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

The landscape of Hollywood is currently experiencing a significant shift as a new generation of talent rises to the forefront of the entertainment industry. These performers are not only taking on leading roles in major blockbuster franchises but are also garnering critical acclaim in independent cinema and prestige television. Through their versatility and dedication to their craft, they are redefining what it means to be a leading lady in the modern era. The following list highlights the actresses whose recent work and upcoming projects indicate a trajectory toward massive global stardom.

Taylor Russell

Taylor Russell gained significant recognition for her leading role in the independent drama ‘Waves’. She later starred alongside Timothée Chalamet in the romantic horror film ‘Bones and All’, for which she received the Marcello Mastroianni Award at the Venice Film Festival. Her early career featured a prominent role as Judy Robinson in the Netflix science fiction series ‘Lost in Space’. Russell has consistently chosen projects that highlight her range in both psychological thrillers and emotional dramas. She is widely regarded by critics as a formidable talent in the contemporary film industry.

Dominique Fishback

Dominique Fishback earned a BAFTA nomination for her supporting role in ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’. She gained further acclaim for her lead performance in the Amazon Prime series ‘Swarm’, which explored the dark side of fan culture. Fishback also appeared in ‘The Deuce’ and played a pivotal role in ‘Transformers: Rise of the Beasts’. Her ability to portray complex, vulnerable characters has made her a sought-after performer in both indie and big-budget productions. She continues to expand her repertoire with projects that challenge traditional narratives.

Ayo Edebiri

Ayo Edebiri became a household name following her performance as Sydney Adamu in the critically acclaimed series ‘The Bear’. She has demonstrated her comedic prowess in films such as ‘Bottoms’ and ‘Theater Camp’. Edebiri is also a prolific voice actress, contributing to projects like ‘Big Mouth’ and ‘Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse’. Her work has earned her numerous accolades, including a Golden Globe and a Primetime Emmy Award. Industry analysts point to her unique timing and dramatic depth as indicators of a long-lasting career.

Halle Bailey

Halle Bailey transitioned from a successful music career with Chloe x Halle to a high-profile acting career. She took on the iconic role of Ariel in the live-action reimagining of ‘The Little Mermaid’. Following this success, she starred as young Nettie in the musical film adaptation of ‘The Color Purple’. Her performances have been praised for their vocal excellence and emotional resonance. Bailey’s ability to anchor major studio productions has solidified her status as a rising leading lady.

Chloe Bailey

Chlöe Bailey followed her success in the music industry with a series of compelling acting roles. She appeared in the psychological thriller series ‘Swarm’ and led the cast of the musical film ‘Praise This’. Bailey also starred in the supernatural horror film ‘The Georgetown Project’ alongside Russell Crowe. Her career started early with a role in ‘The Fighting Temptations’ and continued through her time on ‘Grown-ish’. She remains a multifaceted entertainer with a growing filmography in both television and film.

Storm Reid

Storm Reid first gained international attention for her leading role as Meg Murry in ‘A Wrinkle in Time’. She has since become a fixture in popular television, portraying Gia Bennett in the drama series ‘Euphoria’. Reid also starred in the thriller ‘Missing’ and appeared in the HBO series ‘The Last of Us’. Beyond acting, she has launched her own production company, Arisel Pictures, to develop new content. Her consistent presence in major franchises positions her for continued success in the industry.

Marsai Martin

Marsai Martin is best known for her role as Diane Johnson on the long-running sitcom ‘Black-ish’. At the age of 14, she became the youngest executive producer in Hollywood history with the film ‘Little’, in which she also starred. She has provided voice work for ‘PAW Patrol: The Movie’ and ‘Spirit Untamed’. Martin has received multiple NAACP Image Awards for her contributions to television and film. Her focus on both performing and producing allows her significant creative control over her rising career.

Thuso Mbedu

Thuso Mbedu made a massive impact on American audiences with her performance in ‘The Underground Railroad’. She followed this success with a starring role alongside Viola Davis in the historical epic ‘The Woman King’. Before her international breakout, she was a celebrated actress in South Africa, earning two International Emmy nominations for ‘Is’Thunzi’. Mbedu is known for her intense physical and emotional preparation for her roles. She is currently involved in developing projects under a deal with Paramount.

