Black Actors You Probably Didn’t Know Were Born Outside the U.S.

The entertainment industry features many talented performers who have achieved great success in American cinema while originating from other countries. These actors bring diverse backgrounds and unique cultural perspectives to their roles in film and television. Many viewers often assume these stars are from the United States because of their perfect American accents on screen. Exploring the global roots of these leading men reveals the international nature of Hollywood today.

Idris Elba

Idris Elba was born in London and established his reputation through powerful performances on both sides of the Atlantic. He became a household name for his portrayal of the intelligent drug kingpin Russell Bell in the series ‘The Wire’. The actor continued his success with a long running lead role in the psychological crime drama ‘Luther’. He has also appeared in several major film franchises including the Marvel Cinematic Universe as the character Heimdall.

Daniel Kaluuya

Daniel Kaluuya was born in London to Ugandan parents and began his acting journey in the British theatre scene. He gained widespread international recognition for his starring role in the horror film ‘Get Out’ where he played a photographer visiting his girlfriend’s family. The actor later won a prestigious Academy Award for his portrayal of Fred Hampton in the biographical drama ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’. His career also includes roles in ‘Black Panther’ and the science fiction thriller ‘Nope’.

John Boyega

John Boyega was born in London and grew up in the Peckham district before finding fame as a global film star. He rose to international prominence after being cast as Finn in the ‘Star Wars’ sequel trilogy which began with ‘The Force Awakens’. Prior to his work in a galaxy far away he starred in the cult science fiction comedy ‘Attack the Block’. He continues to take on challenging roles in films like the historical drama ‘The Woman King’ and the thriller ‘Detroit’.

Chiwetel Ejiofor

Chiwetel Ejiofor was born in London and has received numerous accolades for his work across film and stage. He earned critical acclaim and an Academy Award nomination for his leading performance in ’12 Years a Slave’. The actor is also known for playing the complex character Karl Mordo in the ‘Doctor Strange’ film series. His extensive filmography includes appearances in ‘Children of Men’ and ‘The Martian’ as well as providing the voice for Scar in the remake of ‘The Lion King’.

David Oyelowo

David Oyelowo was born in Oxford and spent part of his childhood in Nigeria before returning to England to study drama. He delivered a transformative performance as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in the historical drama ‘Selma’. The actor has also appeared in high profile projects such as ‘Rise of the Planet of the Apes’ and the series ‘Lawmen: Bass Reeves’. His career is marked by a wide range of roles in both independent films and major studio productions.

Djimon Hounsou

Djimon Hounsou was born in Benin and later moved to France where he started his career as a fashion model before transitioning to acting. He earned significant recognition for his role in the historical drama ‘Amistad’ and later received Academy Award nominations for ‘In America’ and ‘Blood Diamond’. The actor has become a staple in action and superhero films with roles in ‘Gladiator’ and ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’. He also voiced characters in major animated projects and appeared in the horror sequel ‘A Quiet Place Part II’.

Damson Idris

Damson Idris was born in London and is the youngest of six children raised in a Nigerian household. He is best known for his lead role as Franklin Saint in the acclaimed crime drama series ‘Snowfall’. The actor has also appeared in the science fiction film ‘Outside the Wire’ and an episode of the anthology series ‘Black Mirror’. His performance in the series ‘Swarm’ further showcased his range as a versatile dramatic actor.

Regé-Jean Page

Regé-Jean Page was born in London and spent his early childhood years living in Zimbabwe before returning to the United Kingdom. He became an international sensation for his portrayal of Simon Basset in the first season of the period drama ‘Bridgerton’. The actor has since moved into major film roles including appearances in the action thriller ‘The Gray Man’ and ‘Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves’. He frequently receives praise for his charisma and commanding screen presence in various genres.

Kingsley Ben-Adir

Kingsley Ben-Adir was born in London and has built a diverse career across television and major motion pictures. He portrayed the civil rights leader Malcolm X in the historical drama ‘One Night in Miami’. The actor also took on the iconic role of Bob Marley in the biographical film ‘Bob Marley: One Love’. His other notable projects include the series ‘Secret Invasion’ and the blockbuster hit ‘Barbie’.

David Harewood

David Harewood was born in Birmingham and is a highly respected figure in both British and American television. He is widely recognized for his long running role as J’onn J’onzz in the superhero series ‘Supergirl’. The actor also played the pivotal character David Estes in the acclaimed thriller series ‘Homeland’. His work spans across various mediums including voice acting for popular video game franchises.

Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje

Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje was born in London and is known for playing imposing and memorable characters on screen. He gained fame for his role as Simon Adebisi in the prison drama series ‘Oz’ and later played Mr. Eko in the mystery series ‘Lost’. His film work includes playing Killer Croc in ‘Suicide Squad’ and appearing in ‘The Mummy Returns’. The actor also wrote and directed the autobiographical film ‘Farming’ based on his own childhood experiences.

