Millennials’ Favorite African-American Actors

African-American actors have played a pivotal role in shaping the cultural landscape for the Millennial generation, transitioning from the beloved sitcom stars of the 1990s to the leading men of modern blockbusters. These performers have delivered iconic portrayals in genres ranging from gritty crime dramas to transformative superhero epics. This list highlights fifty prominent actors whose careers and diverse roles have resonated deeply with audiences born between the early 1980s and the mid-1990s. Through their work, they have not only entertained but also pushed for greater representation and storytelling depth in the industry.

Denzel Washington

Denzel Washington is widely regarded as one of the greatest actors of his generation, known for powerful roles in ‘Training Day’ (2001) and ‘Malcolm X’ (1992). He has received two Academy Awards, winning Best Supporting Actor for ‘Glory’ (1989) and Best Actor for his portrayal of a corrupt police officer. Throughout the 2000s, he starred in several high-stakes thrillers such as ‘Man on Fire’ (2004) and ‘Inside Man’ (2006). His career is characterized by his ability to bring gravity and intensity to every character he portrays.

Will Smith

Will Smith became a global icon through his leading role in the sitcom ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’ (1990–1996) before transitioning into a major film star. He dominated the summer box office during the late 1990s and 2000s with hits like ‘Men in Black’ (1997) and ‘Independence Day’ (1996). Smith received Academy Award nominations for his dramatic turns in ‘Ali’ (2001) and ‘The Pursuit of Happyness’ (2006). In 2022, he won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his performance in ‘King Richard’.

Samuel L. Jackson

Samuel L. Jackson is one of the highest-grossing actors of all time, largely due to his extensive work in major film franchises. He gained widespread recognition for his role as Jules Winnfield in ‘Pulp Fiction’ (1994), which earned him an Academy Award nomination. Millennials recognize him as Mace Windu in the ‘Star Wars’ prequel trilogy and as Nick Fury in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. His distinct voice and commanding presence have made him a staple of modern action and drama films.

Jamie Foxx

Jamie Foxx is a multi-talented performer who began his career in comedy on ‘In Living Color’ (1990–1994) before achieving major cinematic success. He won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his uncanny portrayal of musician Ray Charles in the biopic ‘Ray’ (2004). Foxx also showcased his dramatic range in ‘Collateral’ (2004) and ‘Django Unchained’ (2012). Beyond acting, he has maintained a successful music career, winning multiple Grammy Awards.

Michael B. Jordan

Michael B. Jordan rose to prominence with critically acclaimed television roles in ‘The Wire’ (2002–2008) and ‘Friday Night Lights’ (2006–2011). He gained international fame as the lead in the ‘Creed’ franchise and as the antagonist Erik Killmonger in ‘Black Panther’ (2018). His collaboration with director Ryan Coogler began with the impactful drama ‘Fruitvale Station’ (2013). Jordan has since become a prominent producer and director in Hollywood.

Chadwick Boseman

Chadwick Boseman left an indelible mark on cinema by portraying several historical figures and a groundbreaking superhero. He starred as Jackie Robinson in ’42’ (2013), James Brown in ‘Get on Up’ (2014), and Thurgood Marshall in ‘Marshall’ (2017). His portrayal of King T’Challa in ‘Black Panther’ (2018) became a cultural phenomenon and a symbol of representation. Boseman’s final performance in ‘Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom’ (2020) earned him a posthumous Academy Award nomination.

Sterling K. Brown

Sterling K. Brown became a household name for his emotional portrayal of Randall Pearson on the NBC drama ‘This Is Us’ (2016–2022). He won an Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor for that role, following another Emmy win for his portrayal of Christopher Darden in ‘The People v. O. J. Simpson: American Crime Story’ (2016). Brown has also appeared in major films such as ‘Black Panther’ (2018) and ‘Waves’ (2019). He is celebrated for his vulnerability and precise acting style.