Quintessa Swindell

Quintessa Swindell gained early popularity for their role in the Netflix series ‘Trinkets’. They made their big-screen debut in ‘Voyagers’ before being cast as Cyclone in the DC Extended Universe film ‘Black Adam’. Swindell also appeared in the HBO series ‘In Treatment’ and the film ‘Master Gardener’. Their work spans across genres, from superhero blockbusters to prestige dramas. Swindell’s versatility and presence in major studio films have marked them as a star to watch.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg first rose to fame as Rue in ‘The Hunger Games’. Since then, they have starred in several notable films including ‘The Hate U Give’ and the horror-comedy ‘Bodies Bodies Bodies’. Stenberg also joined the ‘Star Wars’ universe with a leading role in the series ‘The Acolyte’. In addition to acting, they are known for their advocacy and musical talents. Their career choices reflect a commitment to stories with significant social and cultural relevance.

Yara Shahidi

Yara Shahidi became a breakout star on the sitcom ‘Black-ish’ before leading her own spin-off series, ‘Grown-ish’. She transitioned to film with a starring role in ‘The Sun Is Also a Star’ and played Tinker Bell in ‘Peter Pan & Wendy’. Shahidi is also a producer, working through her company 7th Sun Productions to create inclusive content. She balanced her busy acting career with her studies, graduating from Harvard University in 2022. Her influence extends beyond the screen into the realms of education and social activism.

Dominique Thorne

Dominique Thorne made her feature film debut in the Academy Award-winning ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’. She quickly moved into the Marvel Cinematic Universe, portraying Riri Williams, also known as Ironheart, in ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’. Thorne is set to reprise this role in the upcoming ‘Ironheart’ Disney+ series. She also appeared in ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’ as a member of the Black Panther Party. Her entry into a major superhero franchise has significantly elevated her professional profile.

Myha’la

Myha’la Herrold is widely recognized for her leading role as Harper Stern in the HBO series ‘Industry’. She expanded her film credits with a role in the satirical horror ‘Bodies Bodies Bodies’ and the Netflix thriller ‘Leave the World Behind’. Herrold’s performances often focus on ambitious and complex young women navigating high-stakes environments. Her work on ‘Industry’ has been praised for its intensity and realism. She continues to be a prominent figure in prestige television and modern cinema.

Jasmin Savoy Brown

Jasmin Savoy Brown has become a prominent figure in the horror genre through her role as Mindy Meeks-Martin in the ‘Scream’ franchise. She also stars as the young Taissa Turner in the acclaimed series ‘Yellowjackets’. Brown’s television history includes roles in ‘The Leftovers’ and ‘For the People’. She is also a musician and has used her platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ representation in media. Her success in both television and film franchises has made her a recognizable face in entertainment.

Tati Gabrielle

Tati Gabrielle gained a following for her roles in ‘The 100’ and ‘Chilling Adventures of Sabrina’. She transitioned to film with a significant role in the video game adaptation ‘Uncharted’ alongside Tom Holland. Gabrielle also appeared in the Netflix thriller series ‘You’ and the heist drama ‘Kaleidoscope’. Her distinct look and ability to play both villains and protagonists have made her a versatile choice for casting directors. She is frequently cast in high-concept genre productions.

Lovie Simone

Lovie Simone first came to prominence as Zora Greenleaf in the drama series ‘Greenleaf’. She received critical acclaim for her performance in the independent film ‘Selah and the Spades’. Simone also starred in the 2020 reboot of ‘The Craft: Legacy’ and the series ‘Power Book III: Raising Kanan’. Her work is often characterized by a grounded and soulful approach to her characters. She is considered a rising star within the independent film circuit and television drama.

Whitney Peak

Whitney Peak secured a lead role as Zoya Lott in the ‘Gossip Girl’ reboot on HBO Max. She previously appeared in ‘Chilling Adventures of Sabrina’ and ‘Home Before Dark’. In film, she starred in the long-awaited sequel ‘Hocus Pocus 2’ for Disney+. Peak has also become a brand ambassador for high-fashion houses like Chanel. Her transition from teen dramas to major film sequels suggests a broad commercial appeal.

Coco Jones

Coco Jones experienced a major career resurgence with her role as Hilary Banks in the series ‘Bel-Air’. Originally a Disney Channel star, she has successfully transitioned into more mature roles in television. Jones is also a Grammy-winning R&B singer, balancing her musical career with her acting pursuits. Her performance in ‘Bel-Air’ has been praised for modernizing a classic character for a new generation. She remains a prominent figure in both the acting and music industries.

Joy Sunday

Joy Sunday saw a massive spike in popularity after her role as Bianca Barclay in the Netflix series ‘Wednesday’. She previously appeared in the film ‘Dog’ alongside Channing Tatum and in the series ‘Dear White People’. Sunday’s background includes training at the USC School of Dramatic Arts. Her commanding screen presence and ability to play authoritative characters have made her a standout in ensemble casts. She is currently involved in various upcoming film and television projects.

