The Most Beautiful Black Actresses of 2026

The landscape of Hollywood in 2026 continues to be shaped by the immense talent and undeniable presence of Black actresses who dominate both blockbuster franchises and prestigious independent cinema. These women have not only garnered critical acclaim for their transformative performances but have also become global icons of style and influence. From seasoned veterans who paved the way to a new generation of breakout stars, the industry celebrates the diversity of their craft across various genres. This list highlights the actresses who are currently leading the conversation through their upcoming major film releases, hit television series, and cultural impact.

Samantha Logan

Samantha Logan is widely recognized for her leading role as Olivia Baker in the popular drama series ‘All American’ (2018–present). She began her career with appearances in ‘666 Park Avenue’ and ‘General Hospital’ before finding mainstream success. Logan has been praised for her ability to portray complex emotional arcs within the young adult genre. In addition to her television work, she has explored roles in feature films like the supernatural thriller ‘Polaroid’ (2019). Her consistent presence on screen has made her a familiar face in contemporary television drama.

Logan Browning

Logan Browning gained significant critical attention for her starring role as Samantha White in the Netflix series ‘Dear White People’ (2017–2021). Her performance as a student activist navigating racial tensions at an Ivy League university showcased her range and comedic timing. Browning’s career includes early roles in the ‘Bratz’ (2007) movie and the scripted series ‘Hit the Floor’. She has also ventured into the horror genre with a leading part in the psychological thriller ‘The Perfection’ (2018). Her work is often noted for its intellectual depth and sharp delivery.

Nafessa Williams

Nafessa Williams made television history as Anissa Pierce, also known as Thunder, in the superhero series ‘Black Lightning’ (2018–2021). This role marked her as the first Black lesbian superhero to be featured on a major television network. Before her breakout in the DC Universe, she appeared in the soap opera ‘One Life to Live’ and the drama ‘Code Black’. Williams recently starred in the Whitney Houston biopic ‘I Wanna Dance with Somebody’ (2022) as Robyn Crawford. She continues to be a prominent figure in action-oriented storytelling.

Javicia Leslie

Javicia Leslie stepped into the spotlight as the lead in ‘Batwoman’ (2020–2022), where she portrayed Ryan Wilder. This casting made her the first Black actress to play the title character in a live-action Batman-related production. Leslie previously gained recognition for her role in the series ‘God Friended Me’ and the film ‘Always a Bridesmaid’ (2019). In 2024 and 2025, she expanded her portfolio with projects that highlight her versatility in both drama and action. Her career is characterized by a commitment to representation in the superhero genre.

Jayme Lawson

Jayme Lawson is a rising talent who first gained major attention for her role as Bella Reál in ‘The Batman’ (2022). She followed this success with a powerful performance as a young Michelle Obama in the anthology series ‘The First Lady’ (2022). Lawson also starred in the historical epic ‘The Woman King’ (2022), further establishing her presence in major ensemble casts. In 2026, she is set to appear in ‘The Running Man’, an adaptation of the Stephen King novel. Her rapid ascent in Hollywood is attributed to her poise and stage-trained acting precision.

Alexandra Shipp

Alexandra Shipp is well known for her portrayal of the mutant Storm in the ‘X-Men’ film series, including ‘X-Men: Apocalypse’ (2016) and ‘Dark Phoenix’ (2019). She has also delivered acclaimed performances in the musical drama ‘tick, tick… BOOM!’ (2021) and the Greta Gerwig-directed ‘Barbie’ (2023). Shipp’s career began with television movies, most notably playing the title role in ‘Aaliyah: The Princess of R&B’ (2014). More recently, she starred in the romantic comedy ‘Anyone But You’ (2023), proving her ability to navigate various commercial genres. She remains a versatile talent in both independent and blockbuster projects.

Tika Sumpter

Tika Sumpter is a prolific actress and producer known for her roles in both television and major film franchises. She stars as Maddie Wachowski in the ‘Sonic the Hedgehog’ (2020–present) films, providing a grounded presence in the high-energy series. Sumpter also earned praise for her portrayal of a young Michelle Robinson in ‘Southside with You’ (2016). Her television credits include a long-running role in ‘The Haves and the Have Nots’ and the sitcom ‘Mixed-ish’. She continues to balance voice acting and live-action roles across multiple platforms.

