Gen Alpha’s Favorite Black Actresses

Generation Alpha is growing up in an era of unprecedented representation in children’s and young adult media. From the magical realms of Disney to the high-stakes action of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, young Black actresses are leading some of the most popular franchises in the world. These performers serve as role models for a demographic that values diversity and digital-native storytelling. This list highlights the actresses who have captured the attention of the youngest generation through television, film, and streaming platforms.

Zendaya

Zendaya transitioned from a Disney Channel star in ‘Shake It Up’ (2010–2013) to one of the most influential actresses of her generation. She gained immense popularity among Gen Alpha for her role as MJ in the Marvel Cinematic Universe ‘Spider-Man’ trilogy. Her performance as Rue Bennett in ‘Euphoria’ (2019–present) earned her critical acclaim and two Emmy Awards. She also voiced Lola Bunny in ‘Space Jam: A New Legacy’ (2021), a film that resonated widely with younger audiences.

Halle Bailey

Halle Bailey became a household name for Gen Alpha after being cast as Ariel in the live-action reimagining of ‘The Little Mermaid’ (2023). Before her breakout film role, she was known as one half of the musical duo Chloe x Halle and starred in the series ‘Grown-ish’ (2018–2022). Her portrayal of the iconic Disney Princess was celebrated for its vocal excellence and cultural impact. She also appeared in the musical adaptation of ‘The Color Purple’ (2023), further cementing her status as a leading talent.

Marsai Martin

Marsai Martin is best known for her role as Diane Johnson on the hit sitcom ‘Black-ish’ (2014–2022). At the age of 14, she became the youngest executive producer in Hollywood history with her film ‘Little’ (2019). Gen Alpha audiences recognize her for her comedic timing and her voice work in ‘PAW Patrol: The Movie’ (2021). She continues to influence young viewers through her production company, Genius Productions, which focuses on diverse storytelling.

Storm Reid

Storm Reid gained international recognition for her lead role as Meg Murry in ‘A Wrinkle in Time’ (2018). She has since appeared in major projects like the horror film ‘The Invisible Man’ (2020) and the superhero epic ‘The Suicide Squad’ (2021). Gen Alpha viewers also know her for her role as Gia Bennett in ‘Euphoria’ (2019–present) and her guest appearance in ‘The Last of Us’ (2023–present). Her career is defined by a mix of blockbuster spectacles and intense dramatic performances.

Priah Ferguson

Priah Ferguson became a fan favorite for her breakout role as Erica Sinclair in the Netflix series ‘Stranger Things’ (2016–present). Initially a recurring character, her witty dialogue and “you can’t spell America without Erica” catchphrase led to her becoming a series regular. She also starred in the Halloween comedy ‘The Curse of Bridge Hollow’ (2022) alongside Marlon Wayans. Ferguson is highly regarded by younger audiences for her character’s bravery and sharp intelligence.

Skai Jackson

Skai Jackson rose to fame as Zuri Ross on the Disney Channel sitcom ‘Jessie’ (2011–2015) and its spin-off ‘Bunk’d’ (2015–2018). She has become a significant social media figure, often using her platform to speak against bullying and advocate for social justice. In addition to her acting, she authored the book ‘Reach for the Skai: How to Inspire, Empower, and Clapback’ (2019). Her long-standing presence on Disney platforms makes her a familiar face to the Gen Alpha demographic.

Yara Shahidi

Yara Shahidi gained prominence playing Zoey Johnson on ‘Black-ish’ (2014–2022) before starring in her own spin-off, ‘Grown-ish’ (2018–2024). She voiced the character of Kendra Wilson in ‘PAW Patrol: The Movie’ (2021) and played Tinker Bell in the live-action ‘Peter Pan & Wendy’ (2023). Shahidi is also known for her activism and for founding Eighteen x 18, a platform to encourage youth voting. Her transition from child star to intellectual leader has inspired many young fans.

China Anne McClain

China Anne McClain first captured young audiences’ hearts in the Disney Channel series ‘A.N.T. Farm’ (2011–2014). She gained further popularity as Uma, the daughter of Ursula, in the ‘Descendants’ (2017–2019) franchise. Beyond Disney, she starred as Jennifer Pierce in the superhero series ‘Black Lightning’ (2018–2021). Her musical talents are often showcased in her roles, making her a multi-hyphenate favorite for Gen Alpha.

