The Most Promising Black Actresses Set to Become Huge Stars

The landscape of the global entertainment industry is currently undergoing a significant transformation as a new generation of Black actresses takes center stage. These performers have demonstrated exceptional range across diverse genres, from high-stakes action blockbusters to intimate independent dramas. Many of these women have already received critical acclaim and major industry awards for their early career milestones. As casting directors and major studios increasingly prioritize diverse storytelling, these actresses are positioned to lead the next generation of cinema. The following list identifies the rising stars whose recent performances and upcoming projects indicate a bright future in Hollywood.

Ayo Edebiri

Ayo Edebiri rose to prominence through her portrayal of Sydney Adamu in the FX series ‘The Bear’. Her performance garnered critical acclaim and led to a series of high-profile roles in both television and film. She starred in the 2023 teen comedy ‘Bottoms’ and voiced characters in ‘Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem’. Edebiri also joined the cast of ‘Abbott Elementary’ for a recurring role as Ayesha Teagues. Her rapid ascent in the industry has established her as a major force in contemporary comedy and drama.

Halle Bailey

Halle Bailey transitioned from a successful musical career as half of Chloe x Halle to becoming a Disney leading lady. She starred as Ariel in the 2023 live-action adaptation of ‘The Little Mermaid’, a role that showcased her vocal prowess and acting range. Following this success, she played young Nettie in the musical film adaptation of ‘The Color Purple’. Her presence on screen is often noted for its grace and emotional depth. Bailey continues to balance her film career with solo musical ventures, making her a multi-hyphenate star to watch.

India Ria Amarteifio

India Amarteifio gained international fame for her title role in the Netflix series ‘Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story’. Her portrayal of the young monarch was praised for capturing the complexity of the historical figure within the ‘Bridgerton’ universe. Before this breakout, she appeared in various British productions including ‘Line of Duty’ and ‘The Midwich Cuckoos’. Her performance as Charlotte showcased her ability to lead a major franchise production with poise. Industry critics often highlight her expressive range and command of period drama.

Sophie Wilde

Sophie Wilde became a household name among horror fans after her starring role in the 2023 film ‘Talk to Me’. The Australian actress received widespread praise for her intense and grounded performance as Mia. In addition to her film work, she appeared in the Netflix series ‘Everything Now’ as the lead character Mia Polanco. She also landed a role in the miniseries ‘Boy Swallows Universe’, based on the popular novel. Her ability to navigate psychological depth makes her one of the most exciting new talents in genre cinema.

Taylor Russell

Taylor Russell first caught the attention of critics with her powerful performance in the 2019 film ‘Waves’. She further solidified her reputation by starring alongside Timothée Chalamet in the cannibal romance drama ‘Bones and All’. For her work in the latter, she received the Marcello Mastroianni Award at the Venice Film Festival. Russell also demonstrated her versatility in the ‘Escape Room’ franchise, proving she can anchor commercial thrillers as well as indie features. Her career trajectory suggests a move toward becoming a major dramatic lead in Hollywood.

Dominique Thorne

Dominique Thorne made a significant impact on the Marvel Cinematic Universe by debuting as Riri Williams in ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’. Her character is set to lead her own Disney+ series titled ‘Ironheart’, further cementing her place in the superhero genre. Before her Marvel debut, she delivered strong performances in ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’ and ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’. Thorne is recognized for her ability to portray highly intelligent and resilient characters. Her upcoming projects are highly anticipated by both critics and franchise fans alike.

Myha’la

Myha’la is best known for her leading role as Harper Stern in the HBO financial drama ‘Industry’. Her performance as a ruthless and ambitious young professional has been a cornerstone of the show’s success. She also appeared in the satirical slasher film ‘Bodies Bodies Bodies’, showcasing her talent for dark comedy. In 2023, she joined the star-studded cast of the Netflix thriller ‘Leave the World Behind’. Her work often explores complex power dynamics and modern social issues.

