Black Stars Who Got Their Big Break in Iconic 90s Sitcoms

The 1990s were a turning point for television, with a surge of sitcoms starring Black actors becoming incredibly popular. These shows were crucial for launching the careers of many talented performers, giving them a national stage to demonstrate their comedy and acting abilities. Several of today’s biggest stars got their start on these memorable weekly programs. This era of television not only changed the industry but also left a lasting impact, inspiring future generations of entertainers. The following list celebrates those who rose to prominence during this exciting time.

Will Smith

Will Smith first gained worldwide fame in 1990 with the TV show ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.’ The show featured a character based on his own life – a young man moving from Philadelphia to live with his affluent family in California. ‘The Fresh Prince’ helped him shift from being a musician to a prominent actor on television. Over six seasons, he skillfully combined humor with heartfelt scenes. This role proved to be the starting point for his incredibly successful career as a major movie star.

Martin Lawrence

As a huge fan of 90s TV, I remember when Martin Lawrence really blew up with his show, ‘Martin,’ which first aired in 1992. He was hilarious playing not just the main character – a radio host from Detroit – but also a bunch of other memorable roles! It was a massive hit, super energetic, and full of lines everyone still quotes. That success on TV really opened doors for him in big action and comedy movies, and honestly, the show is still something people talk about and love today. It really defined that era of television.

Queen Latifah

Queen Latifah first gained recognition as an actress in 1993 with her role in ‘Living Single’. She played Khadijah James, the driven editor and publisher of a magazine, proving she could excel beyond her successful music career. The show, about a group of friends in Brooklyn, became a popular part of urban television. This role was a turning point, solidifying her status as a talented actress.

Brandy Norwood

As a total ’90s kid, I remember when ‘Moesha’ first hit the air in ’96 and Brandy Norwood instantly became a star! She played this relatable teenager dealing with all the usual stuff – family, friends, growing up – and the show was set in a really cool part of LA, Leimert Park. What I loved is it wasn’t just fluff; they actually tackled some real issues, but it still felt like a classic, funny sitcom. And it all happened while she was blowing up as a singer! That role really launched her career and made her a household name, opening doors for everything she’s done since.

Jamie Foxx

Jamie Foxx first gained widespread recognition with his TV show, ‘The Jamie Foxx Show,’ which aired from 1996 to 2001. He starred as Jamie King, a man working at his aunt and uncle’s hotel while trying to make it big in Hollywood. The show was a great platform for him to showcase his talents in both music and physical comedy each week. His strong comedic skills developed on the show ultimately paved the way for his later success in dramatic films, and he eventually won an Academy Award.

Tia Mowry

Tia Mowry became well-known in 1994 when she starred with her twin sister in the hit TV show ‘Sister, Sister’. She played the part of a smart and dependable teenager who finds her twin sister after they were separated as babies. The show humorously depicted their lives as they combined families and dealt with the challenges of high school. Her work on ‘Sister, Sister’ won her several awards and gained her a dedicated following, shaping her early career and making her a recognizable face on television.

Jaleel White

Jaleel White became a household name thanks to his role as Steve Urkel on ‘Family Matters’. He was initially only meant to appear once, but he quickly became the show’s biggest star. His unique voice and comedic timing helped turn ‘Family Matters’ into a hugely popular sitcom. Throughout the series, he also played different characters, most notably the smooth and sophisticated Stefan Urquelle. Even today, Steve Urkel remains one of the most memorable characters in American sitcom history.

Kenan Thompson

Kenan Thompson began his career with the Nickelodeon show ‘All That’ and quickly gained popularity with ‘Kenan & Kel’. He was known for playing a smart, mischievous teen who always seemed to find trouble with his close friend. These early roles proved he could both star in and drive the humor in a sitcom. This success ultimately led to his historic run as the longest-serving cast member on ‘Saturday Night Live’, solidifying his place as a leading comedic actor of his generation.

