African-American Actors Who Can’t Carry a Movie

Hollywood often relies on a specific group of leading men to anchor major blockbusters and dramatic features. While many actors find incredible success in supporting roles or ensemble casts they sometimes struggle to draw audiences when placed at the very center of a film. This list examines performers who have built respectable careers but have yet to prove they can consistently carry a movie to commercial or critical victory as the sole lead.

Anthony Mackie

Anthony Mackie has become a household name through his long tenure as Sam Wilson in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. While he has taken on leading duties in films like ‘The Banker’ and ‘Outside the Wire’ these projects often see him sharing the spotlight with other established stars. Critics frequently note that his screen presence is most effective when he acts as a strategic foil to other central characters. His career trajectory showcases a talent for grounding fantastical narratives through a reliable and consistent performance style. He remains a highly respected actor whose best work is frequently associated with ensemble productions.

Terry Crews

Terry Crews transitioned from a professional football career to become a beloved figure in the comedy genre. He gained widespread recognition for his role in the film ‘White Chicks’ and his long tenure on the television show ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’. While he possesses a massive physical presence and charismatic energy he is typically utilized as a high energy supporting player. His appearances in ‘The Expendables’ franchise see him as part of a larger team rather than the central protagonist. He thrives in roles that allow him to use his comedic timing to complement a primary lead.

Tyrese Gibson

Tyrese Gibson began his journey as a singer before moving into major action franchises like ‘Transformers’ and ‘Fast and Furious’. He has become a staple of the ‘Fast’ saga where he provides much of the comic relief as the character Roman Pearce. Despite his longevity in the industry he has often struggled to find solo commercial success in standalone projects like ‘Baby Boy’ which remains his most cited lead performance. Audiences generally associate him with his work in large ensembles where he shares the screen with other action stars. His career highlights the value of a dependable supporting actor in multi billion dollar cinematic universes.

Donald Faison

Donald Faison is best known for his iconic role as Turk on the long running medical comedy ‘Scrubs’. He also made a significant impact in the teen classic ‘Clueless’ where he played a memorable supporting character. While he has led smaller independent films and short lived television series he has not transitioned into a major film leading man. His charm and comedic timing make him an ideal partner in buddy comedies or ensemble sitcoms. He continues to work steadily in the industry but remains most recognized for his collaborative television work.

Orlando Jones

Orlando Jones rose to fame through his work on the sketch comedy show ‘MADtv’ and a series of popular commercials. He attempted to transition into film leading roles with movies like ‘Double Take’ and ‘Evolution’ during the early two thousands. While these films had their moments they did not establish him as a consistent box office draw. He has since found more success in television roles like ‘American Gods’ and ‘Sleepy Hollow’. His career serves as an example of a performer whose unique energy is often better suited for character acting.

Bill Bellamy

Bill Bellamy gained popularity as an MTV VJ before moving into film roles in the nineties. He starred in the romantic comedy ‘How to Be a Player’ which attempted to position him as a leading man in the urban comedy circuit. Despite his natural charisma and stand up comedy success he did not reach the status of a top tier film star. He has spent much of his later career in television hosting and supporting roles in movies like ‘Any Given Sunday’. He remains a recognizable face in entertainment but is rarely the primary focus of major motion pictures.

Romany Malco

Romany Malco delivered a breakout performance in the comedy hit ‘The 40-Year-Old Virgin’ as a fast talking salesman. He followed this success with a long stint on the show ‘Weeds’ and a role in the ‘Think Like a Man’ franchise. While he is consistently praised for his sharp delivery he is almost exclusively cast in supporting or ensemble capacities. Projects like ‘A Million Little Things’ demonstrate his range but still place him within a large group of lead actors. He is a talented performer who excels when sharing the dramatic weight with others.

Mike Epps

Mike Epps stepped into the spotlight when he replaced Chris Tucker in the ‘Friday’ franchise with the film ‘Next Friday’. He has since starred in numerous comedies and stand up specials that have earned him a loyal following. While he has played the lead in movies like ‘All About the Benjamins’ he is frequently used as a comedic sidekick to bigger stars. His attempts at dramatic leading roles have been less frequent than his appearances in ensemble casts like ‘The Hangover’. He remains a powerhouse in the comedy world but is not typically the sole anchor of major studio releases.