Thuso Mbedu

Thuso Mbedu earned international acclaim for her role as Cora in the limited series ‘The Underground Railroad’. The South African actress followed this success with a starring role in the historical epic ‘The Woman King’ alongside Viola Davis. Her performance in the latter showcased her physical dedication and emotional vulnerability in action roles. Mbedu has been nominated for multiple awards, including International Emmy Awards for her earlier work in ‘Is’Thunzi’. She is widely considered one of the most talented dramatic actresses of her generation.

Danielle Deadwyler

Danielle Deadwyler delivered a career-defining performance as Mamie Till-Mobley in the 2022 biographical drama ‘Till’. Her work in the film earned her numerous accolades and established her as a powerhouse dramatic actress. She previously appeared in ‘The Harder They Fall’ and the HBO miniseries ‘Station Eleven’. Deadwyler is known for her meticulous approach to character development and her commanding screen presence. Her upcoming roles continue to focus on complex, historically significant, or emotionally demanding narratives.

Lashana Lynch

Lashana Lynch made history as the first Black female 007 agent in the James Bond film ‘No Time to Die’. She further displayed her action credentials in ‘The Woman King’ as the fierce warrior Izogie. Lynch also appeared as Miss Honey in the musical adaptation of ‘Matilda the Musical’ and as Maria Rambeau in ‘Captain Marvel’. Her versatility allows her to move seamlessly between high-octane action and gentler, character-driven roles. She is currently one of the most prominent Black actresses working in major studio franchises.

Teyonah Parris

Teyonah Parris transitioned from notable roles in ‘Mad Men’ and ‘Dear White People’ to becoming a central figure in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. She portrayed the adult Monica Rambeau in the series ‘Wandavision’ and reprised the role in the film ‘The Marvels’. Parris also starred in the critically acclaimed horror sequel ‘Candyman’ and the satirical mystery ‘They Cloned Tyrone’. Her ability to ground fantastical premises with relatable human emotion has been widely noted. She continues to be a staple in both high-concept sci-fi and social commentary films.

Storm Reid

Storm Reid gained early recognition for her leading role in ‘A Wrinkle in Time’ and her supporting work in ’12 Years a Slave’. She has since become a fixture in popular television, playing Gia Bennett in ‘Euphoria’ and Riley Abel in ‘The Last of Us’. Reid successfully anchored the 2023 thriller ‘Missing’, which utilized a unique screen-based storytelling format. In addition to acting, she has moved into production, aiming to create more opportunities for underrepresented voices. Her transition from child star to mature actress has been marked by a series of smart, diverse roles.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg first rose to fame as Rue in ‘The Hunger Games’ before taking on leading roles in ‘The Hate U Give’ and ‘Everything, Everything’. She starred in the 2022 horror-comedy ‘Bodies Bodies Bodies’, displaying a talent for contemporary satire. Stenberg is also the lead in the Star Wars series ‘The Acolyte’, representing a major milestone in her career. She is frequently recognized for her advocacy work and for choosing roles that challenge social norms. Her career continues to bridge the gap between blockbuster entertainment and independent cinema.

Sheila Atim

Sheila Atim is a multifaceted talent who has garnered acclaim on both the stage and the screen. She delivered a standout performance as Amenza in ‘The Woman King’ and appeared in ‘Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness’. Atim is also a renowned theater actress, having won Laurence Olivier Awards for her work in ‘Girl from the North Country’ and ‘Constellations’. Her screen presence is often described as regal and intensely focused. She continues to take on roles that utilize her extensive dramatic training and physical presence.

Jayme Lawson

Jayme Lawson made her film debut in ‘Farewell Amor’ before landing the role of Bella Reál in the blockbuster ‘The Batman’. She followed this by playing the young Michelle Obama in the series ‘The First Lady’ and a significant role in ‘The Woman King’. Lawson is a graduate of the Juilliard School, and her formal training is evident in her poised and deliberate performances. Critics have noted her ability to hold her own alongside veteran Hollywood stars. She is quickly becoming a go-to actress for roles requiring gravitas and intelligence.

