Black Actors Who Were Everywhere in the 2010s

The 2010s represented a transformative period for Black male actors in Hollywood, marked by a significant increase in leading roles across blockbusters, prestige dramas, and streaming hits. During this decade, a new generation of talent emerged to join established legends, creating a landscape where Black actors anchored some of the highest-grossing film franchises in history. From the rise of the Marvel Cinematic Universe to the resurgence of socially conscious horror and historical biopics, these performers were constant fixtures on the big and small screens. Their collective work not only dominated the box office but also garnered numerous accolades and reshaped cultural conversations.

Michael B. Jordan

Michael B. Jordan became a defining face of the 2010s through his compelling leading roles in both independent dramas and blockbusters. He gained critical acclaim for his performance as Oscar Grant in ‘Fruitvale Station’ (2013). The actor later headlined the ‘Creed’ (2015) franchise, successfully reviving the ‘Rocky’ cinematic universe. His portrayal of the antagonist Erik Killmonger in ‘Black Panther’ (2018) earned him global recognition and multiple award nominations. He closed the decade with a powerful performance in the legal drama ‘Just Mercy’ (2019).

Chadwick Boseman

Chadwick Boseman emerged as a major cinematic star during the 2010s by portraying iconic historical and fictional figures. He played Jackie Robinson in ’42’ (2013) and James Brown in ‘Get on Up’ (2014), showcasing his range as a biographical lead. Boseman achieved global superstardom as T’Challa in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, appearing in ‘Captain America: Civil War’ (2016) and ‘Black Panther’ (2018). He also starred in the action thriller ’21 Bridges’ (2019) and the legal drama ‘Marshall’ (2017). His work throughout the decade established him as a symbol of leadership and cultural significance in modern film.

Idris Elba

Idris Elba maintained a constant presence on screen throughout the 2010s, balancing prestige television with massive film franchises. He received critical praise and multiple awards for his titular role in the BBC series ‘Luther’ (2010–2019). On the big screen, he appeared in high-profile projects such as ‘Thor’ (2011), ‘Pacific Rim’ (2013), and ‘Beasts of No Nation’ (2015). Elba also voiced iconic characters in ‘Zootopia’ (2016) and ‘The Jungle Book’ (2016) while starring in ‘Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw’ (2019). His versatility across genres made him one of the most recognizable and busiest actors of the decade.

Mahershala Ali

Mahershala Ali experienced a meteoric rise in the 2010s, winning two Academy Awards within a three-year span. He gained initial notice for his role as Remy Danton in the political drama series ‘House of Cards’ (2013–2016). His supporting performance in ‘Moonlight’ (2016) won him his first Oscar, followed by another win for his role in ‘Green Book’ (2018). He also joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Cornell “Cottonmouth” Stokes in the series ‘Luke Cage’ (2016). Ali rounded out the decade by leading the third season of ‘True Detective’ (2019) and voicing a character in ‘Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse’ (2018).

Daniel Kaluuya

Daniel Kaluuya transitioned from British television to international stardom with a series of powerhouse performances in the late 2010s. He garnered widespread acclaim and an Academy Award nomination for his lead role in the social thriller ‘Get Out’ (2017). The actor joined the blockbuster ensemble of ‘Black Panther’ (2018) as the character W’Kabi. He followed this with a gritty performance in the heist film ‘Widows’ (2018) and a starring role in the romantic drama ‘Queen & Slim’ (2019). Kaluuya’s ability to command the screen in diverse genres quickly made him one of the most sought-after actors of the era.

Sterling K. Brown

Sterling K. Brown became a household name in the 2010s through his Emmy-winning performances on television. He gained significant attention for his portrayal of Christopher Darden in ‘The People v. O. J. Simpson: American Crime Story’ (2016). Brown further cemented his status as a lead actor in the critically acclaimed NBC drama ‘This Is Us’ (2016–2022). His film credits during this period include roles in ‘Black Panther’ (2018), ‘Waves’ (2019), and ‘Hotel Artemis’ (2018). By the end of the decade, he was recognized as one of the most talented and emotive actors working in the industry.

