Black Actors Who Became Even Bigger Stars Than Their Parents

The entertainment industry is often a family business where talent is passed down through generations. While some children of celebrities struggle to find their own identity many Black male actors have managed to eclipse the fame of their successful parents. These performers have built impressive legacies in film and television while reaching heights of global stardom that their predecessors did not achieve. From Academy Award winners to television icons these men have proven that they are more than just their famous last names.

Aldis Hodge

Aldis Hodge has become a highly respected actor known for his roles in ‘Leverage’ and the film ‘Straight Outta Compton’. His mother Yolette Evette Richardson was also involved in the industry and supported his early career as a child actor. Aldis achieved major success with his portrayal of Hawkman in the blockbuster ‘Black Adam’ and his leading role in ‘City on a Hill’. He is also an accomplished watchmaker and artist which adds to his multifaceted public persona.

Algee Smith

Algee Smith rose to prominence with his powerful performance in the historical drama ‘Detroit’. He also earned praise for his portrayal of Ralph Tresvant in the miniseries ‘The New Edition Story’. His father was a musician and producer who worked with various artists in the industry throughout his career. Algee has since become a key cast member in the hit series ‘Euphoria’ where he plays the character McKay.

Bobb’e J. Thompson

Bobb’e J. Thompson became a favorite among audiences as a child actor in films like ‘Role Models’ and ‘Fred Claus’. He also had a recurring role on ‘That’s So Raven’ and ‘Tyler Perry’s House of Payne’. His parents were not famous but they helped him manage a very busy career during his younger years as a rising star. Bobb’e transitioned into adult roles while continuing to perform stand up comedy and music for a dedicated audience.

Chris Rock

Chris Rock is one of the most famous comedians and actors in the world today. He began his career in stand up before joining the cast of ‘Saturday Night Live’ and starring in numerous films. His parents were not in the entertainment industry as his father was a truck driver and his mother was a teacher. Chris has won multiple Emmy Awards and has hosted the Academy Awards on two separate occasions during his storied career.

Corbin Bleu

Corbin Bleu became a household name among younger audiences after starring in the massively successful ‘High School Musical’ franchise. He played the character Chad Danforth and showcased his talents as both an actor and a dancer. His father David Reivers is also an actor who appeared alongside him in several projects including the movie ‘Jump In’. Corbin achieved a high level of teen idol status and later transitioned into successful Broadway performances.

Cuba Gooding Jr.

Cuba Gooding Jr. rose to international prominence with his breakout role in ‘Boyz n the Hood’. He later won an Academy Award for his performance in ‘Jerry Maguire’ and became a staple of Hollywood cinema. His father was the lead singer of the soul group The Main Ingredient and had a successful career in music. However the younger Gooding achieved a level of mainstream movie stardom that spanned decades of major film releases.

Damon Wayans Jr.

Damon Wayans Jr. established himself as a prominent comedic actor through his roles in popular television series like ‘Happy Endings’ and ‘New Girl’. He is the son of the legendary comedian and ‘In Living Color’ creator Damon Wayans. While his father is a pioneer of modern sketch comedy the younger Wayans has built a distinct identity as a leading man in contemporary sitcoms. He has also starred in films such as ‘Let’s Be Cops’ which performed very well at the box office.

Denzel Washington

Denzel Washington is widely considered one of the greatest actors of his generation. He began his career in theater and television before becoming a major film star in movies like ‘Glory’ and ‘Training Day’. His father was a minister and his mother owned a beauty parlor so neither were part of the Hollywood establishment. Denzel has won two Academy Awards and has been nominated numerous times for his powerful and commanding performances.

Diggy Simmons

Diggy Simmons rose to fame as a member of the famous Simmons family on the reality show ‘Run’s House’. He is the son of the hip hop legend Rev Run from the group Run DMC. Diggy eventually transitioned from a teenage rapper into a professional actor with a recurring role on the sitcom ‘Grown-ish’. His portrayal of Doug on the show earned him praise for his comedic and dramatic timing.

Eddie Murphy

Eddie Murphy is a global icon who redefined comedy in the eighties with his work on ‘Saturday Night Live’. He went on to star in some of the biggest films of all time including ‘Beverly Hills Cop’ and ‘Shrek’. His mother was a telephone operator and his father was a transit police officer who also performed comedy on the side. Eddie achieved a level of superstardom that made him one of the highest grossing actors in history.

