Gen Z’s Favorite African-American Actresses

A new generation of talent is reshaping Hollywood, bringing fresh energy and authentic representation to screens worldwide. Gen Z has championed a diverse group of African-American actresses who are not only dominating box offices and streaming charts but also influencing culture through their advocacy and style. From former child stars who have blossomed into dramatic powerhouses to breakout sensations in hit teen dramas, these performers have captured the hearts of young audiences. The following list celebrates the actresses who currently define the zeitgeist for the digital generation.

Zendaya

Zendaya transitioned from a Disney Channel idol to one of the most acclaimed dramatic actresses of her generation. She captivated audiences and critics alike with her raw, Emmy-winning portrayal of Rue Bennett in the HBO drama ‘Euphoria’. Her filmography includes massive blockbusters such as the ‘Spider-Man’ trilogy and the sci-fi epic ‘Dune’, cementing her status as a leading lady. Beyond acting, she is a celebrated fashion icon who frequently breaks the internet with her red carpet looks. Her ability to balance vulnerability with intense strength makes her a defining figure for Gen Z.

Ayo Edebiri

Ayo Edebiri quickly rose to fame with her breakout role as Sydney Adamu in the critically acclaimed series ‘The Bear’. Her performance earned her Golden Globe and Emmy wins, celebrated for its grounded realism and comedic timing. Before her major acting break, she was a successful writer and voice actor, contributing to the hit animated series ‘Big Mouth’. Edebiri has become a social media darling, known for her wit and relatable personality in interviews. Her roles in films like ‘Bottoms’ showcase her range and solidified her status as a comedy superstar.

Halle Bailey

Halle Bailey made history and inspired millions with her starring role as Ariel in the live-action adaptation of ‘The Little Mermaid’. As one half of the musical duo Chloe x Halle, she had already garnered Grammy nominations and a loyal fanbase before conquering the film world. She showcased her dramatic chops in the musical film adaptation of ‘The Color Purple’, delivering a powerful vocal and acting performance. Bailey represents a new era of Disney royalty and continues to break barriers for Black women in fantasy genres. Her grace under pressure and immense talent have made her a role model for young girls everywhere.

Storm Reid

Storm Reid first gained widespread attention for her leading role in Ava DuVernay’s ‘A Wrinkle in Time’, holding her own alongside industry veterans. She later joined the cast of ‘Euphoria’ as Gia Bennett, delivering emotional performances that grounded the show’s chaotic narrative. Reid also starred in the thriller ‘Missing’ and appeared in the hit adaptation of ‘The Last of Us’, proving her versatility across genres. In addition to acting, she is a student at USC and an advocate for social justice initiatives. Her career choices reflect a commitment to meaningful storytelling that resonates with young audiences.

Marsai Martin

Marsai Martin is a trailblazer who became the youngest executive producer in Hollywood history with her film ‘Little’. She grew up on screen as the witty and intelligent Diane Johnson in the long-running sitcom ‘Black-ish’. Martin has used her platform to produce content that centers on Black joy and youthful narratives. Her work extends to voice acting in ‘PAW Patrol: The Movie’ and producing the makeover series ‘Remix My Space’. She stands as a powerful example of entrepreneurship and creativity for Gen Z professionals.

Yara Shahidi

Yara Shahidi became a household name playing Zoey Johnson on ‘Black-ish’ before leading her own successful spinoff, ‘Grown-ish’. Her portrayal of a college student navigating adulthood resonated deeply with viewers experiencing similar life transitions. Shahidi is also widely recognized for her intellect and activism, having graduated from Harvard University while maintaining a full-time acting career. She played Tinker Bell in ‘Peter Pan & Wendy’, bringing diversity to another classic fairy tale character. Her blend of academic excellence and Hollywood success makes her a unique inspirational figure.

