to action-oriented characters. Kodjoe has also appeared in the ‘Resident Evil’ film franchise and the comedy series ‘Real Husbands of Hollywood’.

Dwayne Johnson

Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson is one of the most famous actors in the world and stands at 6’5″. After a legendary career in professional wrestling, he transitioned into acting and became a massive box office draw. He is a central figure in the ‘Fast & Furious’ franchise and has starred in hits like ‘Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle’ and ‘Black Adam’. His height and massive physique are key components of his brand as an action superstar. Johnson’s charisma and work ethic have made him one of the most successful entertainers in history.

Tony Todd

Tony Todd is a prolific actor known for his work in the horror genre and his 6’5″ frame. He became a cinematic icon for his portrayal of the title character in the ‘Candyman’ film series. His height, combined with a deep and haunting voice, made him one of the most effective and memorable horror villains of all time. Todd has appeared in over 200 films and television shows, including the ‘Final Destination’ series and several ‘Star Trek’ iterations. He is also a highly sought-after voice actor for animation and video games.

Tyler Perry

Tyler Perry is a media mogul, actor, and director who stands 6’5″ tall. He is best known for creating and portraying the character Madea in a long-running series of plays and films. His height is particularly noticeable when he plays Madea, often towering over other characters for comedic effect. Beyond comedy, Perry has appeared in dramatic roles in films like ‘Gone Girl’ and ‘Vice’. He also owns Tyler Perry Studios, one of the largest film production facilities in the United States.

Michael Clarke Duncan

The late Michael Clarke Duncan was an actor famous for his enormous size and 6’5″ height. He received an Academy Award nomination for his breakout role as John Coffey in ‘The Green Mile’. His height and deep voice often saw him cast as physically imposing characters in films like ‘Armageddon’, ‘Planet of the Apes’, and ‘Daredevil’. Despite his tough exterior on screen, he was often described by colleagues as a “gentle giant.” Duncan’s unique physical presence made him a one-of-a-kind talent in the industry.

Winston Duke

Winston Duke is an actor who quickly became a fan favorite, standing 6’5″ tall. He gained international stardom for his portrayal of M’Baku in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, starting with ‘Black Panther’. His height and physical power were perfectly suited for the leader of the Jabari Tribe. Duke also delivered a powerful performance in Jordan Peele’s horror film ‘Us’ and starred in ‘Spenser Confidential’. He is considered one of the most promising and physically commanding leading men in modern Hollywood.

DeObia Oparei

DeObia Oparei is a British actor and playwright who stands 6’6″ tall. He is well-known for his role as Areo Hotah in the hit HBO series ‘Game of Thrones’. His height and athletic build have led to roles in large-scale productions like ‘Dredd’, ‘Independence Day: Resurgence’, and ‘Loki’. Oparei often brings a quiet but intense physical presence to his characters. In addition to his acting work, he has written several plays that have been performed in London and internationally.

Nonso Anozie

Nonso Anozie is a British actor known for his significant physical presence and 6’6″ height. He has appeared in various high-profile projects, including ‘Game of Thrones’ as Xaro Xhoan Daxos and ‘Cinderella’ as the Captain. He gained further recognition for his starring role as Tommy Jepperd in the Netflix series ‘Sweet Tooth’. His height and deep voice allow him to play characters that are both intimidating and deeply empathetic. Anozie has also worked extensively on stage with the Royal Shakespeare Company.

Rick Fox

Rick Fox is a former NBA player who successfully transitioned into acting and stands at 6’7″. After winning three championships with the Los Angeles Lakers, he began appearing in films like ‘He Got Game’ and ‘Blue Chips’. He has had recurring roles on television series such as ‘Oz’, ‘Dirt’, and ‘Greenleaf’. His height and athletic background have frequently been utilized in both sports-related and dramatic roles. Fox has also become a prominent figure in the world of professional esports.

Shaquille O’Neal

Shaquille O’Neal is an NBA legend and media personality who stands 7’1″ tall. While primarily known for his basketball career, he has appeared in numerous films, including the title role in ‘Kazaam’ and the action film ‘Steel’. His incredible height makes him one of the most physically imposing figures to ever appear on screen. Shaq frequently makes cameo appearances as himself in various comedies and television shows. He remains a beloved cultural figure known for his massive stature and equally large personality.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is an all-time basketball great and actor who stands 7’2″ tall. He made a memorable film debut fighting Bruce Lee in ‘Game of Death’, showcasing his incredible reach and height. He is also famously known for his comedic role as co-pilot Roger Murdock in the classic parody film ‘Airplane!’. Abdul-Jabbar has appeared as himself in numerous television series, including ‘Full House’ and ‘The Big Bang Theory’. He is a highly respected author and activist who has used his platform to address important social issues for decades.

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