Quintessa Swindell

Quintessa Swindell gained attention for their role as Tabitha Foster in the Netflix series ‘Trinkets’. They made their big-screen debut in the science fiction film ‘Voyagers’ before playing Cyclone in the DC film ‘Black Adam’. Swindell also appeared in the Paul Schrader film ‘Master Gardener’, showcasing their ability to handle nuanced dramatic material. Their career is characterized by a mix of high-profile franchise work and artistic independent projects. They are recognized as a prominent non-binary performer in the modern acting landscape.

Antonia Gentry

Antonia Gentry became a breakout star through her role as Ginny Miller in the hit Netflix series ‘Ginny & Georgia’. The show’s massive popularity has made her a recognizable face to a global audience. Gentry has been praised for her nuanced portrayal of a biracial teenager navigating complex family dynamics and social pressures. Before her lead role, she appeared in the film ‘Candy Jar’ and the series ‘Raising Dion’. Her performance in ‘Ginny & Georgia’ remains a central talking point for fans of contemporary coming-of-age dramas.

Arsema Thomas

Arsema Thomas made a notable professional debut as the young Lady Danbury in ‘Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story’. Her performance was lauded for its maturity and for providing depth to a beloved character from the ‘Bridgerton’ franchise. Thomas studied at the Yale School of Drama, which prepared her for the rigors of a major television production. Her portrayal of a sharp-witted and strategic socialite resonated strongly with viewers. She is considered a rising star with the potential to lead future historical and contemporary projects.

Coco Jones

Coco Jones experienced a significant career resurgence with her role as Hilary Banks in the series ‘Bel-Air’. Originally a Disney Channel star, Jones has successfully transitioned into more mature roles that showcase her comedic timing and style. In addition to her acting, she is a Grammy-winning singer, further expanding her influence in the entertainment industry. Her portrayal of Hilary has been praised for modernizing the character while maintaining its original essence. Jones is a prominent example of a multi-talented performer finding new success in the streaming era.

Nico Parker

Nico Parker made her film debut in the live-action ‘Dumbo’ directed by Tim Burton. She gained further acclaim for her role as Sarah Miller in the first episode of the HBO series ‘The Last of Us’. Her brief but impactful performance was cited as a highlight of the series’ debut. Parker also appeared in the science fiction film ‘Reminiscence’ alongside Hugh Jackman. As the daughter of actress Thandiwe Newton, she is continuing a family legacy while establishing her own distinct professional identity.

Jasmin Savoy Brown

Jasmin Savoy Brown has become a staple of modern genre television and film. she stars as the teenage version of Taissa Turner in the acclaimed series ‘Yellowjackets’. Brown also played the character Mindy Meeks-Martin in the ‘Scream’ and ‘Scream VI’ films, becoming a fan favorite in the horror community. Her previous work includes roles in ‘The Leftovers’ and the legal drama ‘For the People’. She is recognized for bringing humor and grounded realism to high-stakes supernatural or suspenseful narratives.

Whitney Peak

Whitney Peak rose to prominence as Zoya Lott in the ‘Gossip Girl’ revival on Max. The Ugandan-Canadian actress also had a recurring role in ‘Chilling Adventures of Sabrina’ as Judith Blackwood. In 2022, she starred in the Disney+ sequel ‘Hocus Pocus 2’, further increasing her visibility among younger audiences. Peak has also become a brand ambassador for major fashion houses, signaling her status as a style icon. Her career continues to focus on lead roles in projects aimed at the Gen Z demographic.

Saniyya Sidney

Saniyya Sidney delivered an impressive performance as Venus Williams in the biographical drama ‘King Richard’. Her role required both athletic training and a deep emotional connection to the real-life sports icon. Previously, she appeared in the Academy Award-nominated films ‘Fences’ and ‘Hidden Figures’ as a child actress. She also portrayed Sasha Obama in the anthology series ‘The First Lady’. Sidney is noted for her ability to portray real-life figures with authenticity and grace.

Demi Singleton

Demi Singleton gained widespread recognition for her role as Serena Williams in ‘King Richard’. Starring alongside Will Smith, she received praise for her chemistry with her co-stars and her convincing portrayal of the tennis legend. Before ‘King Richard’, she played Margaret Johnson in the series ‘Godfather of Harlem’. Singleton started her career on Broadway, appearing in ‘The Lion King’ and ‘School of Rock’. Her background in musical theater contributes to her disciplined and expressive acting style.

