Gen Z’s Favorite African-American Actors

Gen Z has championed a new generation of Black actors who dominate both the silver screen and popular streaming platforms. These performers have gained massive followings by taking on roles that challenge stereotypes and represent diverse experiences across various genres. From blockbuster superhero franchises to intimate independent dramas, these actors showcase immense range and talent. Their influence extends beyond acting as they often engage with social issues and connect directly with fans through digital spaces. This list highlights the most prominent male African-American actors who have captured the attention of the youngest generation of entertainment consumers.

Michael B. Jordan

Michael B. Jordan gained massive popularity through his role as Erik Killmonger in ‘Black Panther’. He also leads the ‘Creed’ franchise as Adonis Creed where he continues the legacy of the ‘Rocky’ films. His career started with significant roles in ‘The Wire’ and ‘Friday Night Lights’ before he moved into major film productions. He is known for his commitment to his roles and his work as a producer through Outlier Society. Gen Z fans admire his blend of action star charisma and dramatic depth in every performance.

John Boyega

John Boyega became a household name for his portrayal of Finn in the ‘Star Wars’ sequel trilogy. He originally gained attention for the cult hit ‘Attack the Block’ where he played a tough teenager defending his neighborhood. He has since appeared in historical dramas like ‘The Woman King’ and the science fiction comedy ‘They Cloned Tyrone’. Beyond his film work, he is widely respected for his vocal activism and support for social justice movements. His ability to lead major franchises while staying grounded in smaller projects makes him a fan favorite.

Caleb McLaughlin

Caleb McLaughlin is best known for his role as Lucas Sinclair on the hit series ‘Stranger Things’. He grew up on screen alongside his castmates and has become a style icon for his generation. In addition to television, he starred in the film ‘Concrete Cowboy’ alongside Idris Elba. He has also explored voice acting and has a strong presence in the fashion industry. His transition from a child star to a mature actor continues to impress audiences worldwide.

Jaden Smith

Jaden Smith made his acting debut alongside his father in the emotional drama ‘The Pursuit of Happyness’. He later took on the lead role in the remake of ‘The Karate Kid’ which introduced him to a global audience. Smith has appeared in several projects like ‘The Get Down’ and ‘After Earth’ while also pursuing a successful music career. He is recognized for his unique fashion sense and his commitment to environmental sustainability projects. His artistic versatility makes him a prominent figure in youth culture today.

Jharrel Jerome

Jharrel Jerome first gained widespread recognition for his performance in the Academy Award winning film ‘Moonlight’. He later earned critical acclaim and an Emmy Award for his powerful portrayal of Korey Wise in ‘When They See Us’. His work often explores complex social themes and provides a voice for marginalized communities. He has also starred in the series ‘I am a Virgo’ where he plays a giant living in Oakland. His ability to convey deep emotion has established him as one of the most talented actors of his age group.

Asante Blackk

Asante Blackk rose to fame with his breakthrough role in the limited series ‘When They See Us’. This performance earned him an Emmy nomination at a very young age and launched his professional career. He later joined the cast of the popular family drama ‘This Is Us’ as a series regular. He also appeared in the film ‘Landscape with Invisible Hand’ which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival. His natural acting style and choice of impactful projects resonate strongly with younger viewers.

Jabari Banks

Jabari Banks stepped into the spotlight as the lead character in ‘Bel-Air’ which is a dramatic reimagining of a classic sitcom. He won the role through an open casting call and has been praised for his modern take on an iconic character. Before his television debut, he was a talented musician and theater performer in Philadelphia. His performance balances the charm of the original series with the heavy themes of the new adaptation. He is quickly becoming a major star in the streaming era.

Damson Idris

Damson Idris is widely recognized for his starring role as Franklin Saint in the crime drama series ‘Snowfall’. He portrays a young man navigating the rise of the crack cocaine epidemic in Los Angeles during the eighties. Although he is British, his convincing American accent and intense performance have made him a standout in American television. He has also appeared in films like ‘Outside the Wire’ and has become a frequent attendee of major fashion events. His rise to fame is a testament to his dedication to complex character studies.

Keith Powers

Keith Powers gained a dedicated following after starring in the biographical miniseries ‘The New Edition Story’. He is also well known for his role in the series ‘Famous in Love’ and the Netflix film ‘The Perfect Find’. His career began in modeling before he transitioned into full time acting with roles in ‘Straight Outta Compton’. He frequently appears in romantic dramas and coming of age stories that appeal to Gen Z audiences. Fans often follow his career for both his acting talent and his stylish public persona.