Demi Singleton

Demi Singleton achieved widespread recognition for portraying a young Serena Williams in the biopic ‘King Richard’. She also stars in the series ‘Godfather of Harlem’ as Margaret Johnson. Singleton began her career on Broadway, appearing in ‘The Lion King’ and ‘School of Rock’. Her performance in ‘King Richard’ earned her several award nominations alongside the ensemble cast. She continues to build a portfolio of roles in high-profile biographical and period dramas.

Saniyya Sidney

Saniyya Sidney starred as a young Venus Williams in ‘King Richard’, earning critical praise for her athletic and emotional performance. She has also portrayed Sasha Obama in the series ‘The First Lady’. Sidney’s early career included roles in Academy Award-nominated films like ‘Fences’ and ‘Hidden Figures’. Her ability to hold her own alongside veteran actors like Denzel Washington and Will Smith has been noted by critics. She is regarded as one of the most talented young actresses of her generation.

Shahadi Wright Joseph

Shahadi Wright Joseph gained fame for her dual role in Jordan Peele’s horror film ‘Us’. She also provided the voice for young Nala in the 2019 photorealistic remake of ‘The Lion King’. On television, she starred in the Amazon horror anthology series ‘Them’. Joseph’s career started on Broadway, where she was the youngest actress to play young Nala in the stage production of ‘The Lion King’. Her success in the horror genre and major Disney productions has established her as a versatile performer.

Priah Ferguson

Priah Ferguson became a breakout star on ‘Stranger Things’ through her role as Erica Sinclair. Her performance was so well-received that she was promoted to a series regular in later seasons. She has since starred in the film ‘The Curse of Bridge Hollow’ and provided voice work for ‘My Dad the Bounty Hunter’. Ferguson is known for her sharp comedic timing and charismatic screen presence. Her transition into leading roles in feature films marks the next phase of her career.

Antonia Gentry

Antonia Gentry rose to prominence as the lead character, Ginny Miller, in the Netflix hit series ‘Ginny & Georgia’. The show’s massive viewership has made her a recognizable face to international audiences. Before her breakout, she appeared in the film ‘Candy Jar’ and the series ‘Raising Dion’. Gentry has been vocal about the importance of authentic representation for biracial characters in television. Her role in ‘Ginny & Georgia’ continues to be a cornerstone of her growing career.

Imani Lewis

Imani Lewis starred as Calliope ‘Cal’ Burns in the Netflix vampire series ‘First Kill’. She also had a significant role in the film ‘The Forty-Year-Old Version’ and appeared in the series ‘Star’. Lewis has worked consistently in television, including roles in ‘Hightown’ and ‘The Equalizer’. Her ability to lead genre-specific projects like supernatural dramas has garnered her a dedicated fanbase. She continues to take on roles that showcase her versatility in both gritty and stylized narratives.

Anjelika Washington

Anjelika Washington is best known for her role as Beth Chapel, also known as Dr. Mid-Nite, in the DC series ‘Stargirl’. She also appeared in the ‘Tall Girl’ film franchise on Netflix. Washington has guest-starred in several popular series, including ‘Shameless’ and ‘Young Sheldon’. Her work often combines physical action with comedic and dramatic elements. She remains a frequent collaborator in projects targeting younger audiences and comic book fans.

Genneya Walton

Genneya Walton gained recognition for her role as Chloe Barris in the Netflix comedy series ‘#BlackAF’. she also starred in the film ‘Darby and the Dead’ and appeared in the series ‘9-1-1’. Her early career included a lead role in the Netflix series ‘Project Mc²’. Walton’s background in dance has often aided her in roles that require physical precision. She is increasingly cast in leading roles within the streaming landscape.

Alycia Pascual-Peña

Alycia Pascual-Peña became a standout performer in the ‘Saved by the Bell’ revival series. She also appeared in the Amy Poehler-directed film ‘Moxie’ and the series ‘The Neighborhood’. Pascual-Peña is known for her energetic performances and her advocacy for Afro-Latina representation. Her work in teen-oriented media has transitioned into more diverse roles in television and film. She continues to be a rising voice in the entertainment industry.

Diamond White

Diamond White is currently the voice of the lead character in the Marvel animated series ‘Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur’. She also has a long-standing role as Paris Buckingham on the soap opera ‘The Bold and the Beautiful’. White’s career began in music when she was a finalist on ‘The X Factor’. She has voiced characters in ‘The Lion Guard’ and appeared in films like ‘Boo! A Madea Halloween’. Her dual success in voice acting and television drama demonstrates her broad range.

