The Shortest Black Actors in Hollywood

The landscape of Hollywood is filled with actors who prove that physical stature is no barrier to achieving legendary success. From iconic leading men to standout character actors, these individuals have commanded the screen with charisma and immense talent despite standing below the industry’s average male height. This list highlights fifty prominent Black male actors who have made significant impacts in film and television, emphasizing their confirmed heights and career achievements.

Roshon Fegan

Roshon Fegan is widely recognized for his versatile work as an actor, rapper, and dancer within the Disney Channel ecosystem. He stands at 5 feet 8 inches and first gained major attention as Ty Blue in the popular series ‘Shake It Up’. Fegan also played the role of Sander Loyer in the ‘Camp Rock’ film franchise alongside the Jonas Brothers. His career has expanded beyond acting into music production and high-profile appearances on competition shows like ‘Dancing with the Stars’.

Glynn Turman

Glynn Turman is a seasoned veteran of the screen and stage whose career has spanned several decades of television and film history. Standing at 5 feet 8 inches, he has delivered powerful performances in iconic projects such as ‘Cooley High’ and ‘The Wire’. Turman’s portrayal of Mayor Clarence Royce on the HBO drama showcased his ability to play complex, authoritative figures with nuance. He remains a highly respected figure in the industry, recently appearing in the critically acclaimed film ‘Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom’.

Caleb McLaughlin

Caleb McLaughlin rose to international superstardom as a child actor playing the role of Lucas Sinclair in the hit series ‘Stranger Things’. He measures 5 feet 8 inches tall and has grown up on screen while tackling increasingly mature storylines in the supernatural drama. Beyond his work in Hawkins, McLaughlin starred in the Western film ‘Concrete Cowboy’ opposite Idris Elba. His career continues to flourish as he transitions into adult roles while maintaining a strong presence in the fashion and music worlds.

Michael Rainey Jr.

Michael Rainey Jr. is best known for his long-running role as Tariq St. Patrick in the massive ‘Power’ franchise on Starz. Standing at 5 feet 8 inches, he began his journey as a child actor before becoming the lead in the spin-off series ‘Power Book II: Ghost’. Rainey Jr. has navigated the transition from a supporting character to a primary protagonist with significant critical and commercial success. His work in the ‘Power’ universe has solidified his status as one of the most prominent young actors in urban drama.

Lawrence Gilliard Jr.

Larry Gilliard Jr. is an accomplished character actor who has appeared in some of the most prestigious television dramas ever produced. He stands at 5 feet 8 inches and is most famously remembered for his portrayal of D’Angelo Barksdale in the first season of ‘The Wire’. Gilliard Jr. also made a significant impact as Bob Stookey in the AMC horror series ‘The Walking Dead’. His ability to bring deep empathy and realism to his characters has made him a frequent choice for high-stakes dramatic roles.

Don Cheadle

Don Cheadle is an Academy Award-nominated actor known for his incredible range and his recurring role as James Rhodes in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. He stands at 5 feet 8 inches and has led films such as ‘Hotel Rwanda’, where his performance earned him widespread critical acclaim. Cheadle has successfully navigated both blockbuster franchises like ‘Avengers: Endgame’ and complex television series like ‘House of Lies’. His work as a producer and director further highlights his multifaceted contributions to the modern entertainment industry.

David Oyelowo

David Oyelowo is a classically trained British-American actor who gained immense recognition for his portrayal of Martin Luther King Jr. in the film ‘Selma’. Standing at 5 feet 8 inches, he has a commanding screen presence that often makes him appear taller than his actual stature. Oyelowo’s filmography includes diverse roles in projects like ‘The Butler’ and ‘Queen of Katwe’. He has received numerous accolades, including Golden Globe nominations, for his dedication to portraying significant historical and dramatic figures.

Jordan Peele

Jordan Peele transitioned from being a beloved sketch comedian to one of the most visionary horror directors and actors of his generation. He stands at 5 feet 8 inches and initially gained fame as one half of the duo on the Comedy Central hit ‘Key & Peele’. Peele’s directorial debut, ‘Get Out’, redefined the horror genre and earned him an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. While he focuses largely on directing and producing now, his early acting roles established him as a major force in Hollywood comedy.

