The Most Promising African-American Actors Set to Become Huge Stars

The landscape of Hollywood is undergoing a significant transformation as a new generation of African-American actors takes center stage. These performers are not only showcasing exceptional range in independent cinema but are also anchoring major studio franchises and critically acclaimed television series. From breakout roles in Academy Award-winning films to leading parts in prestige streaming dramas, these individuals represent the future of the entertainment industry. Their diverse backgrounds and commitment to storytelling are redefining modern stardom for a global audience.

Kelvin Harrison, Jr.

Kelvin Harrison Jr. has rapidly established himself as a versatile performer with a penchant for emotionally demanding roles. He first gained major critical attention for his work in the independent dramas ‘Luce’ and ‘Waves’. His filmography has since expanded to include significant roles in big-budget projects like the ‘Elvis’ biopic, where he portrayed the legendary B.B. King. Most recently, he led the cast of the historical drama ‘Chevalier’ playing the gifted violinist Joseph Bologne. His consistent presence in high-profile awards contenders positions him as a leading figure in the next generation of dramatic actors.

Jharrel Jerome

Jharrel Jerome first captured the attention of international audiences with his dual-age performance in the Best Picture winner ‘Moonlight’. He further solidified his status as a top-tier talent by winning a Primetime Emmy Award for his portrayal of Korey Wise in the limited series ‘When They See Us’. Jerome often chooses projects that tackle intense social and psychological themes, as seen in the surrealist series ‘I’m a Virgo’. He is also known for providing the voice for Miles G. Morales in the animated hit ‘Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse’. His ability to navigate both physical and vocal performances makes him a multifaceted force in modern media.

Ashton Sanders

Ashton Sanders is widely recognized for his breakthrough role as the teenage Chiron in the critically acclaimed film ‘Moonlight’. Since that performance, he has appeared in diverse projects such as the action thriller ‘The Equalizer 2’ and the dystopian drama ‘Captive State’. Sanders took on a high-profile biographical role as Bobby Brown in the Whitney Houston biopic ‘I Wanna Dance with Somebody’. He also stars in the Hulu series ‘Wu-Tang: An American Saga’ portraying the legendary musician RZA. His unique screen presence and fashion-forward public image have made him a distinct figure in the industry.

Jeremy Pope

Jeremy Pope transitioned from a highly successful stage career to become a prominent figure in film and television. He made history by receiving two Tony Award nominations in the same year for different performances before moving into screen acting with the series ‘Hollywood’. Pope received significant critical acclaim and a Golden Globe nomination for his leading role in ‘The Inspection’, where he played a young man navigating the Marines. He also appeared in the final season of ‘Pose’ and continues to balance his work between theater and film. His vocal talent and dramatic depth continue to secure him leading roles in major artistic productions.

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II has quickly risen through the ranks to lead some of the biggest franchises in modern cinema. He portrayed the villain Black Manta in ‘Aquaman’ and took on the legendary role of Morpheus in ‘The Matrix Resurrections’. His performance as Cal Abar in the ‘Watchmen’ limited series earned him a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor. He also starred in the horror reboot ‘Candyman’ and the high-octane action thriller ‘Ambulance’. With his commanding physical presence and classical training, he is poised to remain a major action and dramatic star.

Trevante Rhodes

Trevante Rhodes gained instant fame for his nuanced performance as the adult Chiron in the Oscar-winning film ‘Moonlight’. Following this success, he appeared in the science fiction blockbuster ‘The Predator’ and the global Netflix hit ‘Bird Box’. He took on the challenging role of legendary boxer Mike Tyson in the limited biographical series ‘Mike’. Rhodes is often praised for his ability to convey deep vulnerability beneath a rugged exterior. His selection of roles suggests a focus on complex, character-driven narratives that challenge traditional archetypes.

Corey Hawkins

Corey Hawkins first broke out with his portrayal of Dr. Dre in the biographical hit ‘Straight Outta Compton’. He demonstrated his range by starring in the action-packed ‘Kong: Skull Island’ and leading the series ’24: Legacy’. Hawkins earned critical praise for his performance in the film adaptation of the musical ‘In the Heights’. He also appeared as Harpo in the recent cinematic reimagining of ‘The Color Purple’. His background in classical theater, including Shakespearean roles on Broadway, informs his sophisticated approach to screen acting.

