African-American Actresses Who Have the Most Chance To Be Aliens

The science fiction genre often looks for performers who can embody characters that feel both familiar and entirely otherworldly. Many African American actresses possess the unique combination of striking visual presence and deep emotional range required to portray life from beyond the stars. These performers have demonstrated their versatility through physical transformations and complex character work in high stakes narratives. Their filmographies often include roles that explore the boundaries of the human experience through speculative fiction and fantasy. The following list highlights talented individuals whose work and presence suggest a natural fit for extraterrestrial roles in cinema.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe has frequently explored themes of futurism and non human identity throughout her artistic career. She gained widespread recognition for her performances in ‘Hidden Figures’ and ‘Moonlight’ where she displayed significant emotional depth. Her visual identity often incorporates celestial and technological motifs that suggest a connection to science fiction themes. She appeared in the science fiction thriller ‘Antebellum’ which further proved her ability to handle surreal and intense narratives. Her enigmatic presence makes her a prime candidate for portraying a visitor from another galaxy.

Sonequa Martin-Green

Sonequa Martin-Green is best known for her leading role as Michael Burnham in ‘Star Trek Discovery’. Her character spends years navigating the complexities of deep space and interacting with numerous alien species. This extensive experience with science fiction tropes has established her as a central figure in modern intergalactic storytelling. She possesses a grounded yet intense acting style that allows audiences to believe in the most fantastical scenarios. Her familiarity with prosthetic work and high concept scripts makes her an ideal choice for otherworldly characters.

Zoe Saldaña

Zoe Saldaña has portrayed some of the most famous extraterrestrial characters in modern cinematic history. She played the Na’vi warrior Neytiri in ‘Avatar’ and its sequels through the use of performance capture technology. In the Marvel Cinematic Universe she starred as Gamora across multiple ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ films. Her ability to deliver powerful performances under layers of digital effects or makeup is well documented by critics and fans. She remains one of the most prolific actresses in the science fiction genre today.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson has become a staple of major franchises including her role as Valkyrie in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. She also starred in ‘Men in Black International’ where her character was responsible for monitoring alien activity on Earth. Her performance in the psychological science fiction film ‘Annihilation’ showcased her ability to handle eerie and transformative narratives. She often brings a sense of sharp intelligence and curiosity to her roles which fits the archetype of a cosmic explorer. Her diverse filmography proves she can seamlessly transition between grounded drama and space opera.

Teyonah Parris

Teyonah Parris joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Monica Rambeau in the series ‘Wandavision’. Her character later gained superpowers and traveled through space in the film ‘The Marvels’. She has a commanding presence that works well for characters dealing with cosmic phenomena and advanced technology. Her background in dramatic theater provides her with the tools to ground even the most surreal science fiction premises. She represents a new wave of actresses leading the way in large scale genre storytelling.

Dominique Thorne

Dominique Thorne made her debut as Riri Williams in ‘Black Panther Wakanda Forever’ where she played a genius inventor. Her character is known for building advanced suits of armor that utilize cutting edge technology. She is set to lead the series ‘Ironheart’ which will further explore her role as a tech savvy hero in a world of extraordinary events. Her youth and energy bring a fresh perspective to the superhero and science fiction genres. She has the intellectual intensity often associated with characters from advanced alien civilizations.

Zazie Beetz

Zazie Beetz is widely recognized for her role as Domino in ‘Deadpool 2’ where she portrayed a mutant with the power of luck. she also starred in the acclaimed series ‘Atlanta’ and the psychological thriller ‘Joker’. Her performance in the ‘Black Mirror’ episode ‘Mazey Day’ demonstrated her ability to handle dark and supernatural themes. She possesses a distinct visual style and a cool composure that would translate well to an extraterrestrial role. Her career is marked by a willingness to take on unconventional and genre defying projects.

Regina King

Regina King has won multiple awards for her work in both television and film including ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’. She starred in the ‘Watchmen’ series as Sister Night which dealt with themes of hidden identities and advanced technology. Her experience in complex world building narratives makes her a strong candidate for high concept science fiction. She has a gravitas and authority that could easily be applied to a leader of an alien planet. Her directorial work also shows a deep understanding of visual storytelling and atmosphere.

Viola Davis

Viola Davis is one of the most decorated actresses of her generation with an Academy Award and multiple Emmys. She played Amanda Waller in the ‘Suicide Squad’ films where she commanded a team of superpowered individuals. Her role in ‘The Woman King’ showcased her physical dedication and ability to lead intense action sequences. She brings a level of prestige and intensity to every project she joins. An extraterrestrial role would benefit from her legendary ability to convey complex emotions and internal conflict.