John Boyega

John Boyega rose to international fame in the 2010s after making a splash in the British sci-fi film ‘Attack the Block’ (2011). He was cast in the leading role of Finn in the ‘Star Wars’ sequel trilogy, appearing in ‘The Force Awakens’ (2015), ‘The Last Jedi’ (2017), and ‘The Rise of Skywalker’ (2019). Outside of the galaxy far, far away, he starred in the historical drama ‘Detroit’ (2017). Boyega also took on a lead role and a producing credit for the sequel ‘Pacific Rim: Uprising’ (2018). His energetic performances and outspoken nature made him a prominent figure in the decade’s pop culture landscape.

Anthony Mackie

Anthony Mackie was a near-constant fixture in 2010s cinema, most notably as Sam Wilson, also known as Falcon, in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. He debuted in the role in ‘Captain America: The Winter Soldier’ (2014) and appeared in several subsequent ‘Avengers’ titles. Mackie also took on lead roles in films like the thriller ‘Triple 9’ (2016) and the historical drama ‘The Banker’ (2019). His work in the 2010s also included the sci-fi film ‘The Adjustment Bureau’ (2011) and the body-swap thriller ‘Self/less’ (2015). Throughout the decade, he demonstrated his capability as both a reliable franchise player and a versatile dramatic lead.

Kevin Hart

Kevin Hart dominated the comedy genre in the 2010s, starring in a string of high-grossing box office hits. He achieved massive success with films like ‘Ride Along’ (2014), ‘Get Hard’ (2015), and ‘Central Intelligence’ (2016). Hart was a key part of the ensemble cast in the ‘Jumanji’ reboot series, starting with ‘Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle’ (2017). Beyond acting, he released several successful stand-up specials and hosted numerous award shows during this ten-year span. His relentless work ethic and comedic timing made him one of the most visible entertainers of the decade.

Samuel L. Jackson

Samuel L. Jackson remained one of the most prolific actors of the 2010s, appearing in dozens of high-profile projects. He was a central figure in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Nick Fury, appearing in films like ‘The Avengers’ (2012) and ‘Captain Marvel’ (2019). Jackson continued his long-standing collaboration with Quentin Tarantino in ‘Django Unchained’ (2012) and ‘The Hateful Eight’ (2015). He also starred in blockbuster hits such as ‘Kingsman: The Secret Service’ (2014) and ‘Kong: Skull Island’ (2017). His consistent presence across multiple franchises ensured his status as a permanent fixture in the decade’s cinema.

Denzel Washington

Denzel Washington continued to deliver powerhouse performances throughout the 2010s, earning multiple accolades. He starred in the action thriller ‘The Equalizer’ (2014) and its 2018 sequel, which became box office successes. His performance in the drama ‘Flight’ (2012) and his role in the film adaptation of ‘Fences’ (2016) earned him Oscar nominations. Washington also directed ‘Fences’, showcasing his talent behind the camera as well as in front of it. He rounded out the decade with a transformative role in the legal drama ‘Roman J. Israel, Esq.’ (2017).

Will Smith

Will Smith remained a global superstar in the 2010s, balancing major franchise returns with experimental roles. He returned to his iconic role as Agent J in ‘Men in Black 3’ (2012) and joined the DC Extended Universe as Deadshot in ‘Suicide Squad’ (2016). Smith took on dramatic roles in ‘Concussion’ (2015) and ‘Collateral Beauty’ (2016), as well as the fantasy action film ‘Bright’ (2017). He achieved one of the biggest hits of his career playing the Genie in the live-action ‘Aladdin’ (2019). His diverse filmography during this decade showcased his enduring appeal to audiences across all age groups.