Quintessa Swindell

Quintessa Swindell made a significant impact as Cyclone in the DC Extended Universe film ‘Black Adam’ (2022). They previously gained recognition for their role as Tabitha Foster in the Netflix series ‘Trinkets’ (2019–2020). Swindell’s career also includes a role in the critically acclaimed HBO series ‘In Treatment’. They have been noted for a distinct screen presence that blends vulnerability with physical prowess. Swindell’s involvement in major franchises has positioned them as a key young actor to watch in the mid-2020s.

Laura Harrier

Laura Harrier rose to international prominence after playing Liz Allan in ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’ (2017). She solidified her status as a dramatic actress with a role in Spike Lee’s ‘BlacKkKlansman’ (2018), which won the Grand Prix at the Cannes Film Festival. Harrier also starred in the Netflix miniseries ‘Hollywood’ (2020), portraying an aspiring actress in the post-war era. She is frequently recognized for her work with major fashion houses, blending her acting career with a significant presence in the luxury industry. Her recent roles continue to lean toward sophisticated drama and period pieces.

Jurnee Smollett

Jurnee Smollett has been a mainstay in the industry since her childhood breakout in ‘Eve’s Bayou’ (1997). In recent years, she earned an Emmy nomination for her performance as Leti Lewis in the HBO series ‘Lovecraft Country’ (2020). Smollett also joined the DC Extended Universe as Black Canary in ‘Birds of Prey’ (2020). Her career spans decades of television work, including ‘Friday Night Lights’ and ‘True Blood’. She is known for her intense emotional commitment and physical dedication to her roles.

Gugu Mbatha-Raw

Gugu Mbatha-Raw is a British actress known for her elegance and range in projects like the period drama ‘Belle’ (2013). She gained widespread acclaim for the ‘San Junipero’ episode of ‘Black Mirror’ and her role as Ravonna Renslayer in the Marvel series ‘Loki’ (2021–2023). Mbatha-Raw has starred in films such as ‘Beyond the Lights’ (2014) and the science fiction epic ‘A Wrinkle in Time’ (2018). In 2024 and 2025, she continued her work in the thriller genre with the series ‘The Girl Before’. She was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for her services to drama.

Jodie Turner-Smith

Jodie Turner-Smith became a household name following her breakout performance in the romantic crime drama ‘Queen & Slim’ (2019). She has since starred in ‘Without Remorse’ (2021) and the science fiction film ‘After Yang’ (2021). Turner-Smith took on the title role in the historical miniseries ‘Anne Boleyn’ (2021), marking a significant moment for representation in British period drama. In 2024, she joined the ‘Star Wars’ universe in ‘The Acolyte’. Her striking presence and bold fashion choices have made her a frequent highlight of international red carpets.

Marsai Martin

Marsai Martin is most famous for her role as Diane Johnson on the hit sitcom ‘Black-ish’ (2014–2022). At the age of 14, she became the youngest person to ever produce a major Hollywood film with ‘Little’ (2019), in which she also starred. Martin has won multiple NAACP Image Awards for her television performance and her entrepreneurial spirit. She has since expanded into voice acting for ‘PAW Patrol: The Movie’ and continues to produce content through her company, Genius Productions. Her transition from a child star to a powerful producer is a landmark in the industry.

Yara Shahidi

Yara Shahidi gained fame as Zoey Johnson on ‘Black-ish’ before headlining her own successful spin-off, ‘Grown-ish’ (2018–2024). She also starred as Tinker Bell in the live-action ‘Peter Pan & Wendy’ (2023) and led the romantic drama ‘The Sun Is Also a Star’ (2019). Beyond her acting, Shahidi is a Harvard University graduate and a prominent activist for social justice and voting rights. In 2026, she remains a central figure in youth culture and a sought-after talent for both film and advocacy. Her career is defined by a blend of academic achievement and creative excellence.

Nia Long

Nia Long is a legendary figure in Black cinema, known for her roles in classics like ‘Boyz n the Hood’ (1991) and ‘Love Jones’ (1997). She has maintained a consistent career with the ‘The Best Man’ franchise and roles in films like ‘Soul Food’ (1997). In recent years, she starred in the thriller ‘Fatal Affair’ (2020) and the comedy ‘You People’ (2023). Long’s enduring appeal is often attributed to her effortless charm and ability to anchor dramatic narratives. She continues to be a respected veteran who influences younger generations of actors.

