Black Actors with Zero Major Scandals Over 30+ Years

Maintaining a pristine reputation in Hollywood is a difficult feat that requires professionalism and personal discipline over many decades. The actors on this list have managed to navigate the complexities of fame without becoming the subject of major controversies or career-ending scandals. Their bodies of work span at least thirty years and include some of the most significant contributions to film and television history. These men have focused strictly on their craft and have let their performances speak for themselves. The following individuals represent a standard of longevity and integrity within the entertainment industry.

Denzel Washington

Denzel Washington began his acting career in theater before transitioning to screen roles in the late seventies. He gained widespread recognition for his work on the television drama ‘St. Elsewhere’ before becoming a major film star. His extensive filmography includes Academy Award wins for his performances in ‘Glory’ and ‘Training Day’. Washington has consistently maintained a private personal life while directing and producing acclaimed projects. He remains a respected figure in Hollywood for his dedication to the craft of acting.

Samuel L. Jackson

Samuel L. Jackson has appeared in over one hundred films since making his professional debut in the early seventies. He became a global icon through his frequent collaborations with director Quentin Tarantino and his role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. His credits include cultural landmarks such as ‘Pulp Fiction’ and ‘Jurassic Park’ along with extensive voice work. Jackson is recognized as one of the highest-grossing actors of all time due to his relentless work ethic. He has navigated his massive fame without succumbing to the pitfalls often associated with such visibility.

Laurence Fishburne

Laurence Fishburne started acting as a child and earned early acclaim for his role in ‘Apocalypse Now’ at a very young age. He solidified his status as a leading man with powerful performances in films like ‘Boyz n the Hood’ and ‘What’s Love Got to Do with It’. Fishburne achieved global superstardom for his portrayal of Morpheus in ‘The Matrix’ trilogy. His career seamlessly bridges the gap between stage and screen with multiple awards for his theater work. He has maintained a steady and respectable presence in the industry for nearly five decades.

Forest Whitaker

Forest Whitaker made his film debut in the early eighties and quickly established himself as a versatile character actor. He won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Idi Amin in ‘The Last King of Scotland’. His work includes significant roles in blockbusters like ‘Black Panther’ and independent dramas such as ‘Ghost Dog: The Way of the Samurai’. Whitaker is also known for his humanitarian work and efforts to support peace initiatives around the world. His reputation remains focused on his intense method acting and philanthropic endeavors.

Keith David

Keith David has possessed one of the most distinct voices and commanding screen presences since the late seventies. He starred in cult classics such as ‘The Thing’ and ‘They Live’ while maintaining a prolific career in voice acting. His television work includes a long tenure on the series ‘Greenleaf’ and numerous guest appearances. David is a Tony Award nominee who has balanced his screen career with significant achievements in musical theater. He continues to work constantly without any negative tabloid attention.

Dennis Haysbert

Dennis Haysbert began his film and television career in the late seventies and is known for his authoritative presence. He became a household name playing President David Palmer in the hit series ’24’ and appearing in ‘The Unit’. His deep voice has made him a recognizable figure in commercials and animated features. Haysbert has consistently delivered reliable performances in both dramatic and comedic roles for over forty years. He maintains a low profile outside of his professional obligations.

Don Cheadle

Don Cheadle has been delivering critically acclaimed performances since the mid-eighties with early roles in films like ‘Hamburger Hill’. He earned an Academy Award nomination for ‘Hotel Rwanda’ and reached massive audiences as War Machine in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. His television work includes a Golden Globe-winning turn in the series ‘House of Lies’. Cheadle is also an active producer and director who uses his platform for environmental and humanitarian advocacy. His career is defined by artistic risks rather than personal drama.

Blair Underwood

Blair Underwood burst onto the scene in the eighties with his role in the legal drama ‘L.A. Law’. He has maintained a consistent presence as a leading man in television series such as ‘The Event’ and ‘Quantico’. His film roles include performances in ‘Set It Off’ and ‘Deep Impact’. Underwood has also found success on Broadway and earned nominations for his stage work. He has sustained a long and steady career while keeping his private life out of the headlines.

LeVar Burton

LeVar Burton gained immediate fame for his groundbreaking role as Kunta Kinte in the miniseries ‘Roots’ in the late seventies. He became an icon of children’s television as the host and executive producer of ‘Reading Rainbow’ for over two decades. His role as Geordi La Forge in ‘Star Trek: The Next Generation’ cemented his status in pop culture history. Burton has dedicated much of his life to literacy advocacy and education. His public image is synonymous with wholesomeness and intellectual engagement.