Keke Palmer

Keke Palmer has been a screen presence for two decades, but her recent roles have cemented her status as a pop culture icon for Gen Z. She delivered a standout performance in Jordan Peele’s sci-fi horror ‘Nope’, showcasing her charisma and dramatic range. Palmer is also known for her viral social media presence and candid humor, which keeps her constantly trending. She produces her own content and music, maintaining a direct and authentic connection with her fanbase. Her career longevity and ability to reinvent herself keep her perpetually relevant.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg first broke hearts as Rue in ‘The Hunger Games’ before evolving into a powerful voice for socially conscious cinema. She starred in the adaptation of ‘The Hate U Give’, earning critical acclaim for her portrayal of a teenager navigating police brutality and identity. Stenberg consistently chooses roles that challenge societal norms, such as in ‘Bodies Bodies Bodies’ and the ‘Star Wars’ series ‘The Acolyte’. She is also a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and intersectional feminism. Her fearless approach to complex characters resonates with a generation that values authenticity.

China Anne McClain

China Anne McClain is a beloved figure for Gen Z, having starred in the massive Disney Channel hit ‘Descendants’ franchise as Uma. She originally gained fame as the lead in ‘A.N.T. Farm’, showcasing her musical and comedic talents from a young age. McClain transitioned to more mature roles with the superhero series ‘Black Lightning’, where she played Jennifer Pierce. She recently returned to her iconic role in ‘Descendants: The Rise of Red’, delighting nostalgic fans. Her ability to sing, dance, and act has maintained her popularity across different stages of her career.

Dominique Fishback

Dominique Fishback is celebrated for her transformative performances in challenging and gritty roles. She received massive acclaim for her lead role in the Amazon Prime series ‘Swarm’, where she played an obsessed fan with chilling precision. Fishback also shone in ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’, earning a BAFTA nomination for her supporting role. Her background as a playwright informs the depth and nuance she brings to every character. She is widely regarded by critics as one of the most gifted actors of her generation.

Tati Gabrielle

Tati Gabrielle has become a staple of popular genre television, known for her edgy and intense characters. She gained initial fame as Prudence Blackwood in ‘Chilling Adventures of Sabrina’, where her cool demeanor made her a fan favorite. Gabrielle later joined the cast of the psychological thriller ‘You’ and the movie adaptation of the video game ‘Uncharted’. She brings a distinct style and physicality to her roles, often performing her own stunts. Her consistent presence in top-streaming shows keeps her high on the list of Gen Z favorites.

Jasmin Savoy Brown

Jasmin Savoy Brown is a breakout star known for revitalizing the horror genre with modern, queer representation. She plays a lead role in the hit survival drama ‘Yellowjackets’, portraying the younger version of Taissa Turner. Brown also starred in the recent ‘Scream’ sequels, bringing a meta-commentary and wit that honored the franchise’s legacy. Her characters are often intelligent, complex, and unapologetically themselves. She has become a significant figure for LGBTQ+ visibility in mainstream media.

Quinta Brunson

Quinta Brunson created, wrote, and stars in the smash-hit mockumentary ‘Abbott Elementary’. Her portrayal of the optimistic teacher Janine Teagues has won her an Emmy and universal praise for reviving the network sitcom format. Brunson began her career making viral content for Instagram and BuzzFeed, giving her a deep connection to internet culture. She has successfully translated digital fame into traditional Hollywood power and prestige. Her journey from meme creator to award-winning showrunner is legendary among young creatives.

Chloe Bailey

Chloe Bailey, performing as Chlöe, balances a thriving music career with notable acting roles. She starred in the thriller series ‘Swarm’ alongside Dominique Fishback and led the musical film ‘Praise This’. As a member of Chloe x Halle, she grew up in the public eye on the sitcom ‘Grown-ish’, playing Jazz Forster. Her solo career is marked by bold artistic choices and high-energy performances that dominate social media conversations. Bailey represents the multi-hyphenate entertainer who excels in every medium she touches.

Coco Jones

Coco Jones experienced a massive career resurgence that was championed by fans on TikTok and Twitter. After early work on Disney Channel, she returned to the spotlight as Hilary Banks in the dramatic reboot ‘Bel-Air’. Her portrayal adds depth and ambition to the character, earning her critical nods and increased visibility. Jones is also a Grammy-winning R&B singer, proving her vocal talents match her acting skills. Her story of perseverance and talent winning out is a source of motivation for her followers.

