Black Actors Who Are Everywhere

The entertainment industry features several highly productive male performers who appear across a wide variety of cinematic and television projects. These actors maintain busy schedules that involve leading roles in major franchises as well as supporting parts in prestige dramas. Their work spans multiple genres including action and science fiction and historical biopics. Audiences frequently encounter these talented individuals on streaming services and in global box office hits.

Idris Elba

Idris Elba has established himself as a dominant force in Hollywood through his diverse range of roles in film and television. He achieved international fame for his portrayal of Stringer Bell in the acclaimed series ‘The Wire’. Since then he has headlined major projects like the crime drama ‘Luther’ and appeared as Heimdall in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. His recent work includes leading roles in the series ‘Hijack’ and the action thriller ‘Beast’.

Samuel L. Jackson

Samuel L. Jackson is one of the most prolific actors in the history of motion pictures with a filmography that exceeds one hundred titles. He became a household name through his collaborations with Quentin Tarantino in films like ‘Pulp Fiction’ and ‘Jackie Brown’. Jackson is a central figure in the Marvel Cinematic Universe where he portrays Nick Fury across numerous movies and television shows. He has also played significant roles in the ‘Star Wars’ prequel trilogy as Jedi Master Mace Windu.

Anthony Mackie

Anthony Mackie is a prominent figure in modern cinema who took on the mantle of Captain America in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. He first gained widespread attention for his performance in the award winning film ‘The Hurt Locker’ before joining major franchises. Mackie has also expanded into television as the lead in the series ‘Twisted Metal’ and ‘The Falcon and the Winter Soldier’. His versatility allows him to transition between intense dramas and lighthearted action comedies.

Colman Domingo

Colman Domingo has become an omnipresent talent in recent years with critically acclaimed performances in both film and television. He received significant praise for his role as Victor Strand in the long running series ‘Fear the Walking Dead’. Domingo earned an Academy Award nomination for his lead performance in ‘Rustin’ and played a key part in ‘The Color Purple’. He frequently appears in high profile dramas like ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’ and the series ‘Euphoria’.

Sterling K. Brown

Sterling K. Brown is a highly decorated actor known for his emotional range and consistent presence on television screens. He became a major star through his role as Randall Pearson on the popular drama ‘This Is Us’. Brown has also made a significant impact in film with roles in ‘Black Panther’ and ‘American Fiction’. He continues to take on diverse projects including the science fiction film ‘Atlas’ and the series ‘The People v. O. J. Simpson: American Crime Story’.

Jeffrey Wright

Jeffrey Wright is a veteran performer who consistently appears in some of the most successful franchises and prestige films. He is well known for playing Bernard Lowe in the science fiction series ‘Westworld’ and Felix Leiter in the ‘James Bond’ films. Wright also took on the role of Commissioner Gordon in ‘The Batman’ and starred in the satirical drama ‘American Fiction’. His career spans decades and includes a wide variety of voice acting roles in animated projects.

Giancarlo Esposito

Giancarlo Esposito has built a reputation for playing some of the most memorable characters on television in recent decades. He gained massive fame for his portrayal of Gus Fring in ‘Breaking Bad’ and its prequel ‘Better Call Saul’. Esposito also holds a prominent role in the ‘Star Wars’ universe as Moff Gideon in ‘The Mandalorian’. He remains extremely active with parts in ‘The Boys’ and the heist series ‘Kaleidoscope’.

John Boyega

John Boyega rose to international stardom after being cast as Finn in the ‘Star Wars’ sequel trilogy. Since finishing that franchise he has focused on a diverse array of projects like the historical epic ‘The Woman King’. Boyega also starred in the science fiction comedy ‘They Cloned Tyrone’ and the crime drama ‘Breaking’. He continues to be a prominent leading man in both independent films and major studio productions.

Lakeith Stanfield

Lakeith Stanfield is known for his unique choices and frequent appearances in innovative films and television shows. He first broke through with a role in the film ‘Short Term 12’ and gained further fame in the series ‘Atlanta’. Stanfield has since starred in notable projects like ‘Sorry to Bother You’ and ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’. He also played the lead in the Disney film ‘Haunted Mansion’ and the series ‘The Changeling’.

