Gen Alpha’s Favorite Black Actors

Generation Alpha, the cohort born between 2010 and 2024, has grown up with unprecedented access to digital content and global franchises. This generation’s viewing habits are often centered around the Marvel Cinematic Universe, animated blockbusters, and popular streaming series on platforms like Netflix and Disney+. Black male actors have become integral to these experiences, portraying iconic superheroes, voicing beloved animated characters, and leading new-age television dramas. The following list highlights actors who have captured the attention of this demographic through their significant roles in contemporary media.

Michael B. Jordan

Michael B. Jordan is widely recognized for his portrayal of Erik Killmonger in the Marvel Cinematic Universe film ‘Black Panther’. He also leads the ‘Creed’ franchise as Adonis Creed, continuing the legacy of the ‘Rocky’ film series. His work extends to voicing characters in animated projects and producing content through his company, Outlier Society. Jordan’s career began with television roles in ‘The Wire’ and ‘Friday Night Lights’ before he transitioned to major film productions.

Shameik Moore

Shameik Moore gained significant popularity as the voice of Miles Morales in the animated films ‘Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse’ and ‘Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse’. He also appeared in the live-action coming-of-age film ‘Dope’, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival. On television, he portrayed Raekwon in the series ‘Wu-Tang: An American Saga’. His work in the ‘Spider-Verse’ franchise has made him a central figure in the modern superhero genre for young audiences.

Caleb McLaughlin

Caleb McLaughlin rose to international prominence for his role as Lucas Sinclair in the Netflix original series ‘Stranger Things’. He has been a primary cast member since the show’s inception in 2016, a series that has become a staple for younger viewers. Beyond the show, he starred in the Netflix film ‘Concrete Cowboy’ and the horror film ‘The Deliverance’. McLaughlin originally began his career on Broadway, where he played the role of Young Simba in ‘The Lion King’.

JD McCrary

JD McCrary is known for providing the voice of young Simba in the 2019 live-action adaptation of ‘The Lion King’. He has also appeared in the Disney Channel series ‘K.C. Undercover’ and the sitcom ‘The Paynes’. Aside from acting, McCrary is a recording artist who has performed with Childish Gambino on the song “Terrified.” His youth and high-profile Disney roles have made him a relatable figure for the Generation Alpha demographic.

Miles Brown

Miles Brown is best known for his role as Jack Johnson on the long-running ABC sitcom ‘Black-ish’. He appeared in the series from its premiere in 2014 until its conclusion in 2022, growing up on screen alongside his audience. Brown is also an accomplished dancer and has competed on ‘Dancing with the Stars: Juniors’. He has voiced characters in animated series such as ‘Goldie & Bear’ and ‘Spirit Riding Free’.

Lonnie Chavis

Lonnie Chavis gained recognition for playing the younger version of Randall Pearson on the NBC drama ‘This Is Us’. He took on a leading role in the 2020 fantasy film ‘The Water Man’, which was directed by David Oyelowo. Chavis also appeared in the Disney+ original movie ‘Magic Camp’ and the television series ‘White Famous’. His performances in family-oriented dramas and fantasy films have established him as a prominent young talent.

Justice Smith

Justice Smith starred as Tim Goodman in the blockbuster film ‘Pokémon Detective Pikachu’, a major hit with younger audiences. He also played a key role in the ‘Jurassic World’ franchise as Franklin Webb in ‘Fallen Kingdom’ and ‘Dominion’. Smith’s diverse filmography includes the fantasy epic ‘Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves’ and the Netflix series ‘The Get Down’. His frequent appearances in major action and fantasy franchises make him highly visible to Gen Alpha.

John Boyega

John Boyega became a household name through his role as Finn in the ‘Star Wars’ sequel trilogy, starting with ‘The Force Awakens’. He also starred in and produced ‘Pacific Rim: Uprising’, a sequel to the 2013 sci-fi action film. Boyega’s earlier work includes the cult classic ‘Attack the Block’, and he more recently appeared in the historical drama ‘The Woman King’. His involvement in one of the world’s largest science fiction franchises has secured his status among young fans.