Jamie Foxx

Jamie Foxx had a highly active decade, taking on roles in big-budget spectacles and acclaimed dramas. He gave a memorable performance as the lead in Quentin Tarantino’s ‘Django Unchained’ (2012). Foxx entered the superhero world as the villain Electro in ‘The Amazing Spider-Man 2’ (2014). He also starred in ‘White House Down’ (2013), ‘Baby Driver’ (2017), and played the lead in the legal drama ‘Just Mercy’ (2019). Throughout the 2010s, he successfully balanced his acting career with his work as a musician and television host.

Donald Glover

Donald Glover became a multi-hyphenate force in the 2010s, achieving success in acting, music, and writing. He rose to fame on the sitcom ‘Community’ (2009–2014) before creating and starring in the groundbreaking series ‘Atlanta’ (2016–2022). On film, he portrayed the young Lando Calrissian in ‘Solo: A Star Wars Story’ (2018). He also voiced Simba in the live-action remake of ‘The Lion King’ (2019) and appeared in ‘The Martian’ (2015). His creative output during this decade made him one of the most influential figures in the entertainment industry.

Lakeith Stanfield

Lakeith Stanfield emerged as one of the most unique and prolific talents of the 2010s. He made his film debut in ‘Short Term 12’ (2013) and quickly became a staple of independent and prestige cinema. Stanfield starred in the critically acclaimed series ‘Atlanta’ (2016–2022) and played a memorable role in ‘Get Out’ (2017). He led the surreal comedy ‘Sorry to Bother You’ (2018) and had roles in ‘Knives Out’ (2019) and ‘Uncut Gems’ (2019). By the end of the decade, he was known for his eccentric character choices and consistent screen presence.

Chiwetel Ejiofor

Chiwetel Ejiofor delivered some of the most powerful performances of the 2010s, earning high critical praise. He received an Academy Award nomination for his portrayal of Solomon Northup in ’12 Years a Slave’ (2013). The actor joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Karl Mordo in ‘Doctor Strange’ (2016). His work during this period also included roles in ‘The Martian’ (2015), ‘Z for Zachariah’ (2015), and voicing Scar in ‘The Lion King’ (2019). Throughout the decade, Ejiofor was recognized for his immense gravitas and dramatic range.

David Oyelowo

David Oyelowo became a prominent dramatic lead in the 2010s through a series of historical and contemporary roles. He gained significant acclaim for his portrayal of Martin Luther King Jr. in the biographical drama ‘Selma’ (2014). The actor also starred in ‘A United Kingdom’ (2016), ‘Queen of Katwe’ (2016), and the thriller ‘The Cloverfield Paradox’ (2018). Oyelowo appeared in the blockbuster ‘Rise of the Planet of the Apes’ (2011) and the prestige film ‘The Butler’ (2013). His consistent high-quality work established him as a key figure in modern dramatic cinema.

Don Cheadle

Don Cheadle was a regular presence on both the big and small screens during the 2010s. He took over the role of James Rhodes, also known as War Machine, in the Marvel Cinematic Universe beginning with ‘Iron Man 2’ (2010). On television, he starred as Marty Kaan in the comedy-drama series ‘House of Lies’ (2012–2016), winning a Golden Globe for the role. Cheadle also directed and starred in the Miles Davis biopic ‘Miles Ahead’ (2015). He closed the decade starring in the series ‘Black Monday’ (2019–2021).

Forest Whitaker

Forest Whitaker remained a prolific and respected figure in the 2010s with roles in various genres. He starred as Cecil Gaines in the historical drama ‘The Butler’ (2013), which was a major critical and commercial success. Whitaker joined the ‘Star Wars’ universe as Saw Gerrera in ‘Rogue One: A Star Wars Story’ (2016). He also appeared in ‘Arrival’ (2016), ‘Black Panther’ (2018), and the television series ‘Empire’ (2017–2019). His presence in both blockbuster franchises and smaller dramas maintained his status as a cinema veteran.

