Black Actresses Who Deserve Way More Leading Roles

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Hollywood has a wealth of incredibly talented actors and actresses, but often that talent isn’t fully used in big-budget movies and shows. Many Black actresses consistently give outstanding performances in smaller roles or independent films, but don’t get the chance to star in major productions. They have the skills and star power to lead blockbuster films and high-profile TV series. Recognizing their work shows casting directors the amazing talent available when they’re looking for their next leading lady. This list celebrates these impressive actresses who are poised to become major stars.

Nicole Beharie

Nicole Beharie is a remarkably talented actress who truly shone in the film ‘Miss Juneteenth’. She consistently delivers performances filled with emotion and strength, bringing depth to every role. Viewers may remember her as the captivating lead in ‘Sleepy Hollow’, where she skillfully carried the series. Despite her impressive work in both television and film, she’s often passed over for leading roles in big-budget movies, even though she clearly has the charisma and ability to lead a major project in any genre.

Wunmi Mosaku

Wunmi Mosaku, a British actress originally from Nigeria, is incredibly talented and has proven her range in shows like ‘Lovecraft Country’ and ‘Loki’. She has a powerful presence on screen, making even smaller roles memorable and impactful. Her performance in the horror film ‘His House’ received widespread praise and demonstrated her ability to carry a story. Mosaku easily adapts to different accents and types of roles, making her well-suited for leading parts. Fans are excited to see her star in a big-budget drama or action movie.

DeWanda Wise

I’m completely captivated by DeWanda Wise – she just has this incredible presence that makes every movie or show better. I first really noticed her in ‘She’s Gotta Have It’ – she played Nola Darling with such confidence and authenticity. Then, seeing her go toe-to-toe with the established stars in ‘Jurassic World Dominion’ was amazing – she’s a true action hero! What I love most is that she’s so funny and tough all at once, and she’s perfect for everything from huge summer movies to smaller, character-focused films. Honestly, I think studios need to recognize what a star she is and give her leading roles – she deserves it!

Kiki Layne

Kiki Layne quickly impressed audiences with her stunning first role in ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’, proving she was a talent to watch. She then demonstrated her action abilities in ‘The Old Guard’. Layne brings a subtle strength and genuine emotion to every performance, captivating viewers. While she’s already shown her skills, she hasn’t yet landed consistent leading roles in big movies. It’s clear she has the potential to become a major dramatic actress, and deserves more opportunities to shine.

Anna Diop

Anna Diop is well-known for playing the strong and graceful Starfire in ‘Titans’. She also received critical acclaim for her chilling performance in the horror film ‘Nanny’. Diop consistently delivers captivating performances, showing she can handle both big action roles and smaller, more personal stories. Now, major film studios should give her the opportunity to lead a big-budget movie.

Teyonah Parris

Teyonah Parris has consistently impressed audiences, starting with her roles in shows like ‘Mad Men’ and ‘Dear White People’. She was a highlight of ‘WandaVision’ and added real depth to ‘The Marvels’. Parris is skilled at both comedy and drama, as seen in films like ‘Chi-Raq’, and always makes her performances stand out. She’s a talented actor who truly deserves to be the star of a film or series, and her vibrant personality would be perfect for leading roles in romantic comedies or serious dramas.

Aja Naomi King

Aja Naomi King frequently served as the heart of the popular show ‘How to Get Away with Murder.’ Early in her career, she earned praise for her work in ‘The Birth of a Nation.’ King has a timeless, glamorous quality blended with a contemporary vibe that connects with many viewers. While she excels in movies with a large cast, she doesn’t often get to play the leading role. Filmmakers should consider her for characters that call for both intelligence and a sharp sense of humor.

Kylie Bunbury

Kylie Bunbury has consistently demonstrated her talent for leading roles, first with the series ‘Pitch’ and then ‘Big Sky’. She’s captivating on screen, excelling in both crime dramas and movies. Bunbury is particularly skilled at portraying characters who are both strong and emotionally vulnerable, making her a truly compelling actress. She’s ready for a leading role in a film that will fully showcase her dramatic abilities.

Ryan Destiny

Ryan Destiny first gained recognition for her work on the TV series ‘Star’, where she demonstrated both her singing and acting abilities. More recently, she impressed audiences with a powerful and nuanced performance in the sports film ‘The Fire Inside’. Destiny has a natural charisma that makes her well-suited for roles in stories about growing up or complex characters. With her career gaining momentum, she’s poised to move from supporting roles on television to leading roles in films. Studios would likely find success by casting her as the star of a musical or romantic drama.