Gabrielle Union

Gabrielle Union established herself as a leading lady in the early 2000s with films like ‘Bring It On’ (2000) and ‘Bad Boys II’ (2003). She found further success with her starring role in the television drama ‘Being Mary Jane’ (2013–2019). Union is also an accomplished author and producer, often advocating for better working conditions in the entertainment industry. Recently, she starred in and produced ‘The Idea of You’ (2024) and the animated feature ‘Strange World’ (2022). Her career longevity is a testament to her business acumen and on-screen charisma.

Meagan Good

Meagan Good began her career as a child actress in ‘Eve’s Bayou’ (1997) and transitioned into a leading star in films like ‘Deliver Us from Eva’ (2003). She has starred in the ‘Think Like a Man’ franchise and the superhero film ‘Shazam!’ (2019) and its sequel. Currently, she is a lead in the Amazon Prime series ‘Harlem’ (2021–present), which explores the lives of four women in New York. Good is praised for her consistency in the industry and her ability to work across horror, comedy, and drama. She remains one of the most recognizable faces in modern Black entertainment.

Zazie Beetz

Zazie Beetz rose to fame through her role as Vanessa in the critically acclaimed series ‘Atlanta’ (2016–2022). She made a major leap into film as Domino in ‘Deadpool 2’ (2018) and played Sophie Dumond in the blockbuster ‘Joker’ (2019). Beetz has also appeared in ‘The Harder They Fall’ (2021) and ‘Bullet Train’ (2022). In 2024, she returned to her role in ‘Joker: Folie à Deux’. Her performances are often characterized by a naturalistic style and a cool, understated intensity.

Michaela Coel

Michaela Coel is a multi-talented creator and actress who gained international fame for her series ‘I May Destroy You’ (2020). For this work, she became the first Black woman to win the Emmy Award for Outstanding Writing for a Limited Series. Coel also appeared in the ‘Black Mirror’ episode ‘USS Callister’ and ‘Star Wars: The Last Jedi’ (2017). She joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Aneka in ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ (2022). Her work is celebrated for its radical honesty and innovative approach to storytelling.

Lashana Lynch

Lashana Lynch made a massive impact as the first female 007 in the James Bond film ‘No Time to Die’ (2021). She followed this with a powerful performance as Izogie in ‘The Woman King’ (2022) and played Miss Honey in ‘Matilda the Musical’ (2022). Lynch also stars as Rita Marley in the biopic ‘Bob Marley: One Love’ (2024). Her roles often emphasize strength, resilience, and a commanding physical presence. She is a prominent figure in the British acting community and a rising star in global cinema.

Dominique Thorne

Dominique Thorne made her feature film debut in the Academy Award-winning ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’ (2018). She quickly ascended to leading status as Riri Williams, also known as Ironheart, in ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ (2022). Thorne is set to headline her own Disney+ series, ‘Ironheart’, which expands her character’s journey in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Her background includes training at the Manhattan School of the Arts, which informs her technical proficiency. She is considered one of the most promising young talents in the current superhero landscape.

Letitia Wright

Letitia Wright is best known for her role as Shuri in the ‘Black Panther’ franchise, eventually taking on the title role in ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ (2022). She received a BAFTA Rising Star Award in 2019 following her performances in ‘Avengers: Infinity War’ and ‘Sing 2’. Wright has also starred in the anthology series ‘Small Axe’ (2020) and the western ‘Surrounded’ (2023). In 2026, she continues to be a major force in both blockbusters and independent film production. Her work often highlights themes of innovation and leadership.

KiKi Layne

KiKi Layne had a breakout year in 2018 with her starring role as Tish Rivers in Barry Jenkins’ ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’. She has since appeared in the action film ‘The Old Guard’ (2020) alongside Charlize Theron and in the satire ‘Don’t Worry Darling’ (2022). Layne also provided the voice for Gadget Hackwrench in ‘Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers’ (2022). Her career is marked by a selection of roles that challenge traditional archetypes of Black women in film. She is frequently cited as a fashion icon for her striking red-carpet appearances.

Sophie Wilde

Sophie Wilde is an Australian actress who gained global recognition for her lead role in the horror hit ‘Talk to Me’ (2023). Her performance was widely praised for its intensity and emotional depth, leading to several award nominations. Wilde also appeared in the series ‘Boy Swallows Universe’ (2024) and ‘The Everything Now’. In 2025 and 2026, she is set to star in major projects including ‘Babygirl’ and the biopic ‘Judy’. She is considered a leading figure in the new wave of international talent entering Hollywood.