Letitia Wright

Letitia Wright is globally recognized for her role as Shuri in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, debuting in ‘Black Panther’ (2018). Her character’s genius-level intellect and technological expertise made Shuri a hero for children interested in STEM. Wright took on the lead role in ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ (2022), continuing the legacy of the franchise. She has also appeared in ‘Sing 2’ (2021), voicing the character Nooshy the lynx.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg first gained attention as Rue in ‘The Hunger Games’ (2012). They have since starred in major young adult adaptations such as ‘Everything, Everything’ (2017) and ‘The Hate U Give’ (2018). More recently, Stenberg joined the Star Wars universe as the lead in ‘The Acolyte’ (2024). Their advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights and racial equality has made them a significant figure for socially conscious Gen Alpha viewers.

Saniyya Sidney

Saniyya Sidney delivered a powerful performance as Venus Williams in the biographical drama ‘King Richard’ (2021). Prior to this, she appeared in acclaimed films like ‘Fences’ (2016) and ‘Hidden Figures’ (2016). She also starred in the television series ‘The First Lady’ (2022) as Sasha Obama. Sidney is praised for her ability to portray real-life historical figures with depth and authenticity at a young age.

Demi Singleton

Demi Singleton starred alongside Saniyya Sidney as Serena Williams in ‘King Richard’ (2021). Her performance helped the film gain multiple Academy Award nominations and brought the story of the tennis legends to a new generation. Before her film breakout, she performed on Broadway in ‘The Lion King’ (2018) as Young Nala. She also has a recurring role in the crime drama series ‘Godfather of Harlem’ (2019–present).

Shahadi Wright Joseph

Shahadi Wright Joseph is well known for her dual role as Zora and Umbrae in Jordan Peele’s horror film ‘Us’ (2019). She also provided the voice for Young Nala in the photorealistic remake of ‘The Lion King’ (2019). Her background in musical theater includes playing Madison in ‘School of Rock’ (2015) on Broadway. Gen Alpha audiences recognize her for her striking performances in both high-concept horror and family-friendly animation.

Mykal-Michelle Harris

Mykal-Michelle Harris became a standout star as Santamonica Johnson on the ABC prequel series ‘Mixed-ish’ (2019–2021). She also joined the cast of the long-running Disney Channel series ‘Raven’s Home’ (2017–2023) in its later seasons. Harris is known for her infectious energy and comedic timing, which often goes viral on social media platforms like TikTok. Her young age makes her particularly relatable to the Gen Alpha audience.

Navia Robinson

Navia Robinson starred as Nia Baxter-Carter in the Disney Channel hit ‘Raven’s Home’ (2017–2023). She also appeared in the Netflix series ‘Free Rein’ (2017–2018) and provided voices for ‘The Rocketeer’ (2019). Robinson recently moved into more mature territory with a role in the supernatural series ‘The Gotham Knights’ (2023). Her career progression on the Disney Channel has made her a staple of children’s television.

Diamond White

Diamond White is the voice of Lunella Lafayette in the animated series ‘Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur’ (2023–present). The show follows the adventures of a 13-year-old super-genius, making it a hit among young viewers who enjoy superhero stories. White also had a recurring role as Paris Buckingham on the soap opera ‘The Bold and the Beautiful’ (2020–present). Her work in animation has brought a new Black female superhero to the forefront for Gen Alpha.

Ruth Righi

Ruth Righi played the titular character in the Disney Channel series ‘Sydney to the Max’ (2019–2021). The show followed a young girl navigating middle school while featuring flashbacks to her father’s childhood. Righi’s performance resonated with viewers for its honest portrayal of growing up and family dynamics. She also appeared in the television movie ‘Unthinkably Good Things’ (2022).

Lidya Jewett

Lidya Jewett starred in the Netflix film ‘Nightbooks’ (2021), a dark fantasy that appealed to Gen Alpha’s interest in spooky storytelling. She also had a consistent role as Sara Hill in the NBC series ‘Good Girls’ (2018–2021). Jewett appeared in the film ‘Feel the Beat’ (2020), which was a popular choice on streaming platforms for young dancers. Her filmography includes a variety of genres, from heartfelt dramas to supernatural thrillers.