Daniel Kaluuya

Daniel Kaluuya has become one of the most sought after actors in the industry following his breakout role in ‘Get Out’. He won an Academy Award for his portrayal of Fred Hampton in ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’. Kaluuya is also a key member of the ‘Black Panther’ cast and starred in the science fiction thriller ‘Nope’. He recently provided voice work for the blockbuster animated film ‘Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse’.

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II has rapidly ascended to the top of Hollywood with major roles in superhero and action films. He played the villainous Black Manta in ‘Aquaman’ and portrayed Dr. Manhattan in the series ‘Watchmen’. His filmography also includes leading roles in ‘The Matrix Resurrections’ and the thriller ‘Ambulance’. He is currently set to join the Marvel Cinematic Universe as the lead in the ‘Wonder Man’ series.

Mahershala Ali

Mahershala Ali is a two time Academy Award winner who consistently appears in high quality film and television projects. He gained early recognition for his work in the series ‘House of Cards’ before winning Oscars for ‘Moonlight’ and ‘Green Book’. Ali also starred in the third season of ‘True Detective’ and provided the voice for Uncle Aaron in the ‘Spider-Verse’ films. He is scheduled to take on the iconic role of Blade in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Michael B. Jordan

Michael B. Jordan is a major movie star who has led several successful film franchises over the last decade. He is best known for his portrayal of Adonis Creed in the ‘Creed’ trilogy and Erik Killmonger in ‘Black Panther’. Jordan also gained early acclaim for his roles in the series ‘The Wire’ and the film ‘Fruitvale Station’. He has expanded his career into directing and producing while remaining a constant presence on screen.

Winston Duke

Winston Duke became a recognizable face globally after his breakout performance as M’Baku in ‘Black Panther’. He has since appeared in multiple Marvel Cinematic Universe films including ‘Avengers: Infinity War’ and ‘Avengers: Endgame’. Duke also starred in the psychological horror film ‘Us’ and the action comedy ‘Spenser Confidential’. He recently appeared in the big budget action film ‘The Fall Guy’ alongside Ryan Gosling.

Kingsley Ben-Adir

Kingsley Ben-Adir has seen a significant rise in his career with several high profile roles in major films. He portrayed Malcolm X in ‘One Night in Miami’ and played the lead in the biopic ‘Bob Marley: One Love’. Ben-Adir also appeared as a version of Ken in the blockbuster film ‘Barbie’. He has maintained a television presence with roles in ‘Peaky Blinders’ and the Marvel series ‘Secret Invasion’.

Aldis Hodge

Aldis Hodge has been a steady presence in the industry for years with a wide range of roles in film and television. He is well known for his work in the series ‘Leverage’ and the crime drama ‘City on a Hill’. Hodge played Hawkman in the superhero film ‘Black Adam’ and starred in the acclaimed film ‘One Night in Miami’. He has also appeared in major productions like ‘Hidden Figures’ and ‘Straight Outta Compton’.

Corey Hawkins

Corey Hawkins is a talented performer who often appears in major television events and large scale films. He rose to fame playing Dr. Dre in the biopic ‘Straight Outta Compton’ and starred in ‘Kong: Skull Island’. Hawkins took the lead role in the series ’24: Legacy’ and appeared in the musical ‘In the Heights’. He recently starred in the horror film ‘The Last Voyage of the Demeter’ and the drama ‘The Piano Lesson’.

Brian Tyree Henry

Brian Tyree Henry is an exceptionally active actor who works across television, film, and theater. He became a breakout star in the series ‘Atlanta’ and earned an Academy Award nomination for his role in ‘Causeway’. Henry has appeared in blockbusters like ‘Eternals’ and ‘Godzilla vs. Kong’. He also provides the voice for Jefferson Davis in the animated ‘Spider-Verse’ franchise.