India Ria Amarteifio

India Amarteifio rose to international stardom as the young title character in ‘Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story’ (2023). Her portrayal of the historical figure’s early years was praised for its grace and chemistry with co-stars. Before her breakout role, she appeared in British television series such as ‘Line of Duty’ and ‘Sex Education’. Amarteifio’s background in musical theater has contributed to her expressive acting style. She is positioned as one of the most significant new romantic leads in television.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg first gained attention as Rue in ‘The Hunger Games’ (2012) and has since become a leading voice of her generation. She starred in ‘The Hate U Give’ (2018), ‘Bodies Bodies Bodies’ (2022), and provided the voice for Spider-Byte in ‘Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse’ (2023). In 2024, she took on a dual lead role in the ‘Star Wars’ series ‘The Acolyte’. Stenberg is also known for her activism and vocal stance on intersectional feminism. Her career is defined by bold choices in both mainstream and genre-bending projects.

Taylor Russell

Taylor Russell earned critical acclaim for her breakout role in the indie drama ‘Waves’ (2019). She reached a wider audience as the lead in the ‘Escape Room’ (2019) franchise and the cannibal romance ‘Bones and All’ (2022). For the latter, she won the Marcello Mastroianni Award at the Venice Film Festival. Russell has also made a name for herself in the theater world, starring in ‘The Effect’ at the National Theatre. She is highly regarded for her delicate, internal acting style and her influence in high fashion.

Danielle Deadwyler

Danielle Deadwyler delivered one of the most acclaimed performances of recent years as Mamie Till-Mobley in ‘Till’ (2022). For this role, she received numerous nominations, including a BAFTA and a Screen Actors Guild Award. Deadwyler has also appeared in ‘The Harder They Fall’ (2021) and the miniseries ‘Station Eleven’ (2021). Her career is characterized by deeply researched and emotionally resonant portrayals of historical and fictional figures. She remains a top choice for prestige dramas heading into 2026.

Thuso Mbedu

Thuso Mbedu is a South African actress who made a major international debut in the limited series ‘The Underground Railroad’ (2021). Her performance earned her an Independent Spirit Award and a Gotham Award. She followed this success with a starring role alongside Viola Davis in ‘The Woman King’ (2022). Mbedu is a two-time International Emmy nominee for her work in the South African drama ‘Is’Thunzi’. She is recognized for her extraordinary ability to convey complex emotions through minimal dialogue.

Dominique Fishback

Dominique Fishback received an Emmy nomination for her transformative lead role in the series ‘Swarm’ (2023). She also starred as Elena Wallace in the blockbuster ‘Transformers: Rise of the Beasts’ (2023) and played Deborah Johnson in ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’ (2021). Fishback is also a playwright and poet, often incorporating her lyrical sensibilities into her acting. Her early work in ‘The Deuce’ (2017–2019) showcased her as a rising dramatic force. She is widely considered one of the most versatile and intense performers of her generation.

Ayo Edebiri

Ayo Edebiri became a breakout star for her role as Sydney Adamu in the critically acclaimed series ‘The Bear’ (2022–present). She won both a Golden Globe and an Emmy for her performance, which blends sharp comedy with vulnerability. Edebiri has also starred in the film ‘Bottoms’ (2023) and provided voices for ‘Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse’ and ‘Inside Out 2’ (2024). Her quick wit and relatable on-screen persona have made her a favorite of both critics and audiences. She is a dominant force in the current landscape of comedy-drama.

Storm Reid

Storm Reid first gained fame as the lead in Ava DuVernay’s ‘A Wrinkle in Time’ (2018). Since then, she has delivered standout performances in the series ‘Euphoria’ (2019–present) and the horror film ‘The Invisible Man’ (2020). Reid won an Emmy for her guest role as Riley Abel in ‘The Last of Us’ (2023). She also starred in the screenlife thriller ‘Missing’ (2023) and ‘The Nun II’ (2023). Her career is marked by a successful transition from child stardom to leading complex, mature roles.

Chloe Bailey

Chloe Bailey, initially known as one half of the musical duo Chloe x Halle, has successfully transitioned into a solo acting career. She starred in the series ‘Grown-ish’ and took on a daring role in the thriller ‘Swarm’ (2023). Bailey also led the musical film ‘Praise This’ (2023) and the supernatural thriller ‘The Exorcism’ (2024). Her dual career as a Grammy-nominated singer and a rising actress makes her a prominent figure in 2026 entertainment. She is often celebrated for her powerful stage presence and bold artistic identity.

