25 TV Shows That Cast Black Leads in Non-Trauma Roles for Once

For a long time, television often showed Black characters dealing with hardship or the effects of discrimination. Now, we’re seeing a welcome change with more shows that let Black characters be everyday heroes, friends, and professionals. These stories cover a wide range of genres, including sci-fi, fantasy, comedies, and family shows. The series below feature Black leads whose lives are focused on happiness and excitement, not just trauma.

‘Abbott Elementary’ (2021–Present)

Let me tell you about “Abbott Elementary.” Quinta Brunson is absolutely fantastic as Janine Teagues, a teacher at a Philadelphia public school, and the show follows her and her colleagues in this really funny, documentary-style comedy. It’s all about the everyday struggles teachers face – the lack of funding, the weird bosses – but it focuses on the humor in those situations, and how they still manage to help their kids. What I really appreciate is that Janine stays positive even when things are tough, and we get to see her grow both personally and professionally, all without getting bogged down in overly dramatic or traumatic storylines. It’s a genuinely heartwarming show that beautifully celebrates the dedication and joy of Black educators – it’s a breath of fresh air.

‘Insecure’ (2016–2021)

This comedy series, created by and starring Issa Rae, follows the often-awkward life of a modern Black woman. The show centers on Issa and her best friend Molly as they figure out their careers and love lives in Los Angeles. It’s a story about friendship and growing up, focusing on the real, relatable ups and downs of millennial life. Instead of focusing on hardship, the show offers a funny and insightful look at Black culture with plenty of nuance and humor.

‘Lupin’ (2021–Present)

Omar Sy stars as Assane Diop, a charismatic thief who takes inspiration from the stories of Arsène Lupin. Driven by a desire to clear his father’s name, Assane uses his skills in disguise and theft to expose a powerful and corrupt businessman. The show features a clever and confident hero who consistently outwits his opponents. Operating in a world of espionage and crime, Assane is a charming and resourceful mastermind. The series is notable for portraying a Black lead character as a brilliant strategist in a thrilling, international setting.

‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’ (1990–1996)

The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air stars Will Smith playing a version of himself. He’s a young man from West Philadelphia who moves in with his wealthy relatives, the Banks family, in Los Angeles. The show is funny and heartwarming, exploring the differences between Will’s upbringing and the upper-class world he finds himself in. It’s about the bonds he forms with his family, tackles important social issues, and is celebrated for its positive portrayal of Black wealth and happiness on TV.

‘Living Single’ (1993–1998)

Queen Latifah stars in a sitcom about a group of friends – four women and two men – who live in a Brooklyn brownstone. The show follows their careers and love lives with humor and a strong sense of community. Khadijah James, the main character, is a magazine publisher balancing work with the challenges of being an entrepreneur, all while relying on her cousin and friends. The series is well-known for portraying successful Black professionals supporting each other, and it’s become a model for today’s diverse, friendship-based sitcoms.

‘Black-ish’ (2014–2022)

As a film buff, I really enjoyed ‘Black-ish’! It centers around Dre Johnson, played by Anthony Anderson, who’s just trying to raise his kids with a strong sense of who they are and where they come from. The show’s funny because it honestly portrays the challenges of being a Black family living in a mostly white, affluent area – they’re constantly navigating how to fit in while still celebrating their culture. Tracee Ellis Ross is fantastic as Dre’s wife, a successful doctor who keeps their lively household grounded. What I loved most is how the show tackles important social and political issues with humor, all while focusing on the everyday life and successes of this really relatable Black family.

‘Girlfriends’ (2000–2008)

Tracee Ellis Ross plays Joan Clayton, a lawyer who’s doing well in her career but still looking for love and a sense of purpose. She leans on her friends Maya, Lynn, and Toni as she figures things out in Los Angeles. The show focuses on the complicated but rewarding relationships between these women and how they balance their careers with their personal lives. Each woman is on her own journey to find happiness, facing real challenges in love and life. The story emphasizes their friendship and growth as individuals, rather than focusing on difficult external issues.

