African-American Actors Who Don’t Believe In God

Public figures in the entertainment industry often discuss their spiritual beliefs or lack thereof during interviews and memoirs. African American actors have a diverse range of perspectives regarding faith and the existence of a higher power. While many are known for their roots in the church several prominent performers identify as atheists or agnostics. This list explores male actors from the African diaspora who have openly expressed secular viewpoints. Their stories provide insight into the variety of thought within the creative community.

Morgan Freeman

Morgan Freeman has stated in numerous interviews that he believes God is a human invention. He played a divine figure in ‘Bruce Almighty’ yet holds a secular worldview in his personal life. The veteran actor suggests that the mind is the true source of creation and wonder. He often describes himself as an agnostic or a secular humanist who values science and logic. This perspective has made him a voice for those who do not follow traditional religious paths.

Samuel L. Jackson

Samuel L. Jackson has frequently mentioned his lack of religious conviction in his adult life. He is known for roles in films like ‘Pulp Fiction’ and ‘The Avengers’ where he often plays authoritative figures. The actor grew up in the church but moved away from those traditions as he aged. He identifies as a secular person who focuses on his craft and personal growth without theological influence. His career spans decades of work in both film and theater.

Don Cheadle

Don Cheadle has identified as an agnostic when discussing his views on the universe and spirituality. He has starred in acclaimed projects such as ‘Hotel Rwanda’ and the ‘Iron Man’ series. The actor emphasizes the importance of human rights and environmental activism over religious dogma. He maintains that his moral compass is guided by empathy and social responsibility. His nuanced performances have earned him numerous awards and critical respect.

Chiwetel Ejiofor

Chiwetel Ejiofor is an English actor of Nigerian descent who identifies as an atheist. He delivered a powerful performance in the Academy Award winning film ’12 Years a Slave’ as Solomon Northup. The actor has spoken about how his secular worldview informs his approach to storytelling and character development. He believes that humanity must find meaning within itself rather than looking toward a divine source. His work continues to be recognized for its emotional depth and intelligence.

Idris Elba

Idris Elba has described himself as someone who is not religious and leans toward a secular mindset. He rose to fame playing Stringer Bell in ‘The Wire’ and later starred in the series ‘Luther’ as a detective. The actor prefers to focus on the reality of the human experience and the tangible world around him. He has stated that he does not follow any specific faith and finds inspiration in hard work. His diverse career includes acting in blockbuster movies and pursuing music as a producer.

Donald Glover

Donald Glover has expressed his atheist views through both his comedy and his musical projects. He created and starred in the television show ‘Atlanta’ which won multiple awards. The performer has mentioned in interviews that he does not believe in a traditional God or religious structures. He often uses his platform to explore complex themes of identity and existence from a secular perspective. His versatility as an actor and writer has made him a major figure in modern entertainment.

Jamie Foxx

Jamie Foxx has indicated a skeptical stance regarding organized religion and the concept of a creator. He won an Oscar for his portrayal of a musician in the film ‘Ray’ and has since appeared in many hits. Although he grew up with a religious background he has moved toward a more agnostic way of thinking. The entertainer often focuses on the power of the individual and the importance of family over faith. His career encompasses acting and stand up comedy and professional singing.

Chris Rock

Chris Rock is known for his social commentary and has often criticized religious institutions in his work. He wrote and starred in the movie ‘Top Five’ while also maintaining a career in stand up. The comedian has identified as someone who does not subscribe to traditional religious beliefs. He often highlights the contradictions he sees within various faiths through his observational humor. His influence on the comedy world is significant due to his blunt honesty and wit.

John Legend

John Legend grew up in the church but eventually transitioned to an agnostic or secular worldview. He has appeared as an actor in ‘La La Land’ and starred in the live production of ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ as the lead. The artist has discussed how his education and life experiences led him away from the faith of his youth. He remains committed to social justice and humanitarian efforts through a secular lens. His career is marked by a massive collection of awards including the prestigious EGOT status.

Richard Pryor

Richard Pryor was a pioneering comedian and actor who embraced atheism later in his life. He starred in classic films like ‘Silver Streak’ and ‘Stir Crazy’ while redefining the art of stand up. The performer often tackled deep personal and social issues with honesty. He eventually voiced his rejection of religious concepts in favor of a direct understanding of the human condition. His legacy continues to inspire generations of comedians and actors today.