Faithe Herman

Faithe Herman is widely recognized for her role as Annie Pearson on the critically acclaimed series ‘This Is Us’ (2016–2022). She also entered the superhero world as Darla Dudley in ‘Shazam!’ (2019) and its sequel ‘Shazam! Fury of the Gods’ (2023). Her portrayal of the youngest member of the superhero family was noted for its humor and charm. Herman has grown up on screen, allowing her young audience to mature alongside her.

Akira Akbar

Akira Akbar appeared as Monica Rambeau in the Marvel Studios film ‘Captain Marvel’ (2019). She also played the role of Ashley Banks in the dramatic reimagining of ‘Bel-Air’ (2022–present). Her work spans both major film franchises and modern streaming dramas. Akbar’s presence in the Marvel Cinematic Universe established her as a key figure in a franchise that Gen Alpha follows closely.

Milan Ray

Milan Ray starred in the 2021 reimagining of ‘The Wonder Years’ (2021–2023) as Keisa Dalton. She also appeared in the family comedy film ‘Troop Zero’ (2019), which premiered on Amazon Prime Video. Ray has been praised for her natural acting style and her ability to hold her own alongside veteran actors. Her roles often focus on coming-of-age themes that are highly relevant to her peers.

Nico Parker

Nico Parker made her film debut in the live-action ‘Dumbo’ (2019) directed by Tim Burton. She gained significant attention from Gen Alpha and older viewers for her role as Sarah Miller in the HBO series ‘The Last of Us’ (2023). Despite having a limited amount of screen time, her performance was considered a highlight of the series’ debut. She is the daughter of actress Thandiwe Newton and continues to build a distinct career in prestige television.

Danielle Jalade

Danielle Jalade is the lead star of the Disney Channel series ‘Saturdays’ (2023), which focuses on a group of young girls at a roller-skating rink. The show highlights Black girl joy and the importance of friendship and community. Jalade also appeared in the film ‘Yes Day’ (2021) alongside Jennifer Garner. Her role in ‘Saturdays’ has made her a prominent face in current Disney Channel programming.

Daria Johns

Daria Johns stars alongside Danielle Jalade in ‘Saturdays’ (2023) as one of the core members of the skating crew. She also appeared in the Netflix film ‘Holiday Rush’ (2019) and the comedy ‘Nappily Ever After’ (2018). Johns is recognized for her energetic performances and her role in promoting positive representation in children’s media. Her involvement in projects centered on family and friendship has endeared her to young audiences.

Malia Baker

Malia Baker starred as Mary Anne Spier in the Netflix reboot of ‘The Baby-Sitters Club’ (2020–2021). The series was praised for updating the classic book characters for a modern Gen Alpha audience. Baker also appeared in the Nickelodeon revival of ‘Are You Afraid of the Dark?’ (2021). She is known for her advocacy work regarding social justice and mental health awareness among teenagers.

Kyla-Drew

Kyla-Drew is known for her role as Sasha Dixon in the Netflix comedy series ‘Dad Stop Embarrassing Me!’ (2021). She also had a long-running role as Mae Valentine on the Nickelodeon show ‘Nicky, Ricky, Dicky & Dawn’ (2014–2018). Her performance in the film ‘Prisoners’ (2013) demonstrated her dramatic range at a very young age. Gen Alpha viewers recognize her for her consistent presence in family-oriented sitcoms.

Trinitee

Trinitee Stokes starred as Judy Cooper, a humanoid robot, in the Disney Channel series ‘K.C. Undercover’ (2015–2018). She also provided her voice for characters in ‘Mixed-ish’ (2019–2021) and starred in ‘Snowfall’ (2023). Stokes is an author as well, having released ‘Bold & Brave: 100 Days of Devotions’ (2018). Her character in ‘K.C. Undercover’ remains a favorite for children who enjoy sci-fi and comedy.