Lexi Underwood

Lexi Underwood had a breakout role as Pearl Warren in the Hulu miniseries ‘Little Fires Everywhere’. Her performance alongside Kerry Washington and Reese Witherspoon was highly praised by critics. She later took on a lead role in the second season of the anthology series ‘Cruel Summer’. Underwood also starred as Malia Obama in the series ‘The First Lady’, joining a cast of established veteran actresses. She is active in using her platform for social justice and youth empowerment.

Shahadi Wright Joseph

Shahadi Wright Joseph is best known for her dual role as Zora and Umbrae in Jordan Peele’s horror film ‘Us’. Her terrifying performance as a “tethered” double showcased her physical acting abilities. She also provided the voice for young Nala in the 2019 photorealistic remake of ‘The Lion King’. On television, she starred in the horror anthology series ‘Them’, further establishing her presence in the genre. Joseph began her career on Broadway, which provided a strong foundation for her subsequent film success.

Marsai Martin

Marsai Martin became a household name through her role as Diane Johnson on the sitcom ‘Black-ish’. At the age of 14, she became the youngest person ever to produce a major Hollywood film with ‘Little’, in which she also starred. This achievement earned her a spot in the Guinness World Records and solidified her reputation as a business mogul. Martin continues to voice characters in animated films like ‘PAW Patrol: The Movie’ and ‘Spirit Untamed’. Her career is a unique blend of acting success and pioneering production work.

Yara Shahidi

Yara Shahidi gained fame as Zoey Johnson on ‘Black-ish’ and subsequently led her own spin-off series, ‘Grown-ish’. She expanded her film credits by playing Tinker Bell in the Disney live-action film ‘Peter Pan & Wendy’. Shahidi is also known for her academic pursuits and social activism, often discussing political engagement with young voters. She has partnered with major brands like Dior and Chanel, establishing a significant presence in the fashion world. Her career represents a successful balance of mainstream entertainment and intellectual leadership.

Kiersey Clemons

Kiersey Clemons first broke through in the independent film ‘Dope’, which led to a variety of diverse roles. She played Iris West in the DC Extended Universe, appearing in ‘Zack Snyder’s Justice League’ and ‘The Flash’. Clemons also starred in the musical film ‘Hearts Beat Loud’ and voiced a character in ‘Scoob!’. She is known for her cool, effortless screen presence and her ability to navigate both indie and blockbuster projects. Her upcoming work includes lead roles in several highly anticipated dramas and thrillers.

Moses Ingram

Moses Ingram earned an Emmy nomination for her role as Jolene in the hit Netflix miniseries ‘The Queen’s Gambit’. She followed this success with a prominent role as Reva Sevander, the Third Sister, in the Star Wars series ‘Obi-Wan Kenobi’. Ingram also appeared in the film ‘The Tragedy of Macbeth’ directed by Joel Coen. Her performances are often noted for their intensity and complex moral shading. She is a graduate of the Yale School of Drama, and her classical training is evident in her versatile role choices.

Celeste O’Connor

Celeste O’Connor gained notice for her role in the slasher comedy ‘Freaky’ alongside Vince Vaughn. She joined the ‘Ghostbusters’ franchise in ‘Ghostbusters: Afterlife’ and returned for the sequel ‘Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire’. O’Connor also appeared in the superhero film ‘Madame Web’ as Mattie Franklin. Their career has been marked by a steady rise in major studio productions across different genres. They are recognized for bringing a natural, relatable energy to ensemble casts.

Lovie Simone

Lovie Simone garnered critical acclaim for her leading role in the independent film ‘Selah and the Spades’. She also starred in the 2020 sequel ‘The Craft: Legacy’ as one of the central witches. On television, she was a series regular in the drama ‘Greenleaf’ for several seasons. Simone is praised for her ability to portray characters with a quiet but powerful authority. Her work often explores themes of teenage power dynamics and institutional structures.

