The Most Attractive African-American Actors Right Now

The landscape of modern Hollywood is defined by a generation of African-American actors who combine immense talent with significant cultural influence. From seasoned veterans who have maintained their leading-man status for decades to rising stars making waves in streaming and blockbuster cinema, these performers represent the pinnacle of charisma and craft. Their contributions span across genres, including hard-hitting dramas, superhero epics, and acclaimed television series. This list highlights the individuals who are currently recognized for their physical appeal, professional achievements, and enduring impact on the entertainment industry.

Michael B. Jordan

Michael B. Jordan has established himself as a premier leading man through his roles in ‘Fruitvale Station’ and the ‘Creed’ franchise. He gained widespread recognition for portraying the complex antagonist Erik Killmonger in ‘Black Panther’. In 2023, he expanded his professional repertoire by making his directorial debut with ‘Creed III’. Jordan is frequently noted in media for his dedication to physical fitness and his influence as a producer through Outlier Society.

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II transitioned from an architecture career to acting, quickly securing roles in ‘The Get Down’ and ‘Aquaman’. He earned an Emmy Award for his performance as Cal Abar in the ‘Watchmen’ limited series. His presence in major franchises continued with a leading role in ‘The Matrix Resurrections’ and the titular role in ‘Candyman’. He is consistently recognized for his height, athletic build, and versatile acting range.

Trevante Rhodes

Trevante Rhodes rose to international prominence for his deeply moving performance as the adult Chiron in the Oscar-winning film ‘Moonlight’. Before acting, he was a competitive track and field sprinter, a background that contributed to his casting in physically demanding roles. He starred alongside Sandra Bullock in ‘Bird Box’ and took on the lead role in the series ‘Mike’, portraying boxer Mike Tyson. Rhodes is often highlighted for his intense screen presence and classical leading-man features.

John David Washington

John David Washington made a successful transition from professional football to acting, initially starring in the series ‘Ballers’. He earned critical acclaim for his lead role in Spike Lee’s ‘BlacKkKlansman’, which showcased his ability to balance humor and drama. Washington later led Christopher Nolan’s high-concept thriller ‘Tenet’, performing many of his own stunts. His performance in ‘Malcolm & Marie’ further solidified his status as a sophisticated and charismatic talent in the industry.

Sterling K. Brown

Sterling K. Brown is widely celebrated for his emotional depth and articulate delivery, notably in the long-running drama ‘This Is Us’. He secured multiple Emmy Awards for his work in that series and for his portrayal of Christopher Darden in ‘The People v. O. J. Simpson: American Crime Story’. Brown has also appeared in major films like ‘Black Panther’ and ‘American Fiction’. He is frequently cited for his polished style and commanding yet approachable demeanor.

Anthony Mackie

Anthony Mackie gained global fame for his portrayal of Sam Wilson, also known as the Falcon, in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. He officially took on the mantle of Captain America in the series ‘The Falcon and the Winter Soldier’. Beyond superhero fare, Mackie has demonstrated his range in ‘The Hurt Locker’ and the series ‘Twisted Metal’. His sharp wit and athletic versatility have made him a staple of modern action and drama.

LaKeith Stanfield

LaKeith Stanfield is known for his eccentric and captivating performances, starting with his film debut in ‘Short Term 12’. He garnered significant attention for his role as Darius in the acclaimed series ‘Atlanta’ and for his lead performance in ‘Sorry to Bother You’. Stanfield received an Academy Award nomination for his portrayal of William O’Neal in ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’. His unique sense of style and enigmatic screen presence have made him a standout figure in independent and mainstream cinema.

Winston Duke

Winston Duke became a household name following his breakout performance as M’Baku in ‘Black Panther’ and subsequent ‘Avengers’ films. His large stature and charismatic delivery made him a fan favorite within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. He followed this success with a dual role in Jordan Peele’s horror film ‘Us’ and a lead role in ‘Nine Days’. Duke is often recognized for his imposing physical presence and his advocacy for body positivity in the industry.

Colman Domingo

Colman Domingo is a multi-talented actor, playwright, and director who has seen a massive surge in popularity in recent years. He won an Emmy for his guest role in ‘Euphoria’ and received an Academy Award nomination for his titular performance in ‘Rustin’. Domingo is also known for his long-running role as Victor Strand in ‘Fear the Walking Dead’. He is frequently praised for his impeccable fashion sense and his sophisticated, veteran presence on the red carpet.

