The Most Attractive African-American Actresses Right Now

The landscape of Hollywood is currently defined by a diverse array of African-American actresses who excel in both talent and public presence. These women represent a broad spectrum of the industry, from award-winning veterans to rising stars who have recently captured global attention. Through critically acclaimed performances in television, film, and streaming media, they continue to shape contemporary entertainment. This list highlights fifty prominent actresses whose current work and influence remain central to the modern cinematic and television experience.

Zendaya

Zendaya is a multifaceted performer who transitioned from child stardom to becoming a leading figure in major film franchises. She gained widespread acclaim for her portrayal of Rue Bennett in the drama series ‘Euphoria’, for which she received multiple accolades. Her film credits include high-profile roles in the ‘Spider-Man’ series and the ‘Dune’ films. Beyond acting, she is recognized for her influence in fashion and her work as a producer.

Ayo Edebiri

Ayo Edebiri has emerged as a significant talent in both comedy and drama, notably for her role as Sydney Adamu in ‘The Bear’. Her performance in the series has earned her several major industry awards, establishing her as a central figure in modern television. She also contributed her voice to ‘Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse’ and appeared in the 2023 film ‘Bottoms’. Edebiri’s career began in stand-up comedy and writing before she transitioned to on-screen roles.

Quinta Brunson

Quinta Brunson is the creator, executive producer, and lead actress of the mockumentary sitcom ‘Abbott Elementary’. Her work on the show has been credited with revitalizing the network sitcom format while earning her numerous awards. Before her success in television, she gained popularity through her viral content and work as a producer. She continues to be a prominent voice in the industry, advocating for representation and educational reform.

Da’Vine Joy Randolph

Da’Vine Joy Randolph gained significant international recognition for her role in the 2023 film ‘The Holdovers’. Her performance earned her an Academy Award, cementing her status as a powerhouse in the dramatic arts. She has appeared in various projects, including the television series ‘Only Murders in the Building’ and the film ‘Dolemite Is My Name’. Her background in theater and opera informs her diverse range of performances across genres.

Danielle Deadwyler

Danielle Deadwyler received critical acclaim for her powerful lead performance in the 2022 biographical drama ‘Till’. She has a background in performance art and dance, which she integrates into her nuanced acting style. Her recent credits include the miniseries ‘Station Eleven’ and the film ‘The Harder They Fall’. Deadwyler is consistently praised for her ability to bring depth and authenticity to historical and contemporary characters alike.

Teyana Taylor

Teyana Taylor is a singer, dancer, and actress who recently garnered critical praise for her leading role in ‘A Thousand and One’. Her performance in the film demonstrated her dramatic range and earned her nominations from several critics’ associations. She has appeared in films such as ‘Coming 2 America’ and ‘The After Party’ while maintaining a successful career in music. Taylor is also known for her work as a director and choreographer in the entertainment industry.

Issa Rae

Issa Rae rose to prominence as the creator and star of the hit HBO series ‘Insecure’, which ran for five seasons. Since then, she has expanded her media empire with projects like ‘Rap Sh!t’ and ‘The Photograph’. She appeared as President Barbie in the 2023 blockbuster ‘Barbie’ and featured in the Oscar-winning film ‘American Fiction’. Rae remains a pivotal figure in producing content that centers on the Black experience in modern America.

Keke Palmer

Keke Palmer has maintained a steady presence in the industry since her breakout role in ‘Akeelah and the Bee’. She recently starred in Jordan Peele’s ‘Nope’ and provided voice work for the animated film ‘Lightyear’. Palmer hosts her own podcast and has been a frequent television personality and host for major events. Her career spans film, television, music, and digital media, making her one of the most versatile entertainers working today.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe is a highly acclaimed musician and actress known for her roles in ‘Hidden Figures’ and ‘Moonlight’. She recently starred in the mystery sequel ‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery’, receiving praise for her dual role. Her work often incorporates themes of afrofuturism and social identity, both in her films and her music albums. Monáe continues to be a prominent advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and artistic innovation.