KiKi Layne

KiKi Layne had a sensational film debut as Tish Rivers in Barry Jenkins’ ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’. Since then, she has appeared in the action film ‘The Old Guard’ and the comedy sequel ‘Coming 2 America’. She also had a supporting role in the psychological thriller ‘Don’t Worry Darling’. Layne is noted for her striking screen presence and her ability to anchor emotional dramas. She continues to be a high-profile choice for directors seeking actresses with significant dramatic weight.

Ebony Obsidian

Ebony Obsidian is widely recognized for her role as Karen Mott in the Tyler Perry series ‘Sistas’. She also appeared in the critically acclaimed film ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’ as Adrienne Rivers. Her television work includes roles in ‘The Hunt’ and ‘Master of None’. Obsidian has built a loyal following through her consistent work in popular television dramas. She is often highlighted for her ability to bring depth to ensemble-driven narratives.

Madalen Mills

Madalen Mills made her film debut as the lead character Journey in the Netflix holiday musical ‘Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey’. Her performance was praised for its infectious energy and vocal talent alongside stars like Forest Whitaker. Before her film breakout, she performed on Broadway in ‘School of Rock’. Mills represents a new generation of young triple-threat performers who can sing, dance, and act. Her debut established her as a promising talent for future musical and family-oriented productions.

Helena Howard

Helena Howard received rave reviews for her debut performance in the independent film ‘Madeline’s Madeline’. Her work was cited by many critics as one of the best performances of the year. She went on to star in the Amazon Prime series ‘The Wilds’ as Nora Reid. Howard also appeared in the film ‘The Everywhere’ and the series ‘Shoplifters of the World’. She is known for her raw, unconventional acting style and her commitment to experimental storytelling.

Rachel Hilson

Rachel Hilson is best known for her role as Mia Brooks in the Hulu series ‘Love, Victor’. She also gained recognition for playing the younger version of Beth Pearson in ‘This Is Us’. Hilson has appeared in recurring roles in ‘The Good Wife’ and ‘Rise’. Her performances are often described as warm and emotionally resonant, making her a favorite for romantic and family dramas. She continues to build a strong resume in the television industry with leading and supporting parts.

Anjelika Washington

Anjelika Washington gained popularity for her role as Beth Chapel, also known as Doctor Mid-Nite, in the series ‘Stargirl’. She also starred in the Netflix film ‘Tall Girl’ and its sequel. Washington is known for her energetic screen presence and her ability to handle both action and comedy. She has been vocal about her experiences in the industry and the importance of representation. Her career continues to flourish within the realm of young adult television and film.

Diamond White

Diamond White is a singer and actress who provides the voice for the title character in ‘Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur’. She has had a recurring role in the long-running soap opera ‘The Bold and the Beautiful’ as Paris Buckingham. White first gained public attention as a contestant on ‘The X Factor’ at a young age. Her voice work is highly regarded, and she has successfully balanced her acting career with a steady output of music. She is a prominent talent in the world of animation and daytime television.

Akira Akbar

Akira Akbar appeared in ‘Captain Marvel’ as the young Monica Rambeau, a role that set the stage for the character’s future in the MCU. She also plays the character Ashley Banks in the modern reimagining of ‘Bel-Air’. Her television credits include appearances in ‘This Is Us’ and ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. Akbar is recognized for her natural acting ability and her success in high-profile television reboots. As she matures, she is expected to take on more complex leading roles in film.

Priah Ferguson

Priah Ferguson became a fan favorite for her role as Erica Sinclair in the Netflix series ‘Stranger Things’. Her character’s sharp wit and “no-nonsense” attitude made her a standout in the ensemble cast. Ferguson has also starred in the Netflix film ‘The Curse of Bridge Hollow’ alongside Marlon Wayans. She has voiced characters in animated series like ‘Hamster & Gretel’. Her transition from a guest star to a series regular on one of the world’s biggest shows has made her a recognizable global talent.