Dominique Thorne

Dominique Thorne burst into the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Riri Williams, also known as Ironheart, in ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’. Her character is a brilliant young inventor who is set to lead her own Disney+ series, ‘Ironheart’. Before Marvel, she delivered a gripping performance in ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’. Thorne is a graduate of Cornell University, bringing a sharp intelligence to her role selection. She is poised to be a major face in the next phase of superhero cinema.

Priah Ferguson

Priah Ferguson stole every scene she was in as the sassy and smart Erica Sinclair on ‘Stranger Things’. Originally a minor character, her comedic timing and fan popularity led to her becoming a central part of the show’s ensemble. She has since expanded her resume with roles in films like ‘The Curse of Bridge Hollow’. Ferguson represents the younger end of Gen Z, growing up on screen in one of the world’s biggest shows. Her character’s confident attitude has generated countless memes and viral moments.

Saniyya Sidney

Saniyya Sidney has built an impressive resume playing historical figures and starring in prestige projects. She portrayed a young Venus Williams in the Oscar-winning film ‘King Richard’, earning praise for her dedication to the athletic requirements of the role. Sidney also played Sasha Obama in ‘The First Lady’ and appeared in ‘Fences’ and ‘Hidden Figures’. Her ability to embody real-life icons with grace and accuracy is remarkable for her age. She is recognized as a serious dramatic talent with a bright future.

Demi Singleton

Demi Singleton starred alongside Saniyya Sidney in ‘King Richard’, playing the role of a young Serena Williams. Her performance captured the determination and heart of the tennis legend, contributing to the film’s massive success. She previously appeared in the series ‘Godfather of Harlem’ and on Broadway in ‘The Lion King’. Singleton is also active in the fashion world, frequently appearing in high-profile campaigns and editorials. She continues to select roles that highlight strong, ambitious young women.

Myha’la

Myha’la Herrold is the breakout star of the intense financial drama ‘Industry’, where she plays the ruthless and complex Harper Stern. Her performance is lauded for its anti-hero energy and moral ambiguity, challenging traditional protagonist tropes. She also starred in the Gen Z horror satire ‘Bodies Bodies Bodies’, proving her ability to handle dark comedy. Herrold’s work appeals to audiences looking for gritty, psychological storytelling. She is quickly establishing herself as a force in independent and prestige cinema.

Joy Sunday

Joy Sunday became an overnight sensation with her role as Bianca Barclay in the Netflix phenomenon ‘Wednesday’. Her character’s rivalry-turned-friendship with the protagonist made her a fan favorite on social media. Sunday’s striking look and sharp delivery helped her stand out in a crowded ensemble cast. Before her big break, she appeared in the film ‘Bad Hair’ and the series ‘Dear White People’. She has become a style icon, frequently gracing fashion week events and magazine covers.

Bailey Bass

Bailey Bass landed the role of a lifetime as Tsireya in James Cameron’s massive blockbuster ‘Avatar: The Way of Water’. She also played the pivotal role of Claudia in the first season of the ‘Interview with the Vampire’ series. Her work requires immense technical skill, often involving motion capture and complex emotional arcs. Bass is a dedicated environmental activist, using her platform to speak on sustainability. She represents the new wave of stars fronting major global franchises.

Celeste O’Connor

Celeste O’Connor is making waves with roles in major studio franchises, including ‘Ghostbusters: Afterlife’ and ‘Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire’. They also appeared in the superhero film ‘Madame Web’ and the indie drama ‘A Good Person’. O’Connor brings a grounded and naturalistic presence to high-concept sci-fi and fantasy films. They are known for their cool, alternative style and advocacy for non-binary representation. Their career trajectory points toward becoming a reliable star in action and adventure films.

Lovie Simone

Lovie Simone first gained attention as Zora Greenleaf in the drama series ‘Greenleaf’, where she held her own against veteran actors. She led the reboot ‘The Craft: Legacy’, bringing a modern and magical edge to the cult classic franchise. Simone also received critical acclaim for her role in the indie standout ‘Selah and the Spades’. She is known for playing characters with internal strength and complexity. Her work spans both television and film, showcasing her wide acting range.