Mychala Lee

Mychala Lee landed a significant role in the revival of the series ‘The Game’. She has also appeared in the film ‘Relish’ and the television movie ‘The Greatest Inheritance’. Lee’s work often focuses on contemporary dramas and character-driven stories. Her performance in ‘The Game’ allowed her to showcase both comedic and dramatic skills in a high-profile setting. She is steadily building a filmography that highlights her as a reliable talent for lead roles.

Imani Pullum

Imani Pullum appeared alongside Will Smith in the historical drama ‘Emancipation’. She also joined the cast of the science fiction series ‘The Orville’ in its third season. Pullum’s performance in ‘Emancipation’ was praised for its emotional weight in a demanding role. Her early work includes various roles in television series and short films. She is increasingly cast in projects that demand a high level of dramatic maturity.

Celeste O’Connor

Celeste O’Connor joined the ‘Ghostbusters’ franchise as Lucky in ‘Ghostbusters: Afterlife’ and its sequel. They also appeared in the film ‘A Good Person’ alongside Florence Pugh and Morgan Freeman. O’Connor’s career includes roles in the independent film ‘Selah and the Spades’ and the slasher ‘Freaky’. Their ability to balance large-scale franchise work with intimate indie films has been noted by industry insiders. O’Connor continues to secure roles in diverse genres including horror and drama.

Alisha Wainwright

Alisha Wainwright starred as Nicole Reese in the Netflix superhero series ‘Raising Dion’. She is also known for her role as Maia Roberts in the fantasy series ‘Shadowhunters’. In film, she starred opposite Justin Timberlake in the drama ‘Palmer’. Wainwright’s performances often focus on strong, resilient characters in high-stakes environments. Her background in science and her transition to acting provide her with a unique perspective on her roles.

Logan Browning

Logan Browning received critical acclaim for her leading role as Samantha White in the series ‘Dear White People’. She also starred in the Netflix psychological horror film ‘The Perfection’. Browning’s early career included roles in ‘Bratz: The Movie’ and the series ‘Hit the Floor’. She has used her platform to discuss social issues and the complexities of identity. Her work in ‘Dear White People’ remains a defining performance in contemporary television.

Kiersey Clemons

Kiersey Clemons had her breakout role in the acclaimed independent film ‘Dope’. She has since appeared in major projects such as ‘The Flash’, where she played Iris West, and the series ‘Swarm’. Clemons also starred in the ‘Neighbors 2: Sorority Rising’ and the ‘Lady and the Tramp’ live-action remake. Her filmography is a mix of high-budget studio films and character-driven independent cinema. She is recognized for her naturalistic acting style and screen presence.

Zazie Beetz

Zazie Beetz earned an Emmy nomination for her role as Van in the FX series ‘Atlanta’. She gained further fame as Domino in ‘Deadpool 2’ and Sophie Dumond in the ‘Joker’ film. Beetz has also been a regular in the animated series ‘Invincible’ and appeared in ‘The Harder They Fall’. Her career is marked by a seamless transition between gritty dramas and major comic book adaptations. She is considered one of the most versatile actresses working in Hollywood today.

Letitia Wright

Letitia Wright became a global star through her role as Shuri in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, eventually leading ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’. She also received praise for her work in the ‘Small Axe’ anthology series and the film ‘The Silent Twins’. Wright’s career began with notable roles in British television, including ‘Top Boy’ and ‘Black Mirror’. She has won a BAFTA Rising Star Award for her contributions to the industry. Her ability to lead a billion-dollar franchise has made her a major industry power.

Lashana Lynch

Lashana Lynch made history as the first woman to hold the 007 title in ‘No Time to Die’. She also delivered a powerful performance in the historical epic ‘The Woman King’ and played Miss Honey in ‘Matilda the Musical’. Lynch appeared in ‘Captain Marvel’ as Maria Rambeau, a role she has reprised in the wider Marvel Cinematic Universe. Her background in musical theater and action cinema allows her to take on diverse and physically demanding roles. She is a prominent figure in modern action and dramatic storytelling.

Naomi Ackie

Naomi Ackie gained international recognition for playing Whitney Houston in the biopic ‘I Wanna Dance with Somebody’. She also appeared in ‘Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker’ as Jannah and starred in the series ‘The End of the Fing World’. Ackie won a BAFTA TV Award for her performance in the series ‘The End of the Fing World’. Her ability to disappear into complex historical and fictional characters has made her a favorite among critics. She continues to lead high-profile projects in both the UK and the US.

KiKi Layne

KiKi Layne had a stunning film debut in Barry Jenkins’ ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’. She followed this with a lead role in the action film ‘The Old Guard’ alongside Charlize Theron. Layne also appeared in ‘Coming 2 America’ and provided voice work for ‘Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers’. Her career choices often highlight her interest in both literary adaptations and high-octane action. She is frequently cited as a major talent with significant dramatic range.