Leslie Odom Jr.

Leslie Odom Jr. successfully transitioned from a massive career on Broadway to being a constant presence on screen. He is world famous for originating the role of Aaron Burr in the musical ‘Hamilton’. Odom Jr. has since starred in films like ‘One Night in Miami’ and the mystery sequel ‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery’. He also leads the cast in the series ‘Central Park’ and appeared in the horror film ‘The Exorcist: Believer’.

Daveed Diggs

Daveed Diggs is another ‘Hamilton’ alumnus who has built a prolific career in film and television. He starred in the science fiction series ‘Snowpiercer’ and the critically acclaimed film ‘Blindspotting’. Diggs provided the voice for Sebastian in the live action ‘The Little Mermaid’ and has numerous roles in animated series like ‘Invincible’. He frequently appears in both comedic and dramatic projects across various platforms.

Donald Glover

Donald Glover is a multifaceted artist who maintains a constant presence in the entertainment world as an actor and creator. He created and starred in the award winning series ‘Atlanta’ and played Lando Calrissian in ‘Solo: A Star Wars Story’. Glover also provided the voice for Simba in the remake of ‘The Lion King’ and recently starred in the series ‘Mr. and Mrs. Smith’. His work continues to influence modern television and film through both acting and production.

Tyler James Williams

Tyler James Williams has been in the public eye since childhood and remains a staple of modern television. He first gained fame as the lead in ‘Everybody Hates Chris’ and later appeared in ‘The Walking Dead’. Williams is currently a central cast member on the hit sitcom ‘Abbott Elementary’ where he plays Gregory Eddie. He also frequently takes on roles in films like ‘Detroit’ and ‘The United States vs. Billie Holiday’.

Will Smith

Will Smith remains one of the most recognizable movie stars in the world with a career that spans decades. He has led numerous blockbuster franchises including ‘Men in Black’ and ‘Bad Boys’. Smith won an Academy Award for his portrayal of Richard Williams in the film ‘King Richard’. He continues to release major films like ‘Emancipation’ and the recent sequel ‘Bad Boys: Ride or Die’.

Denzel Washington

Denzel Washington is a legendary actor who continues to be extremely active in high profile cinema. He is known for his powerful performances in films like ‘Training Day’ and ‘Malcolm X’. Washington has recently led the successful ‘The Equalizer’ trilogy and starred in ‘The Tragedy of Macbeth’. He remains a consistent box office draw and is set to appear in the historical epic ‘Gladiator II’.

Jamie Foxx

Jamie Foxx is a versatile entertainer who appears in everything from intense dramas to major action films. He won an Oscar for his role in ‘Ray’ and played the lead in ‘Django Unchained’. Foxx is a part of the ‘Spider-Man’ franchise where he portrays the character Electro. He recently starred in projects like ‘The Out-Law’ and ‘They Cloned Tyrone’ while continuing his work as a television host.

Kevin Hart

Kevin Hart is one of the busiest comedians and actors in Hollywood with a constant stream of new releases. He has starred in numerous hit comedies like ‘Ride Along’ and the ‘Jumanji’ sequels. Hart also takes on dramatic roles such as those in the film ‘Fatherhood’ and the series ‘True Story’. He frequently produces and stars in multiple projects every year for major streaming services.

Don Cheadle

Don Cheadle is a highly respected actor who has been a mainstay in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as James Rhodes. Beyond his superhero work he has starred in acclaimed films like ‘Hotel Rwanda’ and ‘Crash’. Cheadle led the series ‘House of Lies’ and more recently ‘Black Monday’. He continues to appear in major films like ‘White Noise’ and remains active in various television projects.

David Oyelowo

David Oyelowo is a prolific actor known for his portrayal of historical figures and his work in intense dramas. He received critical acclaim for playing Martin Luther King Jr. in the film ‘Selma’. Oyelowo has appeared in a wide range of projects including ‘Interstellar’ and the series ‘Lawmen: Bass Reeves’. He also stars in the science fiction series ‘Silo’ and provides voice work for various animated series.