Laurence Fishburne

Laurence Fishburne enjoyed a very busy 2010s with recurring roles in major film franchises and television series. He portrayed Perry White in ‘Man of Steel’ (2013) and ‘Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice’ (2016). Fishburne appeared in the ‘John Wick’ series as the Bowery King and joined the MCU in ‘Ant-Man and the Wasp’ (2018). On television, he had significant roles in ‘Hannibal’ (2013–2015) and ‘Black-ish’ (2014–2022). His diverse list of credits during this decade made him a constant and familiar face for audiences.

Morgan Freeman

Morgan Freeman continued to be one of the most active veteran actors in the industry throughout the 2010s. He reprised his role as Lucius Fox in ‘The Dark Knight Rises’ (2012) and starred in the ‘Now You See Me’ franchise. Freeman also appeared in action hits like ‘Olympus Has Fallen’ (2013) and its sequels, ‘London Has Fallen’ (2016) and ‘Angel Has Fallen’ (2019). His voice work remained legendary, narrating numerous documentaries and appearing in ‘The Lego Movie’ (2014). Even in the latter stages of his career, he remained a bankable star with a steady stream of film releases.

Terrence Howard

Terrence Howard was a dominant figure on television during the 2010s, most notably as the lead in a hit musical drama. He starred as Lucious Lyon in ‘Empire’ (2015–2020), a role that became a cultural phenomenon. In film, he appeared in ‘The Butler’ (2013), ‘Prisoners’ (2013), and ‘The Best Man Holiday’ (2013). He also had a role in the sci-fi series ‘Wayward Pines’ (2015–2016). Howard’s work in the 2010s reinforced his reputation for playing complex and powerful characters.

Mike Colter

Mike Colter became a significant figure in the superhero genre during the 2010s. He first appeared as Luke Cage in the Marvel series ‘Jessica Jones’ (2015) before starring in his own titular series ‘Luke Cage’ (2016–2018). Colter also reprised the role in the ensemble miniseries ‘The Defenders’ (2017). In addition to his Marvel work, he starred in the supernatural drama series ‘Evil’ (2019–present). His physically imposing presence and charismatic acting made him a breakout star of the decade’s television landscape.

Jeffrey Wright

Jeffrey Wright was a frequent and acclaimed presence in both film and prestige television in the 2010s. He portrayed Beetee in ‘The Hunger Games’ franchise, appearing in ‘Catching Fire’ (2013) and both parts of ‘Mockingjay’ (2014–2015). Wright gained widespread recognition for his complex role as Bernard Lowe in the HBO series ‘Westworld’ (2016–2022). He also appeared in films like ‘Source Code’ (2011) and ‘The Goldfinch’ (2019). His reputation for intellectual depth and versatility made him a go-to actor for high-concept projects.

Common

Common successfully transitioned from a rap legend to a prolific actor during the 2010s. He had memorable roles in films like ‘Selma’ (2014), where he also won an Oscar for the song “Glory.” The actor appeared in blockbusters such as ‘Suicide Squad’ (2016), ‘John Wick: Chapter 2’ (2017), and ‘Hunter Killer’ (2018). On television, he was a regular on the series ‘Hell on Wheels’ (2011–2014). Throughout the decade, he balanced his music career with a steady and diverse acting filmography.

Ludacris

Ludacris, also known as Chris Bridges, was a staple of the action movie scene in the 2010s. He appeared in four installments of the ‘Fast & Furious’ franchise during this decade, starting with ‘Fast Five’ (2011). His character, Tej Parker, became a fan favorite and a core member of the franchise’s ensemble. He also had roles in films like ‘No Strings Attached’ (2011) and ‘New Year’s Eve’ (2011). His consistent presence in one of the world’s biggest movie franchises made him a highly visible star of the era.

Tyrese Gibson

Tyrese Gibson was another key player in the high-octane action films that defined the 2010s. He reprised his role as Roman Pearce in ‘Fast Five’ (2011), ‘Fast & Furious 6’ (2013), ‘Furious 7’ (2015), and ‘The Fate of the Furious’ (2017). Beyond that franchise, he appeared in ‘Transformers: Dark of the Moon’ (2011) and ‘Black and Blue’ (2019). He also starred in the drama film ‘Black Nativity’ (2013). Gibson’s comedic timing and action-hero persona made him a reliable fixture in blockbuster cinema.