Jurnee Smollett

Jurnee Smollett gained significant attention for her role as Black Canary in ‘Birds of Prey’. She also starred in the supernatural horror series ‘Lovecraft Country’ which blended historical drama with cosmic entities. Her performance in ‘Spiderhead’ involved navigating a high tech experimental facility with psychological stakes. She has a dynamic screen presence that allows her to dominate the frame in both action and drama. Her experience with weird fiction makes her a natural fit for stories involving alien encounters.

Keke Palmer

Keke Palmer has had a long career spanning from childhood stardom to leading roles in major films like ‘Nope’. In ‘Nope’ she played a character directly involved in an encounter with a mysterious and predatory aerial entity. Her performance highlighted her ability to balance humor with genuine terror in the face of the unknown. she also voiced a character in the science fiction adventure ‘Lightyear’ which took place in a galactic setting. Her charismatic energy and experience with extraterrestrial themes make her a standout choice for future alien roles.

Halle Bailey

Halle Bailey rose to global fame for her portrayal of Ariel in the live action adaptation of ‘The Little Mermaid’. Her character was a mystical being from an underwater kingdom which required her to act in a highly stylized environment. She possesses an ethereal and youthful quality that translates well to fantasy and science fiction archetypes. Her background as a singer adds a lyrical quality to her movements and vocal delivery. She has already proven she can lead a major production centered on a non human protagonist.

Adina Porter

Adina Porter is a veteran of genre television with prominent roles in ‘The 100’ and ‘American Horror Story’. In ‘The 100’ she played a fierce warrior leader who navigated a post apocalyptic world filled with different factions. Her characters often possess a stoic and mysterious nature that keeps the audience guessing. She has a powerful facial structure and a steady gaze that evoke a sense of ancient wisdom. Her long history in science fiction and horror provides her with the perfect toolkit for portraying an alien.

Yetide Badaki

Yetide Badaki is best known for her role as the goddess Bilquis in the series ‘American Gods’. This role required her to portray a timeless and powerful entity with a presence that felt truly divine. She has also appeared in ‘Star Trek Strange New Worlds’ as an Illyrian lawyer which directly placed her in a famous alien role. Her ability to convey majesty and otherworldly grace is a defining feature of her acting. She consistently brings a sense of mystery and power to the screen.

Anna Diop

Anna Diop stars as the alien princess Starfire in the series ‘Titans’ based on the DC Comics characters. Her role involves portraying a visitor from another planet who must adapt to life on Earth while wielding solar powers. She has demonstrated the ability to handle heavy visual effects and complex action choreography. Her performance balances the fish out of water trope with the confidence of a powerful warrior. She is one of the few actresses currently playing a prominent extraterrestrial lead on television.

Javicia Leslie

Javicia Leslie took over the lead role in ‘Batwoman’ where she played a high tech vigilante protecting a city. She has also appeared in the series ‘The Flash’ as part of a crossover event involving multiverse travel. Her athletic ability and experience with stunt work make her well suited for the physical demands of science fiction roles. She carries herself with a hero’s confidence that would fit a cosmic defender or alien visitor. Her work in the superhero genre has prepared her for the imaginative requirements of space themed stories.

Candice Patton

Candice Patton spent nearly a decade playing Iris West in the long running series ‘The Flash’. Throughout the show she dealt with metahumans, time travel, and parallel universes on a regular basis. This experience has made her a fixture in the world of speculative fiction and fan culture. She has a natural screen presence that grounds even the most outlandish plot points. Her long term involvement in a high concept genre series makes her an obvious candidate for future alien narratives.

Meagan Good

Meagan Good has a career that spans several decades including roles in horror and superhero films. She appeared in ‘Shazam’ and its sequel as the adult superhero version of Darla. She also starred in the television series ‘Minority Report’ which was based on the famous science fiction film about precognition. Her ability to play characters with extraordinary abilities is well established. She maintains a youthful and striking appearance that would fit the aesthetic of a technologically advanced alien race.

Kerry Washington

Kerry Washington is widely celebrated for her role in the political drama ‘Scandal’ and the film ‘Django Unchained’. While she is known for grounded dramas she has also explored high concept themes in projects like ‘Save the Last Dance’. She brings a high level of intelligence and poise to every character she portrays. Her precise acting style could effectively convey the cold logic or advanced thinking of an extraterrestrial. She has the star power and range to lead a major science fiction epic.

Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson received an Academy Award nomination for ‘The Curious Case of Benjamin Button’ and starred in ‘Hidden Figures’. In ‘Hidden Figures’ she played a mathematician who calculated the trajectories for the first American space missions. She also appeared in the science fiction thriller ‘Person of Interest’ which dealt with advanced artificial intelligence. Her characters are often defined by their resilience and exceptional intellect. These traits are essential for portraying a member of a spacefaring species.

Octavia Spencer

Octavia Spencer is an Academy Award winner known for her roles in ‘The Help’ and ‘Hidden Figures’. She also starred in the science fiction film ‘The Shape of Water’ as a woman who discovers a mysterious aquatic creature. Her performance in ‘Snowpiercer’ showed her ability to survive in a harsh post apocalyptic environment. She has a warm and relatable presence that can provide a necessary human element to an alien story. Her filmography includes a wide variety of genres including several significant science fiction projects.

Tracee Ellis Ross

Tracee Ellis Ross is best known for her comedic timing in ‘Girlfriends’ and ‘Blackish’. She has a distinct and expressive visual style that often leans into bold and avant garde aesthetics. Her ability to use her physicality for character work would be a great asset in portraying a non human being. She possesses a unique energy that could easily be adapted for a quirky or highly sophisticated alien character. Her versatility as a performer allows her to excel in both high stakes drama and eccentric roles.

Issa Rae

Issa Rae rose to fame with her series ‘Insecure’ and has since moved into major film roles like ‘Barbie’. In ‘Barbie’ she played President Barbie which required her to exist in a highly stylized and artificial world. She also voiced a character in ‘Spider Man Across the Spider Verse’ which dealt with the concept of the multiverse. Her ability to ground unusual or fantastical environments is a key strength. She has a modern sensibility that would bring a fresh perspective to a science fiction narrative.

Marsai Martin

Marsai Martin became a breakout star on the series ‘Blackish’ and has since become a successful producer. She starred in the film ‘Little’ where a magical transformation changed her character’s age. Her experience with high concept comedy and fantasy elements at a young age shows great promise for future genre work. She has a sharp wit and a commanding presence that defies her age. A role as a young alien prodigy or an intergalactic diplomat would fit her screen persona perfectly.

Storm Reid

Storm Reid took the lead role in ‘A Wrinkle in Time’ where she traveled through different dimensions and met celestial beings. She also appeared in ‘The Invisible Man’ and the superhero film ‘The Suicide Squad’. Her work in ‘The Last of Us’ further established her ability to perform in high stakes survival scenarios. She is comfortable working with heavy visual effects and complex world building. Her career has already been heavily defined by her roles in speculative and imaginative fiction.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg first gained major attention as Rue in ‘The Hunger Games’ which took place in a dystopian future. She starred in the science fiction film ‘The Darkest Minds’ as a teenager with powerful kinetic abilities. Most recently she led the series ‘The Acolyte’ set in the ‘Star Wars’ universe where she played multiple roles. Her features and calm demeanor often give her an ethereal quality on screen. She has a proven track record of leading major science fiction and fantasy franchises.

Kiersey Clemons

Kiersey Clemons played Iris West in ‘Zack Snyder’s Justice League’ and appeared in the science fiction film ‘Flatliners’. She also starred in the monster themed series ‘Monarch Legacy of Monsters’ which involves the study of giant creatures. Her acting style often feels very natural and spontaneous which can provide a great contrast to a rigid sci-fi setting. She has a modern and versatile look that can be easily adapted for various genre roles. Her participation in multiple high budget franchises shows her familiarity with the genre.

Laura Harrier

Laura Harrier appeared as Liz Allan in ‘Spider Man Homecoming’ and starred in the series ‘Hollywood’. She also had a role in the science fiction film ‘Fahrenheit 451’ based on the classic dystopian novel. She has a classic and elegant screen presence that would work well for a regal or mysterious alien character. Her ability to convey both vulnerability and strength makes her a compelling choice for lead roles. She continues to build a diverse resume that includes both period pieces and modern blockbusters.

Zendaya

Zendaya has become a major force in the science fiction genre with her role as Chani in the ‘Dune’ film series. She also played Michelle Jones in the recent ‘Spider Man’ trilogy where she navigated a world filled with superheroes and multiversal threats. Her performance in ‘Euphoria’ has earned her critical acclaim for her emotional range and intensity. She has a striking and high fashion aesthetic that naturally lends itself to futuristic designs. Her massive global popularity makes her a primary choice for any high profile alien role.