Bryshere Y. Gray

Bryshere Y. Gray, also known as Yazz the Greatest, became a household name through his role as Hakeem Lyon on the musical drama ‘Empire’. He stands at 5 feet 8 inches and successfully blended his real-life rapping skills with his scripted character’s musical journey. Gray also portrayed founding member Hakeem in the BET miniseries ‘The New Edition Story’. His energetic performances and musical talent made him a standout star during the peak of ‘Empire”s popularity on television.

Diggy Simmons

Diggy Simmons first entered the public eye on the reality series ‘Run’s House’ before launching a career as a rapper and actor. He stands at 5 feet 8 inches and has successfully transitioned from a child star into a mature performer on the Freeform series ‘Grown-ish’. In the show, he plays the character Doug Edwards, who navigates college life and complex romantic relationships. Simmons has managed to balance his musical output with consistent television work, maintaining a steady presence in the industry.

Lee Daniels

Lee Daniels is a prominent director, producer, and actor who has created some of the most talked-about projects in contemporary Black cinema. Standing at 5 feet 7 inches, he is the creative force behind the Academy Award-winning film ‘Precious’ and the television phenomenon ‘Empire’. While he is primarily known for his work behind the camera, Daniels has made various on-screen appearances throughout his career. His influence on Hollywood storytelling has opened doors for many other short-statured performers and creators of color.

Joe Torry

Joe Torry is a veteran comedian and actor who rose to prominence as a host of the influential series ‘Def Comedy Jam’. He stands at 5 feet 7 inches and has appeared in several cult classic films, including ‘Poetic Justice’ and ‘Tales from the Hood’. Torry’s high-energy comedic style and distinctive voice made him a staple of the 1990s urban comedy scene. He continues to perform stand-up across the country while occasionally taking on guest roles in various television and film projects.

Guy Torry

Guy Torry followed in the footsteps of his older brother Joe to become a successful comedian and actor in his own right. Standing at 5 feet 7 inches, he is best known for creating the ‘Phat Tuesdays’ comedy showcase at The Comedy Store in Hollywood. Guy’s acting credits include roles in the intense drama ‘American History X’ and the comedy ‘Life’. He has been a significant figure in promoting Black comedic talent and continues to work across various entertainment platforms.

Evan Ross

Evan Ross is an actor and musician who has appeared in a wide variety of film and television projects since his debut. He stands at 5 feet 7 inches and is the son of legendary singer Diana Ross, though he has carved out his own path in Hollywood. Ross gained notable attention for his roles in the film ‘ATL’ and the ‘The Hunger Games’ franchise as Messalla. He has also starred in the television series ‘90210’ and the musical drama ‘Star’, showcasing his range across different genres.

Eddie Griffin

Eddie Griffin is a prolific stand-up comedian and actor known for his sharp wit and physical comedy. He stands at 5 feet 7 inches and starred in his own sitcom, ‘Malcolm & Eddie’, which ran for four seasons in the late 1990s. Griffin’s most famous film role came as the lead in the comedy ‘Undercover Brother’, where he played a funky secret agent. He remains an active force in the comedy world, frequently releasing specials and appearing in films such as ‘A Star Is Born’.

Martin Lawrence

Martin Lawrence is one of the most successful comedians and actors of all time, having led multiple blockbuster franchises. Standing at 5 feet 7 inches, he became a global star through his self-titled sitcom ‘Martin’ and the ‘Bad Boys’ film series. Lawrence’s ability to carry both high-octane action and slapstick comedy has made him a mainstay of the box office for decades. His work in films like ‘Blue Streak’ and ‘Big Momma’s House’ solidified his reputation as a leading man who doesn’t need height to dominate the screen.