Ice-T

Ice-T is a rapper and actor who has been vocal about his atheist beliefs for many years. He is most famous for his long running role as Odafin Tutuola on ‘Law and Order Special Victims Unit’ which made him a household name. The actor has stated that he does not believe in heaven or hell and views religion as a tool for control. He advocates for self reliance and personal responsibility without the need for divine intervention. His career has transitioned successfully from the music industry to a stable presence on television.

Jordan Peele

Jordan Peele is a director and actor who identifies as an atheist and often incorporates these themes into his work. He gained fame on the sketch comedy show ‘Key and Peele’ before moving into the horror genre. His directorial debut ‘Get Out’ became a cultural phenomenon and earned him an Academy Award. The filmmaker has mentioned that he finds the mysteries of the human mind more compelling than religious explanations. He continues to produce thought provoking content that challenges social norms.

Keegan-Michael Key

Keegan Michael Key has shared that he follows a secular path rather than a religious one. He is widely recognized for his work on the sketch series ‘Key and Peele’ and his appearances in ‘The Prom’ and other films. The actor focuses on the connections between people and the shared human experience. He maintains a perspective that emphasizes kindness and empathy without the framework of a church. His career remains diverse with roles in theater and television and voice acting.

Sidney Poitier

Sidney Poitier was an actor who identified as an agnostic during his later years. He was the first Black man to win the Academy Award for Best Actor for his role in ‘Lilies of the Field’ and became a symbol of dignity. The actor often spoke about the beauty of life and the universe from a non religious standpoint. He believed in the power of human character and the importance of social progress. His pioneering work paved the way for future generations of actors in Hollywood.

Harry Belafonte

Harry Belafonte was a celebrated actor and activist who held secular humanist views. He starred in films like ‘Carmen Jones’ and used his fame to support the civil rights movement. The performer believed that the responsibility for making the world a better place rested solely on human shoulders. He did not look to a divine power for guidance but instead trusted in the collective action of people. His life was a testament to the intersection of art and social justice advocacy.

Paul Robeson

Paul Robeson was a multi talented actor and singer who was an outspoken atheist. He is remembered for his performances in ‘The Emperor Jones’ and ‘Show Boat’ during the early twentieth century. The actor was also a scholar and an activist who faced significant political challenges for his beliefs. He viewed religion as a distraction from the fight for equality and human rights. His contributions to the arts and global social movements remain highly influential.

Danny Glover

Danny Glover is a veteran actor and activist who identifies as a secular person. He is best known for his role as Roger Murtaugh in the ‘Lethal Weapon’ film franchise. The actor has spent much of his career advocating for labor rights and various social causes around the world. He finds motivation in human solidarity and the pursuit of justice rather than in religious doctrine. His extensive filmography reflects a commitment to both commercial success and meaningful storytelling.

Jerrod Carmichael

Jerrod Carmichael is a comedian and actor who has openly discussed his journey toward atheism. He created and starred in ‘The Carmichael Show’ and later released the acclaimed special ‘Rothaniel’ where he shared personal truths. The performer uses his comedy to explore the complexities of family and faith from a skeptical viewpoint. He has stated that he does not believe in the God of his upbringing and prefers to live authentically. His work is noted for its vulnerability and willingness to challenge traditional norms.

Hannibal Buress

Hannibal Buress is an actor and comedian who identifies as an atheist and often mentions it in his routines. He has appeared in films such as ‘The Secret Life of Pets’ and ‘Tag’ as well as the series ‘Broad City’ where he played Lincoln Rice. The performer has a style that frequently touches on the absurdity of religious claims. He prefers a logical and grounded approach to life and his career in the entertainment industry. His comedic voice has made him a popular figure in contemporary media.

Wyatt Cenac

Wyatt Cenac is a comedian and actor who has identified as an atheist for most of his adult life. He gained fame as a correspondent on ‘The Daily Show’ and later created the series ‘Wyatt Cenac’s Problem Areas’ for television. The actor often explores social issues and political themes through a secular and critical lens. He has mentioned that he finds religious stories interesting as fiction but does not believe they are true. His work is characterized by a dry wit and a focus on structural problems in society.