Algee Smith

Algee Smith first gained significant attention for his role as Larry Reed in the intense historical drama ‘Detroit’. He followed this with a poignant performance as Khalil in the film adaptation of ‘The Hate U Give’. Smith is also well known for his portrayal of Christopher ‘McKay’ Vaughn in the hit HBO series ‘Euphoria’. He recently starred in the science fiction thriller ‘Mother/Android’ alongside Chloë Grace Moretz. His ability to portray relatable, modern characters has made him a favorite among younger audiences and critics alike.

Caleb McLaughlin

Caleb McLaughlin rose to international stardom as Lucas Sinclair in the massive Netflix hit ‘Stranger Things’. While maintaining his role in the series, he has successfully transitioned into film with projects like ‘Concrete Cowboy’. In that film, he starred alongside Idris Elba, delivering a performance that showcased his maturity as an actor. He has also ventured into voice acting and music, proving his versatility across different entertainment mediums. As the ‘Stranger Things’ era concludes, his established fan base and proven talent suggest a bright future in leading film roles.

Jabari Banks

Jabari Banks stepped into the spotlight with the daunting task of playing a reimagined Will Smith in the series ‘Bel-Air’. As a newcomer to the industry, he received praise for his ability to balance the charm of the original character with the dramatic weight of the reboot. His background in musical theater and songwriting has added layers to his performance in the series. Banks has quickly become a red carpet staple and a recognizable face in modern television. His breakout success in a leading role indicates he will be a major player in future studio projects.

Justice Smith

Justice Smith first made a name for himself in the Netflix musical drama ‘The Get Down’. He quickly moved into blockbuster territory with leading roles in ‘Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom’ and ‘Pokémon Detective Pikachu’. Smith recently showcased his comedic and action timing in ‘Dungeons & Dragons: Honor After Thieves’. He also garnered critical acclaim for his performance in the independent film ‘I Saw the TV Glow’. His ability to move seamlessly between massive franchises and avant-garde cinema defines his eclectic career path.

John David Washington

John David Washington transitioned from a professional football career to become one of Hollywood’s most sought-after leading men. He earned a Golden Globe nomination for his breakout role in Spike Lee’s ‘BlacKkKlansman’. Washington subsequently led Christopher Nolan’s mind-bending action epic ‘Tenet’ and the intimate drama ‘Malcolm & Marie’. He also starred in the period piece ‘Amsterdam’ and the science fiction film ‘The Creator’. His athletic background contributes to his physical screen presence, while his dramatic range continues to grow with each project.

Jacob Latimore

Jacob Latimore began his career as a young singer and actor before finding sustained success in film and television. He is perhaps best known for his long-running role as Emmett Washington in the Showtime series ‘The Chi’. His film credits include significant roles in ‘Detroit’, ‘Sleight’, and the 2023 reboot of ‘House Party’. Latimore has demonstrated a consistent ability to anchor both dramatic series and lighthearted comedies. His dual career in music and acting provides him with a unique platform in the entertainment industry.

Shameik Moore

Shameik Moore first rose to prominence with his lead performance in the independent hit ‘Dope’. He achieved global recognition as the voice of Miles Morales in ‘Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse’ and its successful sequel. Moore also starred in the musical series ‘The Get Down’ and the drama ‘Wu-Tang: An American Saga’ as Raekwon. He recently appeared in the film ‘The Killer’ directed by John Woo. His talent for blending physical performance with voice work has made him a key figure in modern superhero cinema.

RJ Cyler

RJ Cyler earned critical acclaim for his debut performance in ‘Me and Earl and the Dying Girl’. He went on to play the Blue Ranger in the 2017 ‘Power Rangers’ film, where he was noted for his grounded portrayal. Cyler has since appeared in the Netflix western ‘The Harder They Fall’ and the series ‘Rap Sh!t’. He also had a recurring role in the horror series ‘Swamp Thing’. His ability to bring humor and heart to diverse genres has established him as a reliable and charismatic performer.