Xosha Roquemore

Xosha Roquemore is well known for her role as Tamra Webb on ‘The Mindy Project’. She has since taken on more dramatic roles in projects like ‘Cherish the Day’ and the film ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’. Roquemore also appeared in the film ‘Precious’ and the series ‘Black Monday’. Her career is characterized by a successful transition from ensemble comedy to prestigious drama. She remains a consistent presence in both television and independent cinema.

Da’Vine Joy Randolph

Da’Vine Joy Randolph won an Academy Award for her performance in the drama ‘The Holdovers’. She has become a frequent presence in high-profile projects like ‘Only Murders in the Building’ and ‘Dolemite Is My Name’. Randolph’s background is in musical theater, having received a Tony nomination for her role in ‘Ghost: The Musical’. Her ability to provide both comedic relief and profound emotional depth has made her an industry favorite. She is currently one of the most decorated actresses in the awards circuit.

Michaela Coel

Michaela Coel created, wrote, and starred in the groundbreaking series ‘I May Destroy You’, which won multiple Emmy Awards. She also appeared in the Marvel blockbuster ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ as Aneka. Coel’s earlier work includes the comedy series ‘Chewing Gum’, which she also created. She is known for her uncompromising storytelling and her ability to tackle difficult social themes. Her dual role as a creator and actress makes her a powerful force in the industry.

Sheila Atim

Sheila Atim is a celebrated stage actress who has successfully transitioned to major film roles in ‘The Woman King’ and ‘Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness’. She won an Olivier Award for her work in the musical ‘Girl from the North Country’. Atim also appeared in the series ‘The Underground Railroad’ and ‘The Pale Horse’. Her commanding presence and classical training make her a standout in historical and fantasy genres. She continues to balance a prestigious stage career with high-profile film work.

Danielle Deadwyler

Danielle Deadwyler received widespread critical acclaim for her portrayal of Mamie Till-Mobley in the film ‘Till’. She also had a prominent role in the Western ‘The Harder They Fall’ and the limited series ‘Station Eleven’. Deadwyler’s career includes work in experimental film and performance art. Her performance in ‘Till’ earned her numerous award nominations and solidified her status as a leading dramatic actress. She is known for her intense and meticulous approach to character work.

Teyana Taylor

Teyana Taylor earned critical praise for her leading role in the independent drama ‘A Thousand and One’. Originally known for her career in music and dance, she has transitioned into a serious acting career with roles in ‘Coming 2 America’ and ‘White Men Can’t Jump’. Taylor has also worked behind the scenes as a director for music videos under her production company. Her performance in ‘A Thousand and One’ demonstrated a raw dramatic talent that surprised many critics. She is now pursuing more complex, narrative-driven roles.

Jojo T. Gibbs

Jojo T. Gibbs rose to fame as the lead in the Lena Waithe-produced series ‘Twenties’. She also appeared in the thriller film ‘Fresh’ and the action-comedy ‘Civil War’. Gibbs began her career in stand-up comedy, which has influenced her sharp timing in television roles. Her work on ‘Twenties’ was noted for providing a fresh perspective on the queer Black experience. She is increasingly being cast in major feature films that span across different genres.

Eris Baker

Eris Baker is best known for her role as Tess Pearson in the long-running drama series ‘This Is Us’. Her performance as a young woman navigating her identity earned her several Screen Actors Guild Awards as part of the ensemble cast. Baker has also appeared in the series ‘K.C. Undercover’ and ‘Drunk History’. Her growth on ‘This Is Us’ allowed audiences to see her develop into a mature and capable actress. She is currently transitioning into feature film roles following the conclusion of the series.

Faithe Herman

Faithe Herman gained popularity for her role as Annie Pearson on ‘This Is Us’. She also entered the superhero genre as Darla Dudley in ‘Shazam!’ and its sequel ‘Shazam! Fury of the Gods’. Herman’s early start in a major network drama provided her with a strong foundation in emotional storytelling. Her role in a major DC franchise has ensured her visibility to a global audience. She remains one of the most promising young actresses working in both television and film.

Celina Smith

Celina Smith garnered national attention for her title role in the television special ‘Annie Live!’. She also stars in the Nickelodeon series ‘Young Dylan’ as Rebecca. Smith’s background in musical theater and her powerful vocal ability have been key components of her early success. Her performance in ‘Annie Live!’ was praised for its confidence and stage presence. She continues to be a prominent young talent in family-oriented programming and musical productions.

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