Michael Che

Michael Che is an actor and writer who is best known for his work on ‘Saturday Night Live’ as a co anchor of the news segment. He has also starred in his own sketch show titled ‘That Damn Michael Che’ which features various comedic stories. The performer has expressed a lack of religious belief and often uses his platform to poke fun at religious traditions. He maintains a secular outlook that informs his observational style of comedy. His career continues to grow as he explores new ways to connect with audiences through humor.

Roy Wood Jr.

Roy Wood Jr is an actor and stand up comedian who identifies as a secular person with a skeptical view of religion. He is a prominent correspondent on ‘The Daily Show’ and has appeared in films like ‘Confess Fletch’ and several comedy specials. The performer often discusses the cultural impact of the church while remaining personally detached from its spiritual claims. He focuses on the reality of the Black experience and the political landscape of the United States. His insightful humor has earned him a dedicated following in both comedy and television.

Baron Vaughn

Baron Vaughn is an actor and comedian who is an outspoken atheist and has discussed his beliefs on various podcasts. He is well known for his role as Bud in the series ‘Grace and Frankie’ on a popular streaming service. The actor also provided the voice for Tom Servo in the revival of ‘Mystery Science Theater 3000’ for fans. He believes that a secular worldview allows for an honest exploration of the human condition and the universe. His career includes a mix of live performance and television and voice work.

Orlando Jones

Orlando Jones is a versatile actor and comedian who has identified as a secular individual. He starred in the series ‘American Gods’ and was a featured performer on the sketch comedy show ‘MADtv’ early in his career. The actor has spoken about how his personal philosophy is based on reason and evidence rather than faith. He often takes on roles that challenge perceptions of mythology and the supernatural. His presence in the industry is marked by his sharp intellect and diverse range of characters.

Delroy Lindo

Delroy Lindo is a respected actor who has mentioned his secular and atheist views in interviews. He is known for his powerful performances in ‘Da 5 Bloods’ and ‘Malcolm X’ and ‘The Good Fight’ on television. The actor emphasizes the importance of humanism and the responsibility people have toward one another. He does not subscribe to religious dogmas and prefers to find meaning in his work and personal relationships. His distinguished career is characterized by his intense portrayals of complex men.

Lance Reddick

Lance Reddick was an actor who identified as an atheist and often played characters with a strong moral core. He was best known for his roles in ‘The Wire’ and the ‘John Wick’ film series as well as the show ‘Fringe’ for several seasons. The actor focused on his craft and his passion for music outside of the religious sphere. He maintained a secular lifestyle and did not look toward a divine source for guidance. His legacy includes a body of work that is celebrated for its gravity and professionalism.

André 3000

Andre 3000 is an actor and musician who has expressed a secular and non religious worldview. He starred in the film ‘Four Brothers’ and portrayed the musician Jimi Hendrix in the movie ‘Jimi All Is by My Side’ for audiences. The artist often explores themes of existence and the universe without adhering to any specific religious tradition. He identifies more with a secular understanding of the world and the human experience. His creative output is widely regarded as some of the most innovative in modern music and film.

Jay-Z

Jay Z is a mogul and actor who has often expressed a skeptical or secular perspective in his work and interviews. He has produced and appeared in various films and documentaries including ‘Streets is Watching’ early in his career. The performer has stated that he does not believe in the traditional concept of God and finds religion to be a human construct. He focuses on the power of the individual and the importance of economic and social empowerment. His influence on culture is significant through his contributions to music and business.

Nas

Nas is an acclaimed actor and musician who has voiced secular and agnostic themes throughout his career. He starred in the film ‘Belly’ and has appeared in several other cinematic projects over the years. The artist often discusses the complexities of faith and the lack of divine intervention in the struggles of daily life. He identifies as a person who looks for truth through knowledge and experience rather than religious doctrine. His lyrical depth has made him a respected figure in the history of his genre.

W. Kamau Bell

W. Kamau Bell is an actor and comedian who identifies as a secular person and often discusses this on his platforms. He hosted the documentary series ‘United Shades of America’ where he explored various subcultures and beliefs across the country. The performer has mentioned that he does not follow any specific religious faith and prefers a humanist approach to social issues. He uses his comedy to bridge gaps between different groups while maintaining his non religious stance. His work is focused on intersectionality and the fight for social justice.

Eddie Griffin

Eddie Griffin is an actor and comedian who has spoken about his rejection of organized religion and his secular views. He starred in the movie ‘Undercover Brother’ and has had a career in both film and stand up comedy. The performer often critiques the influence of the church in the Black community through his routines. He believes in the importance of critical thinking and personal logic over blind faith. His energetic style has made him a staple in the comedy world for several decades.

