Black Actresses Who Were Supposed to Be the Next Big Thing

The entertainment industry frequently identifies rising stars who seem destined for massive success based on their breakout performances. For many Black actresses the path to superstardom involves navigating complex industry dynamics while delivering powerhouse roles in film and television. Critical acclaim and award nominations often signal a transition to the next level of Hollywood fame. This list explores several talented women who were heralded as the next big thing throughout different eras of cinema.

Quvenzhané Wallis

Quvenzhané Wallis became the youngest Best Actress nominee in history for her role in ‘Beasts of the Southern Wild’. She followed this success by starring in the title role of the 2014 remake of ‘Annie’. The actress also appeared in the film ‘Fathers and Daughters’ alongside Russell Crowe. She later transitioned into television with a recurring role in the series ‘Black-ish’. Wallis has also authored a series of children’s books titled ‘Shai and Emmie’.

Gabourey Sidibe

Gabourey Sidibe earned an Academy Award nomination for her debut performance in the 2009 film ‘Precious’. She subsequently joined the cast of the television series ‘The Big C’ for several seasons. The actress became a regular fixture in the anthology series ‘American Horror Story’ appearing in multiple installments. Sidibe also portrayed the character Becky Williams in the musical drama ‘Empire’. She made her directorial debut with the short film ‘The Tale of Four’.

Paula Patton

Paula Patton gained significant attention after her breakout role in the thriller ‘Déjà Vu’ opposite Denzel Washington. She later starred in the critically acclaimed film ‘Precious’ as a compassionate teacher. Her career reached a high point when she landed a lead role in ‘Mission Impossible Ghost Protocol’ as an IMF agent. The actress also appeared in the fantasy adaptation ‘Warcraft’ and the romantic comedy ‘Baggage Claim’. She has remained a consistent presence in both film and television projects over the years.

Joy Bryant

Joy Bryant started her career as a fashion model before transitioning into acting with a role in ‘Antwone Fisher’. She gained further recognition for her performances in films like ‘Honey’ and ‘Get Rich or Die Tryin’. Her most prominent role came as Jasmine Trussell in the long running family drama series ‘Parenthood’. Bryant has also appeared in the legal drama ‘For Life’ as Marie Wallace. She continues to work in the industry while advocating for various social causes.

Nicole Beharie

Nicole Beharie received critical praise for her role in the 2011 film ‘Shame’ alongside Michael Fassbender. She became a household name when she starred as Abbie Mills in the supernatural series ‘Sleepy Hollow’. The actress earned a Gotham Award for her performance in the independent drama ‘Miss Juneteenth’. She has also appeared in the series ‘The Morning Show’ and the film ‘Honk for Jesus Save Your Soul’. Beharie is known for her range and ability to lead both independent and mainstream projects.

Teyonah Parris

Teyonah Parris first caught the attention of audiences in the period drama ‘Mad Men’ as Dawn Chambers. She landed a breakout role in the film ‘Dear White People’ before starring in Spike Lees ‘Chi-Raq’. The actress joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Monica Rambeau in the series ‘WandaVision’. She reprised this role in the 2023 film ‘The Marvels’ alongside Brie Larson. Parris has also appeared in the acclaimed film ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’.

Aja Naomi King

Aja Naomi King rose to prominence as Michaela Pratt in the legal thriller series ‘How to Get Away with Murder’. She received a nomination for an NAACP Image Award for her performance in the film ‘The Birth of a Nation’. The actress has also appeared in projects such as ‘The Upside’ and the drama ‘Sylvies Love’. She recently starred in the television series ‘Lessons in Chemistry’ based on the popular novel. King is often recognized for her sophisticated performances in high stakes dramas.

Emayatzy Corinealdi

Emayatzy Corinealdi gained widespread acclaim for her leading role in the film ‘Middle of Nowhere’ directed by Ava DuVernay. She received several award nominations for her portrayal of a woman supporting her incarcerated husband. The actress later starred in the biographical film ‘Miles Ahead’ about the life of Miles Davis. She has maintained a strong presence in television with roles in ‘Hand of God’ and the legal drama ‘Reasonable Doubt’. Corinealdi is frequently cited as a standout talent in independent cinema.

Adepero Oduye

Adepero Oduye delivered a powerful performance in the independent film ‘Pariah’ which earned her several award nominations. She later appeared in the Academy Award winning film ’12 Years a Slave’ as Eliza. The actress has worked on diverse projects including the television miniseries ‘When They See Us’. She also joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe with a role in ‘The Falcon and the Winter Soldier’. Oduye is a graduate of Cornell University and continues to pursue impactful storytelling roles.