Djimon Hounsou

Djimon Hounsou maintained a steady and high-profile film career throughout the 2010s. He joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Korath the Pursuer in ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ (2014) and ‘Captain Marvel’ (2019). The actor appeared in ‘Furious 7’ (2015), ‘The Legend of Tarzan’ (2016), and ‘King Arthur: Legend of the Sword’ (2017). He also had roles in the DC Extended Universe films ‘Aquaman’ (2018) and ‘Shazam!’ (2019). His presence in multiple major franchises made him one of the decade’s most recognizable supporting actors.

Omari Hardwick

Omari Hardwick became a major television star in the 2010s by leading a high-rated cable drama. He starred as James “Ghost” St. Patrick in the hit series ‘Power’ (2014–2020), which gained a massive following. In film, he appeared in projects such as ‘For Colored Girls’ (2010) and ‘Sparkle’ (2012). He also had roles in ‘Sorry to Bother You’ (2018) and the action film ‘Nobody’s Fool’ (2018). His commanding performance in ‘Power’ defined his career during this decade and established him as a leading man.

Courtney B. Vance

Courtney B. Vance saw a significant career resurgence in the mid-to-late 2010s. He won an Emmy Award for his outstanding portrayal of Johnnie Cochran in ‘The People v. O. J. Simpson: American Crime Story’ (2016). On the big screen, he appeared in films like ‘Terminator Genisys’ (2015) and ‘The Mummy’ (2017). He also had a role in the comedy ‘Office Christmas Party’ (2016) and voiced a character in ‘Isle of Dogs’ (2018). His legal drama performance remains one of the most talked-about acting feats of the decade.

Jesse Williams

Jesse Williams was a constant presence in homes across the world throughout the 2010s. He starred as Dr. Jackson Avery on the long-running medical drama ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ (2009–2022). In film, he had a memorable role in the horror movie ‘The Cabin in the Woods’ (2011). He also appeared in the historical drama ‘The Butler’ (2013). Outside of acting, Williams became a prominent voice for social justice during the decade.

Terry Crews

Terry Crews was an omnipresent comedic and action figure during the 2010s. He starred as Terry Jeffords in the beloved sitcom ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’ (2013–2021). On film, he appeared in ‘The Expendables’ franchise, including ‘The Expendables 2’ (2012) and ‘The Expendables 3’ (2014). He also hosted ‘America’s Got Talent’ and ‘Who Wants to Be a Millionaire’ during this period. His high energy and distinctive physique made him a standout in both television and film.

Tyler Perry

Tyler Perry continued his massive success as an actor, director, and producer throughout the 2010s. He appeared in several films as his iconic character Madea, including ‘Madea’s Witness Protection’ (2012) and ‘A Madea Family Funeral’ (2019). Perry took on serious dramatic roles in ‘Alex Cross’ (2012) and David Fincher’s ‘Gone Girl’ (2014). He also played Colin Powell in the biographical film ‘Vice’ (2018). His ability to move between broad comedy and serious drama solidified his unique position in Hollywood.

Taye Diggs

Taye Diggs was a regular fixture on primetime television throughout the 2010s. He starred in the series ‘Private Practice’ (2007–2013) and the crime drama ‘Murder in the First’ (2014–2016). The actor also appeared in the hit show ‘Empire’ (2016–2017) and began starring in ‘All American’ (2018–present). On film, he reprised his role in the successful sequel ‘The Best Man Holiday’ (2013). His consistent presence across several popular series made him one of the decade’s most visible TV actors.