Mahershala Ali

Mahershala Ali is a two-time Academy Award winner, recognized for his exceptional supporting roles in ‘Moonlight’ (2016) and ‘Green Book’ (2018). Before his Oscar success, he was known for his work in the television series ‘The 4400’ (2004–2007) and ‘House of Cards’ (2013–2019). Ali has also taken on prominent roles in the ‘Hunger Games’ series and the third season of ‘True Detective’ (2019). He is set to join the Marvel Cinematic Universe as the titular character in the upcoming ‘Blade’.

Michael Ealy

Michael Ealy first caught the attention of audiences with his breakout role as Ricky Nash in ‘Barbershop’ (2002). He became a romantic lead for a generation in films such as ‘Think Like a Man’ (2012) and ‘About Last Night’ (2014). Ealy has also maintained a strong presence on television with roles in ‘Sleeper Cell’ (2005–2006) and ‘Almost Human’ (2013–2014). He is known for his striking blue eyes and his ability to balance charm with dramatic intensity.

Donald Glover

Donald Glover is a versatile creator who first gained fame as an actor on the sitcom ‘Community’ (2009–2015). He went on to create, write, and star in the critically acclaimed series ‘Atlanta’ (2016–2022), for which he won multiple Emmy Awards. Glover also appeared in ‘Solo: A Star Wars Story’ (2018) as Lando Calrissian and voiced Simba in ‘The Lion King’ (2019). Under his stage name Childish Gambino, he has had a highly successful career in music.

Anthony Mackie

Anthony Mackie began his career with a strong performance in ‘8 Mile’ (2002) and went on to star in the Academy Award-winning ‘The Hurt Locker’ (2008). He gained massive global recognition for his role as Sam Wilson, also known as Falcon, in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Mackie officially took on the mantle of Captain America in the series ‘The Falcon and the Winter Soldier’ (2021). He is known for his charismatic screen presence and athletic performance style.

Lakeith Stanfield

Lakeith Stanfield made his film debut in the indie drama ‘Short Term 12’ (2013) and quickly became one of the most unique voices in Hollywood. He is well-known for his role as Darius in the series ‘Atlanta’ (2016–2022) and for his starring turn in ‘Sorry to Bother You’ (2018). Stanfield received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor for his role in ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’ (2021). His career choices often lean toward experimental and socially conscious projects.

Morris Chestnut

Morris Chestnut became a heartthrob for the Millennial generation following his role as Ricky Baker in the classic film ‘Boyz n the Hood’ (1991). He solidified his status as a leading man in ‘The Best Man’ (1999) and its subsequent sequel and television series. Chestnut has starred in numerous romantic comedies and dramas, including ‘Two Can Play That Game’ (2001). He has also had a successful television career with roles in ‘Rosewood’ (2015–2017) and ‘The Resident’ (2017–2023).

Taye Diggs

Taye Diggs made a significant impact with his film debut in ‘How Stella Got Her Groove Back’ (1998). He became a staple of the romantic drama genre with roles in ‘The Best Man’ (1999) and ‘Brown Sugar’ (2002). Diggs also found success on Broadway in ‘Rent’ and transitioned back to television with a long-running role on ‘Private Practice’ (2007–2013). More recently, he starred in the popular CW series ‘All American’ (2018–2024).

Larenz Tate

Larenz Tate is beloved for his portrayal of O-Dog in the gritty urban drama ‘Menace II Society’ (1993). He showcased a completely different side of his talent as the romantic lead Darius Lovehall in ‘Love Jones’ (1997). Tate also appeared in the Academy Award-winning film ‘Crash’ (2004) and portrayed Councilman Rashad Tate in the hit series ‘Power’ (2014–2020). His ability to move between intense drama and smooth romance has sustained his long career.

Omari Hardwick

Omari Hardwick is best known for his leading role as James “Ghost” St. Patrick on the Starz series ‘Power’ (2014–2020). Before his breakout as Ghost, he appeared in films such as ‘For Colored Girls’ (2010) and ‘Sparkle’ (2012). Hardwick is also a talented poet and has released spoken word albums throughout his career. He recently appeared in the Zack Snyder film ‘Army of the Dead’ (2021) and the thriller ‘The Mother’ (2023).