KiKi Layne

KiKi Layne became a breakout star after her leading performance in the film ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’. She followed this success by starring in the action film ‘The Old Guard’ alongside Charlize Theron. The actress also appeared in the romantic comedy ‘Coming 2 America’ and the psychological thriller ‘Dont Worry Darling’. She voiced a character in the film ‘Chip n Dale Rescue Rangers’ as well. Layne is often highlighted for her striking screen presence and versatility in different genres.

Alexandra Shipp

Alexandra Shipp gained recognition for her portrayal of Aaliyah in a biographical television film. She later achieved mainstream fame as the character Storm in ‘X-Men Apocalypse’ and ‘Dark Phoenix’. The actress also appeared in the musical ‘Tick Tick Boom’ and the horror comedy ‘Tragedy Girls’. She starred in the 2023 romantic comedy ‘Anyone But You’ which became a box office success. Shipp has consistently balanced roles in major franchises and independent productions.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg first gained international attention for playing Rue in ‘The Hunger Games’. She transitioned into lead roles with the film ‘Everything Everything’ and the powerful drama ‘The Hate U Give’. The actress starred in the horror film ‘Bodies Bodies Bodies’ and the musical ‘Dear Evan Hansen’. She also joined the Star Wars universe with a leading role in the series ‘The Acolyte’. Stenberg is recognized for choosing roles that tackle significant social and cultural themes.

Yaya DaCosta

Yaya DaCosta began her career as a runner up on ‘Americas Next Top Model’ before finding success in acting. She starred in the biographical film ‘Whitney’ as the legendary singer Whitney Houston. The actress spent several seasons playing April Sexton on the medical drama series ‘Chicago Med’. She also led the cast of the drama series ‘Our Kind of People’ on Fox. DaCosta has appeared in notable films such as ‘The Kids Are All Right’ and ‘Lee Daniels The Butler’.

Tika Sumpter

Tika Sumpter started her career on the soap opera ‘One Life to Live’ before moving into film. She gained significant praise for portraying a young Michelle Obama in the film ‘Southside with You’. The actress starred in ‘The Haves and the Have Nots’ and the ‘Sonic the Hedgehog’ film franchise. Sumpter also co-created and starred in the series ‘Mixed-ish’ as Alicia Johnson. She has established herself as both a successful actress and a producer in the industry.

Logan Browning

Logan Browning gained a dedicated following for her role as Samantha White in the series ‘Dear White People’. She previously appeared in the teen film ‘Bratz’ and the series ‘Hit the Floor’. The actress starred in the Netflix thriller ‘The Perfection’ which showcased her range in the horror genre. She has also done voice work for various animated projects during her career. Browning is often praised for her ability to handle complex social commentary through her characters.

Gugu Mbatha-Raw

Gugu Mbatha-Raw earned critical acclaim for her leading role in the period drama ‘Belle’. She followed this with a standout performance in the film ‘Beyond the Lights’ and the ‘San Junipero’ episode of ‘Black Mirror’. The actress has appeared in major productions such as ‘Beauty and the Beast’ and the series ‘Loki’. She also stars in the thriller series ‘The Girl Before’ and ‘Surface’. Mbatha-Raw is known for her elegant performances and diverse choice of roles.

Antonique Smith

Antonique Smith is a singer and actress who rose to fame for her portrayal of Faith Evans in the film ‘Notorious’. She also gained recognition for her work on Broadway in the musical ‘Rent’ as Mimi Marquez. The actress has appeared in films such as ‘Abduction’ and ‘Yelling to the Sky’. She earned a Grammy nomination for her song ‘Hold Up Wait a Minute’ in 2015. Smith continues to balance her career between music and acting in various independent projects.

DeWanda Wise

DeWanda Wise is best known for her role as Nola Darling in the series ‘Shes Gotta Have It’. She transitioned to major film roles with a lead performance in ‘Jurassic World Dominion’ as pilot Kayla Watts. The actress also appeared in the romantic comedy ‘Someone Great’ and the drama ‘Fatherhood’. She recently starred in the horror film ‘Imaginary’ and the thriller series ‘Three Women’. Wise is frequently highlighted for her charismatic and commanding screen presence.

Rutina Wesley

Rutina Wesley became a household name for her role as Tara Thornton in the vampire drama ‘True Blood’. She later landed a leading role in the drama series ‘Queen Sugar’ as Nova Bordelon. The actress appeared in the series ‘The Walking Dead’ and ‘The Last of Us’ in guest starring roles. She also worked on the series ‘Hannibal’ and the film ’13 Sins’. Wesley is a graduate of the Juilliard School and is respected for her intense dramatic acting.