Algee Smith

Algee Smith is best known for his role as Ralph Tresvant in ‘The New Edition Story’ and his performance in ‘Detroit’. He also starred in the first season of the hit drama ‘Euphoria’ as Chris McKay. His film credits include ‘The Hate U Give’ and ‘Mother/Android’ which showcase his range in different genres. In addition to acting, he is a talented singer and songwriter who often shares his music with fans. His involvement in culturally significant projects has made him a recognizable face to younger viewers.

Justice Smith

Justice Smith has starred in several major productions including ‘Jurassic World Fallen Kingdom’ and ‘Pokémon Detective Pikachu’. He also led the cast of the musical drama series ‘The Get Down’ on Netflix. His recent work includes the fantasy adventure ‘Dungeons and Dragons Honor Among Thieves’ and the indie film ‘I Saw the TV Glow’. He is praised for his ability to play quirky and relatable characters in high concept movies. His diverse filmography demonstrates a willingness to experiment with different types of storytelling.

Tyler James Williams

Tyler James Williams first became famous as the lead in the sitcom ‘Everybody Hates Chris’ during his childhood. He successfully transitioned into adult roles with a notable appearance in ‘The Walking Dead’. Currently, he stars in the critically acclaimed mockumentary ‘Abbott Elementary’ as Gregory Eddie. His performance in the series has earned him several awards and renewed interest from a younger audience. He is often cited as a prime example of a child star who built a long and respected career.

Lakeith Stanfield

Lakeith Stanfield is known for his eccentric and captivating performances in projects like ‘Atlanta’ and ‘Sorry to Bother You’. He received an Academy Award nomination for his role in ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’. His career started with a breakout performance in ‘Short Term 12’ and has since expanded to major films like ‘Get Out’ and ‘Knives Out’. He is admired for his unique artistic vision and his habit of choosing unconventional roles. Gen Z fans appreciate his authenticity and his contributions to modern surrealist cinema.

Daniel Kaluuya

Daniel Kaluuya became an international star following his lead role in the horror film ‘Get Out’. He won an Academy Award for his portrayal of Fred Hampton in ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’. His other major credits include ‘Black Panther’, ‘Queen and Slim’, and the science fiction film ‘Nope’. He is recognized for his intense screen presence and his ability to carry complex narratives. His work often addresses important social and political issues through the lens of popular entertainment.

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II has had a rapid rise in Hollywood with roles in ‘Aquaman’ and ‘Watchmen’. He won an Emmy for his performance as Doctor Manhattan in the latter series. He also starred in ‘The Trial of the Chicago 7’ and took on the role of Morpheus in ‘The Matrix Resurrections’. His physical presence and commanding voice make him a natural fit for both action and drama. He continues to be a highly sought after actor for major studio blockbusters and prestige television.

Winston Duke

Winston Duke made a huge impact with his film debut as M’Baku in ‘Black Panther’. He reprised this role in multiple films within the Marvel Cinematic Universe and became a fan favorite character. He also delivered a powerful dual performance in the horror film ‘Us’ directed by Jordan Peele. His theater background contributes to his strong presence and nuanced acting style. He is celebrated for representing a diverse range of Black masculinity on screen.

Daveed Diggs

Daveed Diggs rose to prominence as part of the original cast of the Broadway musical ‘Hamilton’. He successfully moved into film and television with the movie ‘Blindspotting’ which he also co-wrote. He stars in the post apocalyptic series ‘Snowpiercer’ and provided the voice for Sebastian in the live action ‘The Little Mermaid’. His background in experimental hip hop and theater gives him a unique creative perspective. Younger audiences enjoy his multi talented approach to the arts and his engaging performances.

Kofi Siriboe

Kofi Siriboe is best known for his starring role as Ralph Angel Bordelon in the drama series ‘Queen Sugar’. He also appeared in the hit comedy film ‘Girls Trip’ which boosted his popularity significantly. His career includes work as a model and an advocate for mental health awareness within the Black community. He has been featured in numerous fashion campaigns and is considered a prominent young leading man. His dedication to emotional storytelling has earned him a loyal following among television viewers.