Kel Mitchell

Kel Mitchell was a popular star for kids in the 1990s thanks to his energetic role in ‘Kenan & Kel.’ He played a character known for loving orange soda and constantly getting into funny, over-the-top scenarios. His great on-screen connection with his co-star was key to the show’s success, including the later movie. The series allowed him to showcase his distinctive, physical style of comedy, and he remains a well-known face in family entertainment today.

Marlon Wayans

Marlon Wayans first gained widespread recognition in 1995 when he starred with his brother in the show ‘The Wayans Bros.’ He played a somewhat childish character constantly searching for easy ways to make money in New York City. The show was a great opportunity to work with his family and develop his talent for improv. It also paved the way for him to start writing and producing his own movies, and he’s now a leading figure in comedy films.

Shawn Wayans

Shawn Wayans became a well-known TV star playing the sensible and reliable brother on ‘The Wayans Bros.’ He wasn’t just an actor; he also helped write and produce the show, giving him a lot of creative control. His down-to-earth performance nicely complemented the show’s more outlandish characters. The sitcom’s popularity proved he was a gifted comedian and writer, leading him to create several hugely successful parody movies.

Steve Harvey

Steve Harvey first became famous as a comedian, but he reached a wider audience with his TV show, ‘The Steve Harvey Show,’ which premiered in 1996. He starred as a former musician who finds a new career teaching music at a Chicago high school. The show was very popular on the WB network, lasting for six seasons. It showcased Harvey’s talent for making audiences laugh and for portraying a positive mentor figure. This successful role was the foundation for his growing media career, which now includes talk and game shows.

Cedric the Entertainer

Cedric the Entertainer became a household name playing Cedric Robinson on ‘The Steve Harvey Show’. As the best friend and coworker of the main character, he consistently delivered hilarious performances and often stole the show. This role launched his career, making him one of the most popular comedians working today. It also led to bigger opportunities in major movies and voice acting. Now, he’s widely recognized as a comedic icon in both stand-up and television.

Tisha Campbell

Tisha Campbell became a familiar face on television thanks to her role as Gina Waters in the popular sitcom ‘Martin’. She played Martin’s girlfriend, offering both a professional presence and plenty of laughs. Her character was key to the show’s romantic storyline and connected with audiences. Following her success in the 1990s, she continued to appear in several other successful sitcoms and is still a well-respected entertainer known for her comedy and music.

Tichina Arnold

Tichina Arnold became well-known for playing the witty and stylish Pamela James on the show ‘Martin’. Her funny arguments with the main character were a highlight for many viewers. Throughout the series, she also demonstrated impressive singing skills and perfect comedic timing. This role established her as a talented comedic actress who could shine even alongside other stars. Since then, she’s continued to appear in many popular and long-running television shows.

Erika Alexander

Erika Alexander gained recognition for playing Maxine Shaw, a smart and assertive lawyer, on the show ‘Living Single’. Her character was known for being a confident professional with a sharp sense of humor and memorable lines. Maxine inspired many viewers with her depiction of a successful Black woman, and Alexander received several awards for her comedic performance. She continues to thrive as an actress and producer in film and television.

Kim Coles

Kim Coles is beloved by many for playing Synclaire James on ‘Living Single’. Her character brought a lot of warmth and playful humor to the show, and really helped define its feel. Before ‘Living Single’, she was part of the first season of the comedy show ‘In Living Color’. This role established her as a gifted comedic actress in the 1990s, and she’s continued to work on television and as a motivational speaker ever since.

Kim Fields

Kim Fields first became known as a child actor on ‘The Facts of Life,’ but she truly shined in the nineties as Regine Hunter on ‘Living Single.’ The role let her grow into more mature characters, and her portrayal of a stylish, ambitious woman searching for love was a standout part of the show. ‘Living Single’ ran for five seasons and is still a fan favorite today. Kim Fields has continued to work successfully in the entertainment industry as both an actress and a director.

Nia Long

I first really noticed Nia Long when she was on ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’ – she played Lisa Wilkes, and I loved watching her relationship with Will unfold! She was a fantastic addition to the show, and I think that role really launched her career as a go-to romantic lead in the nineties. It definitely opened doors for her, and she went on to star in some of my favorite movies from that decade. What’s really impressive is that she’s continued to work steadily and successfully in Hollywood ever since, taking on all kinds of different roles.