Halle Bailey

Halle Bailey achieved global stardom with her portrayal of Ariel in the live-action reimagining of ‘The Little Mermaid’ (2023). She followed this with a role as the young Nettie in the musical adaptation of ‘The Color Purple’ (2023). Like her sister Chloe, she began her career in music before becoming one of Disney’s most recognizable leading ladies. Bailey is noted for her exceptional vocal talent and her ability to bring a sense of wonder to her performances. In 2026, she remains at the forefront of the industry with multiple film and music projects in development.

Keke Palmer

Keke Palmer is a versatile entertainer who has been in the public eye since her childhood role in ‘Akeelah and the Bee’ (2006). She received widespread acclaim for her leading performance in Jordan Peele’s ‘Nope’ (2022). Palmer has also made history as the youngest talk show host and has won multiple Emmy Awards for her digital series work. She recently starred in the film ‘Alice’ (2022) and continues to be a major presence in both television and film. Her infectious personality and career longevity have made her a cultural icon.

Danai Gurira

Danai Gurira is world-renowned for her role as Michonne in ‘The Walking Dead’ (2012–2020) and Okoye in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. She reprised her role as the Dora Milaje leader in ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ (2022) and starred in ‘The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live’ (2024). Gurira is also an award-winning playwright, with her play ‘Eclipsed’ receiving a Tony Award nomination. Her performances are characterized by a combination of physical intensity and deep emotional gravity. She is a key figure in the advocacy for African stories in global media.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson has built a diverse career with roles in the ‘Creed’ franchise, the ‘Thor’ series, and the science fiction show ‘Westworld’ (2016–2022). She earned critical praise for her performance in the period drama ‘Passing’ (2021), which she also executive produced. Thompson is known for her collaborative work with director Janicza Bravo in ‘Zola’ (2020) and her role in ‘The Harder They Fall’ (2021). She is a vocal advocate for the Time’s Up movement and gender parity in Hollywood. Her screen presence is often described as magnetic and intellectually sharp.

Cynthia Erivo

Cynthia Erivo is a powerhouse talent who is close to achieving EGOT status, having won a Tony, Emmy, and Grammy. She received two Academy Award nominations for her portrayal of Harriet Tubman in ‘Harriet’ (2019). Erivo stars as Elphaba in the highly anticipated two-part film adaptation of ‘Wicked’ (2024–2025). Her television work includes a leading role as Aretha Franklin in ‘Genius: Aretha’ (2021). She is celebrated for her extraordinary vocal range and her ability to disappear into historically significant roles.

Issa Rae

Issa Rae changed the television landscape with her hit HBO series ‘Insecure’ (2016–2021), which she created and starred in. She has since appeared in major films such as ‘The Photograph’ (2020), ‘Vengeance’ (2022), and as President Barbie in ‘Barbie’ (2023). Rae also voiced Jessica Drew in ‘Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse’ (2023). Through her company Hoorae Media, she produces a wide range of content, including the series ‘Rap Sh!t’. She is a leading figure in the movement for creative ownership among Black artists.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe is a celebrated musician and actress known for her roles in ‘Hidden Figures’ (2016) and ‘Moonlight’ (2016). She received high praise for her performance in the mystery sequel ‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery’ (2022). Monáe also starred in the psychological horror film ‘Antebellum’ (2020) and the series ‘Homecoming’. Her artistic work often explores themes of Afrofuturism and identity. In 2026, she remains a unique force in Hollywood, blending high-concept music with prestigious acting roles.

Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson is an Academy Award-nominated actress best known for her role as Cookie Lyon on the musical drama ‘Empire’ (2015–2020). She has delivered powerful performances in films like ‘The Curious Case of Benjamin Button’ (2008) and ‘Hidden Figures’ (2016). Recently, she starred as Shug Avery in the musical film ‘The Color Purple’ (2023). Henson is also an advocate for mental health awareness through her Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation. Her career is marked by a series of iconic characters that have become part of the cultural lexicon.

Regina King

Regina King is one of the most decorated actresses of her generation, with an Academy Award and four Primetime Emmy Awards. She won her Oscar for ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’ (2018) and received critical acclaim for the series ‘Watchmen’ (2019). King made her feature film directorial debut with ‘One Night in Miami…’ (2020), which earned three Oscar nominations. In 2024, she starred as the title character in ‘Shirley’, a biopic about politician Shirley Chisholm. She is widely respected as a triple threat in acting, directing, and producing.