Chiwetel Ejiofor

Chiwetel Ejiofor is an acclaimed performer who frequently appears in both prestige dramas and major blockbusters. He earned an Academy Award nomination for his leading role in ’12 Years a Slave’. Ejiofor plays Baron Mordo in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and starred in the series ‘The Man Who Fell to Earth’. He has also taken on directing duties with films like ‘The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind’.

Djimon Hounsou

Djimon Hounsou is a veteran actor with a career that includes some of the biggest films of the last thirty years. He gained early fame in ‘Amistad’ and ‘Gladiator’ before joining several major franchises. Hounsou has appeared in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Korath and in the DC Universe as the Wizard in ‘Shazam!’. He recently starred in the ‘Rebel Moon’ films and ‘A Quiet Place: Day One’.

Forest Whitaker

Forest Whitaker is an Academy Award winning actor who maintains a constant presence in film and television. He is celebrated for his role as Idi Amin in ‘The Last King of Scotland’ and his work in ‘The Butler’. Whitaker joined the ‘Star Wars’ universe as Saw Gerrera and stars in the series ‘Godfather of Harlem’. He continues to take on diverse roles in both independent cinema and major studio releases.

Laurence Fishburne

Laurence Fishburne is a legendary figure in Hollywood who is recognized for iconic roles in ‘The Matrix’ and ‘Boyz n the Hood’. He currently appears in the ‘John Wick’ franchise as the Bowery King and has a recurring role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Fishburne also stars in television projects like ‘Black-ish’ and the series ‘Hannibal’. He remains one of the most active veteran actors in the industry today.

Keith David

Keith David is a prolific actor and voice artist who has appeared in hundreds of projects throughout his career. He is well known for his roles in classic films like ‘The Thing’ and ‘They Live’. David has a massive presence in television through the series ‘Greenleaf’ and numerous voice roles in shows like ‘Rick and Morty’. He continues to work constantly in film and television and provides narration for many documentaries.

Stephan James

Stephan James is a rising star who has quickly become a regular fixture in major dramas. He gained recognition for playing Jesse Owens in ‘Race’ and starring in ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’. James also held the lead role in the series ‘Homecoming’ and the action film ’21 Bridges’. He recently appeared in the series ‘Beacon 23’ and continues to secure roles in high profile projects.

Shameik Moore

Shameik Moore gained early fame for his role in the film ‘Dope’ and has since become a major voice in animation. He provides the voice for Miles Morales in the highly successful ‘Spider-Verse’ franchise. Moore also stars in the series ‘Wu-Tang: An American Saga’ as Raekwon. He continues to appear in live action films such as the holiday movie ‘Let It Snow’ and the action thriller ‘The 12-Hour Shift’.

Jharrel Jerome

Jharrel Jerome became a standout talent after his performance in the Academy Award winning film ‘Moonlight’. He won an Emmy for his role as Korey Wise in the limited series ‘When They See Us’. Jerome also starred in the surrealist series ‘I’m a Virgo’ and the film ‘Concrete Cowboy’. He is frequently cast in challenging and innovative roles across film and television.

Trevante Rhodes

Trevante Rhodes achieved international recognition for his performance in the film ‘Moonlight’. Since then he has appeared in several high profile projects like ‘Bird Box’ and ‘The Predator’. Rhodes also portrayed Mike Tyson in the biographical series ‘Mike’ and starred in the legal thriller ‘Mea Culpa’. He remains a consistent presence in major streaming releases and studio films.

Taye Diggs

Taye Diggs has been a recognizable leading man in film and television since his debut in ‘How Stella Got Her Groove Back’. He has starred in long running series such as ‘Private Practice’ and ‘All American’. Diggs also frequently appears in films like the ‘The Best Man’ franchise and the musical ‘Chicago’. He continues to work regularly in television hosting and acting in various romantic dramas.

