Black Celebrities Whose Global Influence Continues to Expand

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Black celebrities are having a huge impact on the world, extending far beyond their original professions. Whether they’re filmmakers, actors, business leaders, or athletes, they’re using their influence to create cultural change and boost the economy. As they achieve more and break down barriers, their impact is felt by people of all ages and across the globe. This selection showcases individuals whose careers and public work consistently demonstrate growing importance on a worldwide scale.

Oprah Winfrey

Oprah Winfrey continues to be a major figure in the world of media through her production company, Harpo Productions, and her television network, OWN. After changing the talk show landscape with ‘The Oprah Winfrey Show,’ she successfully moved into producing and acting, including work on ‘The Color Purple.’ She also continues to impact the literary world with Oprah’s Book Club, which consistently makes its selections bestsellers. Beyond entertainment, Winfrey is widely recognized as a humanitarian, especially for her commitment to the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls.

Beyoncé

I’ve been watching Beyoncé’s career since her Destiny’s Child days, and it’s incredible to see how much she’s grown. She’s become so much more than just a singer – she’s a huge cultural force and a really successful businesswoman. Her concerts, like the ‘Renaissance’ tour, aren’t just shows, they’re amazing works of art. She also runs her own company, Parkwood Entertainment, and works with big brands on fashion and lifestyle projects. What I really admire, though, is how she uses her platform to speak up for what’s right and to celebrate Black culture and history. She’s truly inspiring!

Jay-Z

Shawn Carter, known as Jay-Z, has become a highly successful entrepreneur after building a career as a celebrated rapper. He’s now a billionaire with investments in many different businesses. He created Roc Nation, an entertainment agency representing top athletes and artists. Beyond music, he’s proven to be a smart businessman with successful brands in the alcohol industry and a valuable art collection. Carter is also dedicated to social change, working through the REFORM Alliance to improve the criminal justice system in the United States.

Viola Davis

Viola Davis has reached EGOT status – winning an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Award – making her one of the most celebrated actors of all time. She also founded JuVee Productions, a company dedicated to giving a platform to stories and voices often overlooked in Hollywood. Known for her roles in popular and impactful projects like ‘How to Get Away with Murder’ and ‘The Woman King,’ Davis consistently demonstrates her incredible talent and range. Beyond acting, she’s a strong advocate for fair pay and better representation, and her work is helping to change the entertainment industry for the better.

Tyler Perry

I’m a big fan of Tyler Perry! It’s amazing how he built his whole career from the ground up. He owns this huge studio, Tyler Perry Studios, and it all started with Madea – that character really connected with people and gave him the platform to do so much more. He’s produced tons of TV shows, like ‘The Haves and the Have Nots,’ and he’s even landed some great roles in movies like ‘Gone Girl.’ But what I really admire is how he’s created this incredible space in Atlanta where Black filmmakers and creatives can thrive and support each other. It’s a total game-changer.

Denzel Washington

Denzel Washington is an award-winning actor with a career stretching back over forty years, known for consistently delivering powerful performances. He’s also become a successful director and producer, famously adapting August Wilson’s plays for film, like ‘Fences’. Highly respected by his colleagues, he’s considered a standard for quality and professionalism. Washington continues to guide up-and-coming actors and remains a popular leading man in both serious dramas and exciting action movies.

Rihanna

As a huge fan, it’s amazing to see how Rihanna’s gone from being a music superstar to building this incredible business empire with Fenty Beauty and Savage X Fenty! She’s totally changed the game with how inclusive her brands are – it’s really forced the beauty and fashion industries to rethink everything. While I still love her music, she’s really focused on her businesses and giving back through her Clara Lionel Foundation lately, which is awesome. And being named a National Hero of Barbados in 2021? Seriously deserved – she’s a global icon and a fantastic representative for her country!

LeBron James

LeBron James isn’t just a basketball legend; he’s become a powerful force in media and education. He co-founded SpringHill Company, which creates content like the movie ‘Space Jam: A New Legacy’ and the talk show ‘The Shop.’ Through his I PROMISE School in Akron, Ohio, he’s also pioneering a new approach to supporting students who need extra help. James consistently uses his influence to speak out on important social issues and encourages athletes to manage their own stories and careers.

Michael B. Jordan

Michael B. Jordan started as a child actor and has become a prominent leading man and director in Hollywood. He’s well-known for his performances in films like ‘Fruitvale Station’, ‘Creed’, and ‘Black Panther’. As a forward-thinking producer with his company, Outlier Society, he championed diversity by including riders in contracts that ensured more inclusive casting. He recently made his directorial debut with ‘Creed III’, demonstrating his growing creative power and commitment to a lasting career in film.