Marcus Scribner

Marcus Scribner spent eight seasons growing up on screen as Andre Johnson Jr. in the hit sitcom ‘black-ish’. He successfully transitioned the character into the spin-off series ‘grown-ish’, maintaining a strong presence on television. Outside of his sitcom work, he has provided voices for animated projects like ‘She-Ra and the Princesses of Power’. Scribner has also begun to take on more mature roles in independent films such as ‘How I Learned to Fly’. His long-term visibility on a major network has provided him with a solid foundation for a lasting career.

Niles Fitch

Niles Fitch is best known for his role as the teenage Randall Pearson in the beloved drama series ‘This Is Us’. His performance in the series earned him multiple ensemble awards and showcased his ability to handle complex emotional arcs. He made history as Disney’s first Black live-action prince in the film ‘Secret Society of Second Born Royals’. Fitch has also appeared in the legal drama ‘Roman J. Israel, Esq.’ alongside Denzel Washington. As he moves into adult roles, his experience on high-caliber dramatic sets remains a significant asset.

Jalyn Hall

Jalyn Hall delivered a career-defining performance as Emmett Till in the critically acclaimed biographical film ‘Till’. He is also a regular on the CW series ‘All American’, where he plays Dillon James. His young age combined with his ability to handle heavy historical subject matter has impressed critics across the industry. Hall appeared in the reimagined ‘House Party’ and the Disney+ series ‘The Crossover’. His early success in both prestige film and popular television marks him as a rising star to watch.

Chosen Jacobs

Chosen Jacobs gained widespread recognition as Mike Hanlon in the blockbuster horror films ‘It’ and ‘It Chapter Two’. He showcased his musical and acting talents as the lead in the Disney+ original movie ‘Sneakerella’. Jacobs also appeared in the Netflix hit ‘Purple Hearts’ and the series ‘Godfather of Harlem’. His background in music often complements his acting roles, allowing him to take on performance-heavy projects. He continues to build a diverse portfolio that spans horror, romance, and musical drama.

Alex R. Hibbert

Alex Hibbert made a stunning film debut as the youngest version of Chiron in the Academy Award-winning ‘Moonlight’. He quickly followed this success with a series regular role as Kevin Williams in ‘The Chi’. Hibbert has also appeared in the television series ‘The Real MVP: The Wanda Durant Story’. His ability to convey intense emotion with minimal dialogue has been a hallmark of his young career. As he grows into more mature roles, his early association with high-quality storytelling sets a high bar for his future projects.

Jaden Michael

Jaden Michael earned widespread praise for his portrayal of a young Colin Kaepernick in the Netflix limited series ‘Colin in Black & White’. Before this breakout role, he appeared in the film ‘Vampires vs. the Bronx’ and the series ‘The Get Down’. His performance in the Kaepernick biopic demonstrated his ability to carry a narrative focused on identity and social justice. Michael has also been involved in voice work for various animated series. His selection of projects reflects a commitment to socially conscious and culturally relevant storytelling.

Kofi Siriboe

Kofi Siriboe became a household name through his role as Ralph Angel Bordelon in the long-running drama series ‘Queen Sugar’. His performance in the Ava DuVernay-produced show earned him multiple award nominations and critical respect. On the big screen, he made a memorable appearance in the comedy hit ‘Girls Trip’. Siriboe is also known for his work in the film ‘Really Love’, which highlights his potential as a romantic leading man. His transition from television star to film lead is currently one of the most watched trajectories in the industry.

Aldis Hodge

Aldis Hodge has been a consistent presence in the industry, but his recent roles have elevated him to leading man status. He played Hawkman in the DC blockbuster ‘Black Adam’ and starred in the acclaimed series ‘City on a Hill’. Hodge received significant praise for his portrayal of Jim Brown in ‘One Night in Miami…’ and his role in ‘Hidden Figures’. He also leads the series ‘Cross’, based on the popular Alex Cross book series. His longevity and ability to command the screen in both action and historical roles ensure his continued ascent.

Ser’Darius Blain

Ser’Darius Blain is widely recognized for his role as Anthony ‘Fridge’ Johnson in the ‘Jumanji’ film franchise. He also starred in the reboot of the series ‘Charmed’ as Galvin Burdette. Blain has appeared in military-themed projects such as ‘The Last Full Measure’ and ‘The Brave’. His physical stature and charismatic screen presence make him a natural fit for action-oriented roles. As he continues to branch out into different genres, his involvement in major franchises provides a strong professional platform.