Lovie Simone

Lovie Simone has earned critical praise, especially for her leading role in the independent film ‘Selah and the Spades’. She’s known for bringing a powerful and authentic energy to her performances in shows like ‘Greenleaf’ and ‘The Craft: Legacy’. Simone represents a fresh wave of actors who really resonate with younger viewers. Her acting is remarkably mature and subtle, making her a great fit for leading roles in young adult stories or dramatic projects.

Weruche Opia

Weruche Opia quickly became a fan favorite in the highly praised series ‘I May Destroy You’. Her ability to seamlessly blend humor and drama made her character particularly memorable, and she brings a captivating energy to every scene. Opia has demonstrated a talent for handling difficult topics with nuance and grace, and she’s well-suited to star in a darkly funny or smart, character-driven TV show.

Jasmine Cephas Jones

Those who first discovered Jasmine Cephas Jones in ‘Hamilton’ already knew how talented she is. She proved her acting skills in the series ‘Blindspotting,’ earning recognition from industry experts. Jones brings a special quality to every role, making her stand out in a competitive industry. She effortlessly delivers both challenging dialogue and deeply emotional performances. It’s time for her to take the lead in a big film or musical.

Bresha Webb

Bresha Webb is a hilarious actress who consistently shines, even in smaller roles, like in the movie ‘Night School’. She proved with the series ‘Run the World’ that she’s also great at portraying realistic and emotional relationships. Webb is naturally energetic and likable, making her characters instantly relatable. She has the star power to carry a hit romantic comedy or sitcom, and filmmakers should definitely keep her in mind when looking for their next leading lady.

Logan Browning

Logan Browning is a versatile actress who shines in both comedic and dramatic roles, as seen in shows like ‘Dear White People’ and the horror film ‘The Perfection’. She’s particularly captivating in intense, psychological stories, bringing a powerful presence and fully committing to demanding roles that require her to transform both physically and emotionally. Browning deserves more leading roles in films that are bold, thought-provoking, and push boundaries.

Sheila Atim

Sheila Atim is a remarkably talented actress, known for her powerful stage performances and increasingly impressive film roles, such as in ‘The Woman King’. She possesses a captivating presence and natural grace that instantly draws the audience in. Atim frequently portrays memorable, strong characters, even in supporting roles. Her extensive theater experience has equipped her to handle leading roles in both historical dramas and large-scale fantasy films. She’s a versatile performer who deserves to be cast as a central figure in high-quality dramatic projects.

Pippa Bennett-Warner

Pippa Bennett-Warner consistently delivers strong and captivating performances in British TV, notably in ‘Gangs of London’. She infuses every role with both intelligence and grace, and her acting is powerfully understated, creating a real connection with viewers. Bennett-Warner clearly has the talent and presence to become a leading actor in international films, and would be particularly well-suited to roles in thrillers or legal dramas.

Rutina Wesley

Rutina Wesley first became popular for her role as Tara Thornton on ‘True Blood,’ and she later became the central figure in the drama ‘Queen Sugar,’ delivering a consistently strong and layered performance. Wesley is known for playing characters who are deeply emotional and incredibly loyal. She’s clearly capable of leading a television series with grace and talent, making it somewhat surprising that she hasn’t yet starred in a major movie.

Lashana Lynch

Lashana Lynch has proven herself a powerful performer, notably as the first female to hold the 007 designation in ‘No Time to Die’ and with a physically and emotionally captivating role in ‘The Woman King’. She skillfully blends impressive action skills with nuanced dramatic ability. Though she’s appeared in several major films, often as part of a larger cast, Lynch is now ready to lead her own action series or dramatic film.

Nathalie Emmanuel

Nathalie Emmanuel is well-known for her work in popular series like ‘Game of Thrones’ and the ‘Fast & Furious’ films. She recently proved she can be the star of a movie with her performance in the horror thriller ‘The Invitation’. Emmanuel has a naturally appealing and relatable quality on screen, making her a favorite with audiences. She’s equally skilled at playing both romantic and action-packed roles. Film studios would be smart to cast her as a lead actress in movies designed for wide audiences.

Emayatzy Corinealdi

Emayatzy Corinealdi first gained widespread attention for her compelling performance in Ava DuVernay’s ‘Middle of Nowhere’. She consistently delivers powerful and nuanced performances in shows like ‘Hand of God’ and ‘Reasonable Doubt’, often communicating deep emotions with just a look or a quiet tone. Many film lovers recognize her incredible talent, which hasn’t always been fully showcased. She’s due for a leading role in a high-profile film that would give her the recognition she deserves, especially during awards season.

Chanté Adams

Chanté Adams quickly gained recognition for her role as a groundbreaking rapper in ‘Roxanne Roxanne,’ and later starred alongside Michael B. Jordan in the romantic drama ‘A Journal for Jordan.’ She has a remarkable ability to appear genuine and relatable on screen, bringing a sense of realism to her characters. Adams skillfully embodies a wide range of roles and time periods, and with the right opportunities, she’s poised to become a major star.