Eamonn Walker

Eamonn Walker was born in London and was a professional dancer before pivoting to a successful acting career. He is best known to American audiences for his portrayal of Chief Wallace Boden in the long running procedural ‘Chicago Fire’. The actor also starred as Kareem Saïd in the intense prison drama ‘Oz’. His stage and screen work reflects a deep commitment to dramatic and authoritative performances.

Boris Kodjoe

Boris Kodjoe was born in Vienna and grew up in Germany before moving to the United States on a tennis scholarship. He rose to fame in the drama series ‘Soul Food’ where he met his future wife. The actor is also a prominent cast member on the procedural drama ‘Station 19’ playing Robert Sullivan. He has appeared in several ‘Resident Evil’ films and the reality parody series ‘Real Husbands of Hollywood’.

Alfred Enoch

Alfred Enoch was born in London and is the son of British actor William Russell. He first gained international fame for playing Dean Thomas in the ‘Harry Potter’ film series throughout his youth. The actor later transitioned to adult roles by starring as Wes Gibbins in the legal thriller series ‘How to Get Away with Murder’. He also appeared in the science fiction series ‘Foundation’ and various Shakespearean stage productions.

Omar Sy

Omar Sy was born in France and became one of the most popular actors in his home country before moving into Hollywood films. He received a César Award for his performance in the comedy drama ‘The Intouchables’. The actor has since appeared in international blockbusters such as ‘Jurassic World’ and ‘X-Men: Days of Future Past’. He also stars in the hit streaming series ‘Lupin’ as a professional thief inspired by a classic literary character.

Hakeem Kae-Kazim

Hakeem Kae-Kazim was born in Nigeria and later moved to the United Kingdom where he trained with the Royal Shakespeare Company. He is recognized for his role as Georges Rutaganda in the film ‘Hotel Rwanda’. The actor has appeared in major television series including ‘Black Sails’ and the reboot of ‘Dynasty’. His film credits also include ‘Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End’ and ‘X-Men Origins: Wolverine’.

Nonso Anozie

Nonso Anozie was born in London and is known for his large physical stature and deep voice in various film roles. He played Xaro Xhoan Daxos in the fantasy series ‘Game of Thrones’. The actor also stars as Tommy Jepperd in the fantasy drama ‘Sweet Tooth’. His other film appearances include ‘Cinderella’ and the action movie ‘The Grey’.

Jimmy Jean-Louis

Jimmy Jean-Louis was born in Haiti and moved to France at a young age where he worked as a model and dancer. He is best known for his role as The Haitian in the superhero drama series ‘Heroes’. The actor has appeared in various international films including the title role in ‘Toussaint Louverture’. He continues to advocate for the Haitian film industry while appearing in American television shows.

Wentworth Miller

Wentworth Miller was born in Chipping Norton in the United Kingdom while his father was studying there. He achieved international stardom playing the character Michael Scofield in the thriller series ‘Prison Break’. The actor also joined the Arrowverse as Captain Cold in the series ‘The Flash’ and ‘Legends of Tomorrow’. Beyond acting he is an accomplished screenwriter who wrote the psychological thriller ‘Stoker’.

Peter Mensah

Peter Mensah was born in Ghana and later moved to the United Kingdom and Canada to pursue his career. He is widely recognized for his roles as the Persian Messenger in ‘300’ and the trainer Oenomaus in the series ‘Spartacus’. The actor has also appeared in the film ‘Avatar’ and the horror series ‘Midnight, Texas’. His distinctive voice and physical presence have made him a popular choice for historical and fantasy roles.

Ricky Whittle

Ricky Whittle was born in Oldham and began his career as a model and actor in British television soaps. He transitioned to American projects with a recurring role in the post apocalyptic series ‘The 100’. The actor achieved leading man status portraying Shadow Moon in the fantasy series ‘American Gods’. He has also appeared in films like the romantic comedy ‘Nappily Ever After’.

Ashley Walters

Ashley Walters was born in London and first found fame as a member of the musical group So Solid Crew. He successfully transitioned to acting with a breakout role in the film ‘Bullet Boy’. The actor is most famous for his lead performance as Dushane Hill in the gritty crime drama series ‘Top Boy’. He has also appeared in the series ‘Bulletproof’ and several independent British films.

Lucien Laviscount

Lucien Laviscount was born in Burnley and started his career as a child model for retail brands. He gained popularity in the United Kingdom through roles in ‘Waterloo Road’ and ‘Coronation Street’. The actor reached a global audience when he was cast as Alfie in the series ‘Emily in Paris’. He has also appeared in the comedy horror series ‘Scream Queens’ and the film ‘Trust’.