Anthony Mackie

Anthony Mackie is known for his role as Sam Wilson, also known as the Falcon and the new Captain America, in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. He has appeared in numerous MCU films and headlined the Disney+ series ‘The Falcon and the Winter Soldier’. Mackie also stars in the live-action adaptation of the video game ‘Twisted Metal’ on Peacock. His transition into the mantle of Captain America has made him a leading figure in the superhero genre.

Idris Elba

Idris Elba provides the voice for Knuckles the Echidna in ‘Sonic the Hedgehog 2’ and ‘Sonic the Hedgehog 3’, as well as the ‘Knuckles’ spin-off series. He has a long history with younger audiences through voice roles in ‘Zootopia’, ‘The Jungle Book’, and ‘Finding Dory’. In the superhero world, he portrayed Bloodsport in ‘The Suicide Squad’ and Heimdall in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. His distinct voice and frequent roles in animated and comic book films maintain his popularity with kids and teens.

Kevin Hart

Kevin Hart is a central figure in the ‘Jumanji’ film franchise, playing the character Franklin “Mouse” Finbar. He has also voiced Snowball the rabbit in the ‘Secret Life of Pets’ animated movies and the lead character in ‘Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie’. Hart often collaborates with other major stars in family-friendly comedies and action films. His high-energy performances and presence in major animated hits make him a favorite for younger viewers.

Dwayne Johnson

Dwayne Johnson voiced the demi-god Maui in the Disney animated hit ‘Moana’ and its 2024 sequel. He stars in the ‘Jumanji’ films and portrayed the title character in the DC Extended Universe film ‘Black Adam’. Johnson is also known for his roles in the ‘Fast & Furious’ franchise and the family-oriented film ‘Jungle Cruise’. His career transitioned from professional wrestling to becoming one of the most recognizable action stars in the world.

Donald Glover

Donald Glover voiced Simba in the 2019 version of ‘The Lion King’ and played Lando Calrissian in ‘Solo: A Star Wars Story’. He also appeared as Aaron Davis in ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’ and ‘Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse’. Glover created and starred in the acclaimed series ‘Atlanta’, though his franchise work is what most appeals to Gen Alpha. He is also a successful musician who performs under the stage name Childish Gambino.

Sterling K. Brown

Sterling K. Brown voiced Lieutenant Mattias in the Disney animated sequel ‘Frozen II’, which was a global phenomenon among children. He also played N’Jobu in ‘Black Panther’ and voiced characters in ‘The Angry Birds Movie 2’. On television, he is widely known for his Emmy-winning role on the drama ‘This Is Us’. His work in massive animated sequels and the Marvel Cinematic Universe has made him a recognizable figure in children’s media.

Daveed Diggs

Daveed Diggs provided the voice for Sebastian the crab in the 2023 live-action adaptation of ‘The Little Mermaid’. He also voiced characters in the Pixar film ‘Soul’ and the animated series ‘Central Park’. Diggs is well-known for his dual roles as Marquis de Lafayette and Thomas Jefferson in the original Broadway cast of ‘Hamilton’. His involvement in Disney musicals and high-profile animation projects has made him a household name for young fans.

Terrence Little Gardenhigh

Terrence Little Gardenhigh stars as Miles in the Nickelodeon series ‘Danger Force’, a spin-off of the popular show ‘Henry Danger’. He also appeared in the Netflix film ‘Coffee & Kareem’ alongside Ed Helms and Taraji P. Henson. His role as a teenage superhero in training has made him a staple of Nickelodeon’s modern programming. Gardenhigh is a prominent figure in the network’s live-action comedy lineup for Gen Alpha.

Issac Ryan Brown

Issac Ryan Brown is best known for his role as Booker Baxter on the Disney Channel series ‘Raven’s Home’. He has also voiced the character Gus Porter in the popular animated series ‘The Owl House’. Brown’s extensive voice work includes roles in ‘Puppy Dog Pals’ and ‘The Stinky & Dirty Show’. Having started on ‘Raven’s Home’ in 2017, he has become one of the most visible faces on Disney Channel.

Marcus Scribner

Marcus Scribner played Andre “Junior” Johnson on the sitcom ‘Black-ish’ and later transitioned to the spin-off ‘Grown-ish’. He provided the voice of Bow in the DreamWorks animated series ‘She-Ra and the Princesses of Power’. Scribner has also voiced characters in ‘The Good Dinosaur’ and ‘Home: Adventures with Tip & Oh’. His long tenure in a popular family sitcom and his work in modern animation have earned him a dedicated young following.