Morris Chestnut

Morris Chestnut maintained a steady and prolific career in both film and television during the 2010s. He starred in the medical drama ‘Rosewood’ (2015–2017) and the series ‘Goliath’ (2018). On the big screen, he appeared in the box office hit ‘The Best Man Holiday’ (2013) and ‘Think Like a Man Too’ (2014). He also had roles in the thriller ‘The Perfect Guy’ (2015) and ‘When the Bough Breaks’ (2016). Chestnut’s longevity and leading man charm kept him at the forefront of the industry for the entire decade.

Michael Ealy

Michael Ealy was a frequent presence in romantic comedies and thrillers throughout the 2010s. He starred in the ensemble hits ‘Think Like a Man’ (2012) and its 2014 sequel. On television, he led the sci-fi series ‘Almost Human’ (2013–2014) and starred in ‘Secrets and Lies’ (2016). He also appeared in films like ‘The Perfect Guy’ (2015) and the 2019 remake of ‘Jacob’s Ladder’. His work across different media ensured he was a recognizable face to many viewers.

Laz Alonso

Laz Alonso had a productive decade with significant roles in major action and drama projects. He starred in the series ‘Breakout Kings’ (2011–2012) and the drama ‘Deception’ (2013). On film, he appeared in ‘Straw Dogs’ (2011), ‘Battle of the Year’ (2013), and the thriller ‘Traffik’ (2018). He also joined the main cast of the hit Amazon series ‘The Boys’ (2019–present) as Mother’s Milk. His transition from film roles to a lead in a major streaming hit capped off a successful decade.

Corey Hawkins

Corey Hawkins rose to fame in the mid-2010s with a breakout performance in a major musical biopic. He played Dr. Dre in ‘Straight Outta Compton’ (2015), which was a critical and commercial smash. He then led the series ’24: Legacy’ (2017) and appeared in the blockbuster ‘Kong: Skull Island’ (2017). Hawkins also starred in Spike Lee’s ‘BlacKkKlansman’ (2018) and the action film ‘6 Underground’ (2019). His rapid ascent made him one of the most promising and active actors of the decade’s second half.

Jason Mitchell

Jason Mitchell became a highly sought-after talent in the 2010s after a standout performance as Eazy-E. His role in ‘Straight Outta Compton’ (2015) garnered widespread critical acclaim. He followed this with roles in ‘Mudbound’ (2017), ‘Kong: Skull Island’ (2017), and ‘Detroit’ (2017). Mitchell also starred in the drama series ‘The Chi’ (2018–2019). Despite later career changes, his cinematic output during this period was undeniable and influential.

O’Shea Jackson Jr.

O’Shea Jackson Jr. made a significant impact in the 2010s, beginning with his portrayal of his father, Ice Cube. He starred in ‘Straight Outta Compton’ (2015), which launched his acting career. He followed that with roles in ‘Ingrid Goes West’ (2017), ‘Den of Thieves’ (2018), and ‘Godzilla: King of the Monsters’ (2019). He also appeared in the legal drama ‘Just Mercy’ (2019). His ability to handle comedy, action, and drama quickly established him as a versatile talent.

Aldis Hodge

Aldis Hodge was a constant fixture on television and in film throughout the 2010s. He starred as Alec Hardison on the series ‘Leverage’ (2008–2012) and as MC Ren in ‘Straight Outta Compton’ (2015). The actor also had a main role in the period drama ‘Underground’ (2016–2017). On film, he appeared in ‘Hidden Figures’ (2016) and led the drama ‘Clemency’ (2019). His career in the 2010s was marked by a steady rise to leading man status.

Winston Duke

Winston Duke became a breakout star in the late 2010s with several high-profile roles. He made his film debut as M’Baku in ‘Black Panther’ (2018), becoming a fan favorite. He reprised the role in ‘Avengers: Infinity War’ (2018) and ‘Avengers: Endgame’ (2019). Duke also starred as the lead in Jordan Peele’s horror film ‘Us’ (2019). His quick rise to fame made him one of the most exciting new talents of the decade.