Alfonso Ribeiro

Alfonso Ribeiro is best known for playing Carlton Banks on ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,’ a role that made him a television star. He was a hilarious contrast to the main character, famous for his traditional personality and memorable dances. The show was a great platform for his talents as a dancer and performer. His portrayal of Carlton is still a beloved part of 90s culture, and he’s gone on to have a successful career as a TV host and director.

Tatyana Ali

Tatyana Ali became a familiar face to audiences as Ashley Banks on ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,’ growing up on screen throughout the show’s run. While playing Ashley, she also started a music career and received awards for her acting. Today, she continues to work as both an actress and an advocate.

Kadeem Hardison

Kadeem Hardison rose to fame playing the lovable and intelligent Dwayne Wayne on ‘A Different World,’ a spin-off of ‘The Cosby Show’ that followed students at a fictional historically Black college. His character’s signature glasses became a popular fashion statement in the late 80s and early 90s. Hardison’s performance helped the show address important social and political topics with humor. He’s continued to work consistently in television and film ever since.

Jasmine Guy

Jasmine Guy became well-known for playing Whitley Gilbert on ‘A Different World,’ a smart and Southern character. The show followed Whitley’s journey as she grew from a privileged young woman into a more mature person, and Jasmine’s performance – which was both funny and emotionally powerful – earned her several awards. ‘A Different World’ also played a significant role in bringing attention to the value of historically Black colleges and universities. Jasmine Guy remains a celebrated actress in both theater and television today.

Cree Summer

Cree Summer first gained widespread recognition playing the free-spirited and passionate Freddie Brooks on ‘A Different World’. Her character added a fresh voice to the show, highlighting important environmental and social issues. Beyond her on-screen work, Summer became one of the busiest voice actors of the 1990s, lending her unique voice to countless animated shows and video games. She continues to be highly respected in both voice acting and music today.

Countess Vaughn

Countess Vaughn became well-known for her role as the fashion-loving Kimberly Ann Parker on the popular TV show ‘Moesha’. The character was so beloved that it led to her own series, ‘The Parkers’, which followed her adventures in community college with her mother. Her funny performances and vibrant personality made her a memorable star on both shows. Since then, she’s been on several reality TV programs and has also pursued musical projects.

Shar Jackson

Shar Jackson is best known for her role as Niecy on the popular TV show ‘Moesha.’ She played Moesha’s close and dependable best friend for all six seasons, bringing consistent humor and highlighting the strength of female friendships. The show’s success opened doors for her to appear in movies and other television programs, and she continues to work as both an actress and producer.

Holly Robinson Peete

Holly Robinson Peete became known for her role as Vanessa Russell on the sitcom ‘Hangin’ with Mr. Cooper,’ starting in 1992. The show, set in Oakland, California, followed a group of friends living together, and Peete played a driven career woman. It was a popular part of Friday night TV for several seasons. This role allowed her to showcase her comedic talent, building on her previous work in more serious acting roles. Since then, she’s also become a well-known advocate and television host.

Mark Curry

Mark Curry became well-known for his role as the star of ‘Hangin’ with Mr. Cooper,’ which first aired in 1992. The show featured him as a former basketball player turned substitute teacher, sharing a house with two female friends. It showcased his skills as a stand-up comedian and his engaging personality. ‘Hangin’ with Mr. Cooper’ was a family-friendly favorite for five seasons. Curry continues to perform stand-up and make guest appearances on television.

Raven-Symoné

Raven-Symoné became known to a wider audience in 1993 when she joined ‘Hangin’ with Mr. Cooper’ as Nicole Lee. Already famous for her role on ‘The Cosby Show,’ this part showcased her comedic talent and helped her connect with viewers as part of a family-friendly show. This success paved the way for her later starring roles on the Disney Channel. Since then, she’s become a well-known and respected actress and host in the entertainment world.