Larenz Tate

Larenz Tate is a celebrated actor who gained critical acclaim for his intense and charismatic performances in the 1990s. He stands at 5 feet 7 inches and delivered a breakout performance as O-Dog in the gritty drama ‘Menace II Society’. Tate’s career is marked by his versatility, starring in the romantic classic ‘Love Jones’ and the crime series ‘Power’. He continues to be a sought-after actor, recently reprising his role as Councilman Rashad Tate in ‘Power Book II: Ghost’.

Giancarlo Esposito

Giancarlo Esposito is a master of the craft who has created some of the most terrifying and calculated villains in television history. Standing at 5 feet 7 inches, he is globally recognized for his portrayal of Gus Fring in ‘Breaking Bad’ and ‘Better Call Saul’. Esposito’s career began long before his turn as a drug kingpin, with notable roles in Spike Lee films like ‘Do the Right Thing’. His commanding presence and precise acting style have made him a staple in major franchises, including ‘The Mandalorian’.

Jharrel Jerome

Jharrel Jerome is a rising star who made history as the first Afro-Latino to win an Emmy for acting. Standing at 5 feet 7 inches, he delivered a haunting and powerful performance as Korey Wise in the Netflix miniseries ‘When They See Us’. Jerome first gained attention for his role in the Academy Award-winning film ‘Moonlight’, where he played the teenage version of Kevin. His ability to convey deep emotion and vulnerability has quickly established him as one of the most talented actors of his generation.

Leslie Odom Jr.

Leslie Odom Jr. is a Tony and Grammy Award-winning performer who achieved worldwide fame as the original Aaron Burr in the musical ‘Hamilton’. He stands at 5 feet 7 inches and has successfully transitioned from the Broadway stage to major film roles. Odom Jr. received Academy Award nominations for both his acting and songwriting in the film ‘One Night in Miami…’, where he portrayed Sam Cooke. His smooth vocals and intense dramatic capability make him one of the most respected multifaceted artists in Hollywood today.

Jason Mitchell

Jason Mitchell is a talented actor who gained widespread recognition for his uncanny portrayal of Eazy-E in the biopic ‘Straight Outta Compton’. He stands at 5 feet 7 inches and has shown remarkable range in films like the southern drama ‘Mudbound’. Mitchell also led the cast of the Showtime series ‘The Chi’ during its first two seasons, earning praise for his realistic performance. Despite some personal controversies, his professional work remains highly regarded for its raw intensity and authenticity.

Tequan Richmond

Tequan Richmond is best known for his role as Drew Rock on the long-running sitcom ‘Everybody Hates Chris’. He stands at 5 feet 7 inches and played the cooler, more popular younger brother of the show’s protagonist. Richmond also delivered a chilling performance as Lee Boyd Malvo in the independent film ‘Blue Caprice’. He has continued to work in television, appearing as TJ Ashford in the soap opera ‘General Hospital’ and starring in the series ‘Boomerang’.

D.L. Hughley

D.L. Hughley is a legendary stand-up comedian and actor who was one of the four featured performers in ‘The Original Kings of Comedy’. He stands at 5 feet 7 inches and starred in his own long-running sitcom, ‘The Hughleys’, which was based on his real-life experiences. Hughley has successfully balanced a career in comedy with political commentary and various acting roles in both film and television. His sharp social observations and quick wit have made him a permanent fixture in the entertainment industry.

Cedric the Entertainer

Cedric the Entertainer is a beloved figure in Hollywood known for his smooth comedic style and warm personality. He stands at 5 feet 7 inches and gained fame as a member of ‘The Original Kings of Comedy’ before starring in the ‘Barbershop’ film franchise. Cedric currently stars in the CBS sitcom ‘The Neighborhood’, where he plays the patriarch of a family in a changing community. His extensive career includes voice work in animated hits like ‘Madagascar’ and numerous leading roles in feature films.

Shad Moss

Bow Wow, born Shad Moss, began his career as a child rap prodigy before becoming a successful actor in both film and television. He stands at 5 feet 7 inches and led the cast of the sports comedy ‘Like Mike’ at a very young age. His adult career has seen him take on roles in the ‘Fast & Furious’ franchise as Twinkie and star in the drama series ‘CSI: Cyber’. Bow Wow has remained a consistent presence in the media, balancing his acting work with music and television hosting duties.