Naomi Ackie

Naomi Ackie gained international recognition for her role in ‘Star Wars The Rise of Skywalker’ as Jannah. She received a BAFTA nomination for her performance in the series ‘The End of the F***ing World’. The actress took on the role of Whitney Houston in the biographical film ‘I Wanna Dance with Somebody’. She recently starred in the film ‘Pussy Island’ which was the directorial debut of Zoë Kravitz. Ackie continues to be one of the most sought after British talents in Hollywood.

Dominique Fishback

Dominique Fishback earned a BAFTA nomination for her performance in ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’. She gained initial recognition for her roles in the series ‘The Deuce’ and the film ‘The Hate U Give’. The actress starred in the Amazon series ‘Swarm’ which earned her significant critical praise. She also appeared in the blockbuster film ‘Transformers Rise of the Beasts’. Fishback is also a playwright and poet who incorporates her writing skills into her creative process.

Danielle Deadwyler

Danielle Deadwyler received widespread acclaim and numerous awards for her performance in the film ‘Till’. She previously appeared in the series ‘The Haves and the Have Nots’ and the film ‘The Harder They Fall’. The actress starred in the limited series ‘Station Eleven’ which was based on the popular novel. She recently worked on the film ‘Parallel’ and the series ‘From Scratch’. Deadwyler is noted for her ability to bring profound emotional depth to historical and contemporary roles.

Thuso Mbedu

Thuso Mbedu is a South African actress who gained international fame for her role in ‘The Underground Railroad’. She followed this success with a starring role in the action epic ‘The Woman King’ alongside Viola Davis. The actress has won multiple awards in South Africa for her work in the series ‘Isthunzi’. She signed a major production deal to develop projects that highlight African stories. Mbedu is frequently cited as one of the most promising international stars in the industry.

Naomie Harris

Naomie Harris earned an Academy Award nomination for her role as Paula in the film ‘Moonlight’. she is widely recognized for playing Eve Moneypenny in several James Bond films including ‘Skyfall’. The actress also appeared in the ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ franchise as Tia Dalma. She starred in the film ’28 Days Later’ and the series ‘The Man Who Fell to Earth’. Harris has established a long and successful career in both British and American cinema.

Sophie Okonedo

Sophie Okonedo received an Academy Award nomination for her performance in ‘Hotel Rwanda’. She has had a distinguished career in film and television including roles in ‘The Secret Life of Bees’ and ‘Ratched’. The actress won a Tony Award for her performance in the Broadway revival of ‘A Raisin in the Sun’. She recently appeared in ‘Death on the Nile’ and the series ‘The Wheel of Time’. Okonedo is highly regarded for her versatility across stage and screen productions.

Thandiwe Newton

Thandiwe Newton is known for her roles in major films such as ‘Mission Impossible II’ and ‘Crash’. She won a BAFTA Award for her performance in the latter and an Emmy Award for her role in ‘Westworld’. The actress also appeared in ‘The Pursuit of Happyness’ and the film ‘Solo A Star Wars Story’. She recently starred in the thriller ‘Gods Country’ and the series ‘Line of Duty’. Newton has been a consistent presence in high profile Hollywood projects for several decades.

Anika Noni Rose

Anika Noni Rose is a Tony Award winning actress known for her work in the musical ‘Caroline or Change’. She reached a global audience as the voice of Princess Tiana in ‘The Princess and the Frog’. The actress starred in the film ‘Dreamgirls’ and the television series ‘The Good Wife’. She also appeared in the horror film ‘Body Cam’ and the limited series ‘Maid’. Rose is celebrated for her powerful singing voice and her extensive work on Broadway.

Renée Elise Goldsberry

Renée Elise Goldsberry is best known for originating the role of Angelica Schuyler in the musical ‘Hamilton’. She won a Tony Award for her performance in the hit Broadway show. The actress has also appeared in the series ‘Altered Carbon’ and the comedy ‘Girls5eva’. She had a recurring role in the legal drama ‘The Good Wife’ and appeared in the film ‘Waves’. Goldsberry continues to balance a successful career in television with her roots in musical theater.

Amber Stevens West

Amber Stevens West gained initial fame for her role as Ashleigh Howard in the series ‘Greek’. She later starred in the comedy film ’22 Jump Street’ and the series ‘The Carmichael Show’. The actress has also appeared in the television shows ‘Ghosted’ and ‘Happy Together’. She currently leads the cast of the comedy series ‘Run the World’ on Starz. Stevens West is known for her comedic timing and her presence in popular sitcoms.