Mahershala Ali

Mahershala Ali is a two-time Academy Award winner, recognized for his supporting roles in ‘Moonlight’ and ‘Green Book’. His career includes significant turns in the series ‘House of Cards’ and the third season of ‘True Detective’. Ali is set to take on the iconic role of the titular vampire hunter in the upcoming ‘Blade’ reboot. He is consistently cited as one of the most stylish and poised men in Hollywood, often blending classic tailoring with modern sensibilities.

Aldis Hodge

Aldis Hodge has maintained a steady career since childhood, with notable adult roles in ‘Leverage’ and ‘Underground’. He gained widespread acclaim for his portrayal of Jim Brown in ‘One Night in Miami…’ and played Hawkman in the DC film ‘Black Adam’. Hodge is also a trained horologist and painter, adding to his reputation as a multi-faceted talent. His physical conditioning and articulate nature have earned him a spot among the industry’s most admired actors.

Corey Hawkins

Corey Hawkins first gained major attention for his portrayal of Dr. Dre in the biopic ‘Straight Outta Compton’. He has since showcased his versatility in ‘The Walking Dead’, ‘Kong: Skull Island’, and the lead role in the series ’24: Legacy’. Hawkins also demonstrated his musical talents in the film adaptation of ‘In the Heights’. He is recognized for his expressive features and his ability to anchor both stage and screen productions.

Leslie Odom Jr.

Leslie Odom Jr. became a superstar through his Tony-winning performance as Aaron Burr in the Broadway musical ‘Hamilton’. He successfully transitioned to film with an Oscar-nominated turn as Sam Cooke in ‘One Night in Miami…’. Odom Jr. has also appeared in ‘Murder on the Orient Express’ and ‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery’. Known for his smooth vocal ability and dapper appearance, he remains a prominent figure in both the music and film worlds.

Donald Glover

Donald Glover is a true polymath, achieving success as an actor, writer, director, and musician under the name Childish Gambino. He created and starred in the award-winning series ‘Atlanta’, which redefined television storytelling. Glover also voiced Simba in the remake of ‘The Lion King’ and played Lando Calrissian in ‘Solo: A Star Wars Story’. His creative vision and distinctive personal style have made him a modern icon of Black excellence.

Tyler James Williams

Tyler James Williams rose to fame as the star of ‘Everybody Hates Chris’ before successfully transitioning into adult roles. He earned critical acclaim and a Golden Globe for his portrayal of Gregory Eddie in the hit mockumentary ‘Abbott Elementary’. Williams has also appeared in ‘The Walking Dead’ and the film ‘Dear White People’. He is frequently noted for his sharp comedic timing and his transformation into a charismatic leading man.

Jabari Banks

Jabari Banks achieved overnight fame after being hand-picked by Will Smith to star in the dramatic reboot series ‘Bel-Air’. As a musician and actor, he brought a fresh, modern energy to the iconic role of Will. The series has allowed him to showcase both his dramatic range and his natural charisma. Banks is quickly becoming a fashion favorite and a representative of the new generation of Hollywood talent.

William Jackson Harper

William Jackson Harper is best known for his role as the lovable, anxious philosopher Chidi Anagonye in ‘The Good Place’. His performance in the series earned him an Emmy nomination and a dedicated fan base. He has since starred in ‘The Resort’, ‘Love Life’, and appeared in ‘Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania’. Harper is often praised for his intellect, comedic timing, and surprising physical fitness, which became a viral topic during his time on television.

Jesse Williams

Jesse Williams became a household name during his twelve-season tenure as Dr. Jackson Avery on ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. Beyond his work on the medical drama, he is a dedicated activist and has produced projects like the Oscar-winning short ‘Two Distant Strangers’. Williams also received a Tony nomination for his Broadway debut in ‘Take Me Out’. His striking features and commitment to social justice have made him a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.

Michael Ealy

Michael Ealy has been a consistent leading man in Hollywood for two decades, starring in films like ‘Barbershop’ and ‘2 Fast 2 Furious’. He is well known for his roles in romantic dramas such as ‘Think Like a Man’ and the psychological thriller ‘The Perfect Guy’. Ealy has also maintained a strong television presence in series like ‘Almost Human’ and ‘Reasonable Doubt’. He is frequently cited by fans and media for his piercing blue eyes and ageless appearance.