Zendaya

Zendaya started her career on the Disney Channel and has become a highly acclaimed actress and a major figure in the fashion world. She’s won two Emmy Awards, including becoming the youngest person ever to win the award for lead actress in a drama series, thanks to her powerful performance in ‘Euphoria’. She’s also starred in blockbuster films like ‘Spider-Man’ and ‘Dune’, and works with luxury brands like Louis Vuitton as a brand ambassador.

Issa Rae

Issa Rae started her career with the popular web series ‘The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl’ and then went on to create and star in the acclaimed HBO show ‘Insecure’. Since then, she’s built Hoorae Media, a company that produces films, TV shows, and online content. She’s also an active investor in her South Los Angeles neighborhood, supporting local businesses like coffee shops and marketing firms. Rae’s success has paved the way for other independent creators to break into mainstream television.

Quinta Brunson

Quinta Brunson’s hit sitcom, ‘Abbott Elementary,’ has been a groundbreaking success. She not only created and stars in the show, but also executive produces it. The show has won several Emmy Awards and is celebrated for its realistic look at public schools and its diverse representation. Brunson’s experience making online videos for BuzzFeed helped her develop a distinctive comedic style that appeals to a wide range of viewers, quickly establishing her as a major force in television.

Sterling K. Brown

Sterling K. Brown is a highly respected actor celebrated for his subtle and powerful performances on TV, in movies, and on stage. He’s best known for his Emmy-winning role in ‘This Is Us’ and his appearance in the hit film ‘Black Panther.’ Beyond acting, he’s also become a producer with his company, Indian Meadows Productions. Brown’s success in both critically acclaimed dramas and popular blockbusters has established him as a leading figure in the entertainment industry.

Angela Bassett

Angela Bassett is a highly acclaimed actress known for bringing both real and imagined characters to life with incredible power. In 2023, she received a special Academy Award recognizing her impact on the film industry, building on her memorable performances in films like ‘What’s Love Got to Do with It’ and ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.’ Currently, she stars in and helps produce the hit TV series ‘9-1-1.’ Her consistent excellence over a long career has cemented her status as a Hollywood legend.

Samuel L. Jackson

Samuel L. Jackson is a hugely successful actor, appearing in over 150 movies throughout his career and becoming one of the highest-earning actors ever. He’s best known for his role as Nick Fury in the Marvel films and his frequent work with director Quentin Tarantino, including the iconic ‘Pulp Fiction’. Beyond acting, Jackson is a committed activist who supports civil rights and various charitable causes. His unique voice and captivating on-screen personality have made him a lasting cultural icon worldwide.

Idris Elba

Idris Elba is a talented British actor, musician, and producer best known for his roles in the popular TV series ‘The Wire’ and ‘Luther’. He’s also appeared in blockbuster films like those in the Marvel and ‘Fast & Furious’ franchises. Beyond acting, Elba is a successful DJ and runs his own record label, 7Wallace. He’s dedicated to supporting the arts in Africa and frequently collaborates with the United Nations on important global projects.

Ava DuVernay

Ava DuVernay is an acclaimed director known for films that tackle important issues of race and justice in America. She gained recognition with the historical drama ‘Selma’ and the impactful documentary ‘13th,’ which investigates the American prison system. DuVernay also champions diverse voices in film through ARRAY, her organization dedicated to distributing and showcasing work by people of color and women. Her miniseries, ‘When They See Us,’ was widely praised and sparked a national discussion about fairness in the justice system.

Jordan Peele

Jordan Peele has become a leading figure in modern horror, thanks to his successful films like ‘Get Out’, ‘Us’, and ‘Nope’. While he first gained fame for his comedy show ‘Key & Peele’, he’s now celebrated as a director – and made history as the first African American to win an Oscar for Best Original Screenplay. Through his production company, Monkeypaw Productions, he focuses on telling original stories that often question societal expectations. Many believe Peele has sparked a new wave of thought-provoking and socially aware horror films.

Donald Glover

Donald Glover, also known as Childish Gambino, is incredibly talented – he’s a successful actor, writer, director, and musician. He’s famous for creating and starring in the acclaimed series ‘Atlanta,’ which offers a unique and often dreamlike look at Black culture. His song “This Is America” was a huge hit, winning Grammys and sparking important conversations about society. Glover consistently challenges himself creatively, taking on notable roles in films like ‘Solo: A Star Wars Story’ and ‘The Lion King’.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe is a talented artist known for her work in music, film, and social activism. She’s released highly praised albums like ‘Dirty Computer,’ which deals with themes of self-discovery and freedom. As an actress, she’s appeared in popular and award-winning films such as ‘Moonlight,’ ‘Hidden Figures,’ and ‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery.’ Monáe is also a strong voice for LGBTQ+ rights and is celebrated for her distinctive style and imaginative storytelling.