Dominique Fishback

Dominique Fishback is recognized for her transformative performances in projects like ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’ and ‘Swarm’. Her lead role in the series ‘Swarm’ earned her an Emmy nomination for her portrayal of a dedicated fan. She also starred in the blockbuster ‘Transformers: Rise of the Beasts’, showcasing her ability to lead large-scale action films. Fishback is also a playwright and poet, often bringing a lyrical quality to her acting work.

Chloe Bailey

Chloe Bailey is a singer and actress who gained initial fame as part of the duo Chloe x Halle. She has starred in the series ‘Grown-ish’ and recently led the musical drama ‘Praise This’. Her recent acting work includes the thriller ‘The Exorcism’, where she performed alongside Russell Crowe. Bailey continues to balance a successful solo music career with increasing roles in feature films.

Halle Bailey

Halle Bailey captured global attention with her starring role as Ariel in the live-action reimagining of ‘The Little Mermaid’. She followed this performance with a significant role in the 2023 musical adaptation of ‘The Color Purple’. Like her sister Chloe, she began her career in music before transitioning into major cinematic productions. Her work in high-profile projects has established her as a prominent young leading lady in Hollywood.

Coco Jones

Coco Jones is an actress and singer who currently stars as Hilary Banks in the reimagined drama series ‘Bel-Air’. Her performance in the series has been praised for its modernization of the iconic character. She recently won a Grammy Award for her music, highlighting her dual success in the recording industry. Jones has been a visible figure in entertainment since her early work with Disney Channel.

Storm Reid

Storm Reid first gained major recognition for her starring role in ‘A Wrinkle in Time’. She is a series regular on ‘Euphoria’, where she plays Gia Bennett, and had a guest-starring role in ‘The Last of Us’. Her film credits include the 2023 thriller ‘Missing’ and the horror film ‘The Nun II’. Reid also runs her own production company, focusing on stories that empower the next generation.

Marsai Martin

Marsai Martin became the youngest executive producer in Hollywood history with her film ‘Little’. She is best known for her long-running role as Diane Johnson on the sitcom ‘Black-ish’. Recently, she has provided voice work for several animated projects and continues to develop content through her production company. Her career is characterized by an early and successful transition into the business side of the film industry.

Yara Shahidi

Yara Shahidi rose to fame as Zoey Johnson on ‘Black-ish’ and its spin-off ‘Grown-ish’. She recently portrayed Tinker Bell in the 2023 film ‘Peter Pan & Wendy’, marking a significant milestone in her film career. Shahidi is also a graduate of Harvard University and is widely known for her activism and social commentary. She continues to lead major brand campaigns while developing new projects as a producer.

Zazie Beetz

Zazie Beetz is known for her roles in the series ‘Atlanta’ and the blockbuster film ‘Deadpool 2’. She appeared in the psychological thriller ‘Joker’ and is set to return for the 2024 sequel. Her work spans independent cinema and major studio productions, often featuring complex and grounded characters. Beetz has also lent her voice to the animated series ‘Invincible’ as Amber Bennett.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson has become a central figure in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Valkyrie. She is also recognized for her lead roles in the ‘Creed’ franchise and the science fiction series ‘Westworld’. Her work in independent films like ‘Passing’ has earned her critical acclaim for her nuanced dramatic abilities. Thompson is active as a producer and is a vocal advocate for equity and representation in film.

Viola Davis

Viola Davis is the first African-American actress to achieve the Triple Crown of Acting, winning an Oscar, Emmy, and Tony. Her recent roles include leading the historical epic ‘The Woman King’ and appearing in the ‘Hunger Games’ prequel. She is widely regarded as one of the greatest living actresses due to her intense and transformative performances. Davis also operates a production company that focuses on telling diverse stories.