Tyrel Jackson Williams

Tyrel Jackson Williams is widely recognized for his starring role as Leo Dooley in the Disney XD series ‘Lab Rats’. He has also appeared in the Disney Channel original movie ‘Pants on Fire’ and the series ‘Brockmire’. Williams voiced the character Presto in the animated series ‘The Future-Worm!’. Although ‘Lab Rats’ ended in 2016, it remains a popular title on streaming services for younger generations.

Winston Duke

Winston Duke rose to fame as M’Baku in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, appearing in ‘Black Panther’, ‘Avengers: Infinity War’, and ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’. He also starred in the horror film ‘Us’ and the action comedy ‘The Fall Guy’. Duke voiced Bruce Wayne in the podcast series ‘Batman Unburied’, which reached a wide audience. His commanding presence in the ‘Black Panther’ films has made M’Baku a favorite character among young Marvel fans.

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II portrayed the villainous Black Manta in the ‘Aquaman’ franchise and starred in ‘The Matrix Resurrections’. He won an Emmy for his role as Cal Abar/Doctor Manhattan in the ‘Watchmen’ limited series. He also appeared in ‘Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse’ as a voice actor and starred in ‘Ambulance’. His roles in major DC and Matrix films have established him as a key figure in the action and superhero genres.

Brian Tyree Henry

Brian Tyree Henry voiced Jefferson Davis, the father of Miles Morales, in both ‘Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse’ and ‘Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse’. He also played Phastos in the Marvel Cinematic Universe film ‘Eternals’. Henry is known for his role as Alfred “Paper Boi” Miles in the series ‘Atlanta’. His voice work in the ‘Spider-Verse’ films is particularly influential among the Generation Alpha demographic.

Daniel Kaluuya

Daniel Kaluuya voiced the fan-favorite character Spider-Punk in ‘Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse’. He is also well-known for his role as W’Kabi in ‘Black Panther’ and his Academy Award-winning performance in ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’. Kaluuya has appeared in significant genre films like ‘Get Out’ and ‘Nope’. His involvement in the ‘Spider-Verse’ and ‘Black Panther’ franchises has cemented his popularity with younger comic book fans.

Mahershala Ali

Mahershala Ali voiced Uncle Aaron in ‘Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse’ and has been cast as the lead in the upcoming ‘Blade’ film for the Marvel Cinematic Universe. He is a two-time Academy Award winner for his roles in ‘Moonlight’ and ‘Green Book’. Ali also voiced a character in the Amazon animated series ‘Invincible’. His iconic “Hey” from the ‘Spider-Verse’ film became a viral sensation frequently referenced by younger audiences.

Chosen Jacobs

Chosen Jacobs played the character Mike Hanlon in the 2017 film ‘IT’ and its 2019 sequel. He also starred in the Disney+ original movie ‘Sneakerella’, a modern musical reimagining of the Cinderella story. Jacobs appeared in the Hulu series ‘Castle Rock’ and the film ‘Purple Hearts’. His leading role in a Disney musical and his part in a major horror franchise have given him high visibility across different age brackets.

Asante Blackk

Asante Blackk gained critical acclaim for his role as Kevin Richardson in the Netflix miniseries ‘When They See Us’. He also played Malik Hodges on the NBC drama ‘This Is Us’ and starred in the series ‘Social Distance’. Blackk appeared in the film ‘Story Ave’ and has become a rising star in dramatic television. His transition from teen roles to more mature projects continues to attract viewers who follow his career on streaming platforms.

Jahi Di’Allo Winston

Jahi Winston starred in the 2020 film ‘Charm City Kings’ and the Netflix horror-comedy ‘We Have a Ghost’. He played the lead role in the fantasy drama ‘The Water Man’ and appeared in the musical film ‘The New Edition Story’. Winston also had a role in the film ‘Queen & Slim’. His work in kid-centric fantasy and supernatural comedies has made him a recognizable face for the current generation.

Kelvin Harrison, Jr.

Kelvin Harrison Jr. will provide the voice of Taka, the younger Scar, in the 2024 film ‘Mufasa: The Lion King’. He has starred in acclaimed films such as ‘Waves’, ‘Luce’, and ‘Cyrano’. Harrison also appeared in the biographical drama ‘Elvis’ as B.B. King. His upcoming lead role in the ‘Lion King’ prequel is expected to significantly increase his popularity with Generation Alpha.