Dewanda Wise

Dewanda Wise starred in ‘Jurassic World Dominion’ as a pilot who helps navigate a world filled with prehistoric creatures. She also appeared in the science fiction series ‘The Twilight Zone’ which explored various surreal and supernatural concepts. Her characters are often characterized by their independence and bravery in dangerous situations. She has a strong physical presence and a confident delivery that works well for action oriented roles. Her experience with large scale productions has prepared her for the demands of a space epic.

Moses Ingram

Moses Ingram gained widespread recognition for her role as the Inquisitor Reva in the ‘Star Wars’ series ‘Obi Wan Kenobi’. Her character was a formidable warrior who utilized the Force and advanced weaponry in a galaxy far away. She also appeared in the acclaimed series ‘The Queen’s Gambit’ where she demonstrated her dramatic range. Her ability to play intense and driven characters makes her a great fit for alien antagonists or complex heroes. She has a commanding voice and a focused screen presence that demands attention.

KiKi Layne

KiKi Layne starred in ‘The Old Guard’ as a soldier who discovers she is part of a group of immortal mercenaries. This role required extensive stunt training and the ability to portray a character who has experienced extraordinary events. She also appeared in ‘Coming 2 America’ and the psychological thriller ‘Don’t Worry Darling’. Her performance in ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’ showed her capacity for deep emotional storytelling. She has a timeless quality that would translate effectively to a character from another world or time period.

Gabrielle Union

Gabrielle Union has a long career in both film and television including roles in action movies like ‘Bad Boys II’. She appeared in the science fiction film ‘The Prototype’ and has played characters with high levels of authority. Her experience in the industry allows her to bring a sense of professionalism and weight to any project. She maintains a striking appearance and a charismatic energy that could fit a sophisticated alien leader. Her broad appeal makes her a valuable asset to any large scale production.

Regina Hall

Regina Hall is well known for her comedic roles in the ‘Scary Movie’ franchise and ‘Girls Trip’. She also starred in the series ‘Nine Perfect Strangers’ which dealt with surreal and transformative experiences at a wellness retreat. Her ability to switch between comedy and intense drama is one of her greatest strengths. She has a versatile screen presence that could be used to play a multifaceted alien character. Her long history in the industry has proven her ability to adapt to many different genres.

Rosario Dawson

Rosario Dawson has a deep connection to the science fiction and superhero genres through her role as Ahsoka Tano in ‘Star Wars’. She also played Claire Temple across several Marvel television series on Netflix. Her filmography includes the science fiction film ‘Unstoppable’ and the animated ‘Justice League’ movies. She is highly experienced with the physical and technical requirements of playing a genre character. Her portrayal of a fan favorite alien has already solidified her place in science fiction history.

Nicole Beharie

Nicole Beharie starred in the supernatural drama ‘Sleepy Hollow’ as a detective dealing with ancient curses and monsters. she also appeared in the ‘Black Mirror’ episode ‘Striking Vipers’ which explored virtual reality and identity. Her performance in the film ‘Honk for Jesus Save Your Soul’ demonstrated her range as a leading actress. She has a soulful and intelligent presence that would work well for a character navigating an alien culture. Her background in high concept television makes her a reliable choice for speculative fiction.

Rutina Wesley

Rutina Wesley is best known for her role as Tara Thornton in the supernatural series ‘True Blood’. She also appeared in the drama ‘Queen Sugar’ and the post apocalyptic series ‘The Last of Us’. Her characters often have a tough exterior and a complex emotional life which makes them very compelling. She has a powerful and expressive face that can convey a lot of information without dialogue. Her experience with supernatural and survival narratives makes her a natural fit for an alien role.

Amber Stevens West

Amber Stevens West appeared in the science fiction series ‘Ghosted’ which combined comedy with paranormal investigations. She also had a role in ‘The Amazing Spider Man’ and has appeared in many popular television comedies. Her lighthearted and charming presence could be used to play a more friendly or curious alien visitor. She has a versatile look that fits well within both modern and fantastical settings. Her experience in genre blending projects shows her ability to handle unique premises.

Logan Browning

Logan Browning led the series ‘Dear White People’ and starred in the horror film ‘The Perfection’. In ‘The Perfection’ she played a talented musician involved in a dark and surreal plot. Her performance showed a willingness to embrace intense and unconventional character arcs. She has a striking appearance and an articulate delivery that could fit a highly evolved extraterrestrial. Her career choices suggest an interest in projects that challenge the audience’s perceptions.

