The Best African-American Actors In Television History

The television landscape has been profoundly shaped by the immense talent of African-American actors who have broken barriers and delivered iconic performances. From the early days of sitcoms to the modern era of prestige dramas these performers have earned critical acclaim and numerous awards. This list explores forty of the most influential male actors who have made a lasting impact on the history of television. Each entry highlights their most notable roles and their contributions to the medium through consistent and powerful work.

Bill Bellamy

Bill Bellamy first rose to prominence as a staple on MTV during the early nineties where he hosted various programs. He successfully moved into scripted television with a lead role in the sitcom ‘Bellamy’ which aired in the late nineties. The actor also appeared in notable series like ‘Insecure’ and ‘Hot in Cleveland’ throughout his career. His work often blends comedy with charismatic performances that resonate with broad audiences. Bellamy remains an influential figure in urban comedy and television hosting.

Shemar Moore

Shemar Moore became a household name with his long tenure on the daytime soap opera ‘The Young and the Restless’. He later transitioned to primetime television where he starred as Derek Morgan in the procedural drama ‘Criminal Minds’ for eleven seasons. Moore currently leads the cast of the action series ‘S.W.A.T.’ where he plays Sergeant Daniel Harrelson. His career is marked by his ability to maintain leading roles in high-rated network dramas. He has received multiple Daytime Emmy Awards and Image Awards for his contributions to television.

LL Cool J

LL Cool J effectively bridged the gap between music and television with his starring role in the sitcom ‘In the House’. He later achieved massive success as Special Agent Sam Hanna on the long-running series ‘NCIS Los Angeles’. The performer has also hosted several programs including the popular competition show ‘Lip Sync Battle’. His presence on television has spanned decades and demonstrated his versatility across different genres. He is recognized for his longevity and his status as a crossover star in the entertainment industry.

Ice-T

Ice-T redefined his career by joining the cast of ‘Law and Order Special Victims Unit’ in its second season. He portrays Sergeant Odafin Tutuola and has become one of the longest-serving actors on a single television drama. Before his procedural success he appeared in various projects and hosted his own reality programs. His portrayal of a dedicated detective has earned him a place in television history as a reliable and iconic figure. He continues to be a central part of the ‘Law and Order’ franchise.

Anthony Anderson

Anthony Anderson is best known for his lead role as Andre Johnson in the critically acclaimed sitcom ‘black-ish’. He served as an executive producer for the show and received multiple Emmy nominations for his performance. His earlier television work includes roles in ‘Law and Order’ and the sitcom ‘All About the Andersons’. Anderson has also hosted the game show ‘To Tell the Truth’ for several seasons. His influence extends beyond acting as he has played a significant role in developing stories about the African-American experience.

Terrence Howard

Terrence Howard delivered a powerful performance as Lucious Lyon in the musical drama series ‘Empire’. The show became a cultural phenomenon and showcased his ability to play a complex and ruthless protagonist. Before this role he appeared in several television movies and guest roles on established series. His work on ‘Empire’ earned him critical praise and helped the show achieve massive ratings during its run. Howard remains a notable figure for his contributions to one of the most successful dramas of the twenty-tens.

Taye Diggs

Taye Diggs has enjoyed a diverse television career with starring roles in both dramas and comedies. He gained significant attention for his role as Dr. Sam Bennett in the ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ spin-off titled ‘Private Practice’. The actor also starred in the crime drama ‘Murder in the First’ and currently appears in ‘All American’. Diggs is known for his smooth delivery and strong screen presence across various network projects. His work includes a mix of leading roles and recurring guest spots in popular series.

David Harewood

David Harewood is a British actor who made a significant impact on American television with his role in ‘Homeland’. He played David Estes the Director of the CIA Counterterrorism Center during the show’s early seasons. Harewood later joined the cast of ‘Supergirl’ where he portrayed J’onn J’onzz who is also known as the Martian Manhunter. His performance in the superhero genre earned him a dedicated following and showcased his range. He continues to be a respected figure in both domestic and international television productions.

Blair Underwood

Blair Underwood first captured audience attention as the ambitious attorney Jonathan Rollins in ‘L.A. Law’. He has maintained a consistent presence on television with roles in ‘The Event’ and ‘Quantico’. The actor also starred in the drama series ‘Self Made’ where he played the husband of Madam C.J. Walker. Underwood has received multiple Golden Globe nominations for his work in various television projects. His career is characterized by his ability to portray sophisticated and professional characters.