Jacob Latimore

Jacob Latimore is a triple-threat performer who has built a successful career in music, dance, and acting. Standing at 5 feet 7 inches, he has starred in major films such as ‘The Maze Runner’, ‘Detroit’, and ‘Collateral Beauty’. Latimore is perhaps most recognized for his leading role as Emmett Washington in the Showtime series ‘The Chi’. His ability to navigate both big-budget blockbusters and intimate character studies has made him one of the most promising young Black actors in the industry.

Orlando Brown

Orlando Brown gained fame as a child actor on the Disney Channel, most notably for his role as Eddie Thomas on ‘That’s So Raven’. He stands at 5 feet 7 inches and provided the voice for the title character in the animated series ‘Fillmore!’. Brown’s early career was filled with consistent work in popular sitcoms and family films, including ‘Major Payne’. While he has faced public personal struggles in recent years, his contributions to 2000s teen television remain significant to a generation of viewers.

Tahj Mowry

Tahj Mowry is a versatile actor who began his career as a child star in the sitcom ‘Smart Guy’, where he played a child prodigy. Standing at 5 feet 7 inches, he successfully transitioned into adult roles, most notably starring in the long-running comedy series ‘Baby Daddy’. Mowry also provided the voice for Wade Load in the animated hit ‘Kim Possible’. He is part of a famous acting family and has maintained a steady and respectable career in television for over three decades.

Marcus T. Paulk

Marcus T. Paulk is best known for his role as Hakeem Campbell on the popular 1990s sitcom ‘Moesha’. He stands at 5 feet 7 inches and grew up in front of audiences alongside singer Brandy Norwood. Paulk also appeared in the film ‘Red Tails’, which told the story of the heroic Tuskegee Airmen during World War II. His career has included various guest appearances on television and roles in independent films, continuing his work within the entertainment industry.

Chosen Jacobs

Chosen Jacobs is a talented young actor who gained significant attention for his role as Mike Hanlon in the blockbuster horror film ‘It’. He stands at 5 feet 7 inches and has showcased his skills in both film and television projects like the series ‘Castle Rock’. Jacobs is also a musician, often incorporating his musical talents into his professional life. His performance in the Netflix film ‘Purple Hearts’ further demonstrated his range as a romantic lead and dramatic actor.

Aml Ameen

Aml Ameen is a British actor who has successfully crossed over into Hollywood with roles in major film and television productions. He stands at 5 feet 6 inches and first gained widespread notice for his role in the UK drama ‘Kidulthood’. In the United States, Ameen starred in the first season of the Netflix series ‘Sense8’ and played Alby in ‘The Maze Runner’. He recently made his directorial debut with the holiday film ‘Boxing Day’, in which he also starred.

Lil Rel Howery

Lil Rel Howery is a comedian and actor who achieved breakout success with his role as Rod Williams in the horror hit ‘Get Out’. He stands at 5 feet 6 inches and has since become one of the busiest character actors in Hollywood. Howery starred in his own sitcom, ‘Rel’, and has appeared in major films like ‘Bird Box’ and ‘Free Guy’. His ability to provide comedic relief in high-tension situations has made him a favorite choice for directors across various genres.

Spike Lee

Spike Lee is a legendary filmmaker whose work as a director, writer, and actor has fundamentally changed American cinema. Standing at 5 feet 6 inches, he often appears in his own films, most notably as Mars Blackmon in ‘She’s Gotta Have It’ and Mookie in ‘Do the Right Thing’. Lee’s production company, 40 Acres and a Mule Filmworks, has produced dozens of films that explore race and social issues. He remains a prominent figure in the industry, continuing to create provocative and award-winning work like ‘BlacKkKlansman’.