Ernie Hudson

Ernie Hudson has been a working actor since the mid-seventies and appeared in dozens of projects before his breakout role. He is best known for portraying Winston Zeddemore in the ‘Ghostbusters’ franchise. His extensive television credits include roles in ‘Oz’ and ‘Grace and Frankie’. Hudson works constantly in both film and television and often plays figures of authority or reliability. He is widely regarded as a consummate professional by his peers in the industry.

Billy Dee Williams

Billy Dee Williams began his career in the late fifties and became a cinematic icon in the seventies. He is most famous for his role as Lando Calrissian in the ‘Star Wars’ franchise. His charisma made him a leading man in films like ‘Lady Sings the Blues’ and ‘Mahogany’. Williams has continued to act in film and television while also pursuing a successful career as a painter. He has navigated decades of fame with a smooth and unblemished public persona.

Danny Glover

Danny Glover has enjoyed a diverse career that began in the late seventies and includes the blockbuster ‘Lethal Weapon’ franchise. He delivered powerful dramatic performances in films such as ‘The Color Purple’ and ‘To Sleep with Anger’. Glover is also a prominent activist who champions various humanitarian causes. His work ethic has led to hundreds of credits across film and television. He remains a respected elder statesman of cinema with a focus on social impact.

James Earl Jones

James Earl Jones began his career in the fifties and overcame a childhood stutter to possess one of the most famous voices in history. He is the voice behind iconic characters like Darth Vader and Mufasa in ‘The Lion King’. His stage career includes Tony Awards for ‘The Great White Hope’ and ‘Fences’. Jones continued to perform well into his eighties and received an honorary Academy Award for his lifetime contribution to film. His legacy is defined by artistic excellence and dignity.

Sidney Poitier

Sidney Poitier was a trailblazer who began his career in the forties and became the first Black actor to win the Academy Award for Best Actor. His roles in films like ‘In the Heat of the Night’ and ‘Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner’ challenged social norms. He later transitioned into directing and served as a diplomat for the Bahamas. Poitier lived a life of immense dignity and opened doors for generations of actors who followed him. His reputation remained impeccable throughout his long life.

Harry Belafonte

Harry Belafonte started his career as a singer and actor in the fifties and became a major crossover star. He starred in films like ‘Carmen Jones’ and used his platform to fund and support the Civil Rights Movement. His acting career spanned decades with roles in films like ‘Buck and the Preacher’ and ‘BlacKkKlansman’. Belafonte was known as much for his social justice work as his entertainment legacy. He maintained a life free of personal scandal while fighting for political causes.

Courtney B. Vance

Courtney B. Vance established himself in the theater world with Tony Award-nominated performances before moving to film and television. He gained widespread acclaim for his portrayal of Johnnie Cochran in ‘The People v. O. J. Simpson: American Crime Story’. His film credits include ‘The Hunt for Red October’ and ‘The Preacher’s Wife’. Vance has served as the President of the Screen Actors Guild Foundation. He is known for his professional integrity and long-standing marriage to Angela Bassett.

Giancarlo Esposito

Giancarlo Esposito has been acting since the late sixties and appeared in early films like ‘Do the Right Thing’. He achieved massive international fame later in his career for playing Gus Fring in ‘Breaking Bad’. His work spans multiple genres including roles in ‘The Mandalorian’ and ‘The Boys’. Esposito is known for his intense focus and ability to play complex villains. He has worked steadily for decades without any public controversies.

Delroy Lindo

Delroy Lindo began his film career in the seventies and gained prominence through his work in Spike Lee films like ‘Malcolm X’. He has delivered acclaimed performances in movies such as ‘The Cider House Rules’ and ‘Da 5 Bloods’. His television work includes a lead role in the legal drama ‘The Good Fight’. Lindo is respected for his commanding screen presence and dramatic range. He keeps a low profile when not promoting his work.

Jeffrey Wright

Jeffrey Wright burst onto the scene in the early nineties with his Tony Award-winning role in ‘Angels in America’. He later reprised the role for the HBO miniseries and earned an Emmy Award. His film career includes playing Felix Leiter in the James Bond franchise and Commissioner Gordon in ‘The Batman’. Wright is known for his chameleon-like ability to disappear into diverse roles. He is regarded as a serious actor who prioritizes the work above celebrity.

Ving Rhames

Ving Rhames has been a forceful presence in Hollywood since the mid-eighties. He is best known for his role as Marsellus Wallace in ‘Pulp Fiction’ and as Luther Stickell in the ‘Mission: Impossible’ franchise. He won a Golden Globe for his portrayal of Don King in a television movie. Rhames has consistently worked in action and drama films for over thirty years. He is known for his generosity and professional demeanor on set.

Michael Dorn

Michael Dorn began his career in the seventies and is best known for playing the Klingon Worf in the ‘Star Trek’ franchise. He holds the record for the most appearances as a regular cast member in the history of the franchise. His voice acting career is extensive and includes work on numerous animated series and video games. Dorn is an avid pilot who owns and flies military jets. He has maintained a quiet life outside of his science fiction fame.