Trevor Jackson

Trevor Jackson is a multi talented performer who stars in the series ‘Grown-ish’ as Aaron Jackson. He began his career in theater and appeared in the Broadway production of ‘The Lion King’ as a child. He has released several musical projects alongside his acting work in films like ‘Superfly’. His character on ‘Grown-ish’ has made him a relatable figure for college aged viewers navigating adulthood. He continues to balance a successful career in both the music and television industries.

Jacob Latimore

Jacob Latimore is a singer and actor who stars in the drama series ‘The Chi’. He has appeared in several films including ‘Maze Runner’, ‘Detroit’, and the remake of ‘House Party’. His career started in the music industry before he successfully transitioned into full time acting. He is known for his ability to portray vulnerable and complex characters in urban dramas. His consistent presence on television has made him a familiar face to Gen Z audiences.

Miles Brown

Miles Brown gained fame playing Jack Johnson on the long running sitcom ‘Black-ish’. He is also a talented dancer who has performed on various competitive reality shows. As he has grown up, he has taken on more mature voice acting roles and independent projects. He is often recognized for his infectious energy and his skills as an entertainer across multiple platforms. He represents the youngest tier of Gen Z actors who have literally grown up on television.

Lonnie Chavis

Lonnie Chavis is best known for playing the younger version of Randall Pearson on ‘This Is Us’. His emotional performances on the show earned him critical praise and several award nominations. He has also starred in the film ‘The Water Man’ and the series ‘Sunshine’ on various streaming platforms. He is active in anti bullying campaigns and uses his platform to inspire other young people. His talent for dramatic acting at such a young age has marked him as a rising star to watch.

Seth Carr

Seth Carr is a young actor who appeared as the childhood version of Erik Killmonger in ‘Black Panther’. He also starred in the Netflix film ‘The Main Event’ and the series ‘The Mysterious Benedict Society’. His career includes roles in popular shows like ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’ and ‘Ray Donovan’. He has built a diverse resume of work across television and film before reaching adulthood. His early roles in major franchises have given him significant visibility with younger audiences.

Niles Fitch

Niles Fitch is recognized for his role as Randall Pearson during his teenage years on ‘This Is Us’. He made history as Disney’s first live action Black prince in the film ‘Secret Society of Second Born Royals’. His career started with print modeling and commercials before he moved into recurring television roles. He has also appeared in films like ‘The Fallout’ which deals with heavy social themes relevant to his generation. His charming screen presence and professional growth have earned him a steady fanbase.

Khylin Rhambo

Khylin Rhambo is well known for his role as Mason Hewitt on the supernatural series ‘Teen Wolf’. He also starred in the science fiction film ‘Ender’s Game’ and the thriller ’47 Meters Down Uncaged’. His performances often involve high stakes action and supernatural elements that appeal to younger viewers. He recently returned to his most famous role for ‘Teen Wolf The Movie’ on Paramount Plus. He continues to be a popular figure in the young adult genre of television and film.

Michael Evans Behling

Michael Evans Behling rose to fame playing Jordan Baker on the hit sports drama ‘All American’. Before acting, he was a competitive athlete and a model for several major brands. His role on ‘All American’ has made him a household name among fans of teen dramas. He is also active on social media where he shares glimpses of his personal life and fitness routines. His athletic background and relatable character work have made him a standout in the current television landscape.

Daniel Ezra

Daniel Ezra is the lead actor of the series ‘All American’ where he plays Spencer James. Although he is originally from the United Kingdom, he is widely praised for his convincing portrayal of a high school football player from South Central Los Angeles. He spent a significant amount of time studying American culture and sports to prepare for the role. His performance has been a central part of the show’s massive success on both network TV and streaming. He is admired for his dedication to his craft and his leadership on and off screen.

Jordan Calloway

Jordan Calloway is a veteran of youth television who starred in ‘Unfabulous’ and later ‘Black Lightning’. He played the character Painkiller in the DC Comics universe which earned him a dedicated following among superhero fans. His career also includes recurring roles in ‘Riverdale’ and ‘Freakish’. He is known for his physical fitness and his ability to perform demanding action sequences. His long history in the industry has made him a consistent favorite for Gen Z viewers who grew up watching him.