Jesse Williams

Jesse Williams gained widespread recognition for his role as Dr. Jackson Avery on the long-running medical drama ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ (2009–2022). Aside from his acting work, he is well-known for his activism and was honored with the Humanitarian Award at the 2016 BET Awards. Williams has appeared in films such as ‘The Cabin in the Woods’ (2011) and ‘The Butler’ (2013). He also provided the voice and motion capture for the lead character in the video game ‘Detroit: Become Human’ (2018).

Terrence Howard

Terrence Howard had a major breakout year in 2005 with his Academy Award-nominated performance in ‘Hustle & Flow’. He also played a key role in the ensemble cast of ‘Crash’ (2004), which won the Oscar for Best Picture. Howard was the original James Rhodes in the first ‘Iron Man’ (2008) film before transitioning to a massive television success. He starred as Lucious Lyon on the musical drama ‘Empire’ (2015–2020).

John David Washington

John David Washington, a former professional football player, made a major splash in Hollywood with his role in the HBO series ‘Ballers’ (2015–2019). He earned critical acclaim for his lead performance in Spike Lee’s ‘BlacKkKlansman’ (2018), receiving a Golden Globe nomination. Washington later starred in the mind-bending action film ‘Tenet’ (2020) and the Netflix drama ‘Malcolm & Marie’ (2021). He is the son of fellow actor Denzel Washington and has forged his own distinct path in the industry.

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II quickly rose to fame with his role as Black Manta in the DC film ‘Aquaman’ (2018). He won an Emmy Award for his portrayal of Cal Abar and Doctor Manhattan in the HBO limited series ‘Watchmen’ (2019). He also starred as Bobby Seale in ‘The Trial of the Chicago 7’ (2020) and took on the role of Morpheus in ‘The Matrix Resurrections’ (2021). His rapid ascent has established him as one of the most sought-after actors in both blockbusters and prestige projects.

Aldis Hodge

Aldis Hodge began his career as a child actor but gained significant attention for his role as Alec Hardison on ‘Leverage’ (2008–2012). He portrayed MC Ren in the N.W.A. biopic ‘Straight Outta Compton’ (2015) and starred in ‘Hidden Figures’ (2016). Hodge took on the superhero mantle of Hawkman in the DC film ‘Black Adam’ (2022). He is also known for his leading role in the crime drama series ‘City on a Hill’ (2019–2022).

Corey Hawkins

Corey Hawkins achieved widespread recognition for his portrayal of Dr. Dre in the biopic ‘Straight Outta Compton’ (2015). He followed this success with a leading role in the series ’24: Legacy’ (2017) and appeared in the blockbuster ‘Kong: Skull Island’ (2017). Hawkins showcased his musical talents in the film adaptation of the Broadway musical ‘In the Heights’ (2021). He has also earned Tony Award nominations for his work on the Broadway stage.

Tyler James Williams

Tyler James Williams became a child star as the lead in the sitcom ‘Everybody Hates Chris’ (2005–2009). He successfully transitioned to adult roles with a recurring part on ‘The Walking Dead’ (2014–2015) and a starring role in the film ‘Dear White People’ (2014). Williams gained renewed acclaim and an Emmy nomination for his role as Gregory Eddie on ‘Abbott Elementary’ (2021–present). He is celebrated for his comedic timing and relatable screen presence.

Kenan Thompson

Kenan Thompson is a staple of Millennial childhood, having starred in the Nickelodeon sketch show ‘All That’ (1994–1999) and the sitcom ‘Kenan & Kel’ (1996–2000). He also starred in the cult classic comedy ‘Good Burger’ (1997). Thompson eventually joined ‘Saturday Night Live’ in 2003, becoming the longest-tenured cast member in the show’s history. He has won an Emmy Award for his work on the sketch series and continues to be a central figure in American comedy.