Jacob Anderson

Jacob Anderson was born in Bristol and is known for his work in both acting and music. He is globally recognized for playing the stoic commander Grey Worm in the series ‘Game of Thrones’. The actor currently stars as Louis de Pointe du Lac in the series ‘Interview with the Vampire’. He also releases music under the stage name Raleigh Ritchie.

Ncuti Gatwa

Ncuti Gatwa was born in Rwanda and moved to Scotland as a child to escape the local conflict. He rose to international fame playing Eric Effiong in the comedy drama series ‘Sex Education’. The actor made history by being cast as the Fifteenth Doctor in the long running series ‘Doctor Who’. He also appeared in the blockbuster film ‘Barbie’ as one of the many versions of Ken.

Daryl McCormack

Daryl McCormack was born in Ireland and studied at the Dublin Institute of Technology’s Conservatory of Music and Drama. He gained significant attention for his starring role opposite Emma Thompson in ‘Good Luck to You, Leo Grande’. The actor has also appeared in the crime drama series ‘Peaky Blinders’ as Isaiah Jesus. His work continues to expand with roles in major films like the thriller ‘Twisters’.

Barkhad Abdi

Barkhad Abdi was born in Somalia and lived in Yemen before moving to the United States as a teenager. He made a spectacular acting debut as the pirate Muse in the film ‘Captain Phillips’ alongside Tom Hanks. This performance earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. He has since appeared in films such as ‘Eye in the Sky’ and the series ‘Castle Rock’.

Lennie James

Lennie James was born in Nottingham and has become a staple of American dramatic television. He is best known for his portrayal of Morgan Jones in ‘The Walking Dead’ and its spin-off ‘Fear the Walking Dead’. The actor also created and starred in the acclaimed British series ‘Save Me’. His career includes roles in films like ‘Snatch’ and ‘Blade Runner 2049’.

Adrian Lester

Adrian Lester was born in Birmingham and is a highly celebrated actor of the British stage and screen. He starred as the charismatic con artist Mickey Stone in the series ‘Hustle’. The actor has also appeared in films such as ‘Primary Colors’ and ‘Mary Queen of Scots’. He was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire for his services to drama.

Arinzé Kene

Arinzé Kene was born in Nigeria and moved to London when he was four years old. He is a talented playwright and actor who has appeared in the series ‘The Feed’ and the film ‘I’m Your Woman’. The actor also voiced a character in the video game ‘Cyberpunk 2077’. His work often explores complex social themes and identity in modern Britain.

Chiké Okonkwo

Chiké Okonkwo was born in Kingston upon Thames and has worked extensively in both the United Kingdom and the United States. He is known for his role as Ty Coleman in the science fiction series ‘La Brea’. The actor also appeared in the historical drama ‘The Birth of a Nation’ and the series ‘Being Mary Jane’. He has a strong background in classical theatre and has performed with the Royal Shakespeare Company.

Babou Ceesay

Babou Ceesay was born in London and spent a significant part of his childhood in West Africa. He gained critical acclaim for his role in the miniseries ‘Damilola, Our Loved Boy’. The actor starred in the series ‘Guerrilla’ and the international thriller ‘Into the Badlands’. He also appeared in the film ‘Rogue One: A Star Wars Story’ as a rebel pilot.

Aml Ameen

Aml Ameen was born in London and began his career as a child actor in various stage productions. He played the lead role in the British film ‘Kidulthood’ before moving to American projects. The actor starred as Alby in ‘The Maze Runner’ and played Capheus in the first season of ‘Sense8’. He also made his directorial debut with the festive romantic comedy ‘A Boy Called Christmas’.

Malachi Kirby

Malachi Kirby was born in London and received international praise for his leading role in the remake of the miniseries ‘Roots’. He portrayed Kunta Kinte and delivered a performance that highlighted the resilience of the human spirit. The actor has also appeared in an episode of ‘Black Mirror’ and the series ‘Devils’. He continues to take on roles that focus on significant historical and social narratives.

Paapa Essiedu

Paapa Essiedu was born in London and is a graduate of the Guildhall School of Music and Drama. He earned widespread recognition for his performance as Kwame in the series ‘I May Destroy You’. The actor also starred in the series ‘The Lazarus Project’ and appeared in ‘Murder on the Orient Express’. He was the first Black actor to play Hamlet for the Royal Shakespeare Company in a professional production.

Osy Ikhile

Osy Ikhile was born in London and has appeared in several high profile science fiction and action projects. He played a supporting role in the film ‘The Legend of Tarzan’ and starred in the series ‘Childhood’s End’. The actor also appeared in the ‘Black Mirror’ episode titled USS Callister. His filmography includes roles in ‘The House That Jack Built’ and ‘In the Heart of the Sea’.