Shemar Moore

Shemar Moore has enjoyed a long and successful career in television, beginning with his role on the soap opera ‘The Young and the Restless’. He became a prime-time staple through his long tenure on ‘Criminal Minds’ and his current lead role in ‘S.W.A.T.’. Moore is famously known for his charismatic personality and his commitment to a high level of physical fitness. His enduring popularity is a testament to his connection with his audience and his consistent work ethic.

Omari Hardwick

Omari Hardwick reached a new level of stardom with his portrayal of James “Ghost” St. Patrick in the hit series ‘Power’. His performance as the complex protagonist earned him multiple NAACP Image Awards. Hardwick has also appeared in films such as ‘For Colored Girls’ and ‘Army of the Dead’. Known for his intensity and poetic background, he brings a unique depth to his on-screen characters.

Kofi Siriboe

Kofi Siriboe gained significant recognition for his role as Ralph Angel Bordelon in the drama series ‘Queen Sugar’. His performance in the Ava DuVernay-produced show highlighted his ability to portray vulnerability and strength simultaneously. Siriboe also appeared in the hit comedy ‘Girls Trip’, which further boosted his public profile. He is frequently celebrated for his modeling background and his striking, dark-skinned aesthetic.

Jacob Latimore

Jacob Latimore began his career as a singer before making a successful move into acting with roles in ‘Black Nativity’ and ‘The Maze Runner’. He earned widespread praise for his lead role in the independent film ‘Sleight’ and the long-running series ‘The Chi’. Latimore continues to balance his music career with a steady stream of film and television projects. He represents a versatile younger generation of talent with a growing influence in the industry.

Keith Powers

Keith Powers is known for his roles in ‘Straight Outta Compton’ and the miniseries ‘The New Edition Story’, where he played Ronnie DeVoe. He also gained a significant following for his work in the series ‘Famous in Love’ and the Netflix film ‘The Tomorrow War’. Powers began his career as a fashion model, working with major brands before transitioning to full-time acting. His classic good looks and effortless style have made him a favorite in the young adult demographic.

Algee Smith

Algee Smith first caught the attention of critics with his powerful performance in the film ‘Detroit’. He further expanded his fan base with his portrayal of Ralph Tresvant in ‘The New Edition Story’ and McKay in the series ‘Euphoria’. Smith is also a talented singer and songwriter, often incorporating his musical background into his artistic identity. He is recognized for his smooth features and his ability to tackle heavy, dramatic subject matter.

Jordan Calloway

Jordan Calloway has become a familiar face on television through his roles in ‘Unfabulous’ and ‘Riverdale’. He gained significant prominence playing the character Painkiller in the superhero series ‘Black Lightning’. Calloway is known for his athletic physique and his ability to play both heroic and antagonistic characters. His consistent work in the young adult and action genres has established him as a rising star to watch.

Charles Michael Davis

Charles Michael Davis is best known for his role as Marcel Gerard in ‘The Originals’, a spin-off of ‘The Vampire Diaries’. His charismatic performance as a vampire leader made him a standout in the supernatural genre. Davis has also held regular roles in ‘Younger’ and ‘NCIS: New Orleans’. Before acting, he had a successful career as a model, which is reflected in his polished on-screen presence.

Sinqua Walls

Sinqua Walls has built a diverse resume with roles in ‘Teen Wolf’, ‘Power’, and ‘American Soul’, where he portrayed Don Cornelius. He recently took on a leading role in the remake of ‘White Men Can’t Jump’, showcasing his athletic skills. Walls is a former college basketball player, a background that he often brings to his physical roles. He is appreciated for his tall stature, warm smile, and consistent performances across television and film.

Jay Ellis

Jay Ellis became a breakout star through his role as Lawrence Walker in the HBO series ‘Insecure’. His character sparked widespread cultural conversation and established him as a premier romantic lead. Ellis followed this success with a major role in the blockbuster ‘Top Gun: Maverick’, playing a naval aviator. He is frequently noted for his classic style, height, and his work as a producer and director.