Nick Cannon

Nick Cannon achieved early success as a leading man in the movie ‘Drumline’ which became a cult classic. He followed this with ‘Love Don’t Cost a Thing’ but eventually shifted his focus toward television hosting and production. His film career as a lead did not maintain the momentum established by his early work. He found his greatest commercial success as the host of ‘America’s Got Talent’ and ‘The Masked Singer’. While he is a prolific entertainer his filmography suggests he is more at home in the world of unscripted television.

Wood Harris

Wood Harris earned critical acclaim for his portrayal of Avon Barksdale in the groundbreaking series ‘The Wire’. He also gave a memorable performance as Julius Campbell in the sports drama ‘Remember the Titans’. Despite his incredible talent he is rarely cast as the singular lead in big budget Hollywood films. He has become a staple of the ‘Creed’ franchise where he provides a vital supporting presence. His career is defined by high quality character work rather than leading man status.

Mekhi Phifer

Mekhi Phifer became a prominent actor in the late nineties and early two thousands with roles in ‘Clockers’ and ‘8 Mile’. He spent several years as a lead on the medical drama ‘ER’ where he showcased his dramatic capabilities. While he has the looks and talent of a leading man he has mostly appeared in supporting roles in films like the ‘Divergent’ series. He is often the reliable second or third lead who adds weight to a production. His filmography reflects a career spent primarily in television and supporting film roles.

Omar Epps

Omar Epps gained fame for his roles in classic films like ‘Juice’ and ‘Higher Learning’. He spent eight seasons as a lead on the hit show ‘House’ where he played the stoic Dr. Eric Foreman. While he has led movies like ‘Love and Basketball’ his recent career has been more focused on ensemble television and supporting film parts. He is a versatile actor who brings intensity to every role he takes on. However he has not consistently carried major theatrical films in the modern era.

Larenz Tate

Larenz Tate is widely recognized for his powerful performance as O-Dog in the film ‘Menace II Society’. He also starred in the romantic drama ‘Love Jones’ which remains a significant cultural touchstone. Despite these early successes he has transitioned into more of a television actor with recurring roles on ‘Power’. He often plays charismatic and complex characters but usually within an ensemble framework. His film career as a leading man has been intermittent rather than a continuous streak of solo hits.

Morris Chestnut

Morris Chestnut first caught the public eye in the classic film ‘Boyz n the Hood’. He has since built a long career as a romantic lead in ensemble films like ‘The Best Man’ and ‘Think Like a Man’. While he has led his own television series like ‘Rosewood’ he is often part of a larger cast in his film ventures. He possesses a classic leading man appearance and a polished acting style. His niche seems to be well established within television and romantic ensemble movies.

Taye Diggs

Taye Diggs made a big splash with his film debut in ‘How Stella Got Her Groove Back’. He has enjoyed a multifaceted career involving Broadway and television shows like ‘Private Practice’. Although he has led several projects he is most frequently associated with ensemble pieces such as ‘The Best Man Holiday’. His work is consistently professional and he maintains a strong presence on screen. He is a reliable actor who often shines brightest when surrounded by a talented group of peers.

Columbus Short

Columbus Short led the high energy dance film ‘Stomp the Yard’ which was a commercial success at the time. He later became a key cast member on the hit political drama ‘Scandal’. His film career as a solo lead did not expand significantly beyond the dance and urban film genres. He has faced various personal challenges that impacted his career trajectory over the years. He remains a talented performer but has not carried a major film in a long time.

Derek Luke

Derek Luke received critical praise for his title role in the film ‘Antwone Fisher’ which was directed by Denzel Washington. He has since appeared in major projects like ‘Captain America The First Avenger’ and ’13 Reasons Why’. While he is a gifted actor he is rarely the primary focus of the films he appears in. His career has leaned heavily toward supporting roles and television ensembles. He provides a grounded and soulful presence that benefits any production he joins.

Brandon T. Jackson

Brandon T. Jackson is a comedian and actor who gained significant attention for his role in ‘Tropic Thunder’. He also starred as Grover in the ‘Percy Jackson’ film series where he served as the comedic sidekick. While he has attempted to lead films like ‘Big Mommas Like Father Like Son’ he has not established himself as a solo box office draw. Much of his work involves playing supporting characters in large studio comedies. He continues to perform stand up and act in various film and television projects.