Riele Downs

Riele Downs is best known for her role as Charlotte Page on the long-running Nickelodeon series ‘Henry Danger’ (2014–2020). She also starred in the film ‘Darby and the Dead’ (2022), which was released on Hulu. Downs has been a staple of Nickelodeon for years, making her one of the most recognizable faces for the Gen Alpha demographic. She is also known for her interest in fashion design and creative arts.

Madalen Mills

Madalen Mills played the lead role of Journey Jangle in the Netflix musical film ‘Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey’ (2020). The film became a holiday staple for many families and showcased Mills’ singing and acting abilities. She also appeared in the film ‘The Tiger Rising’ (2022) alongside Queen Latifah. Her performance in ‘Jingle Jangle’ was widely celebrated for its whimsy and heart.

Coco Jones

Coco Jones first gained fame through the Disney Channel movie ‘Let It Shine’ (2012). She saw a massive career resurgence with her role as Hilary Banks in the drama series ‘Bel-Air’ (2022–present). Jones is also a successful recording artist, winning a Grammy for her R&B music in 2024. Her journey from child star to mature artist has been followed closely by Gen Alpha on social media.

Dominique Thorne

Dominique Thorne entered the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Riri Williams, also known as Ironheart, in ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ (2022). Her character is a teenage genius who builds her own suit of armor, serving as a spiritual successor to Iron Man. She is set to lead her own Disney+ series, ‘Ironheart’ (2025). Thorne’s character is an inspiration for young fans who admire intelligence and innovation in superheroes.

Laya DeLeon Hayes

Laya DeLeon Hayes stars as Delilah in the CBS series ‘The Equalizer’ (2021–present) alongside Queen Latifah. She is also the voice of the titular character in the Disney Junior animated series ‘Doc McStuffins’ (2012–2020). Her voice work has reached millions of toddlers and young children, making her a literal voice of childhood for many. She continues to balance voice acting with prominent live-action roles.

Eris Baker

Eris Baker played Tess Pearson on the award-winning drama ‘This Is Us’ (2016–2022). Her character’s storyline, which explored her identity and coming out to her family, was praised for its sensitivity. Baker has also appeared in ‘Drunk History’ (2019) and has become a fashion icon for her generation on Instagram. Her work on ‘This Is Us’ allowed her to showcase a significant emotional range throughout her adolescence.

Lyric Ross

Lyric Ross joined the cast of ‘This Is Us’ (2016–2022) as Deja Andrews, a foster child who eventually becomes part of the Pearson family. Her performance earned her several award nominations and critical acclaim for its authenticity. She is also cast in the upcoming Marvel series ‘Ironheart’ (2025). Ross is known for her quiet intensity and ability to handle complex, heavy subject matter.

Jadah Marie

Jadah Marie played Celia, the daughter of Dr. Facilier, in ‘Descendants 3’ (2019). She also starred as Flynn in the Netflix musical series ‘Julie and the Phantoms’ (2020). Her high-energy performances and musical talent have made her a favorite in projects that combine acting and singing. Marie is popular on social media, where she often interacts with fans of her musical projects.

Sanai Victoria

Sanai Victoria appeared in the Disney+ series ‘Diary of a Future President’ (2020–2021). She also had a recurring role in the sitcom ‘The Neighborhood’ (2018–present) and voiced characters in ‘Madagascar: A Little Wild’ (2020–2022). Victoria has been acting since a very young age, appearing in numerous guest roles on popular children’s networks. Her versatility across live-action and animation keeps her relevant to Gen Alpha.

Iman Benson

Iman Benson starred in the Netflix horror series ‘The Midnight Club’ (2022), created by Mike Flanagan. She also played a lead role in the series ‘#BlackAF’ (2020) and appeared in ‘Alexa & Katie’ (2018–2020). Benson’s work often targets the “tween” and teen demographic within Gen Alpha. Her performances in character-driven ensemble casts have established her as a rising talent in streaming media.

Zaria

Zaria is known for her role as Faran Bryant in the series ‘Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin’ (2022–present). She also appeared in the Academy Award-winning short film ‘Two Distant Strangers’ (2020). Her role in the ‘Pretty Little Liars’ reboot introduced her to a new generation of fans who enjoy mystery and drama. Zaria’s background in theater contributes to her strong presence on screen.