Brett Gray

Brett Gray gained widespread popularity for his role as Jamal Turner in the Netflix series ‘On My Block’. His performance was praised for its comedic timing and emotional depth throughout the show’s four seasons. In addition to acting, he is a talented singer who has released several R and B projects. He also provided a voice for the animated series ‘Star Trek Prodigy’. His charismatic personality and multi disciplinary talents have made him a prominent figure for younger audiences.

Marquis Rodriguez

Marquis Rodriguez is known for his role as the young Raymond Santana in the miniseries ‘When They See Us’. He also appeared in the ‘Luke Cage’ series and the ‘Sex and the City’ revival titled ‘And Just Like That’. His career includes theater work and roles in various independent films. He has a natural acting style that allows him to fit into both gritty dramas and contemporary comedies. His involvement in high profile streaming projects has boosted his visibility with Gen Z fans.

Ethan Herisse

Ethan Herisse delivered a breakout performance as the young Yusef Salaam in ‘When They See Us’. This role brought him significant critical attention and established him as a talented dramatic actor. He has also appeared in shows like ‘The Mindy Project’ and ‘Key and Peele’ during his early career. He continues to take on roles that highlight important social issues and diverse narratives. His work in prestige television has made him a respected name among younger viewers who value meaningful storytelling.

Caleel Harris

Caleel Harris played the young Antron McCray in the acclaimed series ‘When They See Us’. He also starred in the ‘Goosebumps 2 Haunted Halloween’ film and provided voices for several animated projects. His career started at a very young age with roles in comedies and family oriented content. He has successfully transitioned into more serious dramatic work as he has entered his teenage years. His versatility across different genres makes him a consistent presence in the entertainment industry.

Jalyn Hall

Jalyn Hall is best known for his role as Dillon James on the popular series ‘All American’. He also gave a powerful performance as Emmett Till in the biographical film ‘Till’. His work spans across television and major motion pictures with a focus on impactful historical and social stories. He has been recognized with several award nominations for his ability to handle heavy dramatic material. Younger fans appreciate his talent and his commitment to portraying significant figures in Black history.

Abraham Attah

Abraham Attah gained international fame for his debut role in ‘Beasts of No Nation’ alongside Idris Elba. His performance earned him several prestigious awards and led to a role in ‘Spider-Man Homecoming’. Originally from Ghana, he has become a recognized face in Hollywood while continuing his education in the United States. He also starred in the film ‘Tazmanian Devil’ which explores the lives of Nigerian immigrants. His journey from a non professional to a celebrated actor is an inspiration to many young fans.

Ashton Sanders

Ashton Sanders rose to prominence for his role as the teenage Chiron in ‘Moonlight’. He later starred in the action film ‘The Equalizer 2’ and the biographical drama ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’. He also played the lead role of RZA in the series ‘Wu-Tang An American Saga’. His unique style and choice of artistic projects have made him a favorite in the indie film community. Gen Z fans admire his fashion sense and his dedication to playing complex and often troubled characters.

Jaden Michael

Jaden Michael gained significant attention for playing the young Colin Kaepernick in the series ‘Colin in Black and White’. He also starred in the Netflix film ‘Vampires vs the Bronx’ which combined horror and social commentary. His career includes work in various television shows and independent films since he was a child. He is praised for his ability to lead a series and represent important cultural figures. His recent work has solidified his status as a rising lead actor for the streaming generation.

Chosen Jacobs

Chosen Jacobs is best known for his role as Mike Hanlon in the ‘It’ film franchise. He also starred in the Disney Plus movie ‘Sneakerella’ which showcased his musical and dancing abilities. His television work includes roles in ‘Castle Rock’ and ‘Hawaii Five-0’ earlier in his career. He is a multi talented performer who often shares his musical compositions with his fans on social media. His transition from horror to musical comedy demonstrates a wide range of talent that appeals to various audiences.

Marcus Scribner

Marcus Scribner is widely recognized for his role as Andre Johnson Jr on the sitcom ‘Black-ish’. He later transitioned the character to the spin off series ‘Grown-ish’ where he became a lead. He has also done extensive voice work for animated series like ‘She-Ra and the Princesses of Power’. His portrayal of a nerdy and relatable character has made him a favorite among younger viewers. He is active in environmental conservation and uses his platform to promote social responsibility.

Tyrel Jackson Williams

Tyrel Jackson Williams became famous for his role as Leo Dooley on the Disney XD series ‘Lab Rats’. He later transitioned to more mature work in the comedy series ‘Brockmire’ alongside Hank Azaria. He also starred in the film ‘Pants on Fire’ and has appeared in various other television projects. His comedic timing and expressive acting have made him a memorable figure for those who grew up watching Disney. He continues to find success in both comedic and dramatic roles as an adult.