Edwin Hodge

Edwin Hodge is a versatile actor who has appeared in numerous high profile projects including the horror franchise ‘The Purge’. Like his brother Aldis he began his career at a young age with the support of his mother who understood the industry. He has held significant roles in television series such as ‘Six’ and ‘FBI: Most Wanted’. Edwin has also appeared in films like ‘The Tomorrow War’ alongside major Hollywood stars.

Evan Ross

Evan Ross has appeared in numerous films and television shows including the popular ‘The Hunger Games’ series and ‘90210’. He is the son of the legendary superstar singer and actress Diana Ross. While his mother is one of the most famous women in the world Evan has carved out a niche for himself as a steady and talented actor. He has also explored music but his primary focus remains on his diverse acting projects in various genres.

Jaden Smith

Jaden Smith made his acting debut alongside his father Will Smith in the emotional drama ‘The Pursuit of Happyness’. He went on to star in the remake of ‘The Karate Kid’ which was a massive global box office success. While his father is one of the biggest movie stars in history Jaden became a major icon for the younger generation through his work in film. He has also appeared in projects like ‘The Get Down’ and voiced characters in animated series.

Jacob Latimore

Jacob Latimore began his career as a singer before finding major success as an actor in films like ‘Black Nativity’ and ‘The Maze Runner’. His father and uncles were part of a professional singing group which influenced his early entry into the world of entertainment. Jacob has since starred in the acclaimed series ‘The Chi’ where he plays a central character. He has also appeared in movies like ‘Sleight’ and the remake of ‘House Party’.

John David Washington

John David Washington made a significant impact on the film industry with his leading role in the acclaimed drama ‘BlacKkKlansman’. He is the son of the iconic Academy Award winning actor Denzel Washington. While his father is considered one of the greatest actors of all time John David has quickly become a massive star in his own right. He headlined the high budget blockbuster ‘Tenet’ and the intimate drama ‘Malcolm and Marie’.

Khylin Rhambo

Khylin Rhambo gained a large following for his role as Mason Hewitt on the popular supernatural series ‘Teen Wolf’. He also appeared in the science fiction film ‘Ender’s Game’ alongside several legendary actors. His parents were not stars but they encouraged his early interest in modeling and acting from a young age. Khylin has continued to work in television with roles in ‘The First Family’ and various independent projects.

Kofi Siriboe

Kofi Siriboe became a breakout star through his leading role as Ralph Angel Bordelon on the drama series ‘Queen Sugar’. His parents were not actors but his brothers are also in the industry which created a creative environment at home. Kofi appeared in the hit film ‘Girls Trip’ which further increased his visibility and heartthrob status. He has also explored modeling and filmmaking through his own production company.

Kwesi Boakye

Kwesi Boakye began his career as a child actor and is the younger brother of actors Kofi Siriboe and Kwame Boateng. He is well known for his voice work as Darwin in ‘The Amazing World of Gumball’ and his role in ‘I Can Do Bad All by Myself’. Kwesi has successfully moved from child roles into more mature television appearances on shows like ‘Colony’. He continues to work steadily in the industry alongside his brothers who all share a passion for acting.

Lenny Kravitz

Lenny Kravitz is a multi talented performer who gained global fame for his unique blend of rock and soul music. While many recognize him for his hits he has also built a significant acting resume in films like ‘The Hunger Games’ and ‘Precious’. His mother Roxie Roker was a well known television actress who starred in the classic sitcom ‘The Jeffersons’. Lenny eventually surpassed her fame by becoming a world renowned icon in both the music and film sectors.

Malcolm-Jamal Warner

Malcolm-Jamal Warner became an overnight sensation as Theo Huxtable on the legendary sitcom ‘The Cosby Show’. His mother served as his manager during his early career to help him navigate the pressures of fame. Malcolm eventually transitioned into directing and starring in other successful series like ‘Malcolm and Eddie’ and ‘The Resident’. He has also received praise for his work as a musician and spoken word artist throughout his career.

Marcus Scribner

Marcus Scribner is best known for his long running role as Andre Johnson Jr. on the hit sitcom ‘Black-ish’. His father Troy Scribner has worked in various capacities within the entertainment industry. Marcus became a breakout star on the series and earned multiple nominations for his comedic performance. He has also lent his voice to animated projects like ‘She-Ra and the Princesses of Power’.

Mario Van Peebles

Mario Van Peebles became a major figure in Hollywood during the early nineties with his work in ‘New Jack City’. He followed in the footsteps of his father Melvin Van Peebles who was a pioneer of independent Black cinema. While the elder Van Peebles was a revolutionary filmmaker Mario transitioned into big budget mainstream productions as an actor and a director. He successfully bridged the gap between independent artistry and commercial success.