Dominique Fishback

Dominique Fishback made a strong impression in ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’ and brought a sense of reality to ‘Transformers: Rise of the Beasts.’ As both a writer and actress, she thoughtfully approaches each role. Fishback fully embodies her characters, delivering performances that are nuanced, detailed, and deeply empathetic. She’s incredibly versatile, able to convincingly portray a wide range of emotions and personalities, from toughness to vulnerability. She’s poised to become a leading actress in both thought-provoking independent films and large-scale studio productions.

Taylor Russell

Taylor Russell quickly became known for her deeply moving performance in ‘Waves’ and further proved her talent in ‘Bones and All’. She brings a unique vulnerability and emotional honesty to her roles, which is uncommon for actors her age. Russell consistently chooses bold and thought-provoking projects, demonstrating her willingness to take risks. Hollywood should give her more leading roles in complex stories that break from typical molds.

Jodie Turner-Smith

Jodie Turner-Smith quickly became known for her striking style and powerful acting, especially after her role in ‘Queen & Slim’. She recently took on the demanding role of Anne Boleyn, a historical figure. Turner-Smith naturally embodies a sense of elegance and possesses a captivating beauty that works well in both glamorous fashion shoots and intense dramatic roles. She has a remarkable presence on screen and effortlessly draws the viewer’s attention. She’s a talented actress who deserves more leading roles in major films that showcase her distinctive energy.

Carmen Ejogo

Carmen Ejogo is a consistently excellent actress who has been impressing audiences for years in films like ‘Selma’ and ‘Alien: Covenant’. She has a knack for making even smaller roles memorable with her sophisticated performance and unique voice. Ejogo infuses every character she plays with a sense of depth and intelligence. Despite her talent, she often appears in supporting roles rather than as the main star. She would truly shine as the lead in a psychological thriller or historical drama.

Sophie Okonedo

Sophie Okonedo is a highly talented actress, recognized for her Oscar nomination and acclaimed work in films like ‘Hotel Rwanda’ and on stage. While she consistently delivers impactful performances in both TV and film, she often plays supporting roles. Okonedo is known for bringing genuine emotion to her characters, making a lasting impression on audiences. With her experience and commanding presence, she could easily lead a film, and it’s time she had more opportunities to do so.

Marianne Jean-Baptiste

Marianne Jean-Baptiste earned an Oscar nomination with her very first film role in ‘Secrets & Lies’ and has consistently delivered outstanding performances since, including in films like ‘In Fabric’ and the TV series ‘Surface’. She’s known for her incredibly natural acting, bringing authenticity to even the most unbelievable stories. Her skill and dedication always improve any project she’s a part of, and filmmakers should consider her for leading roles in stories focused on complex characters.

Florence Kasumba

Florence Kasumba is widely recognized for her powerful performance as Ayo in the Marvel movies. She brings a commanding and physically strong presence to the role. While known for action, Kasumba has a solid history in German film and television, proving she can handle a variety of characters. She’s capable of leading a science fiction show or a gripping political drama, and her international popularity makes her a valuable asset to projects with global reach.

Coco Jones

As a total film and TV buff, I’ve been really impressed watching Coco Jones in ‘Bel-Air’. She’s made such a smooth leap from being a child star to a seriously compelling dramatic actress. Hilary Banks was always the funny one, but Coco brought so much depth and complexity to the role – it was amazing! She’s incredibly talented, both as a singer and an actress, and honestly, she just radiates energy whenever she’s on screen. I really hope studios start creating projects that let her show off all her skills – she’s a true triple-threat!

Ajiona Alexus

Ajiona Alexus has impressed audiences with her roles in shows like ‘Empire’ and ‘13 Reasons Why’. She’s able to portray both strength and emotional depth, which connects with younger viewers. Alexus clearly has the potential to be a star, and she performs even challenging dramatic scenes with remarkable poise. Casting her as the lead in a thriller or drama would be a smart move.

Sasheer Zamata

As a film fan, I’ve always been impressed with Sasheer Zamata – whether it’s her time on ‘Saturday Night Live’ or the series ‘Woke,’ she’s just really smart and funny. She has such a unique voice and way of looking at things, which makes her stand out. I think she’s also shown she can really nail more serious, realistic roles in independent films. Honestly, I’d love to see a project built around her specific style of comedy and storytelling – she really deserves it.

Jayme Lawson

Jayme Lawson is a remarkably talented actress, landing a role in ‘The Batman’ immediately after finishing drama school. She also impressed audiences with her portrayal of a young Michelle Obama in ‘The First Lady’. Lawson has a natural grace and maturity on screen, making her seem older and wiser than she is. She’s definitely one to watch, with the potential to carry leading roles in major films, and directors are likely already considering her for future projects.

