African-American Actresses Who Can Actually Fight

African-American actresses have long made their mark in the action genre by bringing physical intensity and specialized training to their roles. From the pioneers of the blaxploitation era to the leading ladies of modern superhero franchises, these performers often execute their own stunts and master various martial arts. Their presence in high-stakes action films and television series highlights their versatility and athletic ability. This list celebrates the women who have demonstrated they can handle complex combat choreography and lead powerful action sequences.

Angela Bassett

Angela Bassett is widely recognized for her incredible physical conditioning and commitment to action roles. She portrayed the formidable Queen Ramonda in ‘Black Panther’ and showcased her combat skills in ‘Mission Impossible Fallout’. Bassett also displayed her physical prowess as a police officer in the television series ‘9-1-1’. Her performance in ‘Strange Days’ remains a high point for her career in the action genre as she played a professional bodyguard. She continues to be a standard for excellence in physical acting across several decades.

Halle Berry

Halle Berry underwent intensive martial arts and weapons training for her role in ‘John Wick Chapter 3 Parabellum’. She performed many of her own stunts and worked alongside professional trainers to master complex choreography. Berry previously starred as the agile Storm in the ‘X-Men’ franchise and as a lethal operative in ‘Die Another Day’. Her dedication to the craft includes learning various combat disciplines for different film projects. She remains one of the most visible action stars in the industry today.

Viola Davis

Viola Davis transformed her physical appearance and skill set for her lead role in ‘The Woman King’. She spent months training in weightlifting and martial arts to portray a leader of an all-female warrior unit. Davis performed grueling battle sequences that required immense stamina and precision. Her work in the ‘Suicide Squad’ films also places her at the center of high-stakes cinematic action. She proved that her dramatic range is matched by her ability to lead a physical ensemble.

Danai Gurira

Danai Gurira became a household name by portraying the sword-wielding Michonne in ‘The Walking Dead’. She mastered the use of the katana and performed her own stunts for the majority of the series. Gurira continued her action streak as Okoye in ‘Black Panther’ and other films in the Marvel franchise. Her training involves spear combat and traditional African fighting styles. She is consistently praised by stunt coordinators for her technical proficiency and focus.

Jada Pinkett Smith

Jada Pinkett Smith established herself as an action star when she played Niobe in ‘The Matrix Reloaded’. She underwent extensive physical preparation to handle the demanding wire work and combat scenes of the franchise. Smith also took on a physical role in the series ‘Gotham’ where she engaged in frequent brawls. Her background in dance and fitness contributes to her ability to learn complex choreography quickly. She has maintained a reputation for being one of the most athletic actresses in Hollywood.

Regina King

Regina King showcased her fighting abilities in the acclaimed superhero series ‘Watchmen’. She played a masked vigilante who utilized a mix of street fighting and tactical maneuvers to defeat her enemies. King performed a significant portion of her own action sequences and worked closely with professional stunt teams. Her role in ‘Southland’ also required her to maintain a high level of physical readiness for police pursuit scenes. She continues to excel in roles that demand both emotional depth and physical grit.

Vivica A. Fox

Vivica A. Fox is a veteran of the action genre who famously played Vernita Green in ‘Kill Bill Volume 1’. She engaged in a brutal and highly choreographed kitchen fight that remains one of the most iconic scenes in modern cinema. Fox also starred in ‘Independence Day’ and ‘Set It Off’ where she handled various action-oriented tasks. Her ability to blend charisma with believable combat skills has made her a staple of the genre. She often participates in independent action projects that highlight her enduring physical capabilities.

Gina Torres

Gina Torres has a long history of playing powerful women who are experts in hand-to-hand combat. She is well known for her role as Zoe Alleyne Washburne in the cult classic series ‘Firefly’. Torres also displayed her fighting skills in ‘Angel’ and ‘Hercules The Legendary Journeys’. Her height and athletic frame allow her to command the screen during large scale battle sequences. She remains a favorite in the science fiction and action communities for her consistently strong performances.

Gabrielle Union

Gabrielle Union took on a major action role in the television series ‘L.A.s Finest’. She played a detective who frequently engaged in shootouts and physical confrontations with criminals. Union also appeared in ‘Bad Boys II’ where she was involved in high-speed chases and combat scenarios. She works with personal trainers to stay in peak condition for her physically demanding roles. Her transition into the action-thriller space has been met with positive reviews from fans of the genre.