Sarunas J. Jackson

Sarunas J. Jackson gained widespread recognition for his role as Alejandro “Dro” Peña in the series ‘Insecure’. His performance and physical presence quickly made him a subject of significant interest among viewers. Jackson has since appeared in ‘Games People Play’ and ‘Made for Love’, continuing to build his portfolio in both drama and comedy. As a former professional basketball player, he carries a natural athleticism that translates well to his acting roles.

Rotimi

Rotimi is a Nigerian-American actor and singer who gained fame for his role as Andre “Dre” Coleman in the series ‘Power’. His dual career in music and acting has allowed him to build a large and dedicated following. He has also appeared in films such as ‘Coming 2 America’ and ‘House Party’. Rotimi is often recognized for his smooth vocal tone, his fashion sense, and his entrepreneurial ventures in the beauty and tech industries.

Laz Alonso

Laz Alonso is a veteran actor known for his roles in major films like ‘Avatar’ and ‘Fast & Furious’. He has received significant acclaim for his portrayal of Mother’s Milk in the hit Amazon series ‘The Boys’. Alonso’s career spans across high-octane action and intense drama, demonstrating his versatility as a character actor. He is frequently cited for his masculine screen presence and his advocacy for Afro-Latino representation in Hollywood.

Morris Chestnut

Morris Chestnut has been a staple of American cinema since his breakout role in ‘Boyz n the Hood’. He is widely regarded as one of the definitive leading men of his generation, starring in ‘The Best Man’ franchise and ‘Rosewood’. Chestnut has maintained his status over three decades with recent roles in ‘The Resident’ and ‘Our Kind of People’. He is famously recognized for his enduring good looks and professional longevity.

Taye Diggs

Taye Diggs made a massive impact with his film debut in ‘How Stella Got Her Groove Back’. He is a versatile performer with a storied career on Broadway in ‘Rent’ and ‘Hedwig and the Angry Inch’. On television, he is well known for his roles in ‘Private Practice’ and ‘All American’. Diggs is often celebrated for his charismatic smile and his ability to move seamlessly between musical theater, film, and television.

Terrence J

Terrence J rose to prominence as the host of BET’s ‘106 & Park’ before transitioning into a successful acting career. He has starred in the ‘Think Like a Man’ film series and the romantic comedy ‘The Perfect Match’. Beyond acting, he is a well-known television personality and author with a strong presence in the entertainment news space. He is recognized for his polished appearance and his transition from hosting to becoming a credible film actor.

Lance Gross

Lance Gross is best known for his role as Calvin Payne on the long-running sitcom ‘Tyler Perry’s House of Payne’. He has also appeared in films like ‘Our Family Wedding’ and series such as ‘Sleepy Hollow’ and ‘Star’. Gross began his career as a model and has since become a respected photographer in addition to his acting work. He is frequently cited for his classical features and his consistent presence in the urban film circuit.

Boris Kodjoe

Boris Kodjoe gained international fame starring in the series ‘Soul Food’ and later in the ‘Resident Evil’ film franchise. He currently stars in the ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ spin-off ‘Station 19’ as Robert Sullivan. Kodjoe is of German and Ghanaian descent and is often recognized for his height and athletic physique. He and his wife, Nicole Ari Parker, are considered one of Hollywood’s most prominent and enduring power couples.

Tristan Mack Wilds

Mack Wilds, also known as Tristan Wilds, first gained critical acclaim for his role as Michael Lee in the iconic series ‘The Wire’. He later starred in the ‘90210’ reboot and the film ‘Red Tails’. Wilds is also a Grammy-nominated singer and songwriter, showcasing his musical talents alongside his acting career. He represents a generation of child actors who successfully navigated the transition into mature, complex roles.

Chosen Jacobs

Chosen Jacobs is a rising star best known for his role as Mike Hanlon in the ‘It’ film adaptations. He has also showcased his musical abilities in the Netflix film ‘Purple Hearts’, for which he wrote and performed original music. Jacobs has appeared in the series ‘Castle Rock’ and ‘Godfather of Harlem’, proving his range across different genres. He is recognized as a promising young talent with a bright future in both music and acting.

Caleb McLaughlin

Caleb McLaughlin became a global star through his portrayal of Lucas Sinclair in the Netflix phenomenon ‘Stranger Things’. He successfully transitioned to film with a lead role in ‘Concrete Cowboy’ alongside Idris Elba. McLaughlin began his career on Broadway as Young Simba in ‘The Lion King’, highlighting his early training in performing arts. He is frequently praised for his fashion choices and his growth into a mature and capable actor.