Don Cheadle

Don Cheadle first became well-known for his television role in 1992, playing Roland Wilson on ‘The Golden Palace,’ a spin-off of ‘The Golden Girls.’ He played the hotel manager on the show, which, though lasting only one season, helped him gain recognition as an actor. He then successfully moved into film, becoming a highly respected dramatic actor and receiving numerous award nominations for his work in major Hollywood films.

Vivica A. Fox

Vivica A. Fox was a familiar face on nineties sitcoms, notably starring in ‘Out All Night’ where she played a young professional dealing with work and love. This TV work helped launch her career, leading to starring roles in popular action movies. She became a well-known actress in Hollywood thanks to her success on television, and she continues to work steadily as both an actress and producer in film and TV today.

Terrence Howard

Terrence Howard started his acting career with guest spots on popular nineties sitcoms like ‘Living Single’ and ‘Family Matters.’ He even had a recurring role as a student on ‘The Steve Harvey Show.’ These early experiences helped him hone his skills and become more well-known. Later, he went on to achieve significant success as a leading actor in both films and television, and his background in comedy proved to be a valuable asset throughout his diverse career.

Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson began her acting career with appearances in several popular sitcoms in the 1990s, including ‘Sister, Sister’ and ‘Smart Guy’. These early roles provided valuable experience that helped her develop her skills. She’s now a highly acclaimed, Academy Award-nominated actress, and her work on those early shows demonstrates her long-standing commitment to acting.

Meagan Good

I’ve been a fan of Meagan Good for years! I first remember seeing her as a kid on ‘Cousin Skeeter’ – she played Nina, and it was such a fun show with puppets and real actors. She really stood out and became someone I recognized immediately. It’s been amazing to watch her grow from those early roles into a major movie star. She’s consistently working and is still a huge presence in Hollywood, which is fantastic to see!

Faizon Love

Faizon Love first gained widespread attention in 1995 for his role as Wendell Wilcox on the sitcom ‘The Parent ‘Hood.’ He was known for playing the quirky, funny best friend, and the show helped establish him as a prominent figure in Black comedy throughout the nineties and beyond. He’s been in many popular and now-classic comedy films, and he continues to perform stand-up and act in TV shows today.

Robert Townsend

Robert Townsend was the creator and star of the sitcom ‘The Parent ‘Hood,’ which aired from 1995 to 1999. He played a college professor dedicated to raising his four children with both discipline and affection. The show was known for its realistic and positive portrayal of Black family life, and Townsend’s work as a writer and director on it inspired many creators. He continues to be a respected and influential figure in independent film and television.

Reagan Gomez-Preston

Reagan Gomez-Preston first became well-known for her role as Zaria Peterson on the TV show ‘The Parent ‘Hood’. Her character was popular for her style and realistic portrayal of family life as a teenager. During the show’s run, she became a sought-after young actress, appearing on the covers of many magazines. After ‘The Parent ‘Hood’ ended, she continued acting in television and as a voice actor in cartoons. More recently, she’s also started writing and directing her own creative projects.

Larenz Tate

Larenz Tate began his career with appearances on popular nineties sitcoms like ‘The Royal Family’ and guest spots on ‘Family Matters’. These early roles highlighted his charm and attracted the attention of filmmakers, leading to starring roles in some of the decade’s most celebrated Black films. Today, he remains a highly regarded actor, working on both television dramas and independent films.

John Witherspoon

John Witherspoon was a popular face on TV, especially known for playing the quirky father on ‘The Wayans Bros.’ His distinctive humor and unforgettable lines made him a highlight of the show. Though he was an experienced comedian, the series helped him connect with a new, younger audience. Many fans still cherish his performance on the sitcom, which was a standout role in his long and successful career. He’s remembered as a true legend in Black comedy.

Jackée Harry

Jackée Harry continued to thrive in the 1990s with her role as Lisa Landry on the sitcom ‘Sister, Sister.’ She played the stylish mother of one of the twin sisters, bringing her unique comedic talent to the part. Already an Emmy winner from the 1980s, she cemented her place as a beloved sitcom star. Her great rapport with the other actors helped make the show a long-lasting success, and she remains a familiar face on TV, appearing in both comedies and daytime dramas.