Queen Latifah

Queen Latifah currently stars as a vigilante with a mysterious past in the series ‘The Equalizer’. She performs a variety of combat moves including martial arts and tactical takedowns in nearly every episode. Latifah previously showed her action chops in ‘Set It Off’ where she played a character who was not afraid of a fight. Her physical presence and confidence make her a believable force in any conflict. She continues to balance her musical career with her status as a leading action performer.

Mary J. Blige

Mary J. Blige transitioned into the action genre with a standout role in the series ‘The Umbrella Academy’. She played a time-traveling assassin who utilized both firearms and hand-to-hand combat skills. Blige also appeared in the film ‘Mudbound’ and later the series ‘Power Book II Ghost’ where physical threats are constant. She dedicated herself to learning the choreography necessary for her hitwoman character. Her intensity on screen makes her a formidable opponent in any action sequence.

Rosario Dawson

Rosario Dawson has a diverse background in action starting with her role in ‘Sin City’. She gained further recognition for her physical work in the Marvel television series ‘Daredevil’ and ‘Luke Cage’. Dawson eventually took on the role of Ahsoka Tano where she mastered dual-wielding lightsaber combat. Her training for the ‘Ahsoka’ series involved rigorous martial arts and choreography rehearsals. She is now considered one of the leading figures in modern action-oriented storytelling.

Zoe Saldaña

Zoe Saldana is one of the most successful action actresses in history due to her roles in ‘Avatar’ and ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’. She portrays Gamora who is known as the deadliest woman in the galaxy and performs complex fight scenes in every appearance. Saldana also starred in the action thriller ‘Colombiana’ where she played a lethal assassin. Her background in ballet gives her the grace and precision needed for high-level stunt work. She continues to dominate the box office with her physically demanding roles.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as the fierce warrior Valkyrie in ‘Thor Ragnarok’. She underwent significant sword training and physical conditioning to play the elite Asgardian soldier. Thompson also displayed her fighting skills in ‘Creed’ and ‘Creed II’ while supporting the boxing focused narrative. Her performance in ‘Westworld’ saw her character evolve into a capable and dangerous fighter. She is praised for her ability to bring a grounded sense of reality to fantastical combat scenarios.

Pam Grier

Pam Grier is the original queen of African-American action cinema from the 1970s. She starred in iconic films like ‘Foxy Brown’ and ‘Coffy’ where she took down villains using her wits and physical strength. Grier performed many of her own stunts during an era when safety standards were less rigorous than they are today. Her influence paved the way for every other woman on this list to succeed in the action genre. She remains a legendary figure whose fighting spirit is immortalized on film.

Tamara Dobson

Tamara Dobson was a pioneer in the action genre during the blaxploitation era of the 1970s. She is best known for her role as the title character in ‘Cleopatra Jones’ where she played a government agent. Dobson was known for her height and her proficiency in martial arts which she used to defeat her onscreen enemies. She brought a unique blend of high fashion and hard-hitting combat to the big screen. Her work helped redefine what a female action hero could look like in Hollywood.

Paula Patton

Paula Patton delivered a memorable performance as a highly trained operative in ‘Mission Impossible Ghost Protocol’. She participated in a famous fight sequence against a professional assassin that required weeks of rehearsal. Patton also showed her physical capabilities in the fantasy action film ‘Warcraft’. She works with top-tier stunt coordinators to ensure her movements are fluid and effective. Her commitment to realism in her action roles has earned her a spot among top physical performers.

Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson surprised audiences with her turn as a professional hitwoman in ‘Proud Mary’. She underwent weapons training and physical conditioning to make her character’s lethal skills believable. Henson also displayed her grit in the series ‘Empire’ through several high-energy physical altercations. Her role in ‘Person of Interest’ featured her as a detective who was frequently involved in the action. She continues to seek out roles that challenge her both emotionally and physically.

Sanaa Lathan

Sanaa Lathan took the lead in the science fiction action film ‘Alien vs Predator’. She played an expedition leader who had to fight for survival against two of the most dangerous creatures in cinema history. Lathan trained extensively to handle the physical demands of the freezing sets and heavy gear. She also appeared in the action film ‘Blade’ earlier in her career. Her performance demonstrated that she could carry a major action franchise with confidence and strength.