Kel Mitchell

Kel Mitchell rose to fame alongside Kenan Thompson in ‘All That’ and ‘Kenan & Kel’, where his high-energy physical comedy became legendary. He starred as Ed in the film ‘Good Burger’ (1997), a role he reprised for a 2023 sequel. Mitchell also appeared in the superhero comedy ‘Mystery Men’ (1999) and has voiced characters for numerous animated series. He remains a beloved figure for those who grew up during the 1990s Nickelodeon era.

Nick Cannon

Nick Cannon began his career on Nickelodeon’s ‘All That’ before starring in his own self-titled show, ‘The Nick Cannon Show’ (2002–2003). He achieved major film success as the lead in the marching band drama ‘Drumline’ (2002). Cannon also created and hosted the long-running improv comedy series ‘Wild ‘N Out’ (2005–present). Beyond acting and hosting, he has been a successful producer and music artist throughout his career.

Corbin Bleu

Corbin Bleu became a teen idol for his role as Chad Danforth in the ‘High School Musical’ franchise (2006–2008). He also starred in the Disney Channel Original Movie ‘Jump In!’ (2007), which was a major ratings success. Bleu has since focused heavily on theater, appearing in several Broadway productions like ‘In the Heights’ and ‘Kiss Me, Kate’. He remains a significant figure in the nostalgia-driven pop culture of the mid-2000s.

Jaden Smith

Jaden Smith made a memorable film debut alongside his father in ‘The Pursuit of Happyness’ (2006). He went on to star in the successful remake of ‘The Karate Kid’ (2010) and the science fiction film ‘After Earth’ (2013). Smith has also pursued a unique path in music and fashion, becoming known for his avant-garde style and philosophical public persona. He provided the voice for the lead character in the Netflix anime series ‘Neo Yokio’ (2017–2018).

Shad Moss

Shad Moss, formerly known as Bow Wow, began his career as a child rapper before transitioning into a successful acting career. He starred in the basketball-themed family film ‘Like Mike’ (2002) and joined the ‘Fast & Furious’ franchise in ‘The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift’ (2006). Moss also had a long-running role on the series ‘Entourage’ (2008–2011) and starred in ‘CSI: Cyber’ (2015–2016). He was the host of the influential music video show ‘106 & Park’ during its later years.

Jeffrey Wright

Jeffrey Wright is a highly respected character actor who first gained major acclaim for his role in the Broadway play ‘Angels in America’ and its subsequent HBO adaptation. Millennials know him for his role as Felix Leiter in the James Bond films and as Beetee in the ‘Hunger Games’ franchise. He also starred as Bernard Lowe in the HBO series ‘Westworld’ (2016–2022). Wright won a Golden Globe for his lead performance in the satirical drama ‘American Fiction’ (2023).

Giancarlo Esposito

Giancarlo Esposito became an iconic television villain through his portrayal of Gus Fring in ‘Breaking Bad’ (2009–2011) and ‘Better Call Saul’ (2017–2022). Earlier in his career, he was a frequent collaborator of Spike Lee, appearing in ‘Do the Right Thing’ (1989) and ‘School Daze’ (1988). He has since taken on prominent roles in ‘The Mandalorian’ (2019–present) and ‘The Boys’ (2019–present). Esposito is known for his calm, precise, and often menacing on-screen presence.

Wood Harris

Wood Harris is best known for his iconic portrayal of drug kingpin Avon Barksdale on the HBO series ‘The Wire’ (2002–2008). He also starred as Julius Campbell in the beloved sports drama ‘Remember the Titans’ (2000). Harris has had a consistent film career, appearing in projects like ‘Paid in Full’ (2002) and the ‘Creed’ franchise as Tony “Little Duke” Evers. His performance in ‘The Wire’ remains a touchstone for television drama from the early 2000s.

Jay Ellis

Jay Ellis gained widespread popularity for his role as Lawrence Walker on the HBO series ‘Insecure’ (2016–2021). Before this, he was a lead on the BET series ‘The Game’ (2013–2015). Ellis made a significant jump to major film roles with his appearance as Lieutenant Reuben “Payback” Fitch in ‘Top Gun: Maverick’ (2022). He is also involved in production and has become a prominent figure in modern fashion and lifestyle media.