Tommy Davidson

Tommy Davidson is a comedian and actor who became a household name as an original cast member of the sketch comedy show ‘In Living Color’. He stands at 5 feet 6 inches and has lent his voice to the character Oscar Proud in the animated series ‘The Proud Family’. Davidson’s film career includes roles in comedies such as ‘Strictly Business’ and ‘Booty Call’. His high-energy performance style and mastery of impressions have made him a staple of the American comedy landscape for decades.

Kendrick Lamar

Kendrick Lamar is primarily known as one of the most influential rappers of all time, but he has also made a notable impact as an actor. Standing at 5 feet 5 inches, he made his acting debut in the hit Starz series ‘Power’, playing a homeless man named Laces. His performance was praised for its intensity and unpredictability, proving his talent transcends the music industry. Lamar’s visual work in his music videos often features cinematic storytelling, reflecting his deep interest in the acting craft.

Lil Wayne

Lil Wayne is a global rap icon who has made several forays into the world of acting throughout his expansive career. He stands at 5 feet 5 inches and has appeared in films such as ‘Belly’ and the sports drama ‘Hurricane Season’. While his focus remains on his legendary music career, his on-screen cameos and roles have always drawn significant attention from his massive fanbase. Wayne’s charisma and unique personality make him a compelling presence whenever he appears in film or television projects.

Sammy Davis Jr.

Sammy Davis Jr. was a legendary entertainer and a member of the iconic Rat Pack, known for his incredible skills as a singer, dancer, and actor. He stood at 5 feet 5 inches and was a pioneer for Black performers in Hollywood during the mid-20th century. Davis Jr. starred in films like ‘Ocean’s 11’ and delivered a celebrated performance in the musical ‘Sweet Charity’. His legacy as a multi-talented superstar continues to inspire generations of performers who follow in his footsteps.

Algee Smith

Algee Smith is a talented actor and singer who rose to fame portraying Ralph Tresvant in the BET miniseries ‘The New Edition Story’. He stands at 5 feet 5 inches and received critical acclaim for his role as Larry Reed in the intense historical drama ‘Detroit’. Smith also reached a wide audience through his portrayal of Chris McKay in the hit HBO series ‘Euphoria’. His ability to tackle heavy dramatic material while maintaining a charismatic screen presence has made him a standout young talent.

Kel Mitchell

Kel Mitchell is a beloved comedian and actor who gained fame as a star of the Nickelodeon sketch show ‘All That’. Standing at 5 feet 5 inches, he formed a legendary comedic duo with Kenan Thompson, leading to the sitcom ‘Kenan & Kel’ and the film ‘Good Burger’. Mitchell’s high-energy physical comedy and iconic catchphrases made him a definitive figure of 1990s youth culture. He has continued to work in the industry, recently starring in the sequel ‘Good Burger 2’ for a new generation of fans.

Katt Williams

Katt Williams is a world-renowned stand-up comedian and actor known for his sharp social commentary and energetic delivery. He stands at 5 feet 5 inches and gained significant acting recognition for his role as Money Mike in the comedy ‘Friday After Next’. Williams has also delivered an Emmy-winning performance in the series ‘Atlanta’, showcasing his capability for grounded dramatic work. His career is defined by his unique comedic voice and his ability to command attention on any stage or screen.

Kirk Franklin

Kirk Franklin is a giant in the gospel music industry who has successfully transitioned into acting and film production. Standing at 5 feet 4 inches, he has appeared in films such as ‘Joyful Noise’ alongside Queen Latifah and Dolly Parton. Franklin often plays roles that reflect his musical background, but he has also ventured into producing television specials and documentaries. His influence extends across both the religious and secular entertainment worlds, making him a highly recognizable figure in Hollywood.

Jermaine Dupri

Jermaine Dupri is a Hall of Fame songwriter and producer who has occasionally stepped in front of the camera as an actor. He stands at 5 feet 4 inches and has made appearances in films like ‘In the Mix’ and ‘Brown Sugar’. While his primary contributions to Hollywood involve creating hit soundtracks and developing artists, his on-screen presence is always notable. Dupri’s work behind the scenes has shaped the sound of numerous films and television projects over the last three decades.