Shameik Moore

Shameik Moore gained widespread attention for his lead role in the independent hit ‘Dope’. He is the voice behind Miles Morales in the critically acclaimed ‘Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse’ and its sequels. Moore also starred in the series ‘Wu-Tang: An American Saga’ as Raekwon. His unique style and multi-disciplinary talents in acting, singing, and dancing have made him a standout of his generation.

Kelvin Harrison, Jr.

Kelvin Harrison Jr. is known for his incredible dramatic range in independent films such as ‘Luce’ and ‘Waves’. He has taken on historical roles in ‘The Trial of the Chicago 7’ and played the lead in the musical biopic ‘Chevalier’. Harrison Jr. is a trained musician, a skill he often utilizes in his film performances. He is recognized by critics as one of the most talented and dedicated young actors working today.

Jharrel Jerome

Jharrel Jerome made history as the first Afro-Latino to win an Emmy for Lead Actor in a Limited Series for his role in ‘When They See Us’. He first gained major attention for his performance in the Oscar-winning film ‘Moonlight’. Jerome recently starred in the surrealist series ‘I’m a Virgo’, further showcasing his willingness to take on unconventional roles. He is celebrated for his intense emotional depth and his groundbreaking achievements at a young age.

Daveed Diggs

Daveed Diggs rose to fame by winning a Tony and a Grammy for his dual roles in the musical ‘Hamilton’. He has since transitioned to a successful screen career, starring in ‘Blindspotting’, which he also co-wrote and produced. Diggs lead the television adaptation of ‘Snowpiercer’ and voiced Sebastian in the live-action ‘The Little Mermaid’. His intellectual approach to his craft and his unique aesthetic have made him a highly respected figure in the arts.

Ashton Sanders

Ashton Sanders is best known for his breakout role as the teenage Chiron in the Academy Award-winning film ‘Moonlight’. He has since appeared in ‘The Equalizer 2’ and played RZA in the series ‘Wu-Tang: An American Saga’. Sanders is noted for his striking, high-fashion looks and his ability to portray deep internal conflict. His work in both film and fashion has established him as a distinctive and influential young artist.

Stephan James

Stephan James earned critical praise for his portrayal of Jesse Owens in the biopic ‘Race’. He received further acclaim for his lead role in ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’ and the Amazon series ‘Homecoming’. James is also known for his role in the series ‘#FreeRayshawn’, which earned him an Emmy nomination. He is frequently cited for his soulful performances and his sophisticated presence on and off screen.

Brian Tyree Henry

Brian Tyree Henry became a fan favorite for his role as Alfred “Paper Boi” Miles in the series ‘Atlanta’. He has since built a massive film career with roles in ‘Widows’, ‘Eternals’, and ‘Bullet Train’. Henry received an Academy Award nomination for his supporting role in the drama ‘Causeway’. He is widely respected for his immense versatility and his ability to bring humanity and humor to every character he portrays.

André Holland

André Holland is highly regarded for his performances in critically acclaimed projects like ‘Moonlight’ and ‘Selma’. He took on the lead role in the series ‘The Knick’ and starred in the sports drama ‘High Flying Bird’. Holland is also a veteran of the stage, frequently appearing in Shakespearean productions and contemporary plays. He is known for his articulate delivery and his quiet, commanding intensity as an actor.

Jovan Adepo

Jovan Adepo gained recognition for his role in the film ‘Fences’ alongside Denzel Washington. He has since appeared in high-profile projects like ‘Overlord’, ‘Watchmen’, and ‘Babylon’. Adepo also starred in the limited series ‘The Stand’ and ‘3 Body Problem’. He is praised for his grounded performances and his ability to hold his own alongside industry veterans.

Ser’Darius Blain

Ser’Darius Blain is best known for his role as Anthony “Fridge” Johnson in the ‘Jumanji’ sequels. He also starred in the reboot of the series ‘Charmed’ and the football drama ‘The Big Leap’. Blain’s athletic background and charismatic screen presence have made him a consistent choice for action and ensemble comedies. He continues to grow his filmography with a mix of television and major studio film roles.

Please share which of these actors you believe has had the most impactful performance recently in the comments.