Kofi Siriboe

Kofi Siriboe rose to stardom for his leading role as Ralph Angel Bordelon on the OWN drama series ‘Queen Sugar’ (2016–2022). He also gained attention for his performance in the hit romantic comedy ‘Girls Trip’ (2017). Siriboe has worked as a model and has been featured in numerous high-profile fashion campaigns. His work on ‘Queen Sugar’ earned him several NAACP Image Award nominations and solidified his status as a rising leading man.

Trevante Rhodes

Trevante Rhodes achieved a major breakthrough with his performance as the adult Chiron in the Academy Award-winning film ‘Moonlight’ (2016). Following this success, he appeared in the action film ‘The Predator’ (2018) and the Netflix hit ‘Bird Box’ (2018). Rhodes also portrayed boxing legend Mike Tyson in the Hulu miniseries ‘Mike’ (2022). He is recognized for his powerful physique and his ability to convey deep vulnerability.

Jonathan Majors

Jonathan Majors first gained critical attention for his role in the independent film ‘The Last Black Man in San Francisco’ (2019). He went on to star in the HBO series ‘Lovecraft Country’ (2020) and the war film ‘Devotion’ (2022). Majors was cast as Kang the Conqueror in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, appearing in ‘Loki’ (2021–2023) and ‘Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania’ (2023). He also played the antagonist Damian Anderson in ‘Creed III’ (2023).

Jharrel Jerome

Jharrel Jerome made his professional acting debut in the Oscar-winning film ‘Moonlight’ (2016). He gained even greater acclaim for his role as Korey Wise in the Netflix miniseries ‘When They See Us’ (2019), for which he won an Emmy Award. Jerome also starred in the surrealist series ‘I’m a Virgo’ (2023) and the television drama ‘Mr. Mercedes’ (2017–2019). He is the first Afro-Latino to win an acting Emmy for a lead role.

Trevor Jackson

Trevor Jackson is a multi-talented actor and singer who began his career on Broadway in ‘The Lion King’. He is best known for his role as Aaron Jackson on the Freeform series ‘Grown-ish’ (2018–2024), a spinoff of ‘Black-ish’. Jackson also starred as the lead in the 2018 remake of the cult classic film ‘Superfly’. He has released several R&B albums and is known for his artistic versatility across different mediums.

Jacob Latimore

Jacob Latimore started as a young singer before transitioning into a successful acting career with roles in ‘Black Nativity’ (2013) and ‘The Maze Runner’ (2014). He gained significant praise for his starring role in the indie drama ‘Sleight’ (2016). Latimore has been a main cast member of the Showtime series ‘The Chi’ (2018–present), portraying Emmett Washington. He continues to balance a career in both the music industry and professional acting.

Caleb McLaughlin

Caleb McLaughlin rose to international fame for his role as Lucas Sinclair on the Netflix hit series ‘Stranger Things’ (2016–present). Before his breakout on television, he performed on Broadway as Young Simba in ‘The Lion King’. McLaughlin also starred alongside Idris Elba in the film ‘Concrete Cowboy’ (2020) and appeared in the LeBron James biopic ‘Shooting Stars’ (2023). He is a prominent figure in the new generation of Hollywood stars coming of age.

Asante Blackk

Asante Blackk earned an Emmy nomination for his debut television role as young Kevin Richardson in ‘When They See Us’ (2019). He followed this success with a series regular role as Malik Hodges on the NBC drama ‘This Is Us’ (2019–2022). Blackk also appeared in the film ‘Landscape with Invisible Hand’ (2023) and provided voice work for ‘The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder’. He is recognized as one of the most promising young dramatic actors in the industry.

Michael Rainey Jr.