Meagan Good

Meagan Good has appeared in several action-oriented projects including the superhero film ‘Shazam’. She played the adult version of a character with god-like powers and engaged in large scale battle scenes. Good also starred in the television series ‘Minority Report’ where she performed her own stunts as a futuristic detective. She maintains a rigorous fitness routine that allows her to take on physically taxing roles. Her longevity in the industry is a testament to her versatility as a physical actress.

Keke Palmer

Keke Palmer showed her action potential in the thriller ‘Nope’ where she participated in several high-stakes physical sequences. She also worked on the series ‘Scream’ which required her to engage in various chase and combat scenes. Palmer has been vocal about her interest in taking on more superhero and action roles in the future. Her energy and athletic background make her a natural fit for demanding choreography. She continues to expand her repertoire with increasingly physical performances.

Teyonah Parris

Teyonah Parris joined the superhero ranks as Monica Rambeau in ‘WandaVision’ and ‘The Marvels’. She trained to handle the wire work and complex movement required to simulate flight and energy powers. Parris also appeared in ‘Candyman’ which featured intense physical moments and horror-themed action. She works with expert trainers to prepare for the physical toll of big-budget action filming. Her presence in the Marvel universe has established her as a key figure in modern action cinema.

Javicia Leslie

Javicia Leslie took over the lead role in the series ‘Batwoman’ and immediately began intensive training. She mastered various martial arts styles to perform the Caped Crusaders signature combat moves. Leslie performed many of her own stunts and was frequently seen engaging in complex fight choreography. Her background in fitness helped her maintain the stamina required for the demanding production schedule. She has become a respected figure in the superhero community for her physical dedication.

Nafessa Williams

Nafessa Williams made history as the first Black lesbian superhero on television in the series ‘Black Lightning’. She played Thunder and engaged in numerous physical battles throughout the show’s four-season run. Williams underwent significant martial arts training to ensure her fight scenes were impactful and realistic. She also performed wire work and other specialized stunts to bring her powers to life. Her portrayal of a powerful and capable fighter has inspired many fans of the genre.

Simone Missick

Simone Missick played the brave detective Misty Knight in the Marvel series ‘Luke Cage’ and ‘The Defenders’. Her character was a skilled martial artist and marksman who often fought alongside superpowered heroes. Missick trained in boxing and general combat techniques to prepare for the role. She also appeared in the series ‘All Rise’ where she occasionally dealt with physical threats. Her grounded and tough portrayal of a law enforcement officer made her a standout in the action space.

Anna Diop

Anna Diop stars as Starfire in the series ‘Titans’ where she frequently leads her team into battle. She utilizes a combination of hand-to-hand combat and simulated energy powers during her fight scenes. Diop works with a dedicated stunt team to choreograph the complex sequences seen in the show. Her athletic build and commitment to the role have made her a fan favorite in the DC community. She continues to push her physical limits as her character evolves through the series.

Candice Patton

Candice Patton has been a central figure in the series ‘The Flash’ for nearly a decade. While her character started as a journalist she eventually transitioned into more action-oriented storylines. Patton has participated in several fight sequences and stunt-heavy episodes throughout the show’s long run. She trains to keep up with the physical demands of a high-energy superhero production. Her growth as a physical performer has been a key part of her character’s journey.

Kat Graham

Kat Graham displayed her physical capabilities throughout the long-running series ‘The Vampire Diaries’. She often participated in scenes involving magical combat and physical confrontations with supernatural beings. Graham also starred in the action-heavy film ‘Cut Throat City’ and the thriller ‘How It Ends’. She has a background in dance that assists her in learning fight choreography and maintaining body control. Her diverse filmography includes several roles that require significant physical effort.

Serayah

Serayah gained fame on the series ‘Empire’ but has since moved into more action-focused roles. She starred in the film ‘Favorite Son’ and has appeared in several projects requiring stunt work. Serayah maintains a high level of fitness and often shares her training routines with her followers. Her ability to combine musical talent with physical acting makes her a versatile performer. She continues to seek out roles that allow her to showcase her athletic abilities.