Kobna Holdbrook-Smith

Kobna Holdbrook-Smith was born in Ghana and moved to the United Kingdom as a child. He won an Olivier Award for his portrayal of Ike Turner in the stage production of ‘Tina: The Tina Turner Musical’. The actor has appeared in films such as ‘Mary Poppins Returns’ and ‘Paddington 2’. He also had a role in the superhero film ‘Justice League’.

Dayo Okeniyi

Dayo Okeniyi was born in Nigeria and moved to the United States during his teenage years. He gained fame for playing the character Thresh in the first installment of ‘The Hunger Games’ film series. The actor also appeared in the science fiction film ‘Terminator Genisys’ and the series ‘Shades of Blue’. He recently starred in the biographical sports film ‘Rise’ about the Antetokounmpo family.

Winston Duke

Winston Duke was born in Tobago and moved to the United States when he was nine years old. He achieved massive fame for his role as M’Baku in the Marvel Cinematic Universe beginning with ‘Black Panther’. The actor also starred in the horror film ‘Us’ and the drama ‘Nine Days’. He has become a prominent leading man known for his physical presence and acting depth.

David Ajala

David Ajala was born in London and has a prolific career in science fiction television. He is best known for playing Cleveland Booker in the series ‘Star Trek: Discovery’. The actor also appeared in the series ‘Nightflyers’ and the film ‘The Dark Knight’. He has performed in various theatre productions with the Royal Court Theatre.

O-T Fagbenle

O-T Fagbenle was born in London and spent time in Spain and Nigeria during his childhood. He is widely recognized for his role as Luke Bankole in the acclaimed series ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. The actor also appeared in the Marvel film ‘Black Widow’ as Rick Mason. He is a multi talented artist who has written and produced his own comedy series called ‘Maxxx’.

Nicholas Pinnock

Nicholas Pinnock was born in London and spent part of his youth living in Saudi Arabia. He starred as the lead character Aaron Wallace in the legal drama series ‘For Life’. The actor also appeared in the crime series ‘Top Boy’ and the science fiction thriller ‘Counterpart’. His career spans across television and film including a role in ‘Captain America: The First Avenger’.

Noel Clarke

Noel Clarke was born in London and is known for his work as an actor and filmmaker. He wrote and starred in the trilogy of films that began with ‘Kidulthood’ and ‘Adulthood’. The actor also played Mickey Smith in the long running series ‘Doctor Who’. He received a BAFTA Rising Star Award for his contributions to the British film industry.

Richard Ayoade

Richard Ayoade was born in London to a Nigerian father and a Norwegian mother. He is famous for his portrayal of Maurice Moss in the comedy series ‘The IT Crowd’. The actor is also an accomplished director who helmed the films ‘Submarine’ and ‘The Double’. He frequently appears as a television presenter and provides voice work for animated projects like ‘The Mandalorian’.

Tobi Bakare

Tobi Bakare was born in London and has built a consistent career in British and American television. He is best known for his role as JP Hooper in the long running mystery series ‘Death in Paradise’. The actor also appeared in the action films ‘Kingsman: The Secret Service’ and its sequel ‘The Golden Circle’. He continues to work in various dramatic and comedic projects across different platforms.

Paterson Joseph

Paterson Joseph was born in London and is a veteran of the British acting scene. He is well known to audiences for his roles in ‘Peep Show’ and the series ‘The Leftovers’. The actor also appeared in the historical drama ‘Vigil’ and provided his voice for numerous documentaries. His career is characterized by a high level of versatility in both stage and screen roles.

Lucian Msamati

Lucian Msamati was born in London to parents from Tanzania and grew up in Zimbabwe. He was the first Black actor to play Iago for the Royal Shakespeare Company. The actor is known for his roles in the series ‘Game of Thrones’ and ‘Gangs of London’. He also appeared in the fantasy series ‘His Dark Materials’ and the film ‘The Lady in the Van’.

Delroy Lindo

Delroy Lindo was born in London and moved to the United States as a teenager to study acting. He has had a long and distinguished career including several collaborations with director Spike Lee in films like ‘Malcolm X’ and ‘Da 5 Bloods’. The actor also starred in the series ‘The Good Fight’ as Adrian Boseman. He is recognized for his commanding screen presence and intense dramatic ability.

Ariyon Bakare

Ariyon Bakare was born in London and has appeared in many popular television series and films. He played Lord Carlo Boreal in the fantasy series ‘His Dark Materials’. The actor also appeared in the science fiction film ‘Life’ and the series ‘Good Omens’. His extensive background in theatre includes performances with the Royal Shakespeare Company and the Globe Theatre.

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