Angela Bassett

Angela Bassett is an iconic actress known for her commanding presence and long-standing career in Hollywood. She received an Academy Award nomination for her role as Queen Ramonda in ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’. Currently, she stars in and executive produces the procedural drama series ‘9-1-1’. Bassett’s career spans over three decades, during which she has portrayed numerous historical and fictional figures.

Regina King

Regina King is an Academy Award and Emmy-winning actress who has also found great success as a director. She recently starred in the biographical drama ‘Shirley’, portraying Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman elected to the U.S. Congress. Her directorial debut, ‘One Night in Miami…’, received significant critical praise and award nominations. King remains a highly influential figure both in front of and behind the camera.

Kerry Washington

Kerry Washington is best known for her role as Olivia Pope in the political thriller series ‘Scandal’. Recently, she starred in and executive produced the series ‘UnPrisoned’ and the film ‘The School for Good and Evil’. She is also a prominent director, having helmed episodes for several high-profile television shows. Washington is heavily involved in social activism and remains a fashion icon on the global stage.

Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson is a celebrated actress known for her roles in ‘Empire’ and ‘Hidden Figures’. She recently starred as Shug Avery in the 2023 musical adaptation of ‘The Color Purple’. Her career includes an Academy Award nomination for ‘The Curious Case of Benjamin Button’ and multiple Emmy nominations. Henson is also an advocate for mental health awareness within the African-American community.

Gabrielle Union

Gabrielle Union has been a mainstay in Hollywood for decades, known for films like ‘Bring It On’ and ‘Bad Boys II’. She recently starred in the animated film ‘Strange World’ and the drama ‘The Inspection’. Union is also a successful author and business owner, with her own haircare and clothing lines. She continues to produce and star in projects that highlight diverse family dynamics and social issues.

Meagan Good

Meagan Good has a career spanning over thirty years, beginning as a child actress in commercials and television. She currently stars in the comedy series ‘Harlem’, which has been praised for its depiction of modern friendship. Recently, she appeared in ‘Shazam! Fury of the Gods’ as the superhero version of Darla. Good is recognized for her longevity in the industry and her consistent work across various genres.

Sanaa Lathan

Sanaa Lathan is known for her classic roles in ‘Love & Basketball’ and ‘The Best Man’ franchise. She recently made her directorial debut with the film ‘On the Come Up’ and starred in the series ‘The Best Man: The Final Chapters’. Her work in ‘Succession’ earned her an Emmy nomination for Guest Actress in a Drama Series. Lathan remains a respected figure for her contributions to both film and television.

Nia Long

Nia Long is a veteran actress celebrated for her roles in ‘Boyz n the Hood’ and the ‘Best Man’ series. She recently appeared in the thriller ‘Missing’ and the comedy film ‘You People’. Her performance in the limited series ‘The Best Man: The Final Chapters’ was met with positive reviews from fans and critics. Long continues to be a prominent figure in the industry, often recognized for her timeless screen presence.

Jurnee Smollett

Jurnee Smollett began her career as a child actress and has recently taken on major roles in ‘Lovecraft Country’ and ‘Birds of Prey’. Her portrayal of Black Canary in the DC Extended Universe was a significant career milestone. She recently starred in the Netflix film ‘Spiderhead’ and the action thriller ‘Lou’. Smollett is known for her intense physical preparations and dedication to complex dramatic roles.

KiKi Layne

KiKi Layne rose to prominence with her breakout role in ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’. She has since appeared in the action film ‘The Old Guard’ and the psychological thriller ‘Don’t Worry Darling’. In 2022, she provided the voice for Gadget Hackwrench in ‘Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers’. Layne is frequently noted for her striking screen presence and her selection of diverse, artistically driven projects.