Tyler James Williams

Tyler James Williams first rose to fame as the lead in the sitcom ‘Everybody Hates Chris’. After a series of dramatic roles in ‘The Walking Dead’ and the film ‘Dear White People’, he found massive success in ‘Abbott Elementary’. His portrayal of Gregory Eddie has earned him multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nominations. Williams has successfully bridged the gap between child stardom and adult critical acclaim. His comedic timing and relatability have made him one of the most beloved figures in modern television.

Da’Vinchi

Da’Vinchi gained significant popularity through his role as Terry ‘Southwest T’ Flenory in the hit series ‘BMF’. He also appeared in the popular teen drama ‘All American’ as Darnell Hayes. His work extends to the Broadway stage, where he starred in the play ‘Thoughts of a Colored Man’. Da’Vinchi has a strong following on social media, which has helped amplify his visibility in the industry. His ability to lead a high-stakes crime drama has proven his capabilities as a dramatic powerhouse.

Lil Meech

Demetrius Flenory Jr., also known as Lil Meech, made a high-profile acting debut playing his own father in the series ‘BMF’. Despite being new to acting at the time, his performance was praised for its authenticity and raw energy. He has since appeared in the second season of the hit HBO series ‘Euphoria’. Flenory Jr. has quickly become a prominent figure in the Starz television universe. His rapid rise from a non-actor to a series lead suggests a natural talent for the screen.

Michael Evans Behling

Michael Evans Behling is best known for his role as Jordan Baker on the hit CW series ‘All American’. The show’s popularity on streaming platforms has given him a broad international fan base. Outside of the series, he has appeared in the film ‘A Cinderella Story: Starstruck’. Behling’s background in modeling and athletics contributes to his screen presence in teen and young adult dramas. He is currently expanding his career into film production and fashion.

Keith Powers

Keith Powers gained a dedicated following after starring as Ronnie DeVoe in ‘The New Edition Story’. He has since appeared in the Netflix film ‘The Tomorrow War’ and the series ‘What/If’. Powers also starred in the romantic drama ‘The Perfect Find’ alongside Gabrielle Union. His work often spans the genres of romance, biography, and science fiction. His consistent casting in leading romantic roles positions him as a modern heartthrob with serious acting credentials.

Quincy Isaiah

Quincy Isaiah made a massive industry impact with his debut role as Magic Johnson in ‘Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty’. Carrying a high-budget HBO series as a newcomer demonstrated his immense charisma and acting potential. His performance was noted for capturing both the public persona and private struggles of the basketball legend. Following the conclusion of the series, he has become a sought-after talent for upcoming film projects. His breakout success is often cited as one of the most impressive debuts in recent years.

Lonnie Chavis

Lonnie Chavis is widely recognized for his role as young Randall Pearson on the NBC hit ‘This Is Us’. His performance in the series earned him several accolades for a young actor, including a SAG Award. He also led the horror-thriller film ‘The Boy Behind the Door’, showcasing his range outside of family drama. Chavis has appeared in the series ‘The Waterboyz’ and continues to work steadily in both film and television. His early exposure to high-level dramatic writing has prepared him for a long-term career in the industry.

Caleb Castille

Caleb Castille first made an impression with his leading role in the faith-based football drama ‘Woodlawn’. He later joined the cast of ‘NCIS: Los Angeles’ as Devin Rountree, becoming a series regular. Castille’s background as a former college football player at Alabama has helped him in various physically demanding roles. He has also appeared in the series ‘Tell Me a Story’ and ‘Wu-Tang: An American Saga’. His transition from sports-themed movies to long-running procedural television has established his professional versatility.

Alano Miller

Alano Miller is known for his compelling performances in high-stakes television dramas. He played the dual roles of Cato and Noah in the series ‘Underground’, which earned him significant critical notice. Miller also appeared in ‘Jane the Virgin’ and the recent revival of ‘Dexter: New Blood’. His film work includes a role in the romance ‘Sylvie’s Love’. He is recognized for his ability to play complex antagonists and romantic interests with equal skill.