Chandler Kinney

Chandler Kinney plays Willa in the Disney Channel ‘Zombies’ (2020–2022) film franchise. She also stars as Tabby Haworthe in ‘Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin’ (2022–present). Kinney is an accomplished dancer, a skill she often utilizes in her Disney roles. Her work in two major franchises has made her a highly visible figure for young viewers who consume both musical films and teen dramas.

Kaci Walfall

Kaci Walfall played the lead role in the DC superhero series ‘Naomi’ (2022). The show followed a comic book-loving teenager who discovers she has supernatural powers. Walfall also appeared in the series ‘The Equalizer’ (2021) and ‘Army Wives’ (2013). Though ‘Naomi’ ran for only one season, Walfall’s portrayal of a Black girl superhero left a lasting impression on young fans of the genre.

Jasmin Savoy Brown

Jasmin Savoy Brown gained popularity among Gen Alpha for her role as Mindy Meeks-Martin in ‘Scream’ (2022) and ‘Scream VI’ (2023). She also stars in the hit survival drama ‘Yellowjackets’ (2021–present). Brown is recognized for playing intelligent, witty characters who often break the fourth wall. Her involvement in the revitalized ‘Scream’ franchise has made her a prominent figure in modern horror.

Quvenzhané Wallis

Quvenzhané Wallis became the youngest person ever nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actress for ‘Beasts of the Southern Wild’ (2012). Gen Alpha knows her best for playing the lead in the modern remake of ‘Annie’ (2014). She also stars in the sports drama series ‘Swagger’ (2021–2023) on Apple TV+. Wallis has successfully transitioned from a child prodigy to a respected young adult actress.

Lexi Underwood

Lexi Underwood received critical acclaim for her role as Pearl Warren in the miniseries ‘Little Fires Everywhere’ (2020). She also played Malia Obama in the anthology series ‘The First Lady’ (2022). In 2023, she took on a lead role in the second season of the anthology thriller ‘Cruel Summer’ (2023). Underwood is known for selecting challenging roles that address social and familial issues.

Tamara Smart

Tamara Smart appeared in the Disney+ film ‘Artemis Fowl’ (2020) and the Netflix movie ‘A Babysitter’s Guide to Monster Hunting’ (2020). She also starred in the ‘Resident Evil’ (2022) series on Netflix. Her work often falls into the fantasy and horror genres, which are popular with the older end of the Gen Alpha spectrum. Smart’s international career has seen her work on major productions in both the UK and the US.

Celina Smith

Celina Smith starred as Annie in the television special ‘Annie Live!’ (2021) on NBC. She also plays the role of Rebecca “Young Claire” in the series ‘Young Dylan’ (2020–present) on Nickelodeon. Her powerful singing voice was a highlight of the live musical production, earning her praise from audiences and critics alike. Smith continues to be a prominent figure on Nickelodeon, a primary channel for Gen Alpha.

Lovie Simone

Lovie Simone gained attention for her role as Zora Greenleaf in the series ‘Greenleaf’ (2016–2020). She also starred in the film ‘Selah and the Spades’ (2019) and the horror remake ‘The Craft: Legacy’ (2020). Her work often explores the complexities of Black girlhood and power dynamics. Simone is considered a rising star in independent cinema and prestige television.

Quintessa Swindell

Quintessa Swindell played the superhero Cyclone in the DC film ‘Black Adam’ (2022). They also starred in the Netflix series ‘Trinkets’ (2019–2020) as Tabitha Foster. Swindell is known for their non-binary identity and for bringing authentic representation to their roles. Their character in ‘Black Adam’ featured visually stunning powers that resonated with young fans of superhero cinema.

Chloe Bailey

Chloe Bailey, though widely known for her music career, has appeared in several projects popular with Gen Alpha including ‘Grown-ish’ (2018–2022). She starred in the film ‘Praise This’ (2023), a musical centered on a youth choir competition. Bailey also appeared in the horror series ‘Swarm’ (2023), showcasing her range beyond musical roles. Her massive social media presence makes her one of the most visible Black celebrities for the digital-native generation.

Tell us which of these talented actresses you enjoy watching most in the comments.