O’Shea Jackson Jr.

O’Shea Jackson Jr. earned widespread critical acclaim for portraying his father Ice Cube in the biographical drama ‘Straight Outta Compton’. This breakout role launched a successful acting career that led to parts in major films like ‘Godzilla: King of the Monsters’. While his father is a legendary figure in both rap and film O’Shea has proven he possesses the range to handle diverse roles. He has since appeared in ‘Just Mercy’ and the series ‘Swagger’ to showcase his abilities.

Quincy Brown

Quincy Brown is an actor and singer who gained a large following through his role on the musical drama series ‘Star’. He is the son of the nineties R&B singer Al B. Sure and was also raised by the mogul Sean Diddy Combs. Quincy has appeared in films like ‘Brotherly Love’ and ‘Dope’ while building a successful career in the fashion industry. His presence in the entertainment world continues to grow as he takes on more significant acting roles.

Roshon Fegan

Roshon Fegan became a prominent young star through his roles in ‘Camp Rock’ and the hit series ‘Shake It Up’. He is the son of Cindi Fegan and actor Roy Fegan who appeared in films like ‘The Five Heartbeats’. Roshon has showcased his talents as a dancer and musician in addition to his acting work. He competed on ‘Dancing with the Stars’ and has released his own music independently for his fans.

Rotimi

Rotimi is an actor and singer who became a breakout star through his role as Dre on the hit series ‘Power’. He was born to Nigerian parents who were not in the entertainment industry but supported his artistic pursuits. Rotimi has appeared in films like ‘Coming 2 America’ and ‘Divergent’ while maintaining a successful music career. His R&B hits have garnered millions of streams and he is often recognized for his dual talent.

Ser’Darius Blain

Ser’Darius Blain is best known for his role as Fridge in the ‘Jumanji’ film franchise which has been a massive global success. He also starred in the television reboot of ‘Charmed’ as a regular cast member. His mother was a high school drama teacher who inspired his love for performing at an early age. Ser’Darius has appeared in a variety of projects including ‘The Last Full Measure’ and ‘Camp X-Ray’.

Tequan Richmond

Tequan Richmond is best known for his role as Drew Rock on the sitcom ‘Everybody Hates Chris’. He also received critical acclaim for his portrayal of a young Ray Charles in the biographical film ‘Ray’. His parents supported his move from North Carolina to Los Angeles to pursue his dreams in the industry. Tequan later starred in the soap opera ‘General Hospital’ and the series ‘Boomerang’.

Tristan Mack Wilds

Tristan Mack Wilds first gained widespread attention for his role as Michael Lee on the critically acclaimed series ‘The Wire’. He later moved on to a starring role in the reboot of ‘90210’ which increased his mainstream popularity. His parents were not industry stars though they supported his creative ambitions from a young age. Tristan has also released music under the name Mack Wilds and received a Grammy nomination for his debut album.

Tyler James Williams

Tyler James Williams became a child star after being cast as the lead in the popular sitcom ‘Everybody Hates Chris’. His parents were not famous stars but his father worked in law enforcement and his mother was a singer. Tyler successfully transitioned into adult roles with a notable turn in ‘The Walking Dead’ and ‘Dear White People’. He reached a new level of acclaim for his role in the hit mockumentary ‘Abbott Elementary’.

Tyrel Jackson Williams

Tyrel Jackson Williams is well known for his starring role on the Disney XD series ‘Lab Rats’. He followed his older brother Tyler James Williams into the acting world and quickly found his own success. He has appeared in various television shows including ‘Brockmire’ where he showcased his comedic range. His work in the film ‘Brotherly Love’ also highlighted his ability to handle more serious dramatic material.

Will Smith

Will Smith transitioned from a successful career as a rapper to becoming one of the most powerful actors in Hollywood. He starred in the classic sitcom ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’ before moving into blockbuster films like ‘Independence Day’. His parents were not celebrities as his father owned a refrigeration company and his mother worked for a school board. Will has received multiple Academy Award nominations and won the Oscar for Best Actor for his role in ‘King Richard’.

Woody McClain

Woody McClain gained national recognition for his portrayal of Bobby Brown in ‘The New Edition Story’ and later ‘The Bobby Brown Story’. He started his career as a professional dancer and social media personality before transitioning into serious acting. His parents were not part of the Hollywood scene but he worked hard to establish himself as a leading man. Woody has since starred in the popular series ‘Power Book II: Ghost’ as the character Cane Tejada.

Share your favorite performances from these talented legacy stars in the comments.