Meagan Good

Meagan Good began her career as a child actress in the film ‘Eves Bayou’ which earned her critical praise. She became a major star in the 2000s with roles in ‘Stomp the Yard’ and ‘Think Like a Man’. The actress starred in the television series ‘Deception’ and the superhero film ‘Shazam’. She recently appeared in the series ‘Harlem’ and the comedy ‘Day Shift’. Good has maintained a steady career in the industry for over three decades.

Lauren London

Lauren London made her film debut in the cult classic ‘ATL’ which launched her into the spotlight. She later appeared in the film ‘This Christmas’ and the series ‘The Game’. The actress starred in the film ‘Puzzled’ and the series ‘Games People Play’. She returned to the screen in the 2023 film ‘You People’ alongside Jonah Hill and Eddie Murphy. London is often recognized for her roles in films that have become significant in urban culture.

Bianca Lawson

Bianca Lawson is known for her remarkably consistent appearances in teen dramas over several decades. She has had roles in ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ and ‘Dawson’s Creek’ among many others. The actress also appeared in ‘The Secret Life of the American Teenager’ and ‘Pretty Little Liars’. She most recently starred as Darla in the acclaimed drama series ‘Queen Sugar’. Lawson has built a long career with recurring roles in many popular television franchises.

Jurnee Smollett

Jurnee Smollett first gained fame as a child star in the film ‘Eves Bayou’. She later transitioned into adult roles with the series ‘Friday Night Lights’ and ‘True Blood’. The actress earned critical acclaim for her performance in ‘Lovecraft Country’ and the film ‘The Burial’. She also portrayed Black Canary in the DC film ‘Birds of Prey’. Smollett is recognized for her advocacy work and her range in dramatic and action roles.

Keke Palmer

Keke Palmer became a breakout star in the film ‘Akeelah and the Bee’ as a young spelling bee champion. She has since built a massive career in television with ‘Scream Queens’ and ‘True Jackson VP’. The actress earned significant praise for her role in the 2022 Jordan Peele film ‘Nope’. She is also a successful singer and has hosted several television programs including ‘Password’. Palmer is often cited as one of the most versatile and hardworking talents of her generation.

Marsai Martin

Marsai Martin rose to fame as Diane Johnson on the hit sitcom ‘Black-ish’. At the age of fourteen she became the youngest executive producer in Hollywood history for the film ‘Little’. The actress also appeared in the film ‘Fantasy Football’ and has done extensive voice work. She has won multiple NAACP Image Awards for her performances and her work as a producer. Martin continues to build her media empire while pursuing new acting opportunities.

Storm Reid

Storm Reid gained international attention for her leading role in the film ‘A Wrinkle in Time’. She also appeared in the critically acclaimed series ‘Euphoria’ as Gia Bennett. The actress starred in the thriller ‘Missing’ and the series ‘The Last of Us’ which earned her an Emmy Award. She has worked on major projects such as ‘The Suicide Squad’ and ‘The Invisible Man’. Reid is considered one of the leading young actresses of her generation in Hollywood.

Lovie Simone

Lovie Simone first gained recognition for her role in the drama series ‘Greenleaf’. She later starred in the independent film ‘Selah and the Spades’ which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival. The actress also appeared in the horror film ‘The Craft Legacy’ and the series ‘Power Book III Raising Kanan’. She recently worked on the series ‘Manhunt’ which explores the assassination of Abraham Lincoln. Simone is often highlighted for her intense and grounded acting style.

Taylor Russell

Taylor Russell earned critical acclaim for her performance in the film ‘Waves’. She also starred in the ‘Escape Room’ horror franchise which was a commercial success. The actress received further praise for her leading role in the film ‘Bones and All’ alongside Timothée Chalamet. She appeared in the science fiction series ‘Lost in Space’ as Judy Robinson. Russell is recognized for her ability to lead both major genre films and prestigious independent dramas.

Zazie Beetz

Zazie Beetz rose to fame for her role as Van in the series ‘Atlanta’ which earned her an Emmy nomination. She achieved mainstream success playing Domino in ‘Deadpool 2’ and Sophie in ‘Joker’. The actress has also appeared in the film ‘The Harder They Fall’ and the series ‘Invincible’. She returned for the sequel ‘Joker Folie à Deux’ and continues to work in high profile projects. Beetz is known for her cool screen presence and her work in experimental and blockbuster films.

Cynthia Erivo

Cynthia Erivo is a powerhouse talent who won a Tony Award for ‘The Color Purple’ on Broadway. She received two Academy Award nominations for her portrayal of Harriet Tubman in the film ‘Harriet’. The actress also appeared in the film ‘Widows’ and the series ‘The Outsider’. She stars as Elphaba in the film adaptation of the musical ‘Wicked’. Erivo is one of the few performers who has achieved major success in theater and film simultaneously.