Ebony Obsidian

Ebony Obsidian has gained a dedicated following thanks to her role in the hit series ‘Sistas’ and her appearance in the highly praised film ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’. She’s known for portraying characters who are both strong and relatable, allowing audiences to easily connect with her performances. Now, she’s poised to take on leading roles in movies that delve into modern relationships.

Moses Ingram

Moses Ingram has proven herself a talented actress, standing out in both ‘The Queen’s Gambit’ and the action-packed ‘Obi-Wan Kenobi’ series. She brings a fresh and distinctive presence to every character she plays, and handles demanding roles with grace and skill. Now, she deserves the opportunity to lead a film that truly explores a character’s inner life and allows her to build a lasting legacy.

Laura Harrier

Laura Harrier first became well-known for her work in films like ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’ and ‘BlacKkKlansman’, and later appeared in the Netflix series ‘Hollywood’. She possesses a timeless beauty and elegance reminiscent of classic movie stars. Harrier skillfully adds nuanced emotion to her roles, a talent that often goes unnoticed. She would be a great fit for leading roles in romantic films or historical dramas.

Susan Kelechi Watson

Susan Kelechi Watson became a popular actress for her role as Beth Pearson on the show ‘This Is Us’. Over several seasons, she convincingly portrayed a wife, mother, and working professional, showcasing her impressive acting skills. Viewers love how she balances a kind and caring personality with a straightforward, practical approach. She’s talented enough to take on a leading role in a new TV series or a family-friendly movie, and her existing fans would likely tune in to see her shine.

Yetide Badaki

Yetide Badaki was captivating as the goddess Bilquis in ‘American Gods’. She has a naturally commanding presence and voice, and brings a rare, powerful sense of myth to her characters. She’s perfectly suited for leading roles in large-scale fantasy, science fiction, or historical films, and filmmakers should definitely take advantage of her unique charm to tell compelling stories.

Sharon Duncan-Brewster

Sharon Duncan-Brewster truly stood out in her role in ‘Dune,’ and she’s been a reliable presence in British TV and film for quite some time. She brings a sense of realism and intelligence to both science fiction and dramatic roles, and is remarkably good at communicating complex emotions and ideas without saying much. It’s time she took on a leading role in a big international production.

Tamara Taylor

Tamara Taylor is a seasoned television actress, well-known for her roles in shows like ‘Bones’ and ‘Law & Order: Organized Crime’. She brings a natural sophistication and professional attitude to her characters, and excels at delivering both fast-paced dialogue and emotionally charged scenes. Despite a long and successful career, Taylor hasn’t often been the central figure in a series, and a leading role in a political or corporate drama would be a perfect fit for her talents.

Anika Noni Rose

Anika Noni Rose is a celebrated actress and singer, known for winning a Tony Award and voicing a Disney princess in ‘The Princess and the Frog’. She’s given strong performances in projects like ‘Dreamgirls’ and ‘The Quad’, proving she excels in both acting and singing. While she consistently enhances any project she’s a part of, she hasn’t yet had the chance to truly shine in a leading role in a major film – something she definitely deserves, particularly in a musical or dramatic production that showcases her full talent.

Kimberly Elise

Kimberly Elise has consistently impressed audiences with her acting, starting with her first role in ‘Set It Off’. She’s particularly skilled at emotionally powerful dramas, as seen in films like ‘Beloved’ and ‘Diary of a Mad Black Woman’. Elise has a rare ability to portray raw and genuine emotion on screen. While she continues to work regularly, she often isn’t given roles that truly showcase her talent. A challenging drama or a biographical film would be an ideal opportunity for her to return to a leading role.

Jerrika Hinton

Jerrika Hinton impressed audiences on ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ and later starred in ‘Hunters’. She’s a talented actress who brings intelligence and energy to every role. Hinton isn’t afraid to take risks, which makes her characters stand out. She’s equally comfortable in action-packed scenes, funny moments, and emotionally challenging dramas, making her a great choice to play complex and intelligent lead characters.

Alexis Louder

Alexis Louder made a strong impression with her performance in the action movie ‘Copshop’, holding her own alongside established stars. She brings a captivating intensity to her roles, particularly suited for thrillers and police stories. Louder fully commits to the physical demands of her characters, creating a realistic and compelling presence. She has the potential to become a leading action star and deserves a chance to headline her own film series.

Charmaine Bingwa

Charmaine Bingwa is a remarkably talented actress who gave a powerful and moving performance in ‘Emancipation’ with Will Smith, and also impressed in the legal drama ‘The Good Fight’. She has a unique ability to fully transform into her characters, consistently portraying strength and inner fortitude. Bingwa is a rising star who is ready to lead films that are both meaningful and complex.

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2026-02-01 23:50