Genneya Walton

Genneya Walton appeared as a series regular in the Netflix show ‘Project Mc²’ before finding broader fame. She starred in the comedy film ‘Candy Cane Lane’ with Eddie Murphy and the series ‘Darby and the Dead’. Walton also had a notable role in the final season of ‘Black-ish’. Her career has seen her move from teen-oriented programming to major studio comedies. She is often praised for her comedic timing and relatable screen persona.

Chloe Bailey

Chloe Bailey, one half of the musical duo Chloe x Halle, has successfully launched a solo acting and music career. She starred in the psychological thriller series ‘Swarm’, which earned her significant critical attention. Bailey also led the musical film ‘Praise This’ and appeared in the horror film ‘The Exorcism’. Her acting style is often described as bold and fearless, matching her musical persona. She continues to be a major cultural influencer with a rapidly growing filmography.

Lauren Ridloff

Lauren Ridloff made a significant impact as Makkari in the Marvel film ‘Eternals’, portraying the first deaf superhero in the MCU. She is also well known for her role as Connie in ‘The Walking Dead’ over several seasons. Ridloff was a teacher before becoming an actress and received a Tony Award nomination for her work in the play ‘Children of a Lesser God’. She is a prominent advocate for the deaf community in Hollywood. her career is marked by groundbreaking roles that increase visibility for disabled performers.

Kirby Howell-Baptiste

Kirby, formerly known as Kirby Howell-Baptiste, has appeared in a wide range of critically acclaimed series. She played Death in the Netflix adaptation of ‘The Sandman’ and had notable roles in ‘Killing Eve’ and ‘The Good Place’. She also appeared in the Disney film ‘Cruella’ as Anita Darling. Her versatility allows her to play everything from quirky comedic characters to profound personifications of abstract concepts. She is consistently praised for her ability to elevate any scene she is in.

Joy Sunday

Joy Sunday gained widespread recognition for her role as Bianca Barclay in the Netflix series ‘Wednesday’. Her portrayal of the competitive and complex siren made her a breakout star of the show. Before ‘Wednesday’, she appeared in the film ‘Dog’ and the series ‘Dear White People’. Sunday’s performance was noted for its depth, moving beyond a simple “rival” archetype. She is expected to return for future seasons while pursuing more film opportunities.

Vivian Oparah

Vivian Oparah received a BAFTA nomination for her leading role in the romantic comedy ‘Rye Lane’. The film was a critical darling, and her performance was hailed for its charm and spontaneity. Previously, she starred in the ‘Doctor Who’ spin-off series ‘Class’ as Tanya Adeola. Oparah is a rising star in the British film industry with increasing international visibility. Her work in ‘Rye Lane’ has positioned her as a major talent in the romantic comedy genre.

Leah Sava Jeffries

Leah Sava Jeffries was cast as Annabeth Chase in the Disney+ series ‘Percy Jackson and the Olympians’. Her casting was a major milestone for the high-profile franchise based on the popular book series. Previously, she appeared in the action thriller ‘Beast’ alongside Idris Elba. Jeffries has demonstrated a high level of professionalism and poise while handling the pressures of a massive fandom. She is one of the most promising young actresses currently working in big-budget streaming series.

Alycia Pascual-Peña

Alycia Pascual-Peña starred as Aisha Garcia in the ‘Saved by the Bell’ revival, where she was praised for her comedic and dramatic range. she also appeared in the Netflix film ‘Moxie’, directed by Amy Poehler. Her television credits include the series ‘The Neighborhood’ and ‘Chase’. She is known for her vibrant energy and her commitment to projects with strong social themes. Pascual-Peña is a rising talent who has successfully navigated the transition to adult roles.

Birgundi Baker

Birgundi Baker is best known for her role as Kiesha Williams in the Showtime drama ‘The Chi’. Her performance throughout the series has been a focal point of many major storylines. She has also appeared in ‘Black Lightning’ and the film ‘Trial by Fire’. Baker is a graduate of Howard University’s musical theater program, and her training is reflected in her disciplined performances. She continues to be a powerful presence in contemporary television drama.

Please share which of these talented actresses you are most excited to see in their upcoming projects in the comments.