Aisha Tyler

Aisha Tyler is known for her role in ‘Criminal Minds’ where she played a specialized agent who often dealt with dangerous criminals. She also voices an elite spy in the animated series ‘Archer’ and brings that same toughness to her live-action roles. Tyler has directed and starred in action sequences that require careful timing and physical precision. Her height and commanding presence make her a natural fit for authority figures who can hold their own in a fight. She remains a prominent figure in both comedy and action circles.

Tracie Thoms

Tracie Thoms delivered a memorable performance in the high-octane film ‘Death Proof’. She played a stuntwoman and engaged in a legendary car chase and physical fight sequence. Thoms also appeared in the series ‘9-1-1’ where she handled various emergency scenarios and physical challenges. Her background in theater and film has given her the tools to handle a wide range of physical demands. She is respected for her ability to bring authenticity to every action role she takes on.

Nicole Beharie

Nicole Beharie starred in the supernatural drama ‘Sleepy Hollow’ where she played a police lieutenant. She frequently engaged in combat with demonic forces and utilized both firearms and hand-to-hand techniques. Beharie also displayed her physical prowess in the film ‘Breaking’ and the series ‘The Morning Show’. She works hard to ensure that her characters appear capable and strong in high-pressure situations. Her performances are often noted for their blend of intelligence and physical grit.

Rutina Wesley

Rutina Wesley is best known for her role as Tara Thornton in the series ‘True Blood’. Her character was a fierce fighter who frequently took on vampires and other supernatural threats. Wesley later starred in the series ‘Queen Sugar’ and appeared in the action-heavy ‘DMZ’. She has a background in dance from Juilliard which helps her master the physical requirements of her roles. Her intense screen presence makes her a believable and formidable combatant.

DeWanda Wise

DeWanda Wise made a significant impact in the action genre with her role in ‘Jurassic World Dominion’. She played a pilot who was not afraid to get into physical altercations with both humans and dinosaurs. Wise underwent physical training to handle the demands of the large-scale production and its many stunts. She also starred in the series ‘She’s Gotta Have It’ and the film ‘Fatherhood’ before moving into blockbuster action. Her confident performance in the ‘Jurassic’ franchise has opened new doors for her in the genre.

Moses Ingram

Moses Ingram joined the ‘Star Wars’ universe as the villainous Reva in the series ‘Obi-Wan Kenobi’. She underwent intensive lightsaber training and martial arts conditioning to play the powerful Inquisitor. Ingram performed many of her own stunts including complex wire work and high-speed chases. Her physical dedication to the role helped create a memorable and intimidating antagonist. She continues to be a rising star in the world of big-budget action entertainment.

Dominique Thorne

Dominique Thorne stars as Riri Williams in the Marvel Cinematic Universe beginning with ‘Black Panther Wakanda Forever’. She portrays a young genius who builds her own suit of armor to engage in high-tech combat. Thorne trained to handle the physical challenges of wearing a suit and performing in action-heavy sequences. She will continue her journey in the upcoming series ‘Ironheart’ where she will lead the action. Her performance has been praised for its energy and physical conviction.

China Anne McClain

China Anne McClain displayed her fighting skills in the superhero series ‘Black Lightning’. She played Jennifer Pierce and participated in several combat scenes as her character learned to control her powers. McClain also showcased her athletic ability in the ‘Descendants’ franchise where she performed sword fights and dance choreography. She has grown up in the industry and has consistently taken on more physically demanding roles. Her versatility as a performer includes a strong aptitude for action.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg recently entered the ‘Star Wars’ franchise with a lead role in ‘The Acolyte’. She underwent extensive martial arts training to perform the complex hand-to-hand combat required for her character. Stenberg has also appeared in action-oriented films like ‘The Hunger Games’ and ‘The Darkest Minds’. Her commitment to physical preparation is evident in the precision of her fight scenes. She continues to choose projects that allow her to showcase her development as an action actress.

Erika Alexander

Erika Alexander has a long career that includes several roles with significant physical demands. She appeared in the series ‘Wu-Tang An American Saga’ and has a background in various athletic pursuits. Alexander also starred in the action thriller ‘Deja Vu’ alongside Denzel Washington. Her ability to portray tough and capable characters has made her a consistent presence in the industry. She remains a versatile actress who can handle both intense drama and physical action.