Michael Rainey Jr. gained widespread recognition for his role as Tariq St. Patrick on the hit Starz series ‘Power’ (2014–2020). He transitioned into the lead role of his own spinoff series, ‘Power Book II: Ghost’ (2020–present). Before his time on ‘Power’, he appeared in the film ‘LUV’ (2012) and had a recurring role on ‘Orange Is the New Black’. His character’s evolution has made him a central figure in one of television’s most popular franchises.

Keith Powers

Keith Powers became a breakout star for his portrayal of Ronnie DeVoe in the miniseries ‘The New Edition Story’ (2017). He also starred in the series ‘Famous in Love’ (2017–2018) and the Netflix film ‘The Tomorrow War’ (2021). Powers began his career as a model before moving into acting and appearing in the film ‘Straight Outta Compton’ (2015). He has recently starred in romantic dramas such as ‘The Perfect Find’ (2023).

Algee Smith

Algee Smith first gained major attention for his role as Ralph Tresvant in ‘The New Edition Story’ (2017). He delivered a critically acclaimed performance as Larry Reed in the historical drama ‘Detroit’ (2017). Smith also played a pivotal role as McKay in the first season of the HBO series ‘Euphoria’ (2019). He recently starred in the science fiction thriller ‘Mother/Android’ (2021) and the film ‘The Hate U Give’ (2018).

Colman Domingo

Colman Domingo has had a long and varied career in theater and film, but he gained massive popularity with Millennials for his role as Ali on ‘Euphoria’ (2019–present). He also starred as Victor Strand on ‘Fear the Walking Dead’ (2015–2023). Domingo received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor for his portrayal of civil rights activist Bayard Rustin in ‘Rustin’ (2023). He is a Tony-nominated playwright and a highly respected figure in the arts.

Marlon Wayans

Marlon Wayans became a comedic mainstay through his work on ‘In Living Color’ and the sitcom ‘The Wayans Bros.’ (1995–1999). He co-wrote and starred in several massive parody hits, including ‘Scary Movie’ (2000) and ‘White Chicks’ (2004). Wayans also showcased his dramatic ability with a haunting performance in ‘Requiem for a Dream’ (2000). He continues to produce and star in comedy specials and films like ‘Sextuplets’ (2019).

Shawn Wayans

Shawn Wayans gained fame alongside his brother Marlon in ‘The Wayans Bros.’ and as a cast member on ‘In Living Color’. He was a primary writer and star for the first two ‘Scary Movie’ films, which redefined the parody genre for the 2000s. Wayans also co-starred in ‘Don’t Be a Menace to South Central While Drinking Your Juice in the Hood’ (1996) and ‘White Chicks’ (2004). While he has stepped away from the spotlight in recent years, his comedic influence remains significant.

Columbus Short

Columbus Short first made an impact as a choreographer before starring in the hit dance film ‘Stomp the Yard’ (2007). He also appeared in ‘Cadillac Records’ (2008) and the action film ‘The Losers’ (2010). Short became widely known for his role as Harrison Wright on the first three seasons of the ABC drama ‘Scandal’ (2012–2014). His performances often blended physical agility with high-stakes dramatic intensity.

Derek Luke

Derek Luke made an explosive film debut as the title character in ‘Antwone Fisher’ (2002), directed by Denzel Washington. He went on to star in ‘Biker Boyz’ (2003) and ‘Friday Night Lights’ (2004). Luke also portrayed Sean “Puffy” Combs in the Biggie Smalls biopic ‘Notorious’ (2009). More recently, he had a significant role as Kevin Porter in the Netflix series ’13 Reasons Why’ (2017–2020).

Pooch Hall

Pooch Hall is best known for his role as Derwin Davis on the popular series ‘The Game’ (2006–2015), which followed the lives of professional football players. He also starred as Daryll Donovan on the Showtime drama ‘Ray Donovan’ (2013–2020). Hall has appeared in films such as ‘Jumping the Broom’ (2011) and ‘A Dog’s Purpose’ (2017). His portrayal of Derwin Davis remains one of the most beloved characters in the history of Black television sitcoms and dramas.

Share your thoughts on which of these actors had the biggest impact on your childhood or favorite movie list in the comments.