Tracee Ellis Ross

I’m such a fan of Tracee Ellis Ross! She’s an incredibly talented actress – I first loved her in ‘Girlfriends’ and then ‘Black-ish’ was just brilliant. It’s so well-deserved that she’s won a Golden Globe and so many NAACP Image Awards; she’s truly gifted at both comedy and drama. But she’s more than just an actress – I admire how she created PATTERN Beauty, a hair care line that really understands and celebrates curly and coily hair. And beyond that, she’s amazing at using her voice to encourage self-love and is a real inspiration in fashion and wellness. She’s just fantastic!

Lupita Nyong’o

Lupita Nyong’o became a world-renowned actress after winning an Oscar for her first film, ’12 Years a Slave’. Since then, she’s appeared in popular and important movies like ‘Black Panther’, ‘Us’, and ‘Queen of Katwe’. Beyond acting, Nyong’o is a bestselling author of the children’s book ‘Sulwe’, which tackles issues of colorism and helps build self-esteem. She also works with luxury brands as a global ambassador and actively speaks out to protect wildlife.

Pharrell Williams

Pharrell Williams is a highly successful artist who excels as a musician, producer, and fashion designer. He’s known for shaping the sound of today’s pop and hip-hop music, and is one half of the influential production duo The Neptunes, as well as the frontman for the band N.E.R.D. In 2023, he became the Men’s Creative Director at Louis Vuitton, a groundbreaking achievement for Black representation in high fashion. Beyond his creative work, Williams is dedicated to improving educational opportunities through his non-profit, YELLOW.

Serena Williams

Serena Williams is celebrated as one of history’s greatest athletes, having won 23 Grand Slam singles championships. Since retiring from professional tennis, she’s found success as a venture capitalist with Serena Ventures, focusing on investing in entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds. She also founded her own clothing brand, S by Serena, and is a strong voice for mothers’ health and equal rights. Serena continues to be a powerful figure, expanding her impact through business and media.

Kevin Hart

Kevin Hart is a hugely successful comedian who’s created a large entertainment business through stand-up, movies, and other ventures. He founded Hartbeat, a media company that makes films, TV shows, and online content. Known for starring in popular movies like the ‘Jumanji’ films and ‘The Upside,’ Hart is also a savvy businessman with investments in wellness and restaurants, consistently earning him a spot among the world’s highest-paid comedians.

Will Smith

Will Smith is a hugely popular entertainer known for his work in music, TV, and movies. He first became famous on the show ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’ and then went on to star in blockbuster films like ‘Independence Day’ and ‘Men in Black’. He won an Oscar for his performance as Richard Williams in ‘King Richard’ and continues to create content for audiences around the world through his production company, Westbrook Inc.

Jamie Foxx

Jamie Foxx is a highly talented entertainer who has won both an Academy Award and a Grammy. He’s known for his acting, especially his acclaimed performance as Ray Charles in the movie ‘Ray,’ and has appeared in popular films like ‘Django Unchained’ and ‘Spider-Man: No Way Home.’ Beyond acting, Foxx is a successful TV host and producer, famous for the game show ‘Beat Shazam.’ His skills in multiple areas of entertainment keep him a popular and influential figure.

Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson is a celebrated actress, famous for her powerful performances in films like ‘Hustle & Flow’ and ‘The Curious Case of Benjamin Button,’ and the popular TV show ‘Empire.’ She earned an Academy Award nomination and has won several awards, particularly for her role as Cookie Lyon. Beyond acting, Henson is a passionate advocate for mental health, and she created the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation to support the Black community. She’s also expanded her talents into business with her hair care line, TPH by Taraji.

Mahershala Ali

Mahershala Ali is an acclaimed actor who has won two Academy Awards for his roles in ‘Moonlight’ and ‘Green Book’. He’s celebrated for his powerful and subtle performances in both movies and TV shows like ‘House of Cards’ and ‘True Detective’. He’s expanding his range by taking on the lead role in the upcoming Marvel film ‘Blade’, solidifying his position as a major leading man. Throughout his career, Ali has consistently chosen roles that are both meaningful and memorable, making him one of the most admired actors working today.

Regina King

Regina King started her career as a young actress on the show ‘227’ and has become a highly celebrated star and director, winning an Oscar for ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’ and earning praise for her work in ‘Watchmen’. She recently made her directorial debut with the film ‘One Night in Miami…’, which was nominated for several Academy Awards. Regina King’s talent both as an actress and a director has solidified her status as a leading figure in Hollywood.