Brian Tyree Henry

Brian Tyree Henry became a ubiquitous presence in film and television in the latter half of the 2010s. He rose to fame as Alfred “Paper Boi” Miles in the acclaimed series ‘Atlanta’ (2016–2022). His film credits include ‘Widows’ (2018), ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’ (2018), and ‘Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse’ (2018). He also appeared in ‘Joker’ (2019) and the horror remake ‘Child’s Play’ (2019). Henry’s ability to transition between comedy and heavy drama made him a staple of the era’s best projects.

Stephan James

Stephan James emerged as a powerful dramatic lead during the 2010s. He portrayed Jesse Owens in the biopic ‘Race’ (2016) and John Lewis in ‘Selma’ (2014). He starred in the romantic drama ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’ (2018) and the series ‘Homecoming’ (2018–2020). James also had a role in the crime thriller ’21 Bridges’ (2019). His work in the decade was characterized by portraying significant historical figures and deep emotional roles.

Jharrel Jerome

Jharrel Jerome achieved significant critical success in the late 2010s for his powerful performances. He played the teenaged Kevin in the Academy Award-winning film ‘Moonlight’ (2016). Jerome won an Emmy for his role as Korey Wise in the miniseries ‘When They See Us’ (2019). He also appeared in the series ‘Mr. Mercedes’ (2017–2019). His work in prestige projects made him one of the most acclaimed young actors of the decade.

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II had an incredibly prolific few years at the end of the 2010s. He appeared in ‘The Get Down’ (2016), ‘The Greatest Showman’ (2017), and played Black Manta in ‘Aquaman’ (2018). The actor also starred in the “Striking Vipers” episode of ‘Black Mirror’ (2019). He won an Emmy for his role as Cal Abar in the HBO series ‘Watchmen’ (2019). His rapid ascent to stardom made him a major player in both franchises and high-concept television.

Daveed Diggs

Daveed Diggs transitioned from a Tony-winning stage career to a busy screen career in the 2010s. He originated the roles of Marquis de Lafayette and Thomas Jefferson in the musical ‘Hamilton’ (2015). On television, he appeared in ‘Black-ish’ (2016–2018) and ‘The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt’ (2017). He wrote and starred in the critically acclaimed film ‘Blindspotting’ (2018). He ended the decade starring in the satire ‘Velvet Buzzsaw’ (2019) and the comedy series ‘Mixed-ish’ (2019).

Colman Domingo

Colman Domingo was a versatile and frequent presence in film and television throughout the 2010s. He appeared in the historical dramas ‘Lincoln’ (2012), ‘The Butler’ (2013), and ‘Selma’ (2014). The actor became a series regular as Victor Strand on ‘Fear the Walking Dead’ (2015–2023). He also had roles in ‘The Birth of a Nation’ (2016) and ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’ (2018). His consistent work in high-profile ensembles established him as a reliable and talented character actor.

John David Washington

John David Washington emerged as a major leading man in the late 2010s. He first gained notice as Ricky Jerret in the HBO series ‘Ballers’ (2015–2019). His breakout film role came in Spike Lee’s ‘BlacKkKlansman’ (2018), which earned him a Golden Globe nomination. He followed this with roles in ‘The Old Man & the Gun’ (2018) and ‘Monsters and Men’ (2018). His rise at the end of the decade set him up as a top-tier talent for the years to follow.

Michael Kenneth Williams

Michael K. Williams was a critically acclaimed and prolific actor throughout the 2010s. He starred as Chalky White in ‘Boardwalk Empire’ (2010–2014) and Freddy Knight in ‘The Night Of’ (2016). On film, he had roles in ’12 Years a Slave’ (2013), ‘Inherent Vice’ (2014), and ‘Assassin’s Creed’ (2016). He also appeared in the miniseries ‘When They See Us’ (2019) and ‘Hap and Leonard’ (2016–2018). His consistent ability to portray complex, deeply human characters made him a beloved figure of the decade.

Please share your thoughts on which of these actors had the biggest impact on the decade in the comments.