Miles Brown

Miles Brown is a talented young actor and dancer who became a star through his role as Jack Johnson on the hit sitcom ‘Black-ish’. He stands at 5 feet 4 inches and has grown up on television over the course of the show’s eight seasons. Brown is also an accomplished dancer, frequently showcasing his skills on talk shows and in music videos. His charm and comedic timing have made him one of the most successful young performers in modern television.

Tituss Burgess

Tituss Burgess is a celebrated actor and singer best known for his breakout role as Titus Andromedon in ‘Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt’. He stands at 5 feet 4 inches and has received multiple Emmy nominations for his hilarious and vocally impressive performance. Burgess began his career on Broadway, starring in productions like ‘The Little Mermaid’ and ‘Guys and Dolls’. His larger-than-life personality and incredible vocal range have made him a favorite in both musical theater and television comedy.

Tracy Morgan

Tracy Morgan is a comedy powerhouse who spent seven seasons as a cast member on ‘Saturday Night Live’. He stands at 5 feet 4 inches and achieved even greater fame playing a semi-fictionalized version of himself on the hit series ’30 Rock’. Morgan’s unique delivery and unpredictable humor have made him one of the most recognizable voices in comedy. He has also starred in films like ‘Cop Out’ and led his own sitcom, ‘The Last O.G.’, on TBS.

Kevin Hart

Kevin Hart is arguably the most successful comedian in the world today, having built a massive entertainment empire. Standing at 5 feet 2.5 inches, he frequently uses his height as a central theme in his stand-up comedy and film roles. Hart has led numerous blockbuster comedies, including the ‘Jumanji’ sequels, ‘Ride Along’, and ‘Central Intelligence’. His incredible work ethic and charisma have allowed him to become a dominant force in Hollywood as both an actor and a producer.

Lil Duval

Lil Duval, born Roland Powell, is a successful stand-up comedian and actor who has appeared in several popular urban comedies. He stands at 5 feet 2 inches and gained notable attention for his roles in films like ‘Scary Movie 5’ and ‘Meet the Blacks’. Duval is also a musician, known for the hit song ‘Smile (Living My Best Life)’, which became a cultural anthem. His social media presence and comedic timing have kept him at the forefront of the urban entertainment scene.

Gary Coleman

Gary Coleman was one of the biggest child stars in television history, famously portraying Arnold Jackson on the sitcom ‘Diff’rent Strokes’. He stood at 4 feet 8 inches, a height caused by a congenital kidney condition that halted his growth at an early age. Coleman’s iconic catchphrase, “Whatchu talkin’ ’bout, Willis?”, became a permanent part of American pop culture. Despite struggles later in life, his impact during the late 1970s and 1980s remains a significant chapter in Hollywood history.

Bobb’e J. Thompson

Bobb’e J. Thompson is a talented actor and comedian who gained fame as a child star with a surprisingly mature comedic delivery. He stands at 4 feet 5 inches and is best known for his scene-stealing role as Ronnie in the comedy film ‘Role Models’. Thompson has also appeared in ‘That’s So Raven’ and was a regular performer on ‘Wild ‘N Out’. His distinctive voice and ability to hold his own against veteran comedians have made him a memorable presence in the industry.

Emmanuel Lewis

Emmanuel Lewis was a massive television star in the 1980s, best known for playing the title character in the sitcom ‘Webster’. He stands at 4 feet 3 inches and was often compared to fellow child star Gary Coleman during the height of his fame. Lewis’s charm and petite stature made him a favorite among audiences, leading to various commercial deals and international popularity. While he stepped away from the spotlight in later years, his role as Webster remains a classic example of 1980s television success.

Tony Cox

Tony Cox is a highly respected actor who has specialized in comedic and fantasy roles throughout his long career. Standing at 3 feet 6 inches, he is perhaps best known for his hilarious performance as Marcus in the cult classic ‘Bad Santa’. Cox has also appeared in significant films such as ‘Return of the Jedi’ as an Ewok and ‘Me, Myself & Irene’. His ability to deliver dry, biting humor has made him a standout performer in every project he joins.

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