Laura Harrier

Laura Harrier gained international fame for her roles in ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’ and ‘BlacKkKlansman’. She also starred in the Netflix miniseries ‘Hollywood’, where she played an aspiring actress in the 1940s. Recently, she appeared in the 2023 reimagining of ‘White Men Can’t Jump’. Harrier is a frequent collaborator with major fashion houses and is considered a rising style icon in the industry.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg first gained attention as Rue in ‘The Hunger Games’ and has since led films like ‘The Hate U Give’. They recently starred in the horror-comedy ‘Bodies Bodies Bodies’ and the Disney+ series ‘The Acolyte’. Stenberg is also a musician and an outspoken advocate for social justice and identity representation. Their career is marked by a willingness to take on unconventional and challenging roles.

Lex Scott Davis

Lex Scott Davis is an emerging actress known for her roles in the television series ‘The L Word: Generation Q’. She recently starred in the film ‘Ricky Stanicky’ and has been cast in the upcoming legal drama ‘Suits: L.A.’. Her career includes the lead role in the ‘Toni Braxton: Unbreak My Heart’ biopic and a role in ‘The First Purge’. Davis is recognized for her versatility across comedy, drama, and action genres.

Aja Naomi King

Aja Naomi King is best known for her role as Michaela Pratt on the legal drama series ‘How to Get Away with Murder’. Recently, she appeared in the miniseries ‘Lessons in Chemistry’ and the film ‘Sylvie’s Love’. She has been a face for major cosmetic brands and is a regular on the fashion circuit. King’s work often focuses on portraying professional, ambitious women in high-stakes environments.

Aisha Hinds

Aisha Hinds is a character actress known for her powerful performances in ‘Underground’ and ‘9-1-1’. In ‘9-1-1’, she portrays Henrietta “Hen” Wilson, a role that has made her a household name in television drama. She has also appeared in films like ‘Godzilla: King of the Monsters’ and the historical drama ‘Godmothered’. Hinds is frequently praised for her ability to bring authority and emotional weight to every character she plays.

Betty Gabriel

Betty Gabriel gained significant recognition for her standout performance in the 2017 horror film ‘Get Out’. She has since appeared in the television series ‘Clickbait’ and ‘Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan’. Her film work includes roles in ‘Upgrade’ and ‘The Purge: Election Year’. Gabriel is known for her expressive acting and her ability to portray deeply layered, mysterious characters.

Tika Sumpter

Tika Sumpter is known for her role as Maddie Wachowski in the ‘Sonic the Hedgehog’ film franchise. She also starred in and executive produced the series ‘Mixed-ish’ and had a long-running role in ‘The Haves and the Have Nots’. Sumpter portrayed Michelle Obama in the biographical film ‘Southside with You’. She continues to be active as both an actress and a producer in the film industry.

Javicia Leslie

Javicia Leslie made history as the first Black actress to portray Batwoman in a live-action television series. She has also starred in the drama series ‘The Family Business’ and the comedy ‘God Friended Me’. Recently, she has appeared in several independent films and guest-starred in high-profile procedural shows. Leslie is a visible advocate for fitness and representation within the superhero genre.

Tiffany Haddish

Tiffany Haddish became a household name after her breakout performance in the comedy ‘Girls Trip’. Since then, she has starred in numerous films including ‘Night School’, ‘Like a Boss’, and ‘Haunted Mansion’. She is an Emmy-winning host and stand-up comedian who has also authored a best-selling memoir. Haddish continues to be a dominant force in the comedy world while expanding into dramatic roles.

Tracee Ellis Ross

Tracee Ellis Ross is a highly celebrated actress best known for her lead roles in the sitcoms ‘Girlfriends’ and ‘Black-ish’. She has won several Golden Globe and Emmy nominations for her portrayal of Rainbow Johnson. Beyond acting, Ross is the founder of a successful haircare brand and is a prominent figure in the fashion world. She recently starred in the film ‘American Fiction’ and the musical drama ‘The High Note’.

Uzo Aduba

Uzo Aduba gained international fame for her role as Suzanne “Crazy Eyes” Warren in ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She has since won an Emmy for her portrayal of Shirley Chisholm in the miniseries ‘Mrs. America’. Recently, she starred in the Netflix drama ‘Painkiller’ and the legal thriller ‘In Treatment’. Aduba is a classically trained theater actress who continues to perform on Broadway.