Michaela Coel

Michaela Coel gained international fame for creating and starring in the series ‘I May Destroy You’. She previously received acclaim for her work in the comedy series ‘Chewing Gum’. The actress joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe in the film ‘Black Panther Wakanda Forever’. She has also appeared in ‘Star Wars The Last Jedi’ and the series ‘Black Mirror’. Coel is celebrated as a visionary writer and performer who pushes the boundaries of television.

Wunmi Mosaku

Wunmi Mosaku won a BAFTA for her performance in the film ‘Damilola Our Loved Boy’. She reached a wider audience with her roles in ‘Lovecraft Country’ and the series ‘Loki’. The actress starred in the horror film ‘His House’ which earned her significant critical praise. She also appeared in ‘Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them’ and the series ‘Luther’. Mosaku is known for her commanding performances in both British and American productions.

Jodie Turner-Smith

Jodie Turner-Smith became a breakout star after her leading role in the film ‘Queen and Slim’. She later portrayed the title character in the miniseries ‘Anne Boleyn’ which generated significant discussion. The actress appeared in the action film ‘Without Remorse’ and the series ‘The Acolyte’. She has also worked on the film ‘White Noise’ and the series ‘Bad Monkey’. Turner-Smith is frequently highlighted for her striking fashion choices and her bold acting roles.

Sheila Atim

Sheila Atim is a versatile actress and singer who has won two Laurence Olivier Awards for her theater work. She gained wider recognition for her role in the film ‘The Woman King’ as Amenza. The actress also appeared in the series ‘The Underground Railroad’ and the film ‘Pinocchio’. She worked on the television series ‘The Feed’ and ‘Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness’. Atim is recognized as a formidable talent on both the London stage and in international cinema.

Moses Ingram

Moses Ingram earned an Emmy nomination for her role as Jolene in the series ‘The Queens Gambit’. She followed this success by playing Reva Sevander in the Star Wars series ‘Obi-Wan Kenobi’. The actress also appeared in the film ‘The Tragedy of Macbeth’ directed by Joel Coen. She recently starred in the series ‘Lady in the Lake’ alongside Natalie Portman. Ingram is a graduate of the Yale School of Drama and is considered a rising star in prestige television.

Lisa Bonet

Lisa Bonet became an icon for her role as Denise Huxtable on ‘The Cosby Show’ and its spinoff ‘A Different World’. She starred in the psychological thriller ‘Angel Heart’ which showcased her transition into mature film roles. The actress also appeared in ‘Enemy of the State’ and the film ‘High Fidelity’. She took a hiatus from acting for several years before returning for select television projects. Bonet remains a significant cultural figure known for her unique style and artistic choices.

Jasmine Guy

Jasmine Guy is best known for her role as Whitley Gilbert on the sitcom ‘A Different World’. She also had a successful career as a singer and released a self titled album in 1990. The actress appeared in the film ‘Harlem Nights’ and the series ‘Dead Like Me’. She has a recurring role on ‘The Vampire Diaries’ as Sheila Bennett. Guy continues to work in television and theater while also directing various stage productions.

Theresa Randle

Theresa Randle gained recognition for her roles in several major films during the 1990s. She starred in the ‘Bad Boys’ franchise as Theresa Burnett opposite Martin Lawrence. The actress also appeared in ‘Malcolm X’ and played the lead role in the film ‘Girl 6’. She worked with director Michael Bay and Spike Lee on multiple projects throughout her career. Randle has maintained a private life while appearing in select film roles over the years.

Lela Rochon

Lela Rochon became a breakout star for her performance in the film ‘Waiting to Exhale’. She later appeared in the legal thriller ‘John Grishams The Chamber’ and the action film ‘The Big Hit’. The actress starred in ‘Why Do Fools Fall in Love’ and the historical drama ‘Amistad’. She has appeared in various television series including ‘The Wayans Bros’ and ‘David Makes Man’. Rochon is often remembered for her roles in significant films of the late 1990s.

Vivica A. Fox

Vivica A. Fox achieved massive fame with her roles in ‘Independence Day’ and ‘Set It Off’. She became a staple of 1990s cinema with appearances in ‘Soul Food’ and ‘Booty Call’. The actress played Vernita Green in the action film ‘Kill Bill Volume 1’ directed by Quentin Tarantino. She has since appeared in numerous television films and the series ‘Empire’ as Candace Mason. Fox is also a successful producer and has hosted several reality television programs.

Please share your favorite performances from these talented actresses in the comments.