Anthony Anderson

Anthony Anderson is a staple of American television who led the popular sitcom ‘Black-ish’ for eight seasons. He has a long history in film with roles in ‘The Departed’ and the ‘Transformers’ franchise. Anderson recently returned to the ‘Law and Order’ franchise to reprise his role as Kevin Bernard. He is also a frequent host for major awards shows and reality television programs.

Terry Crews

Terry Crews is a highly visible actor and personality who appears in a wide range of comedic and action projects. He is well known for his roles in the sitcom ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’ and the film ‘White Chicks’. Crews also hosts ‘America’s Got Talent’ and has appeared in ‘The Expendables’ franchise. His constant presence in commercials and television shows makes him one of the most recognizable figures in entertainment.

Chris Rock

Chris Rock is a legendary comedian who maintains a significant career as an actor and director. He has starred in films like the ‘Grown Ups’ franchise and took a dramatic turn in the series ‘Fargo’. Rock also led the horror film ‘Spiral: From the Book of Saw’ and provided voice work for the ‘Madagascar’ movies. He continues to release comedy specials while appearing in various film and television projects.

Eddie Murphy

Eddie Murphy is a comedy icon who has experienced a major career resurgence in recent years. He returned to his famous role in ‘Coming 2 America’ and starred in the acclaimed biopic ‘Dolemite Is My Name’. Murphy recently released ‘Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F’ and appeared in the comedy ‘You People’. He remains one of the most influential and active figures in the comedy film genre.

Common

Common is a successful musical artist who has built a prolific career as a character actor. He has appeared in major action films like ‘John Wick: Chapter 2’ and ‘Suicide Squad’. Common also held a significant role in the series ‘Hell on Wheels’ and recently starred in the science fiction series ‘Silo’. He frequently takes on roles in socially conscious dramas like ‘Selma’ and ‘The Hate U Give’.

Mike Colter

Mike Colter became a major star through his portrayal of Luke Cage in the Marvel series ‘Luke Cage’ and ‘The Defenders’. He currently stars as the lead in the supernatural drama series ‘Evil’. Colter has also appeared in action films like ‘Plane’ alongside Gerard Butler. He maintains a steady presence in both leading and supporting roles across various television networks.

Omari Hardwick

Omari Hardwick is best known for his leading role as Ghost in the hit series ‘Power’. Since the conclusion of that show he has appeared in films like ‘Army of the Dead’ and ‘The Mother’. Hardwick frequently stars in intense thrillers and dramas such as ‘Spell’ and ‘American Soul’. He continues to be a prominent leading man in the world of television and streaming movies.

Laz Alonso

Laz Alonso is an active actor who currently stars as Mother’s Milk in the hit series ‘The Boys’. He has appeared in major films like ‘Avatar’ and ‘Fast and Furious’. Alonso also held roles in the series ‘Breakout Kings’ and the crime drama ‘Power Book II: Ghost’. He is a frequent presence in both television action series and studio films.

Morris Chestnut

Morris Chestnut has been a consistent leading man in film and television for over three decades. He is well known for his roles in ‘Boyz n the Hood’ and ‘The Best Man’ franchise. Chestnut has starred in several television series including ‘Rosewood’ and ‘The Resident’. He recently appeared in ‘Our Kind of People’ and continues to work regularly in both romantic dramas and procedural series.

Damson Idris

Damson Idris rose to fame as the lead character Franklin Saint in the acclaimed crime drama ‘Snowfall’. Since the show ended he has transitioned into major film roles including the action movie ‘Outside the Wire’. Idris is set to star alongside Brad Pitt in the upcoming Formula One racing film ‘F1’. He is quickly becoming one of the most prominent young actors in the industry.

John David Washington

John David Washington has rapidly become a major leading man after his breakout role in ‘BlacKkKlansman’. He starred in the blockbuster action film ‘Tenet’ and the drama ‘Malcolm and Marie’. Washington also leads the cast of ‘The Creator’ and appeared in the ensemble film ‘Amsterdam’. He continues to secure major roles in high profile projects from top directors.

Share your thoughts on which of these actors has your favorite filmography in the comments.