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez

Mj Rodriguez is a ground-breaking actress known for her lead role as Blanca Evangelista in the series ‘Pose’. She became the first transgender woman to win a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Drama Series. Recently, she starred in the comedy series ‘Loot’ and appeared in ‘Transformers: Rise of the Beasts’. Rodriguez is also a talented singer who has released original music and performed in musical theater.

Indya Moore

Indya Moore rose to prominence for their role as Angel Evangelista in the acclaimed FX series ‘Pose’. They have since become a major figure in the fashion industry, modeling for high-end luxury brands. Their recent film credits include ‘Escape Room: Tournament of Champions’ and ‘Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom’. Moore is a vocal advocate for the rights of transgender and non-binary individuals globally.

Danielle Brooks

Danielle Brooks is an Academy Award-nominated actress known for her roles in ‘Orange Is the New Black’ and the 2023 film ‘The Color Purple’. She received critical acclaim for her portrayal of Sofia, a role she also played on Broadway. Brooks starred in the DC series ‘Peacemaker’ as Leota Adebayo. She is also a Tony-nominated theater actress and a prominent voice for body positivity in the industry.

Amber Riley

Amber Riley is best known for her role as Mercedes Jones on the musical comedy series ‘Glee’. She has since had a successful career in musical theater, winning an Olivier Award for her performance in ‘Dreamgirls’ in the West End. Riley won the eighth season of ‘Dancing with the Stars’ and the eighth season of ‘The Masked Singer’. She continues to release music and perform in televised musical specials.

Naturi Naughton

Naturi Naughton is an actress and singer best known for her role as Tasha St. Patrick in the hit series ‘Power’. She reprised her role in the spin-off ‘Power Book II: Ghost’ and recently starred in the series ‘Queens’. Before her acting career, she was a member of the R&B group 3LW. Naughton has also appeared in films such as ‘Notorious’ and the 2009 remake of ‘Fame’.

Logan Browning

Logan Browning is recognized for her lead role as Samantha White in the Netflix series ‘Dear White People’. She also starred in the horror film ‘The Perfection’ and the series ‘Hit the Floor’. Recently, she has been involved in several independent film projects and voice acting. Browning is noted for her commitment to projects that explore social identity and complex interpersonal relationships.

Alexandra Shipp

Alexandra Shipp is known for portraying Storm in the ‘X-Men’ film series and for her role in ‘Tick, Tick… Boom!’. She recently appeared in the 2023 blockbuster ‘Barbie’ as Writer Barbie and starred in the romantic comedy ‘Anyone But You’. Her career includes the lead role in the biopic ‘Aaliyah: The Princess of R&B’. Shipp is also a musician and has contributed to several film soundtracks.

Serayah

Serayah gained widespread recognition for her role as Tiana Brown on the musical drama series ‘Empire’. Since the show’s conclusion, she has appeared in several television films and the series ‘Kingdom Business’. She is also a recording artist who frequently incorporates her musical talents into her acting roles. Serayah continues to be a visible figure in both the television and music industries.

Ryan Destiny

Ryan Destiny is an actress and singer best known for her lead role in the musical drama series ‘Star’. She recently starred in the film ‘Oracle’ and has a recurring role in the series ‘Grown-ish’. Destiny is also a successful model and has worked with several global beauty and fashion brands. She is set to portray Olympic champion Claressa Shields in the upcoming biopic ‘The Fire Inside’.

Lovie Simone

Lovie Simone rose to prominence for her role in the series ‘Greenleaf’ and her breakout film role in ‘Selah and the Spades’. She recently starred in the 2020 film ‘The Craft: Legacy’ and the series ‘Power Book III: Raising Kanan’. Her work is often praised for its intensity and mature portrayal of young adulthood. Simone continues to be regarded as one of the most promising young talents in independent and mainstream cinema.

Which of these actresses has your favorite performance from the last year? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.