‘Luther’ (2010–2019)

Idris Elba plays John Luther, a highly intelligent but haunted detective in London’s Serious Crime Unit. He has an unusual gift for understanding the thinking of dangerous criminals, allowing him to solve particularly disturbing cases. The show centers on the intense psychological battles between Luther and the criminals he pursues, rather than focusing on issues of race. Luther is a complex character – brilliant, morally ambiguous, and operating in a dark, realistic world. The series is notable for featuring a Black actor in a leading role who is clearly in charge and commands respect within the traditional police drama format.

‘Bridgerton’ (2020–Present)

Regé-Jean Page plays Simon Basset, the handsome Duke of Hastings, in the first season. The show is a historical drama set in Regency London, but with a diverse upper class that includes people of color in positions of power. Simon pretends to court Daphne Bridgerton, but their fake relationship blossoms into genuine love, all while navigating the rumors of high society. The story focuses on Simon’s personal struggles with his father and fear of commitment, rather than focusing on historical hardships. This casting decision gives a Black actor the chance to play a romantic lead usually seen with white actors.

‘Star Trek: Discovery’ (2017–2024)

Sonequa Martin-Green plays Michael Burnham, a character who eventually becomes the captain of the USS Discovery. The series is a science fiction adventure that follows Burnham’s travels through space and time as she deals with alien dangers and strange events. Burnham is a talented expert in alien cultures who uses her intelligence and courage to protect the galaxy. The show focuses on her growth as a leader and explorer, all within the hopeful future imagined by the Federation. Notably, it features a Black woman in command of a major spaceship, a significant milestone for the franchise.

‘Atlanta’ (2016–2022)

Donald Glover’s show, Atlanta, is a unique comedy following two cousins as they try to make it in the rap world. Earn Marks is trying to launch the career of his cousin, Paper Boi, all while facing his own challenges with homelessness and family. The show blends realistic situations with surreal, dreamlike moments to explore deeper questions about life and culture, and it doesn’t follow typical TV comedy rules. It offers a fresh and artistic look at Black experiences, with characters finding themselves in unusual and unexpected situations.

‘Sister, Sister’ (1994–1999)

Sisters Tia and Tamera Mowry play twin sisters who discover each other as teenagers at a mall. The show follows their lives as they move in with their adoptive single parents and adjust to living together. It’s a lighthearted comedy about navigating high school, first crushes, and the challenges of blending two different families – all while celebrating the special connection between sisters. The series offers fun, relatable stories about the ups and downs of being a teenager.

‘Everybody Hates Chris’ (2005–2009)

This sitcom stars Tyler James Williams as a young version of Chris Rock, based on the comedian’s experiences growing up in Brooklyn. The show follows Chris as he navigates the challenges of being a teenager – from fitting in at school to dealing with his quirky family. He has a thrifty dad and a no-nonsense mom, and often finds himself in funny, unfortunate situations. The comedy comes from the everyday awkwardness of growing up, and the show lovingly captures the feel of 1980s New York with a nostalgic and humorous touch.

‘Moesha’ (1996–2001)

Brandy Norwood plays Moesha Mitchell, a teenager growing up in Los Angeles’ Leimert Park. The show follows Moesha as she deals with the ups and downs of high school, family life after her dad remarries, and figuring out who she is. It honestly portrays the experiences of a young, Black middle-class girl as she navigates dating, friendships, and life lessons, often reflected on through her diary entries. Ultimately, it’s a relatable story about a young woman coming of age.

‘Family Matters’ (1989–1998)

This popular sitcom, set in Chicago, follows the Winslow family. While it started as a typical family show, it became well-known for Jaleel White’s unforgettable character, Steve Urkel. The series blends silly, physical comedy with heartwarming family moments. Carl Winslow, a police officer, works to keep the peace in a lively and loving home. It’s remembered as a significant show for its portrayal of a close-knit Black family.

‘The Jamie Foxx Show’ (1996–2001)

Jamie Foxx plays Jamie King, a musician with big dreams who works at his aunt and uncle’s hotel in Los Angeles. The show is a comedy that follows Jamie as he tries to make it in the entertainment industry while dealing with the funny chaos of hotel life. He often butts heads with his strict uncle, but gets help from his friends and coworkers. The series includes musical numbers and romantic storylines, showing off Jamie’s many talents. Ultimately, it’s a lighthearted story about pursuing your goals and finding the funny side of everyday life.

