Top 15 Actors Who Could Bring Black Manta to Life in the DCU

Black Manta, the ruthless underwater mercenary and Aquaman’s archenemy, is a character who demands intensity, menace, and depth. With the DC Universe (DCU) under James Gunn and Peter Safran’s leadership, casting the right actor to embody David Hyde’s vengeful spirit and high-tech villainy is crucial for captivating audiences.

This iconic villain, first introduced in ‘Aquaman’ #35 in 1967, thrives on his obsession with destroying Aquaman and Atlantis. We’ve compiled a list of 15 actors who could deliver the physicality, charisma, and dark edge needed to make Black Manta unforgettable in the DCU.

15. Michael Jai White

Michael Jai White has a commanding presence and a martial arts background that screams action-hero intensity. His roles in ‘Spawn’ (1997) and ‘Black Dynamite’ (2009) show he can balance menace with charisma, perfect for Black Manta’s calculated villainy.

He’s no stranger to comic book roles, having played intense characters with a physical edge. White’s ability to convey rage and determination would make him a fierce foe for Aquaman, dominating every scene with his imposing stature.

14. Shamier Anderson

Shamier Anderson brings youthful energy and grit, seen in ‘Wynonna Earp’ (2016-2021) and ‘John Wick: Chapter 4’ (2023). His ability to play layered, driven characters fits Black Manta’s vengeful streak.

Anderson’s athletic build and knack for intense roles make him a strong pick. He could portray a younger, ambitious Manta, adding a fresh spin to the character’s relentless quest against Atlantis.

13. LaMonica Garrett

LaMonica Garrett impressed in ‘The Flash’ (2014-2023) as the Monitor, showing he can handle larger-than-life roles. His deep voice and commanding screen presence align with Black Manta’s intimidating aura.

Garrett’s experience in superhero projects means he understands the genre’s demands. He could bring a cold, calculated edge to Manta, making every encounter with Aquaman feel like a high-stakes showdown.

12. Aldis Hodge

Aldis Hodge, known for ‘Leverage’ (2008-2012) and ‘One Night in Miami’ (2020), has the versatility to play both charming and ruthless. His physicality and emotional depth suit Black Manta’s complex motivations.

Hodge’s ability to shift between intensity and subtlety would add layers to Manta’s vendetta. He could make the villain’s pain and rage feel personal, elevating the character beyond a typical antagonist.

11. Trevante Rhodes

Trevante Rhodes shined in ‘Moonlight’ (2016) and ‘The Predator’ (2018), proving he can handle emotional depth and action. His quiet strength and imposing build make him a natural fit for Black Manta.

Rhodes could bring a brooding intensity to the role, grounding Manta’s obsession with Aquaman in raw emotion. His ability to convey inner conflict would make the villain’s story gripping.

10. Winston Duke

Winston Duke’s powerful presence in ‘Black Panther’ (2018) and ‘Us’ (2019) shows he can dominate the screen. His physicality and charisma are ideal for Black Manta’s larger-than-life villainy.

Duke could infuse Manta with a commanding swagger, making him a formidable foe. His ability to play layered characters would add depth to Manta’s relentless pursuit of vengeance.

9. Ray Fisher

Ray Fisher, who played Cyborg in ‘Justice League’ (2017), has experience in the DC world. His intense delivery and physical presence make him a strong candidate for Black Manta’s ruthless persona.

Fisher’s familiarity with superhero dynamics would help him craft a menacing Manta. He could bring a tech-savvy edge to the character, emphasizing his high-tech suit and cunning.

8. Daniel Kaluuya

Daniel Kaluuya’s performances in ‘Get Out’ (2017) and ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’ (2021) highlight his ability to portray complex, driven characters. His intensity would suit Black Manta’s obsessive nature.

Kaluuya could bring a psychological depth to Manta, making his hatred for Aquaman feel visceral. His commanding presence would ensure the villain leaves a lasting impact.

7. Michael B. Jordan

Michael B. Jordan, known for ‘Creed’ (2015) and ‘Black Panther’ (2018), combines charisma with physical prowess. His ability to play layered antagonists makes him a standout choice for Black Manta.

Jordan could portray Manta as a charismatic yet ruthless mercenary. His star power and emotional range would elevate the character, making every confrontation with Aquaman electrifying.

6. John Boyega

John Boyega, seen in ‘Star Wars: The Force Awakens’ (2015) and ‘The Woman King’ (2022), brings energy and depth to his roles. His ability to play determined characters fits Black Manta’s vengeful mindset.

Boyega’s charisma and physicality would make Manta a dynamic villain. He could capture the character’s relentless drive, turning every scene into a clash of wills.

5. Jonathan Majors

Jonathan Majors, with roles in ‘Lovecraft Country’ (2020) and ‘Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania’ (2023), has a magnetic presence. His ability to portray intense, layered characters makes him ideal for Black Manta.

Majors could bring a brooding, calculated edge to Manta, emphasizing his strategic mind. His physicality and emotional depth would make the villain’s vendetta feel deeply personal.

4. Yahya Abdul-Mateen II

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II already played Black Manta in ‘Aquaman’ (2018) and ‘Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom’ (2023). His chilling performance proved he can embody the character’s rage and menace.

His familiarity with the role gives him an edge, delivering a Manta who’s both terrifying and charismatic. Abdul-Mateen’s ability to balance intensity and depth makes him a top contender.

3. Idris Elba

Idris Elba, known for ‘Luther’ (2010-2019) and ‘The Suicide Squad’ (2021), brings gravitas to every role. His commanding presence and deep voice are perfect for Black Manta’s intimidating persona.

Elba could portray a seasoned, ruthless Manta, making every scene crackle with tension. His experience in action-heavy roles ensures he’d dominate as Aquaman’s nemesis.

2. Colman Domingo

Colman Domingo, seen in ‘Fear the Walking Dead’ (2015-2023) and ‘Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom’ (2020), has a commanding presence and emotional range. His ability to play complex villains suits Black Manta perfectly.

Domingo could bring a layered intensity to Manta, blending charisma with menace. His powerful delivery would make the character’s vendetta against Aquaman unforgettable.

1. Denzel Washington

Denzel Washington, with iconic roles in ‘Training Day’ (2001) and ‘The Equalizer’ (2014), is a powerhouse actor. His ability to portray commanding, morally complex characters makes him a dream pick for Black Manta.

Washington could elevate Manta into a legendary villain, blending sophistication with ruthless ambition. His gravitas would make every confrontation with Aquaman feel epic.

Which actor do you think would make the ultimate Black Manta, or did we miss someone who’d steal the show? Drop your thoughts in the comments!