Jabari Banks

Jabari Banks stars as Will Smith in ‘Bel-Air’, the dramatic reimagining of ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’. The series is a major hit on the Peacock streaming service and has introduced a new generation to the iconic character. Banks is also a musician and has appeared in various television specials. His portrayal of a modern, stylish version of a classic character resonates with today’s youth culture.

Tyler James Williams

Tyler James Williams stars as Gregory Eddie in the hit mockumentary series ‘Abbott Elementary’. He originally became famous as the lead in the sitcom ‘Everybody Hates Chris’, which remains popular through reruns and social media clips. Williams also appeared in ‘The Walking Dead’ and the film ‘The United States vs. Billie Holiday’. His current role on ‘Abbott Elementary’ has brought him back into the spotlight for a new generation of TV viewers.

Ncuti Gatwa

Ncuti Gatwa is the Fifteenth Doctor in the long-running science fiction series ‘Doctor Who’, a role that carries significant cultural weight. He also gained fame for his role as Eric Effiong in the Netflix series ‘Sex Education’. Gatwa appeared as one of the Kens in the global blockbuster ‘Barbie’. His lead role in ‘Doctor Who’ ensures he is a prominent figure for children and teens who follow the legendary franchise.

Kingsley Ben-Adir

Kingsley Ben-Adir played Basketball Ken in the ‘Barbie’ movie and portrayed the titular character in the biopic ‘Bob Marley: One Love’. He also appeared in the Marvel Cinematic Universe series ‘Secret Invasion’ as the villain Gravik. Ben-Adir’s roles in ‘Barbie’ and major biopics have made him a recognizable face in recent years. His presence in one of 2023’s biggest film events has made him well-known to younger audiences.

Seth Carr

Seth Carr played the young Erik Killmonger in ‘Black Panther’ and George “Sticky” Washington in the Disney+ series ‘The Mysterious Benedict Society’. He also appeared in the film ‘Breaking In’ and the television series ‘Bosch’. Carr’s role in the ‘Benedict Society’ adaptation made him a lead in a popular children’s book-to-screen project. His involvement in the ‘Black Panther’ legacy also remains a point of recognition.

Ja’Siah Young

Ja’Siah Young starred as the titular character in the Netflix series ‘Raising Dion’, which follows a young boy discovering he has superpowers. The show was a significant hit for Netflix’s family programming during its two-season run. Young also appeared in the film ‘Rough Night’ and the series ‘Billy on the Street’. His role as a young superhero made him a specific favorite for the younger end of Generation Alpha.

Nathaniel Logan McIntyre

Nathaniel Logan McIntyre played the lead role of David in the acclaimed series ‘David Makes Man’. He also starred in the Disney+ original movie ‘Magic Camp’ alongside Adam DeVine. McIntyre appeared in the film ‘Barry’ and the television series ‘The Good Fight’. His work on Disney+ and in prestigious coming-of-age dramas has established him as a talented young performer.

Benjamin Flores Jr.

Benjamin Flores Jr., also known as Lil’ P-Nut, starred as Triple G in the Nickelodeon series ‘Game Shakers’. He later appeared in the ‘Fear Street’ trilogy on Netflix and the series ‘Your Honor’. Flores Jr. voiced the character Atticus in the film ‘Happy Feet Two’. Having started as a child star on Nickelodeon, he has successfully transitioned into more mature streaming content.

Alex R. Hibbert

Alex R. Hibbert played young Chiron in the Academy Award-winning film ‘Moonlight’. He later became a series regular on ‘The Chi’, playing the character Kevin Williams. Hibbert also appeared in the film ‘Black Panther’ in a cameo role at the end of the movie. His consistent presence on ‘The Chi’ has allowed audiences to watch his growth as an actor over several years.

Caleel Harris

Caleel Harris portrayed young Antron McCray in the Netflix miniseries ‘When They See Us’. He also played the role of Henry Deaver in the series ‘Castle Rock’ and voiced AJ in ‘Blaze and the Monster Machines’. Harris appeared in the film ‘Goosebumps 2: Haunted Halloween’, a popular choice for young viewers. His work spans from educational animation to popular supernatural thrillers.