Ryan Michelle Bathe

Ryan Michelle Bathe has appeared in the science fiction series ‘The First’ which followed a mission to Mars. She also has a long history of roles in dramas like ‘This Is Us’ and ‘The First Wives Club’. Her experience in a grounded space exploration series provides her with a realistic perspective on the genre. She brings a sense of warmth and intelligence to her roles which can help humanize an alien character. She is a versatile actress who can handle both technical dialogue and emotional scenes.

Da’Vine Joy Randolph

Da’Vine Joy Randolph won an Academy Award for her role in ‘The Holdovers’ and has appeared in many high profile projects. She starred in the series ‘Only Murders in the Building’ and the film ‘The Lost City’. Her background in musical theater gives her a commanding vocal presence and a great sense of timing. While she is known for her dramatic and comedic skills she has the range to inhabit a unique non human character. Her recent success has made her one of the most sought after actresses in Hollywood.

Danielle Brooks

Danielle Brooks gained fame for her role in ‘Orange Is the New Black’ and received an Oscar nomination for ‘The Color Purple’. She also starred in the superhero series ‘Peacemaker’ as a member of a high stakes black ops team. Her character in ‘Peacemaker’ dealt with an alien invasion which gave her direct experience in the genre. She has a vibrant and powerful energy that can dominate any scene she is in. Her ability to ground action sequences with genuine emotion is a significant asset.

Adrienne Warren

Adrienne Warren is a Tony Award winning actress known for her legendary performance as Tina Turner on Broadway. she also appeared in the historical epic ‘The Woman King’ and the limited series ‘Women of the Movement’. Her incredible physical stamina and vocal range allow her to take on very demanding roles. She possesses a magnetic screen presence that would translate well to a high stakes science fiction setting. Her transition into film and television has been marked by strong and memorable performances.

Renée Elise Goldsberry

Renée Elise Goldsberry is a Tony Award winner for her role in ‘Hamilton’ and stars in the series ‘Girls5eva’. She also appeared in the science fiction series ‘Altered Carbon’ as a revolutionary leader in a high tech future. Her performance in ‘Altered Carbon’ showcased her ability to handle action and complex futuristic concepts. She has a sophisticated and authoritative presence that fits well with leadership roles. Her background in both stage and screen provides her with a unique set of skills for genre work.

Anika Noni Rose

Anika Noni Rose is the voice of Tiana in ‘The Princess and the Frog’ and has a storied career on Broadway. She appeared in the science fiction series ‘The Invincible’ and the horror film ‘Body Cam’. Her characters are often defined by their grace and inner strength. She has a lyrical and clear speaking voice that would be perfect for a highly intelligent alien race. Her extensive experience in fantasy and animation shows her comfort with non realistic storytelling.

Quvenzhané Wallis

Quvenzhané Wallis became the youngest person to receive an Academy Award nomination for ‘Beasts of the Southern Wild’. She also starred in the remake of ‘Annie’ and the series ‘Swagger’. Her debut role involved living in a surreal and flooding landscape which required a strong connection to her environment. She has grown into a versatile young actress with a very expressive and soulful presence. A role as a young alien discovering Earth or leading her own people would be a natural fit for her talents.

Yara Shahidi

Yara Shahidi is the lead of the series ‘Grownish’ and played Tinker Bell in the film ‘Peter Pan and Wendy’. Her role as a magical fairy required her to work extensively with blue screen technology and a stylized performance. She is known for her activism and intelligence which she often brings to her characters. Her features and youthful energy give her a look that could easily be adapted for an alien role. She has a massive platform and a strong connection to younger audiences.

Skai Jackson

Skai Jackson started her career as a child star on Disney Channel in series like ‘Jessie’ and ‘Bunk’d’. She has since moved into more mature roles and has a significant presence on social media. Her petite stature and distinct features could be utilized for a unique alien design or character. She has a confident and poised manner that works well for a character who is more advanced than they appear. Her long history of working on television sets makes her a professional and capable performer for any genre.

Willow Smith

Willow Smith made her film debut alongside her father in the post apocalyptic science fiction film ‘I Am Legend’. While she has focused primarily on her successful music career she has maintained a very futuristic and avant garde aesthetic. Her personal style often pushes the boundaries of fashion and incorporates celestial themes. She has a naturally striking and ethereal look that would require very little modification to seem extraterrestrial. Her artistic background suggests a high level of comfort with abstract and imaginative concepts.

Please share your thoughts on which actresses you would love to see in a science fiction epic in the comments.