Tim Reid

Tim Reid is well known for his role as the sensible and loving father, Ray Campbell, in the hit TV show ‘Sister, Sister’. He provided a comforting presence and also showed off his talent for comedy. While he had a long and successful career before this, ‘Sister, Sister’ made him popular with a new generation. Beyond acting, Reid is a respected director and producer who is committed to telling stories that reflect a variety of experiences, particularly those of the Black community in America, and he continues to create projects focused on this important work.

Sheryl Lee Ralph

Sheryl Lee Ralph is well known for her role as Dee Mitchell, the stepmother, in the popular TV show ‘Moesha’. As a high school principal on the series, she brought a powerful and professional female perspective, and her performance was key to the show’s successful portrayal of family life. Ralph was already a successful Broadway and film actress before ‘Moesha’, and she’s recently gained even more recognition for her award-winning work on today’s sitcoms.

Yvette Wilson

Yvette Wilson was a popular actress best known for playing Andell Wilkerson on the TV shows ‘Moesha’ and ‘The Parkers’. She portrayed the owner of a local cafe frequently visited by the main characters, offering them both funny and insightful advice. Her work on these shows made her a familiar face on television in the 1990s and early 2000s, and she’s still remembered fondly for helping make both comedies so successful.

Malcolm-Jamal Warner

Malcolm-Jamal Warner became well-known in the 1990s with the sitcom ‘Malcolm & Eddie,’ which began in 1996. Building on his success as a child actor in the eighties, the show let him take on more mature comedic roles. He played a practical, business-oriented character living with a friend who was quite the opposite. The series lasted four seasons and highlighted his development as both an actor and a director. He’s continued to thrive in television dramas and on stage.

Eddie Griffin

Eddie Griffin became well-known for his role as the lively and often surprising Eddie Sherman in the sitcom ‘Malcolm & Eddie’. His experience as a stand-up comedian shone through in his energetic performances and ability to think on his feet. The strong connection he had with his co-star was a major reason the show was so popular. ‘Malcolm & Eddie’ helped launch his career as a leading actor in comedy movies, and he continues to be a popular performer in both stand-up and television today.

Kellie Shanygne Williams

Kellie Shanygne Williams is best known for playing Laura Winslow on the popular sitcom ‘Family Matters.’ Her character’s experiences growing up and her often humorous interactions with Steve Urkel were key parts of the show, making her a beloved figure for many viewers in the 1990s. After ‘Family Matters’ ended, she continued to act in television and dedicated time to working with young people. She remains a memorable part of a hugely successful and iconic sitcom.

Darius McCrary

Darius McCrary is best known for playing Eddie Winslow on the popular sitcom ‘Family Matters,’ appearing in all nine seasons of the show. His character was a relatable teenager, and many episodes focused on themes of growing up, taking responsibility, and the importance of family. Throughout the series, he also got to show off his singing and musical abilities. After ‘Family Matters’ ended, McCrary continued acting in movies and television, and also began a career as a singer and songwriter.

Jo Marie Payton

Jo Marie Payton truly made ‘Family Matters’ special as Harriette Winslow, the show’s loving mother figure. Interestingly, her character first appeared on ‘Perfect Strangers’ before ‘Family Matters’ became its own show. Payton’s strong and caring portrayal was central to the show’s success and made her one of the most memorable TV moms of the 1990s. She continues to work in television and voice acting today.

Reginald VelJohnson

As a lifelong movie and TV fan, I’ll always remember Reginald VelJohnson as Carl Winslow from ‘Family Matters.’ He was fantastic as that police officer and dad, always trying to keep things together while dealing with his neighbor’s antics! He really made that show, and honestly, he’s one of those actors who defined what a TV dad was like in the nineties. Of course, he’s been in tons of other things over the years, but I think a lot of us still think of him fondly for his work on ‘Family Matters’ – he’s just a really beloved figure in the industry.

Tell us which 90s sitcom star is your absolute favorite in the comments.

2026-02-23 08:20