Jalyn Hall

Jalyn Hall plays Dillon James in the popular CW series ‘All American’. He also took on the significant role of Emmett Till in the 2022 biographical drama ‘Till’. Hall appeared in the film ‘Space Jam: A New Legacy’ and the series ‘Family Reunion’. His presence in a major sports drama and a high-profile ‘Space Jam’ sequel has made him very visible to young viewers.

Zeno Robinson

Zeno Robinson is a prolific voice actor known for roles in popular anime and Western animation. He voices Keigo Takami (Hawks) in ‘My Hero Academia’ and Hunter in the Disney series ‘The Owl House’. Robinson also provides voices for characters in ‘Pokémon’, ‘Ben 10’, and ‘Young Justice’. His work in highly popular animated shows makes him a familiar name for fans of cartoons and anime.

Khylin Rhambo

Khylin Rhambo played Mason Hewitt in the series ‘Teen Wolf’ and reprised the role in ‘Teen Wolf: The Movie’. He also starred as First Class Mazzi in the science fiction film ‘Ender’s Game’. Rhambo appeared in the series ‘The First Family’ and ’47 Meters Down: Uncaged’. His long-running role in the ‘Teen Wolf’ franchise remains his most recognizable work for younger fans of supernatural dramas.

Myles Truitt

Myles Truitt played the lead role of Eli Solinski in the science fiction film ‘Kin’. He is also known for his roles in the series ‘Black Lightning’, ‘Stranger Things’, and ‘Bmf’. In ‘Stranger Things’, he played Patrick McKinney in the fourth season. Truitt’s work in major genre shows like ‘Black Lightning’ and ‘Stranger Things’ has kept him in the spotlight for Gen Alpha audiences.

Niles Fitch

Niles Fitch is known for playing the teenage Randall Pearson on ‘This Is Us’ and Prince Tuma in the Disney+ film ‘Secret Society of Second-Born Royals’. He also appeared in the film ‘The Fallout’ and the series ‘Mistresses’. Fitch made history as Disney’s first live-action Black prince in the ‘Secret Society’ movie. His frequent roles in coming-of-age stories have made him a relatable figure for teens.

Ethan Hutchison

Ethan Hutchison played the role of Blue Bordelon in the drama series ‘Queen Sugar’ for seven seasons. He also appeared in the Disney series ‘Secrets of Sulphur Springs’ and ‘The Path’. Hutchison voiced a character in the animated series ‘T.O.T.S.’. His years on ‘Queen Sugar’ provided him with a platform to grow up alongside his dedicated viewers.

Jacob Latimore

Jacob Latimore starred in the 2023 remake of ‘House Party’ and is a lead in the series ‘The Chi’. He has appeared in several films popular with younger audiences, including ‘The Maze Runner’ and ‘Collateral Beauty’. Latimore is also a successful singer and dancer, often incorporating those skills into his roles. His versatility in film, television, and music has maintained his relevance across various media.

Trevor Jackson

Trevor Jackson stars as Aaron Jackson in the ‘Black-ish’ spin-off series ‘Grown-ish’. He originally gained fame as a child actor in the Disney Channel movie ‘Let It Shine’ and the series ‘Eureka’. Jackson also starred in the film ‘Superfly’ and released several R&B albums. His long association with Disney and Freeform programming has made him a staple for the youth audience.

Michael Rainey Jr.

Michael Rainey Jr. is best known for his role as Tariq St. Patrick in the ‘Power’ franchise, eventually headlining his own spin-off, ‘Power Book II: Ghost’. He also appeared in the film ‘Barbershop: The Next Cut’ and the movie ‘LUV’. Rainey Jr. began his role on ‘Power’ as a child and has remained a lead character for a decade. His character is a prominent figure in modern urban television dramas.

Ramon Reed

Ramon Reed starred as Owen Blatt in the Disney Channel series ‘Just Roll with It’. He also appeared as Young Simba in the Broadway production of ‘The Lion King’. Reed has guest-starred in shows like ‘9-1-1’ and ‘The Neighborhood’. His comedic timing in Disney’s improvisational sitcom has made him a recognizable face for younger viewers.

Share your favorite performances from these actors and who else you think should be on this list in the comments.