Glynn Turman

Glynn Turman is a veteran actor who has appeared in numerous classic television series throughout his long career. He is well known for his role as Colonel Brad Taylor on the sitcom ‘A Different World’. Turman won an Emmy Award for his guest performance in the drama series ‘In Treatment’ where he played Alex Prince Sr. He also had a recurring role as Mayor Clarence Royce in the critically acclaimed series ‘The Wire’. His extensive filmography demonstrates his status as a respected character actor in the industry.

Sherman Hemsley

Sherman Hemsley became a television icon for his portrayal of George Jefferson in the sitcom ‘The Jeffersons’. The character originated on ‘All in the Family’ before moving to its own long-running spin-off series. Hemsley brought a unique energy and comedic timing to the role of a successful dry-cleaning mogul. He later starred in the sitcom ‘Amen’ where he played Deacon Ernest Frye for five seasons. His work in the sitcom genre left a lasting legacy on the representation of Black families on television.

Redd Foxx

Redd Foxx is legendary for his starring role as Fred Sanford in the classic sitcom ‘Sanford and Son’. His performance as the cantankerous junk dealer made the show a massive hit during the nineteen-seventies. Foxx had a background in stand-up comedy which he successfully translated into his television persona. He later appeared in ‘The Redd Foxx Show’ and the series ‘The Royal Family’ before his passing. His influence on television comedy remains profound and he is remembered as a pioneer for Black comedians.

James Avery

James Avery is best remembered for his role as the dignified Philip Banks on ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’. His performance as Uncle Phil provided a strong and loving paternal figure for a generation of viewers. Avery was also a prolific voice actor who lent his voice to Shredder in the original ‘Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles’ animated series. He appeared in numerous other shows including ‘The Closer’ and ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. His presence on screen was often marked by a commanding voice and a warm personality.

Bernie Mac

Bernie Mac starred in the semi-autobiographical sitcom ‘The Bernie Mac Show’ which aired for five seasons. The series was unique for its style of having Mac address the audience directly through the camera. He received multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nominations for his work as a fictionalized version of himself. Mac’s comedy was known for its honesty and its focus on family dynamics and parenting. He remains a beloved figure in television history for his distinctive comedic voice and relatable storytelling.

Martin Lawrence

Martin Lawrence created and starred in the hit sitcom ‘Martin’ which became a cornerstone of nineties television. He played multiple characters on the show including the iconic Sheneneh Jenkins and Mama Payne. The series was celebrated for its high energy and its portrayal of young professional life in Detroit. Lawrence later returned to television with projects like ‘Partners’ and various stand-up specials. His work on ‘Martin’ continues to be highly influential in the realm of African-American comedy.

Damon Wayans

Damon Wayans gained fame as a writer and performer on the groundbreaking sketch comedy series ‘In Living Color’. He created several memorable characters that helped define the show’s subversive and bold comedic style. Wayans later starred in the successful family sitcom ‘My Wife and Kids’ where he played Michael Kyle. He also took on a dramatic role in the television reboot of ‘Lethal Weapon’ as Roger Murtaugh. His career reflects a successful transition from sketch comedy to leading man status in network television.

Dennis Haysbert

Dennis Haysbert is highly regarded for his role as President David Palmer in the action-drama series ’24’. His portrayal of a principled and calm leader was widely praised and became a highlight of the series. Before this role he appeared in series like ‘Now and Again’ and ‘The Unit’ where he played Jonas Blane. Haysbert is also known for his distinct deep voice which he has used in numerous commercials and narrations. His work on television has consistently featured him in roles of authority and integrity.

Wendell Pierce

Wendell Pierce is celebrated for his portrayal of Detective Bunk Moreland in the seminal series ‘The Wire’. He later starred in the drama ‘Treme’ where he played a trombonist navigating life in post-Katrina New Orleans. Pierce has also appeared in ‘Suits’ as the formidable attorney Robert Zane and in the thriller ‘Jack Ryan’. His performances are often noted for their authenticity and deep emotional resonance. He is considered one of the most versatile character actors working in television today.

Wood Harris

Wood Harris delivered a chilling and nuanced performance as the drug kingpin Avon Barksdale in ‘The Wire’. This role cemented his reputation as a powerful dramatic actor capable of carrying complex narratives. He later appeared in the miniseries ‘The New Edition Story’ where he played Brooke Payne. Harris has also had roles in ‘Empire’ and ‘Winning Time The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty’ on HBO. His ability to inhabit diverse characters has made him a recurring presence in prestige television dramas.

Lance Reddick

Lance Reddick was known for his commanding presence and precise acting style in several high-profile series. He played Cedric Daniels in ‘The Wire’ and Phillip Broyles in the science-fiction drama ‘Fringe’. Reddick also starred as Deputy Chief Irvin Irving in the long-running police procedural ‘Bosch’. His career included work in ‘Resident Evil’ and numerous voice acting roles for television and video games. He was highly respected for the gravity and intelligence he brought to every role he performed.