Tim Russ

Tim Russ has been acting since the mid-eighties and is widely recognized for his role as Tuvok in ‘Star Trek: Voyager’. He has a long list of credits appearing in sitcoms like ‘Samantha Who?’ and ‘iCarly’. Russ is also a musician and director who has produced independent projects. His career is marked by steady work in both television and film. He is a reliable character actor who has avoided the tabloid spotlight.

Phil Morris

Phil Morris is a second-generation actor who began his career in the sixties appearing in original ‘Star Trek’ episodes. He is well known for his role as Jackie Chiles on the sitcom ‘Seinfeld’. His voice work includes leading roles in ‘Atlantis: The Lost Empire’ and various superhero animated series. Morris has worked consistently in the industry for nearly his entire life. He maintains a reputation as a versatile and professional performer.

Robert Townsend

Robert Townsend began his career in the seventies and made a major impact with his satirical film ‘Hollywood Shuffle’. He directed and starred in ‘The Meteor Man’ and created the sitcom ‘The Parent ‘Hood’. His work often focuses on positive portrayals of Black families and uplifting narratives. Townsend has mentored many younger filmmakers and actors throughout his career. He is a respected figure in the industry known for his creativity and leadership.

Keenen Ivory Wayans

Keenen Ivory Wayans launched his career in the early eighties and changed television comedy with ‘In Living Color’. He wrote and directed the parody hit ‘I’m Gonna Git You Sucka’ and the ‘Scary Movie’ franchise. His influence helped launch the careers of his siblings and major stars like Jim Carrey. Wayans has worked as a writer, director, and producer for decades. He is a comedy legend who has kept his personal life private.

David Alan Grier

David Alan Grier began his career on Broadway in the early eighties and earned a Tony nomination for ‘The First’. He became a household name as a cast member of the sketch comedy show ‘In Living Color’. His extensive credits include the sitcom ‘The Carmichael Show’ and the film ‘Jumanji’. Grier is a classically trained actor who transitions easily between comedy and drama. He is a respected veteran with a scandal-free history.

Louis Gossett Jr.

Louis Gossett Jr. began acting in the fifties and became the first Black actor to win the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for ‘An Officer and a Gentleman’. His role in the miniseries ‘Roots’ earned him an Emmy Award. He appeared in popular films like ‘Enemy Mine’ and the ‘Iron Eagle’ franchise. Gossett founded a foundation dedicated to ending racism and promoting education. His long career was defined by excellence and social commitment.

Glynn Turman

Glynn Turman began his career in the theater at a young age appearing in the original production of ‘A Raisin in the Sun’. He became a familiar face in film and television with roles in ‘Cooley High’ and ‘A Different World’. His recent work includes acclaimed performances in ‘Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom’ and ‘Fargo’. Turman is also a skilled rodeo champion and documentary filmmaker. He is highly respected for his longevity and talent.

Frankie Faison

Frankie Faison has been a working actor since the seventies and is known for his role in ‘The Wire’. He holds the distinction of appearing in the first four Hannibal Lecter films. His filmography includes roles in comedies like ‘Coming to America’ and dramas such as ‘Do the Right Thing’. Faison is a dependable character actor with a vast range of credits. He has maintained a steady career without personal controversy.

Clarke Peters

Clarke Peters began his career in London theater in the seventies before gaining wider recognition. He is best known for his role as Lester Freamon in the acclaimed series ‘The Wire’. His work includes roles in ‘Treme’, ‘Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri’, and ‘Da 5 Bloods’. Peters is also a writer who created the musical ‘Five Guys Named Moe’. He is known for his dignified presence and artistic versatility.

Wendell Pierce

Wendell Pierce has been acting since the mid-eighties and is celebrated for his role as Bunk Moreland in ‘The Wire’. He starred in the New Orleans-based drama ‘Treme’ and the hit legal series ‘Suits’. His theater work includes a celebrated performance as Willy Loman in ‘Death of a Salesman’ on the West End. Pierce is also a radio host and author who is deeply involved in his community. His career is marked by critical acclaim and civic engagement.

Joe Morton

Joe Morton made his Broadway debut in the late sixties and starred in the cult film ‘The Brother from Another Planet’. He is well known for his role as Rowan Pope in the series ‘Scandal’ for which he won an Emmy. His film credits include ‘Terminator 2: Judgment Day’ and ‘Speed’. Morton has worked steadily in television, film, and theater for over forty years. He is a consistent performer with a spotless reputation.