Shahadi Wright Joseph

Shahadi Wright Joseph terrified audiences with her dual role in Jordan Peele’s horror hit ‘Us’, demonstrating incredible versatility at a young age. She also voiced Young Nala in the photorealistic remake of ‘The Lion King’, showcasing her singing abilities. Joseph got her start in the Broadway production of ‘The Lion King’ as well. She appeared in the Amazon horror anthology series ‘Them’, solidifying her reputation in the genre. Her intensity and screen presence are unmatched for an actress of her age.

Eris Baker

Eris Baker is best known for her role as Tess Pearson in the critically acclaimed drama ‘This Is Us’. Over several seasons, audiences watched her grow up and navigate complex emotional storylines about identity and family. Baker’s performance was praised for its sensitivity and realism in depicting adolescence. She is also a fashion enthusiast, known for her bold and eclectic red carpet choices. Her work on one of TV’s biggest weepies has endeared her to millions.

Faithe Herman

Faithe Herman captured hearts as the youngest Pearson sibling, Annie, on the hit show ‘This Is Us’. She brought levity and sweetness to the heavy drama, becoming a beloved part of the ensemble. Herman also starred as Darla Dudley in the DC superhero films ‘Shazam!’ and ‘Shazam! Fury of the Gods’. Her comedic timing in the superhero franchise displayed her ability to handle big-budget action comedies. She remains one of the most recognizable young faces on network television.

Lyric Ross

Lyric Ross delivered a powerful performance as Deja Pearson in ‘This Is Us’, earning award nominations for her dramatic work. Her character’s storyline regarding foster care and adoption was a central emotional pillar of the series. Ross has been cast in the upcoming Marvel series ‘Ironheart’, signaling her transition to action roles. She is praised for her ability to convey deep emotion with subtle expressions. Her career is evolving from family drama to major franchise storytelling.

Navia Robinson

Navia Robinson gained fame as a Disney Channel star in the ‘Raven’s Home’ spinoff, playing the daughter of Raven-Symoné. She transitioned to more mature action roles as the lead in the DC series ‘Gotham Knights’, where she played Carrie Kelley. Robinson is a trained dancer and singer, often utilizing these skills in her projects. She has a strong social media following that has grown with her since her Disney days. Her versatility allows her to move easily between comedy and drama.

Akira Akbar

Akira Akbar played the young Monica Rambeau in ‘Captain Marvel’, a role that set the stage for major MCU storylines. She later took on the role of Ashley Banks in the dramatic reboot ‘Bel-Air’, bringing a fresh perspective to the iconic character. Akbar has also appeared in ‘Good Trouble’ and ‘Grey’s Anatomy’, building a solid television resume. She is also a model, frequently working with major fashion brands. Her role in ‘Bel-Air’ has solidified her as a key player in young Hollywood.

Corinne Massiah

Corinne Massiah plays May Grant on the hit procedural drama ‘9-1-1’, where she has grown from a child actor into a young adult lead. Her character has navigated traumatic storylines, allowing Massiah to showcase her dramatic growth over several seasons. She previously appeared in ‘Mistresses’ and ‘Pitch’, working consistently since childhood. Massiah is active on TikTok, where she shares behind-the-scenes content and lifestyle videos. She is a familiar face to the millions of viewers who tune into network procedurals.

Samantha Logan

Samantha Logan is best known for her role as Olivia Baker in the popular CW drama ‘All American’. Her character’s journey through addiction and recovery was a standout storyline that garnered praise from fans. Logan also appeared in ’13 Reasons Why’ and ‘The Fosters’, making her a staple of the teen drama genre. She brings a raw intensity to her roles that resonates with young adult audiences. Her work addresses serious social issues, making her an impactful figure in teen television.