Arsenio Hall

Arsenio Hall is an actor and talk show host who has indicated a secular and skeptical view toward religion. He starred in ‘Coming to America’ and its sequel while also hosting his own talk show. The entertainer has mentioned in interviews that he does not adhere to the religious traditions he was exposed to in his youth. He prefers to live a life based on personal values and professional dedication. His impact on television and comedy has been significant for many years.

Godfrey

Godfrey is a comedian and actor who identifies as an atheist and often addresses the topic in his work. He has appeared in films like ‘Zoolander’ and ‘Johnson Family Vacation’ as well as television specials. The performer has been vocal about his lack of belief in a higher power and his reliance on science and reason. He often uses his comedy to point out the ironies he sees in religious belief systems. His career includes a successful mix of acting and stand up and podcasting.

Colman Domingo

Colman Domingo is an actor and director who has described himself as an agnostic in various interviews. He has starred in the series ‘Fear the Walking Dead’ and received an Academy Award nomination for his role in ‘Rustin’ as a civil rights leader. The actor finds inspiration in the resilience of the human spirit and the beauty of the natural world. He does not subscribe to a particular religious faith and prefers an open and questioning approach to existence. His work is highly regarded for its versatility and emotional resonance.

Jeffrey Wright

Jeffrey Wright is a celebrated actor who holds a secular and skeptical worldview when it comes to religion. He has appeared in major projects such as ‘Westworld’ and ‘The Batman’ and the ‘James Bond’ series. The actor often discusses the importance of history and evidence and social responsibility over religious dogma. He maintains a perspective that is grounded in reality and the pursuit of intellectual growth. His career is distinguished by his ability to play a wide variety of complex and intelligent characters.

David Alan Grier

David Alan Grier is a versatile actor and comedian who has expressed a secular and non religious viewpoint. He gained fame on the sketch show ‘In Living Color’ and has since appeared in many movies and Broadway productions. The performer has mentioned that he does not follow the religious path of his ancestors and prefers a life based on reason. He often uses his wit to comment on social trends and cultural expectations from a skeptical perspective. His long career has made him one of the most recognizable figures in comedy.

Questlove

Questlove is a musician and actor who has identified as an atheist or non religious for several years. He has appeared in films like ‘Popstar Never Stop Never Stopping’ and provided voice work for ‘Soul’ as well. The artist values the pursuit of knowledge and the history of music over religious explanations of the world. He often discusses his secular perspective during interviews about his creative process and lifestyle. His extensive career includes television work and film production and writing.

Nile Rodgers

Nile Rodgers is a producer and actor who has spoken about his lack of religious belief. He had a memorable cameo in the film ‘Coming to America’ and has been featured in many documentaries about his life. The performer identifies as a secular person who finds meaning in the power of music and human connection. He has mentioned that he does not look to a higher power for inspiration or guidance. His influence on the entertainment industry spans several decades and genres.

George Wallace

George Wallace is a comedian and actor who identifies as an atheist and often incorporates his skepticism into his humor. He has appeared in movies like ‘Batman Forever’ and ‘Mr. Deeds’ while maintaining a career in stand up. The performer often questions religious practices and beliefs through his observational comedy routines. He maintains a secular outlook on life and prefers to focus on the reality of the human experience. His long standing presence in the comedy world has made him a beloved figure among fans.

Tony Rock

Tony Rock is an actor and comedian who has expressed secular views and a lack of religious faith. He starred in the television series ‘All of Us’ and has appeared in the film ‘Think Like a Man’ as well. The performer often discusses the influence of the church in modern culture while remaining personally detached from it. He focuses on his craft and his professional development without the guidance of religious doctrine. His work in comedy and television continues to reach a wide audience.

JB Smoove

JB Smoove is a comedic actor who has indicated a secular or agnostic perspective regarding spirituality. He is best known for his role as Leon Black in ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’ and has appeared in ‘Spider-Man Far From Home’ too. The actor focuses on the humor in everyday situations and the complexities of human relationships. He has mentioned that he does not follow traditional religious structures in his personal life. His unique energy and improvisational skills have made him a standout performer in Hollywood.

Please share your thoughts on these secular performers and their contributions to film and television in the comments.