‘Martin’ (1992–1997)

Martin Lawrence stars as Martin Payne, a radio DJ in Detroit, and the show revolves around his relationship with his girlfriend, Gina Waters. Known for its slapstick comedy and Lawrence’s portrayal of multiple quirky characters, the series follows Martin and Gina as they deal with the funny antics of those around them. At its heart, the show is about the power of their love and friendship, even when life gets chaotic. It’s a lighthearted and energetic celebration of Black love and the bonds of friendship.

‘My Wife and Kids’ (2001–2005)

Damon Wayans plays Michael Kyle, a dad who uses funny pranks and clever tactics to teach his three kids important life lessons. Tisha Campbell stars as his wife, Janet, who is just as quick-witted and helps keep the family balanced. This sitcom is a funny look at marriage and raising a family in today’s suburbs, focusing on a successful Black family and the everyday challenges they face.

‘The Bernie Mac Show’ (2001–2006)

I absolutely loved ‘The Bernie Mac Show’! It’s basically Bernie Mac playing himself, and it’s hilarious! He unexpectedly ends up raising his sister’s three kids, and he’s so funny talking directly to us about how crazy it is. The show is all about him trying to get those kids in line while figuring out how to be a dad, and it’s a really sweet and funny ride. It’s not like other family sitcoms – it’s got this really unique, dry humor mixed with genuinely touching moments as they all become a family. It’s just a great show!

‘True Jackson, VP’ (2008–2011)

Keke Palmer plays True, a high school student who surprisingly lands a job as the head of a youth clothing line at a big fashion company. The show follows True as she juggles school, friends, and the challenges of the adult work world, using her fresh ideas to make her mark. It’s a funny and inspiring story about a smart, capable young Black woman in charge, and staying true to who you are.

‘High Fidelity’ (2020)

Okay, so I just finished watching this show, and it’s really stuck with me. Zoë Kravitz is amazing as Rob, this record store owner in Brooklyn, and the whole thing is built around her reflecting on her past relationships through the music she loves. It’s super cool because she actually talks to you, breaking the fourth wall to walk you through her top five heartbreaks. It’s based on a classic book, but they’ve given it this really modern, stylish vibe, and it’s awesome to see a Black woman leading the story. What I loved most is that Rob isn’t perfect – she’s messy, confused, passionate about art – and the show doesn’t punish her for it. It’s a real celebration of music and just how wonderfully messy love can be.

‘Grand Crew’ (2021–2023)

This comedy series centers around a group of young Black professionals living in Los Angeles. They connect through shared experiences with dating and their careers, often meeting up at a local wine bar. The show offers a lighthearted and funny look at their lives, exploring themes of friendship and what it means to be a Black man today. It’s unique because it shows these men being open and supportive without focusing on hardship, offering a refreshing take on the classic ‘friends hanging out’ style of comedy.

‘Chewing Gum’ (2015–2017)

Michaela Coel wrote and stars in this comedy as Tracey Gordon, a young woman eager to experience life and escape her sheltered, religious background. Tracey is determined to lose her virginity and become more independent. The show is funny and often awkward, with Coel using a lot of physical comedy. It’s a quirky and charming coming-of-age story that focuses on Tracey’s journey of self-discovery and her natural curiosity, rather than portraying her as a victim.

‘That’s So Raven’ (2003–2007)

Raven-Symoné plays Raven Baxter, a teen who can briefly see what’s going to happen. She’s known for dressing up in silly disguises and creating crazy plans to change the future she’s seen. The show is a funny, family-friendly series about friendship, and it features Raven relying on her friends Eddie and Chelsea. It was a popular show that was special for having a talented Black girl as its star, and it’s all about having fun with the ups and downs of a secret power.

‘K.C. Undercover’ (2015–2018)

Zendaya plays K.C. Cooper, a high school student who finds out her parents are spies and starts working with them. The show follows K.C. as she juggles school, math competitions, and top-secret missions to protect the country. It’s full of action, cool gadgets, and relatable teenage experiences like homework and crushes. K.C. is smart, skilled in fighting, and the series is a fun, action-packed comedy with a young Black woman in the leading role.

2025-12-25 21:48