Zoe Saldaña

Zoe Saldaña is the only actress to appear in four of the highest-grossing films of all time: ‘Avatar’, ‘Avatar: The Way of Water’, ‘Avengers: Infinity War’, and ‘Avengers: Endgame’. She is also known for her role as Uhura in the ‘Star Trek’ reboot series and Gamora in ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’. In 2024, she earned widespread acclaim for her role in the musical crime film ‘Emilia Pérez’. Saldaña’s career is defined by her dominance in the science fiction and action genres. She remains one of the most commercially successful actresses in the history of cinema.

Kerry Washington

Kerry Washington became a global star for her role as Olivia Pope in the political thriller series ‘Scandal’ (2012–2018). She has since starred in and executive produced the miniseries ‘Little Fires Everywhere’ (2020) and the drama ‘UnPrisoned’ (2023). Washington’s film credits include ‘Ray’ (2004), ‘The Last King of Scotland’ (2006), and ‘Django Unchained’ (2012). She is a prominent activist and co-founder of the Influence Change initiative. Her work consistently explores the intersection of politics, race, and personal power.

Angela Bassett

Angela Bassett is a cinematic icon known for her commanding presence and portrayal of strong historical women. She received an Academy Award nomination for her role as Tina Turner in ‘What’s Love Got to Do with It’ (1993) and a second nomination for ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ (2022). Bassett currently stars in and produces the hit procedural drama ‘9-1-1’ (2018–present). In 2024, she was honored with an Honorary Academy Award for her contributions to the film industry. She is frequently cited as one of the most respected and physically fit actresses in Hollywood.

Viola Davis

Viola Davis is an EGOT winner and the only Black actress to have won the “Triple Crown of Acting” (an Oscar, an Emmy, and two Tonys). She is renowned for her roles in ‘The Help’ (2011), ‘Fences’ (2016), and the series ‘How to Get Away with Murder’ (2014–2020). Davis starred as General Nanisca in the historical epic ‘The Woman King’ (2022) and as Amanda Waller in the DC Extended Universe. Her production company, JuVee Productions, focuses on giving a voice to the voiceless through diverse storytelling. She is often described as the greatest actress of her generation.

Lupita Nyong’o

Lupita Nyong’o won an Academy Award for her film debut in ’12 Years a Slave’ (2013) and has since become a global superstar. She has starred in ‘Black Panther’ (2018), Jordan Peele’s ‘Us’ (2019), and provided the voice for Maz Kanata in the ‘Star Wars’ sequel trilogy. In 2024, she led the horror prequel ‘A Quiet Place: Day One’. Nyong’o is also a fashion icon and the author of the best-selling children’s book ‘Sulwe’. Her career is a testament to her immense range and her status as a beacon of Black excellence.

Teyana Taylor

Teyana Taylor experienced a major cinematic breakout with her lead role in the drama ‘A Thousand and One’ (2023), for which she received critical raves. In 2026, she is poised for a massive year with starring roles in the Netflix film ‘The Rip’ and the Hulu series ‘All’s Fair’. Taylor is a multi-hyphenate artist who also directs music videos and has a successful career in music and choreography. Her recent transition to dramatic acting has been met with significant award buzz and industry respect. She is considered a “renaissance woman” of the modern entertainment era.

Tanzyn Crawford

Tanzyn Crawford is set to become one of the biggest names of 2026 as she takes on the role of Tanselle in the ‘Game of Thrones’ prequel series ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’. She previously gained attention for her role in the Hulu series ‘Tiny Beautiful Things’ (2023) and the film ‘The Servant’. Crawford was named a 2025 Rising Star by the Casting Guild of Australia, signaling her impending international success. Her casting in a major fantasy franchise has placed her at the center of global pop culture conversations. She represents the next wave of leading talent in high-budget television.

Zendaya

Zendaya is the defining actress of her generation, having won two Emmy Awards for her role as Rue Bennett in ‘Euphoria’ (2019–present). In 2026, she headlines a massive slate of projects including Christopher Nolan’s ‘The Odyssey’, ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’, and ‘Dune: Part Three’. She also starred in the 2024 tennis drama ‘Challengers’, which further showcased her ability to lead a film both critically and commercially. Zendaya is a global fashion ambassador and one of the most influential people in the world according to ‘Time’ magazine. Her career trajectory is unprecedented, balancing massive blockbusters with prestigious, award-winning drama.

Which of these incredible actresses’ upcoming 2026 projects are you most excited to see? Share your thoughts in the comments.