Affion Crockett

Affion Crockett is known for his incredible skill as an impressionist and sketch comedian. He has appeared in films like ‘A Haunted House’ and ‘The Wedding Ringer’ usually in high energy comedic roles. He led his own sketch show ‘In the Flow with Affion Crockett’ but it was short lived. His film career is almost entirely composed of supporting roles that utilize his talent for mimicry. He is a specialty performer who adds a unique flavor to comedies but rarely anchors them.

Faizon Love

Faizon Love became a recognizable face through his role as Big Worm in the movie ‘Friday’. He has since appeared in dozens of films including ‘Elf’ and ‘Couples Retreat’. While he is a consistent scene stealer he is almost always cast as a supporting character. His large personality and distinct voice make him a favorite for comedic relief. He has yet to transition into a leading man who can carry a major theatrical release on his own.

DeRay Davis

DeRay Davis is a successful stand up comedian who has made the jump into acting in movies like ’21 Jump Street’. He often plays tough or streetwise characters in comedies and action films. While he has a strong fan base for his comedy specials his film roles are typically small or part of an ensemble. He has hosted shows like ‘Hip Hop Squares’ where his personality can truly shine. His acting career remains focused on supporting work rather than solo leading roles.

Craig Robinson

Craig Robinson is beloved for his role as Darryl Philbin on the American version of ‘The Office’. He has appeared in many successful comedies like ‘Hot Tub Time Machine’ and ‘Pineapple Express’. While he has led smaller projects like the show ‘Killing It’ his film career is primarily built on supporting roles. He is an excellent deadpan comedian who excels at playing the straight man or the dry witted friend. He is a vital part of the modern comedy landscape but rarely carries the weight of a whole film alone.

Katt Williams

Katt Williams is one of the most successful stand up comedians of his generation with numerous high profile specials. In film he is best known for his role as Money Mike in ‘Friday After Next’. While he has a massive following he has not translated his stand up success into a career as a major film leading man. He often appears in supporting roles or cameos in comedies like ‘First Sunday’. His personal brand is so strong that he often overshadows the characters he plays in small roles.

Cedric the Entertainer

Cedric the Entertainer is a veteran of the comedy world and was one of the ‘Original Kings of Comedy’. He has had a long career in both film and television including leading the sitcom ‘The Neighborhood’. In film he is frequently part of ensembles like the ‘Barbershop’ series or ‘Madagascar’. While he has led movies like ‘Johnson Family Vacation’ he is generally viewed as a team player in major productions. He brings a warm and familiar presence to every project he joins.

Keegan-Michael Key

Keegan-Michael Key became a superstar through the sketch series ‘Key and Peele’ alongside Jordan Peele. Since the show ended he has appeared in many films including ‘The Predator’ and ‘Wonka’. While he is a talented voice actor and comedic performer he is usually part of a large ensemble. He has yet to star in a major solo live action film that matches the impact of his sketch work. He is highly versatile and continues to be one of the busiest actors in the industry.

David Alan Grier

David Alan Grier is a classically trained actor who found fame on the sketch show ‘In Living Color’. He has had a distinguished career in film television and theater with multiple Tony nominations. While he is a master of his craft he is almost always cast in supporting roles in movies like ‘Jumanji’. He has led television shows but his film legacy is that of a premier character actor. He remains a respected figure who elevates any material he is given.

Tommy Davidson

Tommy Davidson was another breakout star from ‘In Living Color’ known for his physical comedy and impressions. He starred in the comedy ‘Booty Call’ and provided the voice for Oscar Proud in ‘The Proud Family’. Despite his early success he did not become a consistent film leading man in the following decades. Much of his later work has been in supporting roles or on the stand up circuit. He is a talented entertainer who remains a significant part of nineties comedy history.

Damon Wayans Jr.

Damon Wayans Jr. followed in his father’s footsteps and achieved success on television shows like ‘New Girl’ and ‘Happy Endings’. In film he starred alongside Jake Johnson in the comedy ‘Let’s Be Cops’ which performed well at the box office. However he has mostly remained in the realm of television and supporting film roles since then. He has the comedic timing and leading man looks to head a project but has yet to find a solo breakout hit. He continues to be a reliable and funny presence in modern comedies.

Lamorne Morris

Lamorne Morris gained a following for his portrayal of Winston Bishop on the sitcom ‘New Girl’. He has since moved into film with roles in ‘Game Night’ and ‘Yesterday’. While he is often the standout in an ensemble he has not yet carried a major film as the singular lead. He has the range for both comedy and drama as seen in the latest season of ‘Fargo’. He is a rising talent who is currently building a strong body of supporting work.