Sarunas J. Jackson

Sarunas J. Jackson rose to fame through his role as Alejandro ‘Dro’ Pena in the HBO series ‘Insecure’. His performance in the cultural hit made him a recognizable face in modern television. He has since appeared in the series ‘Games People Play’ and ‘Made for Love’. Jackson also had a recurring role in ‘Good Trouble’ and has begun to transition into film. His height and athletic background frequently lead to roles that utilize his physical presence.

Tristan Mack Wilds

Mack Wilds, also known as Tristan Wilds, has been a steady force in the industry since his breakout in ‘The Wire’. He followed this with a leading role in the ‘90210’ reboot and the film ‘Red Tails’. Wilds recently starred in the Apple TV+ series ‘Swagger’, which is inspired by the life of Kevin Durant. He is also a Grammy-nominated singer, often balancing his music career with high-profile acting roles. His longevity in the industry from a young age has made him a respected veteran among his peers.

Olly Sholotan

Olly Sholotan took on the iconic role of Carlton Banks in the dramatic reboot ‘Bel-Air’. His version of the character is significantly more complex and troubled than the original, earning him praise for his dramatic range. Sholotan is also a musician and producer, often sharing his work outside of his acting projects. He appeared in the film ‘Run Hide Fight’ before landing his breakout television role. His ability to reinvent a well-known character has established him as a talent capable of handling difficult material.

Brett Gray

Brett Gray is best known for his role as Jamal Turner in the Netflix coming-of-age series ‘On My Block’. His performance was a highlight of the show, blending high-energy comedy with deeply emotional storylines. Gray is also a singer and has released several musical projects that showcase his vocal range. He provided a voice for the animated series ‘Star Trek: Prodigy’. His comedic timing and musical ability make him a versatile choice for a wide array of entertainment projects.

Myles Truitt

Myles Truitt first gained attention for his leading role in the science fiction film ‘Kin’. He followed this with a recurring role in ‘Black Lightning’ as Issa Williams and ‘Queen Sugar’ as Ant. Truitt currently stars as B-Mickie in the Starz crime drama ‘BMF’. He also appeared in the fourth season of ‘Stranger Things’ as Patrick McKinney. His ability to portray street-smart characters with a sense of vulnerability has made him a standout in recent crime and genre fiction.

Asante Blackk

Asante Blackk made a significant impact with his debut role as Kevin Richardson in the limited series ‘When They See Us’. This performance earned him a Primetime Emmy Award nomination at just 17 years old. He went on to join the cast of ‘This Is Us’ as Malik Hodges, further establishing his presence on major network television. Blackk also appeared in the film ‘Story Ave’, where his performance was highly praised at film festivals. His early critical success suggests a trajectory toward major dramatic accolades.

Freddy Miyares

Freddy Miyares is best known for his portrayal of the adult Raymond Santana in ‘When They See Us’. His emotionally raw performance in the acclaimed limited series brought him immediate industry recognition. Since then, he has appeared in the series ‘The L Word: Generation Q’ and ‘DMZ’. Miyares is noted for his grounded and empathetic approach to character work. He continues to select projects that focus on strong narrative storytelling and complex social dynamics.

Marquis Rodriguez

Marquis Rodriguez gained prominence for his role as the young Raymond Santana in ‘When They See Us’. He also appeared in the ‘Luke Cage’ series and the ‘Sex and the City’ revival ‘And Just Like That…’. Rodriguez was a lead in the short-lived but critically interesting series ‘The Peripheral’. His career began on Broadway as a child actor in ‘The Lion King’, giving him a strong foundation in performance. He remains a consistently working actor in both prestige television and theater.

Jahi Di’Allo Winston

Jahi Di’Allo Winston delivered a powerful performance as Mouse in the film ‘Charm City Kings’. He also starred in the Netflix series ‘Everything Sucks!’ and appeared in the film ‘The Upside’. Winston played the lead in the Disney musical film ‘Sneakerella’ alongside Chosen Jacobs. He also took on a significant role in the legal drama series ‘Your Honor’. His ability to lead both indie dramas and studio family films showcases his broad appeal.

Please share which of these rising stars you are most excited to see in future projects in the comments.