Logan Browning

Logan Browning showcased her physical dedication in the film ‘The Perfection’ where she played a talented cellist involved in a horrifying thriller. She also appeared in the series ‘Powers’ as a character with superhuman abilities who engaged in frequent combat. Browning trains in various fitness disciplines to stay ready for the physical requirements of her work. Her performance in ‘Dear White People’ also featured moments of high energy and physical movement. She is known for her discipline and ability to learn new skills for her roles.

Kiersey Clemons

Kiersey Clemons played Iris West in ‘The Flash’ and participated in the large-scale action of the DC Extended Universe. She also starred in the survival thriller ‘Sweetheart’ where she had to fight off a monstrous creature alone. Clemons performed many of her own stunts in the film which required significant physical endurance. Her ability to carry an action film with minimal dialogue proved her strength as a physical performer. She continues to take on diverse roles that challenge her athletic capabilities.

Yetide Badaki

Yetide Badaki portrayed the powerful goddess Bilquis in the series ‘American Gods’. Her role involved several scenes of supernatural physicality and intense movement. Badaki also appeared in the action series ‘Halo’ based on the popular video game franchise. She works with choreographers to ensure her movements are both graceful and powerful on screen. Her commanding presence makes her an excellent fit for roles that require a strong physical impact.

Jessica Lucas

Jessica Lucas has a long list of action credits including the film ‘Cloverfield’ and the series ‘Gotham’. In ‘Gotham’ she played Tabitha Galavan who was a lethal assassin proficient with a whip and in hand-to-hand combat. Lucas performed many of her own fights and worked extensively with the stunt department. She also appeared in the action film ‘Pompeii’ and the horror-action ‘Evil Dead’. Her consistency in the genre has established her as a reliable and skilled action performer.

Yaya DaCosta

Yaya DaCosta showed her physical range in the action-comedy ‘The Nice Guys’ where she played a capable operative. She also starred in the series ‘Chicago Med’ and has appeared in various roles that require stunt work. DaCosta has a background in dance that assists her in mastering fight choreography and fluid movement. Her performance in ‘Whitney’ also required a high level of physical control and stamina. She continues to balance dramatic roles with projects that allow for more physical expression.

Kelly Rowland

Kelly Rowland has ventured into the action and thriller genres with projects like ‘The Curse of Bridge Hollow’. She has also appeared in various roles that require physical coordination and energy. Rowland maintains a strict fitness regimen that is well-known among her fans and colleagues. Her experience in professional dance gives her an advantage when learning complex movement for the screen. She remains an active and fit performer who is capable of taking on more action-oriented roles.

Naturi Naughton

Naturi Naughton is best known for her role in the series ‘Power’ where her character often dealt with violent situations. She also appeared in the film ‘Notorious’ and the series ‘The Playboy Club’ which both required significant physical presence. Naughton has participated in various stunt sequences throughout her career in television and film. She works with trainers to maintain the strength needed for her demanding roles. Her ability to portray fierce and determined women is a hallmark of her career.

Michael Michele

Michael Michele has a history of playing strong and capable women in series like ‘Homicide Life on the Street’. She also appeared in the film ‘Ali’ where she played a character immersed in the world of professional boxing. Michele has always been known for her athletic frame and her ability to handle physical roles with ease. She appeared in the action film ‘Dark Blue’ and has continued to work in high-stakes television dramas. Her long career is filled with performances that highlight her physical and emotional strength.

Elise Neal

Elise Neal appeared in the gritty superhero film ‘Logan’ where she was part of the high-stakes action. She also starred in ‘Money Talks’ and ‘Scream 2’ where she participated in various chase and combat scenes. Neal has a background in dance which she utilized to perform her own stunts in several projects. Her athletic ability has allowed her to stay active in the industry for many years. She remains a respected performer who can handle the physical demands of both film and television.

Sydelle Noel

Sydelle Noel is a former professional athlete who transitioned into acting with a breakout role in ‘GLOW’. She played a professional wrestler and performed all of her own complex grappling and fighting moves. Noel also appeared as a member of the Dora Milaje in ‘Black Panther’ where she utilized her spear-fighting skills. Her background in track and field provides her with the explosive power and stamina needed for elite action roles. She is widely considered one of the most physically talented actresses working in the genre today.

Tell us which of these incredible performers has your favorite fight scene in the comments.