Laura Harrier

Laura Harrier gained international fame as Liz Allan, the love interest in ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’. She followed this with a lead role in the Spike Lee film ‘BlacKkKlansman’ and the Netflix miniseries ‘Hollywood’. Harrier is a major figure in the fashion world, often serving as a brand ambassador for luxury houses like Louis Vuitton. Her acting choices tend to be stylish, prestigious projects that highlight her classic movie-star appeal. She balances high-profile modeling with serious acting work.

Taylour Paige

Taylour Paige delivered a tour-de-force performance in the viral Twitter-thread-turned-movie ‘Zola’. Her ability to handle the chaotic, dark comedy of the film made her an instant favorite among younger film buffs. She also starred alongside Viola Davis in ‘Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom’, proving her capability in period dramas. Paige is known for her unfiltered personality and dedication to authentic storytelling. She brings a gritty, kinetic energy to every role she inhabits.

Moses Ingram

Moses Ingram earned an Emmy nomination for her breakout role as Jolene in the global hit ‘The Queen’s Gambit’. She then entered the Star Wars universe as the Inquisitor Reva in the ‘Obi-Wan Kenobi’ series, performing intense lightsaber combat. Ingram graduated from the Yale School of Drama, bringing classical training to her blockbuster roles. Despite facing online harassment, she stood firm and received support from co-stars and fans alike. Her resilience and talent have secured her a spot in major franchises.

Imani Lewis

Imani Lewis starred as the lead in the Netflix vampire drama ‘First Kill’, which developed a passionate cult following. Before that, she appeared in the critically acclaimed film ‘Eighth Grade’ and the drama ‘The Forty-Year-Old Version’. Lewis is known for playing tough, street-smart characters with hidden vulnerability. Her role in ‘First Kill’ cemented her status as a scream queen and romantic lead for Gen Z. She continues to be a vocal supporter of the show’s dedicated fanbase.

Chandler Kinney

Chandler Kinney is a star of the ‘Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin’ reboot, playing the horror-loving Tabby Haworthe. She first gained attention in the Disney Channel ‘Zombies’ franchise as the werewolf Willa. Kinney is an exceptional dancer, a skill she often showcases in her projects and on social media. Her transition from Disney movies to teen horror has been seamless and successful. She brings a sharp intelligence and physical agility to her roles.

Zolee Griggs

Zolee Griggs starred as Shurrie Diggs in the biographical drama series ‘Wu-Tang: An American Saga’. She also hosts a popular beauty and lifestyle blog, where she has built a community around self-care and fashion. Griggs appeared in the film ‘Archenemy’ and has been acting since she was a child. Her style and aesthetic are highly influential on platforms like Instagram and Tumblr. She balances her acting career with content creation that empowers young women.

Ryan Destiny

Ryan Destiny is a triple threat known for her starring role in the musical drama ‘Star’. She later joined the cast of ‘Grown-ish’, bringing her fashion-forward presence to the college dramedy. Destiny is widely celebrated for her beauty and style, frequently going viral for her looks and music videos. She starred in the boxing drama ‘The Fire Inside’, showcasing her physical dedication to acting. She remains one of the most glamorous and talented figures in young Black Hollywood.

Antonia Gentry

Antonia Gentry became a breakout star with the title role of Ginny in the massive Netflix hit ‘Ginny & Georgia’. Her portrayal of a mixed-race teenager dealing with identity, self-harm, and a chaotic mother resonated with millions of viewers. Gentry’s performance is anchored in emotional realism, making her a voice for youth mental health awareness. She actively engages with her fanbase regarding the show’s heavy themes. Her relatable nature and dramatic skill have made her a defining actress for Gen Z.

Madison Bailey

Madison Bailey plays the eco-conscious and loyal Kiara Carrera on the Netflix treasure-hunting sensation ‘Outer Banks’. She is a major social media influencer, known for her openness about her pansexuality and mental health. Bailey previously appeared on ‘Black Lightning’ before landing her breakout Netflix role. Her character’s style and attitude have inspired countless fashion trends among viewers. She represents the free-spirited, adventurous energy that defines the ‘Outer Banks’ fandom.