Andre Braugher

Andre Braugher began his career in the late eighties and broke out with his role in the drama ‘Homicide: Life on the Street’. He showcased his comedic range as Captain Raymond Holt in the sitcom ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’. His film work included roles in ‘Glory’ and ‘Primal Fear’. Braugher was known for his precise diction and commanding acting style. He was a celebrated professional until his passing.

Eriq La Salle

Eriq La Salle has been acting since the eighties and is best known for playing Dr. Peter Benton in ‘ER’. He appeared in the comedy ‘Coming to America’ and the thriller ‘One Hour Photo’. La Salle transitioned into a successful career as a television director and producer. He has directed episodes for major series like ‘Chicago P.D.’ and ‘Law & Order’. He maintains a strong work ethic behind and in front of the camera.

Djimon Hounsou

Djimon Hounsou began his career appearing in music videos in the late eighties before moving to film. He earned Academy Award nominations for his roles in ‘In America’ and ‘Blood Diamond’. His credits include blockbusters like ‘Gladiator’, ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’, and ‘Shazam!’. Hounsou is known for his intense physical presence and emotional depth. He has navigated Hollywood as an international talent without scandal.

Harold Perrineau

Harold Perrineau started his career in the eighties appearing in the television series ‘Fame’. He gained wide recognition for his roles in ‘Romeo + Juliet’ and the HBO series ‘Oz’. He reached a global audience playing Michael Dawson in the hit show ‘Lost’. Perrineau continues to lead series such as the horror drama ‘From’. He is a working actor who focuses on his family and his craft.

Morris Chestnut

Morris Chestnut made his film debut in the seminal 1991 drama ‘Boyz n the Hood’. He became a romantic lead in films like ‘The Best Man’ and ‘The Brothers’. His television career includes regular roles in ‘Rosewood’ and ‘The Resident’. Chestnut has maintained his status as a heartthrob and reliable actor for over three decades. He is known for his professionalism and longevity in the industry.

Carl Weathers

Carl Weathers transitioned from professional football to acting in the seventies. He is globally famous for playing Apollo Creed in the ‘Rocky’ franchise. His roles in ‘Predator’ and ‘Happy Gilmore’ showcased his range in action and comedy. Weathers enjoyed a career resurgence with his role in ‘The Mandalorian’ where he also directed episodes. He was a beloved figure in the industry with a clean reputation.

Richard Roundtree

Richard Roundtree began his career in the early seventies and became a cultural icon as John Shaft in ‘Shaft’. He was considered the first Black action hero and paved the way for future leading men. His long career included roles in ‘Roots’, ‘Se7en’, and the television series ‘Being Mary Jane’. Roundtree continued to act in film and television well into his later years. He was respected as a pioneer who carried himself with grace.

Obba Babatundé

Obba Babatundé is a veteran of stage and screen who has been performing since the late seventies. He earned a Tony nomination for his role in the original production of ‘Dreamgirls’. His screen credits include ‘The Silence of the Lambs’, ‘Philadelphia’, and ‘That Thing You Do!’. Babatundé is also known for his voice work and recurring roles in various television series. He is a multi-talented performer with a long and respectable career.

Tony Todd

Tony Todd began his acting career in the eighties and became a horror icon for his role as the Candyman. He appeared in the remake of ‘Night of the Living Dead’ and the ‘Final Destination’ franchise. His deep voice and imposing height made him a favorite for character roles and voice acting. Todd amassed hundreds of credits over his career in genre film and television. He was known as a hardworking actor who appreciated his fans.

Bill Cobbs

Bill Cobbs started acting in his thirties during the mid-seventies and became one of Hollywood’s most recognizable character actors. He appeared in films such as ‘The Bodyguard’, ‘Night at the Museum’, and ‘That Thing You Do!’. His television work included roles in ‘The Sopranos’ and ‘Sesame Street’. Cobbs often played wise elders or authority figures with a gentle demeanor. He was a consistent presence in the industry for decades.

James Pickens Jr.

James Pickens Jr. began his television career in the mid-eighties appearing in soap operas like ‘Another World’. He is best known for his role as Dr. Richard Webber in the long-running series ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. His earlier credits include recurring roles on ‘The X-Files’ and ‘Roseanne’. Pickens is also a competitive roper in the world of rodeo. He is known for his stability and leadership on set.

Reginald VelJohnson

Reginald VelJohnson has been a familiar face since the eighties with roles in ‘Ghostbusters’ and ‘Crocodile Dundee’. He is most famous for playing Sgt. Al Powell in ‘Die Hard’ and Carl Winslow in ‘Family Matters’. His portrayal of police officers became a defining aspect of his career. VelJohnson continues to work in television and voice acting. He remains a beloved figure for his sitcom dad persona.

Dennis Haysbert

Please share which of these actors has had the biggest impact on your life in the comments.