Winston Duke

Winston Duke became an overnight sensation for his role as M’Baku in ‘Black Panther’. He followed this with a strong performance in Jordan Peele’s ‘Us’ where he shared leading duties with Lupita Nyong’o. While he has a commanding screen presence he is still in the early stages of his career as a potential lead. Most of his major film credits are part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe ensemble. He is an actor with great potential who is still looking for that definitive solo vehicle.

Corey Hawkins

Corey Hawkins impressed audiences with his portrayal of Dr. Dre in the biopic ‘Straight Outta Compton’. He went on to lead the series ’24 Legacy’ and starred in the film version of ‘In the Heights’. While he is a classically trained actor with great talent his leading ventures have not always achieved major commercial success. He is frequently cast in important supporting roles in movies like ‘BlacKkKlansman’ and ‘The Last Voyage of the Demeter’. He remains one of the most promising dramatic actors of his generation.

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II has had a rapid rise in Hollywood with roles in ‘Aquaman’ and the ‘Watchmen’ series. He took on the iconic role of Morpheus in ‘The Matrix Resurrections’ and led the ‘Candyman’ sequel. While he has been the face of these projects they are often part of established intellectual properties. He has yet to carry an original film to significant box office heights as the lone star. He is a charismatic performer who is clearly being groomed for leading man status.

Aldis Hodge

Aldis Hodge has been acting since childhood and is well known for his role in the series ‘Leverage’. He has appeared in major films like ‘Hidden Figures’ and played Hawkman in ‘Black Adam’. While he is a consistent and powerful actor he is often the supporting player to more established leads. He gave a career best performance in ‘Clemency’ but that was a smaller independent feature. He continues to work at a high level while waiting for a major solo breakthrough.

Leslie Odom Jr.

Leslie Odom Jr. became a superstar through his Tony winning performance in the musical ‘Hamilton’. He has successfully transitioned to film with an Oscar nominated role in ‘One Night in Miami’. While he is an incredible talent his film work is largely focused on ensemble casts or supporting roles. He recently appeared in ‘Glass Onion A Knives Out Mystery’ as part of a large star studded group. He is a prestigious actor whose film career is still evolving toward leading man territory.

Sterling K. Brown

Sterling K. Brown is a highly decorated actor known for his emotional work on ‘This Is Us’ and ‘The People v. O. J. Simpson’. In film he has appeared in ‘Black Panther’ and ‘American Fiction’ where he received an Oscar nomination for a supporting role. While he is one of the most acclaimed actors on television he is rarely the sole lead of a major film. He brings a high level of prestige to any project he joins. He is a quintessential example of an actor who can dominate an ensemble without being the primary lead.

Giancarlo Esposito

Giancarlo Esposito has had a long and varied career but is now most famous for playing Gus Fring on ‘Breaking Bad’. He has become the go to actor for sophisticated and menacing villains in franchises like ‘The Mandalorian’ and ‘The Boys’. While he is a legendary character actor he is rarely cast as the central protagonist of a film. His presence is often used to provide a formidable challenge for the main hero. He is widely respected for his ability to command attention in every scene he inhabits.

Bokeem Woodbine

Bokeem Woodbine has been a steady presence in film and television since the early nineties. He gained renewed attention for his standout role in the second season of the show ‘Fargo’. He often plays intense or quirky characters in films like ‘Spider-Man Homecoming’. While he is a favorite among critics and fellow actors he is almost always in a supporting capacity. He is a master of character acting who adds depth to any narrative he enters.

Jeffrey Wright

Jeffrey Wright is considered one of the finest actors of his generation with a career spanning theater film and television. He has appeared in the ‘James Bond’ franchise and the ‘Hunger Games’ series as a vital supporting player. While he recently led the film ‘American Fiction’ to great critical acclaim he has spent decades as a character actor. He provides a level of intelligence and gravitas that is hard to match. He is an actor’s actor who often prefers complex supporting roles over traditional leading parts.

Keith David

Keith David has one of the most recognizable voices in Hollywood and a filmography that spans decades. He has starred in cult classics like ‘The Thing’ and ‘They Live’ where he shared the screen with other action icons. While he is a powerhouse performer he is generally utilized for his commanding presence in supporting roles. He is also a prolific voice actor in animation and video games. He remains a beloved figure whose career is built on a foundation of excellent character work.