Kiersey Clemons

Kiersey Clemons has been a consistent presence in indie hits and blockbusters, known for ‘Dope’ and ‘Hearts Beat Loud’. She played Iris West in ‘The Flash’ and starred in the adventure film ‘Sweetheart’. Clemons is also a musician and brings a cool, artistic vibe to her projects. She is an advocate for queer rights and often takes on roles that challenge traditional casting. Her filmography is diverse, spanning comedy, horror, and superhero genres.

Ajiona Alexus

Ajiona Alexus is recognized for her roles in ’13 Reasons Why’ and ‘Empire’, where she played the younger version of Cookie Lyon. She starred in the thriller ‘Breaking In’ alongside Gabrielle Union. Alexus is also a singer and often integrates music into her career. She has a strong following for her beauty content and red carpet style. Her intense dramatic performances in teen dramas have left a lasting impression.

Skai Jackson

Skai Jackson grew up on screen as Zuri Ross in the Disney Channel hit ‘Jessie’ and its spinoff ‘Bunk’d’. She became an internet sensation due to a viral meme of her sitting on a chair, which she embraced with humor. Jackson has transitioned into authorship and activism, publishing a book about standing up to cyberbullying. She continues to voice characters in animation and appear in films like ‘Sheroes’. She remains a nostalgic and influential figure for Gen Z who grew up watching her.

Dara Reneé

Dara Reneé shines as Kourtney in ‘High School Musical: The Musical: The Series’, where she showcases her powerhouse vocals and comedic timing. She also starred in the Disney+ film ‘Sneakerella’, reimagining the classic fairy tale. Reneé is known for her high energy and positivity, both on and off screen. She has spoken openly about anxiety and body image, connecting deeply with her young fans. Her talent for musical theater makes her a standout in the current Disney lineup.

Sofia Wylie

Sofia Wylie is a fan-favorite from ‘High School Musical: The Musical: The Series’, recognized for her incredible dancing and dramatic acting as Gina Porter. She starred in the fantasy film ‘The School for Good and Evil’, proving her ability to lead a major production. Wylie began her career on Disney Channel’s ‘Andi Mack’, where she played a complex and ambitious character. She produces dance content that inspires a massive following on TikTok. Her work ethic and discipline are frequently cited as inspirational by her peers.

Diamond White

Diamond White is a voice acting powerhouse, currently voicing the lead character Lunella Lafayette in ‘Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur’. She has been a regular on the soap opera ‘The Bold and the Beautiful’, showcasing her dramatic range in daytime TV. White first gained fame as a contestant on ‘The X Factor’, displaying her vocal talent. Her role as Marvel’s first African-American teen girl superhero lead is a historic milestone. She continues to break barriers in both animation and live-action.

Khadijha Red Thunder

Khadijha Red Thunder gained widespread recognition for her role as Steph Jones in the ‘After’ film franchise. The series has a massive cult following among Gen Z, making her a recognizable face to millions of romance fans. She is also a successful model, having worked with major beauty and fashion brands. Her character provides the voice of reason and loyalty in the tumultuous film series. She brings a cool, grounded energy to the screen.

Alycia Pascual-Peña

Alycia Pascual-Peña was a breakout star in the ‘Saved by the Bell’ reboot, playing the socially conscious Aisha Garcia. She also appeared in the Amy Poehler film ‘Moxie’, further establishing her credentials in teen feminist media. Pascual-Peña is an Afro-Latina actress who advocates for better representation of her community. Her characters are often outspoken, intelligent, and drivers of social change. She is a rising voice for activism within the entertainment industry.

Savannah Lee Smith

Savannah Lee Smith played the ambitious and powerful Monet de Haan in the HBO Max ‘Gossip Girl’ reboot. Her character became an instant fashion icon and fan favorite for her biting wit and vulnerability. Smith was still in college at NYU when she booked the role, marking a stunning debut. She also starred in the musical comedy ‘Something’s Brewing’. Her portrayal of a ruthless yet complex queen bee proved she has the charisma to carry a show.

Which of these actresses are you most excited to see in their next project? Share your favorites in the comments.