RJ Cyler

RJ Cyler had a breakout role in the film ‘Me and Earl and the Dying Girl’ which earned him critical acclaim. He later starred as the Blue Ranger in the ‘Power Rangers’ reboot and appeared in the series ‘Black Lightning’. His work also includes the film ‘The Harder They Fall’ and the Netflix series ‘Sierra Burgess Is a Loser’. He is known for his high energy and his ability to bring humor to intense situations. His presence in both big budget movies and indie projects has made him a well known name to Gen Z.

Shameik Moore

Shameik Moore is the voice of Miles Morales in the highly successful ‘Spider-Verse’ animated film series. He originally gained fame for his lead role in the indie hit ‘Dope’ which became a cult favorite. He also starred in the series ‘The Get Down’ and ‘Wu-Tang An American Saga’. His work across music and acting has established him as a multifaceted creative force. Gen Z fans especially connect with him through his iconic portrayal of one of the most popular modern superheroes.

Donald Glover

Donald Glover is a visionary artist who has made a massive impact on music, television, and film. He created and starred in the award winning series ‘Atlanta’ which redefined modern television. He also appeared as Lando Calrissian in ‘Solo A Star Wars Story’ and voiced Simba in ‘The Lion King’. Under his musical moniker Childish Gambino, he has released several influential albums and viral music videos. His ability to move seamlessly between different artistic mediums makes him a definitive icon for the current generation.

Anthony Mackie

Anthony Mackie is widely known for his role as Sam Wilson in the Marvel Cinematic Universe where he eventually became the new Captain America. He has a long history of roles in acclaimed films like ‘The Hurt Locker’ and ‘The Banker’. He recently starred in the series ‘Twisted Metal’ and continues to lead major film projects. His charismatic personality and frequent interactions with fans have made him a staple of modern pop culture. He remains a powerful presence in Hollywood as both an action star and a dramatic lead.

Stephan James

Stephan James gained recognition for his portrayal of Jesse Owens in the biographical film ‘Race’. He also starred in the critically acclaimed movie ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’ and the series ‘Homecoming’. His work often focuses on powerful human stories and historical narratives. He has received several awards and nominations for his disciplined and moving performances. His career choices reflect a commitment to high quality storytelling that resonates with audiences looking for depth.

Aldis Hodge

Aldis Hodge is a versatile actor known for his roles in ‘Leverage’ and the film ‘Straight Outta Compton’. He played Hawkman in the DC film ‘Black Adam’ and starred in the crime drama ‘City on a Hill’. His career began as a child actor and has spanned several decades of consistent work in film and television. He is also a self taught watchmaker and designer which adds to his unique public image. His steady rise to leading man status has been followed closely by fans of all ages.

Brian Tyree Henry

Brian Tyree Henry is a celebrated actor who gained fame through his role as Paper Boi in the series ‘Atlanta’. He has since appeared in major films like ‘Eternals’, ‘Bullet Train’, and ‘Spider-Man Into the Spider-Verse’. He received an Academy Award nomination for his performance in ‘Causeway’ alongside Jennifer Lawrence. His ability to balance humor with profound sadness makes him one of the most respected actors working today. He is a favorite among Gen Z for his authentic and often hilarious screen presence.

Sterling K. Brown

Sterling K. Brown is a highly decorated actor best known for his role as Randall Pearson on ‘This Is Us’. He won multiple Emmy Awards for his work on that show and for ‘The People v O J Simpson American Crime Story’. His film work includes ‘Black Panther’, ‘Waves’, and ‘American Fiction’ for which he received an Oscar nomination. He is admired for his incredible range and his ability to deliver powerful monologues. His presence in both television and film has made him a respected figure for multiple generations.

Jonathan Majors

Jonathan Majors rose to prominence with his breakout role in ‘The Last Black Man in San Francisco’. He went on to star in the series ‘Lovecraft Country’ and the film ‘The Harder They Fall’. He joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Kang the Conqueror and appeared in ‘Creed III’. Despite personal and professional controversies, his early work left a significant impact on the landscape of modern cinema. His intense acting style and physical transformations have been a topic of much discussion among film enthusiasts.

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