Ernie Hudson

Ernie Hudson is best known for his role as Winston Zeddemore in the ‘Ghostbusters’ franchise. He has appeared in hundreds of film and television projects over his long career including a memorable turn on ‘Oz’. While he is a steady and reliable actor he has rarely been the singular lead of a major studio film. He often plays authoritative figures or the grounded member of a group. He continues to be an essential part of the ‘Ghostbusters’ legacy while working across various genres.

Joe Morton

Joe Morton is a veteran actor who famously played the scientist Miles Dyson in ‘Terminator 2 Judgment Day’. He won an Emmy for his role as Rowan Pope on the series ‘Scandal’ where he was a central antagonist. While he has had a distinguished career he is mostly cast in supporting or ensemble roles. He has the ability to deliver powerful monologues and carry intense scenes. His film career remains defined by his contributions to large scale productions as a key supporting player.

Delroy Lindo

Delroy Lindo is a frequent collaborator of director Spike Lee and gave a tour de force performance in ‘Da 5 Bloods’. He has a long history of playing strong and complex characters in films like ‘Get Shorty’ and ‘The Cider House Rules’. While he is often the most compelling part of a movie he is rarely the primary lead in big budget features. He recently led the legal drama ‘The Good Fight’ on television to great success. He is a prestigious actor whose talent is undeniable regardless of his position in the credits.

Ving Rhames

Ving Rhames became an icon after his performance as Marsellus Wallace in ‘Pulp Fiction’. He has been a consistent member of the ‘Mission Impossible’ franchise as Luther Stickell for over twenty years. While he has led movies like ‘Rosewood’ he is most often seen in high profile supporting roles. His deep voice and physical stature make him a perfect choice for tough and loyal characters. He is a veteran actor who has found his niche in major action ensembles.

Mahershala Ali

Mahershala Ali is a two time Academy Award winner for his supporting roles in ‘Moonlight’ and ‘Green Book’. He has shown he can lead a project through his work on the third season of ‘True Detective’. However in film he is still frequently cast in supporting capacities or ensemble pieces like ‘Leave the World Behind’. He is set to lead the ‘Blade’ reboot which will be a major test of his solo box office power. He is one of the most respected actors working today and his leading man status is currently being established.

Barkhad Abdi

Barkhad Abdi received an Oscar nomination for his film debut in ‘Captain Phillips’ where he famously faced off against Tom Hanks. Since then he has appeared in films like ‘Blade Runner 2049’ and ‘Good Time’ in small but impactful roles. He has not yet carried a film as the central protagonist in the years following his breakout success. His unique look and intense acting style make him a memorable character actor. He continues to work in both film and television in supporting capacities.

Harold Perrineau

Harold Perrineau is well known for his roles in the ‘Matrix’ sequels and the television shows ‘Lost’ and ‘Oz’. He is a versatile performer who can handle both intense drama and lighter comedic moments. While he has led the series ‘From’ on television his film work is almost entirely ensemble based. He is a reliable actor who consistently delivers strong performances in group settings. His career highlights the success that can be found in becoming a staple of high quality television.

Michael Jai White

Michael Jai White is a martial arts expert who starred as the lead in the film ‘Spawn’ in the late nineties. He has since become a major star in the straight to video action market with films like ‘Blood and Bone’. While he has a dedicated fan base he has not transitioned back into being a leading man for major theatrical studio releases. He often appears in supporting roles in mainstream films like ‘The Dark Knight’. He remains a prominent figure in the action genre with a prolific output of work.

Bill Duke

Bill Duke is a legendary actor and director known for his imposing presence in films like ‘Predator’ and ‘Commando’. He has had a long career both in front of and behind the camera directing movies like ‘A Rage in Harlem’. As an actor he is a quintessential character performer who brings an immediate sense of gravity to a scene. He is rarely the lead of a film but is always a memorable part of any ensemble. His contributions to the action and drama genres are highly regarded by film enthusiasts.

Gary Anthony Williams

Gary Anthony Williams is a versatile actor and comedian known for his work on ‘Malcolm in the Middle’ and the sketch show ‘The Boondocks’. He has appeared in dozens of films like ‘Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Out of the Shadows’ and ‘The Internship’. While he is a prolific voice actor and supporting player he is not a traditional film leading man. His comedic energy and ability to play eccentric characters make him a valuable asset to any cast. He continues to be a steady presence in the industry through a variety of mediums.

Please share your thoughts on which actors you think excel most in supporting roles in the comments.