Keith David

Keith David has had a prolific career in television as both an on-screen actor and a voice performer. He starred in the series ‘Greenleaf’ as Bishop James Greenleaf for five seasons on the OWN network. His voice work is legendary and includes narrating numerous Ken Burns documentaries and voicing characters in ‘Spawn’. David also appeared in the comedy series ‘Community’ and the drama ‘The Flash’. He is known for his resonant voice and his ability to command attention in both dramatic and comedic roles.

Courtney B. Vance

Courtney B. Vance earned critical acclaim and an Emmy Award for his role as Johnnie Cochran in ‘The People v. O. J. Simpson American Crime Story’. He also starred in the horror-drama series ‘Lovecraft Country’ as Uncle George which further showcased his dramatic range. Vance’s earlier television work includes a long stint on ‘Law and Order Criminal Intent’ as Ron Carver. He is recognized for his intellectual approach to acting and his ability to portray historical figures with depth. His contributions to television include both series regular roles and powerful performances in limited series.

Jharrel Jerome

Jharrel Jerome made history by winning an Emmy for his performance in the limited series ‘When They See Us’. He portrayed Korey Wise of the Central Park Five and delivered a haunting and deeply emotional performance. The actor also starred in the surrealist series ‘I’m a Virgo’ which was created by Boots Riley. Jerome is considered one of the most talented young actors of his generation for his work in these high-impact projects. His television roles are marked by a commitment to social relevance and transformative acting.

Jeffrey Wright

Jeffrey Wright is a highly decorated actor known for his complex roles in prestige television. He won an Emmy for his performance as Belize in the miniseries ‘Angels in America’ on HBO. Wright later starred as Bernard Lowe in the science-fiction epic ‘Westworld’ where he explored themes of artificial intelligence. He also appeared in ‘Boardwalk Empire’ as the sophisticated and dangerous Valentin Narcisse. His work is characterized by its subtlety and the deep intelligence he brings to his characters.

Mahershala Ali

Mahershala Ali has delivered standout performances in several major television series throughout his career. He gained recognition for his role as Remy Danton in the political drama ‘House of Cards’. Ali also starred in the third season of ‘True Detective’ where he played Detective Wayne Hays across different time periods. His performance in ‘Luke Cage’ as the villainous Cottonmouth was widely praised for its charisma and intensity. He is an actor who consistently chooses projects that allow for deep character exploration and dramatic weight.

Idris Elba

Idris Elba became a breakout star for his role as the calculating drug lord Stringer Bell in ‘The Wire’. He later moved to the lead role in the British psychological crime drama ‘Luther’ which earned him a Golden Globe. Elba has also appeared in the comedy series ‘The Office’ and the thriller ‘Hijack’. His career is a testament to his international appeal and his ability to lead major television productions. He is known for his commanding screen presence and his versatility across different genres of storytelling.

Laurence Fishburne

Laurence Fishburne has a distinguished television career that includes both leading and supporting roles. He starred as Dr. Raymond Langston in ‘CSI Crime Scene Investigation’ for several seasons. The actor also played the role of Jack Crawford in the critically acclaimed series ‘Hannibal’ and appeared in ‘Black-ish’. Fishburne won an Emmy for his role in the television movie ‘Miss Evers’ Boys’ during the nineteen-nineties. His presence on television adds a layer of gravitas and veteran experience to any production he joins.

Forest Whitaker

Forest Whitaker has transitioned between film and television with great success throughout his career. He starred in the series ‘Godfather of Harlem’ as Bumpy Johnson which explores the intersection of crime and civil rights. Whitaker also had a significant recurring role in the gritty police drama ‘The Shield’ as Lieutenant Jon Kavanaugh. He has produced several television projects and appeared in the miniseries ‘Roots’ as Fiddler. His work in television is marked by the same intensity and character depth that he brings to his film roles.

Louis Gossett Jr.

Louis Gossett Jr. made television history with his performance as Fiddler in the landmark miniseries ‘Roots’. He won an Emmy Award for this role which remains one of the most significant moments in television history. Gossett Jr. also appeared in numerous other series including ‘Watchmen’ where he played Will Reeves. His career spanned several decades and included roles in television movies and guest appearances on popular shows. He was a pioneer who paved the way for many African-American actors in the industry.

Morgan Freeman

Morgan Freeman began his television career as a regular on the educational children’s show ‘The Electric Company’. He played multiple characters including Easy Reader and helped the show become a classic for young viewers. While he is primarily known for his film work he has returned to television for various hosting and narration roles. Freeman has hosted documentary series such as ‘Through the Wormhole’ and ‘The Story of God’. His iconic voice and authoritative presence have made him a staple of television documentaries and specials.

Giancarlo Esposito

Giancarlo Esposito is best known for his portrayal of the cold and methodical Gus Fring in ‘Breaking Bad’. He reprised the role in the prequel series ‘Better Call Saul’ and received multiple Emmy nominations for his performance. Esposito has also starred in ‘The Mandalorian’ as Moff Gideon and in the series ‘The Boys’. His earlier television work includes roles in ‘Homicide Life on the Street’ and ‘Law and Order’. He is celebrated for his ability to play villains with a calm and terrifying intelligence.

Billy Porter

Billy Porter delivered a groundbreaking performance as Pray Tell in the drama series ‘Pose’. He became the first openly gay Black man to win an Emmy for Lead Actor in a Drama Series for this role. Porter’s performance was hailed for its emotional depth and its representation of the ballroom community during the AIDS crisis. He has also appeared in ‘American Horror Story’ and has a long history of performing on Broadway. His work on television has been instrumental in expanding the representation of LGBTQ+ characters.

Donald Glover

Donald Glover is the creator and star of the innovative series ‘Atlanta’ which won multiple Emmy Awards. He also gained fame for his role as Troy Barnes in the comedy series ‘Community’. Glover is known for his unique creative vision which blends surrealism with social commentary. He has also hosted ‘Saturday Night Live’ and starred in the series ‘Mr. and Mrs. Smith’ for Amazon. His versatility as a writer director and actor has made him one of the most influential figures in modern television.

Michael Kenneth Williams

Michael K. Williams created one of television’s most iconic characters with his portrayal of Omar Little in ‘The Wire’. He followed this with another acclaimed role as Chalky White in the period drama ‘Boardwalk Empire’. Williams also appeared in the limited series ‘The Night Of’ and ‘When They See Us’ as well as ‘Lovecraft Country’. His performances were known for their vulnerability and the humanization of characters who lived on the margins of society. He remains a highly influential figure whose work redefined the possibilities of character acting on television.

LeVar Burton

LeVar Burton rose to fame for his portrayal of Kunta Kinte in the historic miniseries ‘Roots’. He later became a beloved figure for hosting the educational series ‘Reading Rainbow’ for over twenty years. Burton also starred as Geordi La Forge in ‘Star Trek The Next Generation’ which further established his television legacy. His career is characterized by his commitment to education and his roles in major cultural milestones. He has received numerous awards including multiple Daytime Emmys and a Peabody Award for his contributions.

Andre Braugher

Andre Braugher was widely considered one of the finest dramatic actors of his generation for his role in ‘Homicide Life on the Street’. He played Detective Frank Pembleton and won an Emmy for his intense and focused performance. Braugher later showcased his comedic range as Captain Raymond Holt in the sitcom ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’. He also starred in the series ‘Men of a Certain Age’ and the thriller ‘Last Resort’. His ability to master both heavy drama and deadpan comedy made him a unique and indispensable talent in television.

Robert Guillaume

Robert Guillaume won two Emmy Awards for his portrayal of the witty butler Benson DuBois. The character first appeared in the sitcom ‘Soap’ before moving to the successful spin-off series ‘Benson’. Guillaume also starred in the acclaimed but short-lived drama ‘Sports Night’ as Isaac Jaffe. He was a pioneer in the industry and was one of the first African-American actors to lead a successful network sitcom. His work is remembered for its intelligence and his ability to break stereotypes through his characters.

James Earl Jones

James Earl Jones had a monumental impact on television through his roles in ‘Roots’ and ‘Gabriel’s Fire’. He won two Emmy Awards in the same year which was a historic feat for any actor. His voice is one of the most recognizable in history and he used it to narrate numerous specials and documentaries. Jones appeared in guest roles on series ranging from ‘The Simpsons’ to ‘House’ throughout his long career. He is a titan of the performing arts whose television work is a significant part of his immense legacy.

Sterling K. Brown

Sterling K. Brown has become one of the most decorated actors in television history in recent years. He won an Emmy for his role as Christopher Darden in ‘The People v. O. J. Simpson American Crime Story’. Brown then starred as Randall Pearson in the massive hit drama ‘This Is Us’ which earned him another Emmy and multiple nominations. He has also appeared in ‘The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel’ and provided voices for several animated series. His performances are consistently praised for their emotional honesty and his mastery of dramatic dialogue.

Please share your favorite performances from these legendary actors in the comments.