Octavia Spencer

Octavia Spencer is an acclaimed actress who won an Academy Award for her work in films like ‘The Help’, ‘Hidden Figures’, and ‘The Shape of Water’. She’s a celebrated performer, and one of the few Black actresses with multiple Oscar nominations. Beyond acting, Spencer is a producer with her company, Orit Entertainment, which focuses on telling positive and diverse stories. Currently, she also stars in the Apple TV+ series ‘Truth Be Told’, demonstrating her talent for leading high-quality television shows.

Daniel Kaluuya

Daniel Kaluuya first became widely known for his performance in Jordan Peele’s film ‘Get Out’, which earned him an Oscar nomination. He later won an Academy Award for playing Fred Hampton in ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’. Kaluuya has also starred in popular films like ‘Black Panther’ and ‘Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse’. More recently, he’s begun writing and producing, taking on even more creative roles in the film industry.

John Boyega

John Boyega first gained widespread recognition playing Finn in the recent ‘Star Wars’ films. Since then, he’s taken on a variety of roles in projects like ‘Small Axe’ and ‘The Woman King,’ proving his skills as a serious actor. He’s also well-known for speaking out on important issues, notably participating in the Black Lives Matter protests in London in 2020. Beyond acting, Boyega runs his own production company, UpperRoom Productions, which is dedicated to creating stories centered around Africa.

Shonda Rhimes

Shonda Rhimes is a hugely successful television producer, known for creating popular shows like ‘Grey’s Anatomy’, ‘Scandal’, and ‘How to Get Away with Murder’. Her company, Shondaland, now makes shows for Netflix, including the hit series ‘Bridgerton’. Rhimes is celebrated for bringing more diversity to television, both in front of and behind the camera, and for establishing a recognizable style of dramatic, inclusive storytelling. She’s also a bestselling author, having written the memoir ‘Year of Yes’.

Ryan Coogler

I’m a huge fan of Ryan Coogler! He’s become one of the most successful directors working today, both with critics and at the box office. He blew everyone away with ‘Black Panther’ and ‘Wakanda Forever’ – those movies were groundbreaking and made history! Even before that, he really made a name for himself with ‘Fruitvale Station,’ and he breathed new life into the ‘Rocky’ series with ‘Creed.’ Now, through his company Proximity Media, he’s focused on telling important stories that give a voice to people we don’t often see represented in film and TV, which is amazing.

Spike Lee

As a huge film fan, I’ve always been blown away by Spike Lee. For over thirty years, he’s been making movies – what he calls ‘Spike Lee Joints’ – that really make you think about society and politics. Films like ‘Do the Right Thing’ and ‘Malcolm X’ are classics! It was so great to finally see him win a competitive Oscar for ‘BlacKkKlansman’ – he totally deserved it. And it’s not just about his films; he’s also teaching and inspiring the next generation of filmmakers at NYU. His unique way of shooting and his honest take on race in America have cemented his place as one of the most important directors ever.

Kerry Washington

Kerry Washington is widely recognized for her iconic role as Olivia Pope in the popular TV show ‘Scandal’, a performance that brought her numerous award nominations. Beyond acting, she founded the production company Simpson Street, which has created shows like ‘Confirmation’ and ‘Little Fires Everywhere’. Washington is also a passionate advocate for important causes, actively participating with groups such as Voto Latino and the Creative Coalition. She skillfully combines her artistic work with her activism, making her an influential figure in both the entertainment industry and social change movements.

Yara Shahidi

Yara Shahidi first became well-known for her role in the TV show ‘Black-ish’ and later starred in its spin-off, ‘Grown-ish’. After graduating from Harvard, she’s gained recognition not only for her intelligence but also for her dedication to important causes, especially encouraging young people to vote through her organization, Eighteen x 18. Beyond acting, Shahidi is now a producer and recently portrayed Tinker Bell in ‘Peter Pan & Wendy’. She also works as a global ambassador for Dior and Chanel, embodying a modern celebrity who excels in many different fields.

Colman Domingo

Colman Domingo is a talented actor, playwright, and director who’s become increasingly well-known lately. He’s earned an Emmy Award for his appearance on ‘Euphoria’ and an Academy Award nomination for his leading role in ‘Rustin’. Many also know him from his work on ‘Fear the Walking Dead’ and the 2023 film version of ‘The Color Purple’. Through his work on stage and screen, Domingo has become a highly respected and in-demand performer.

Da’Vine Joy Randolph

Da’Vine Joy Randolph is quickly becoming one of the most talked-about actors in Hollywood, especially after winning an Academy Award for her role in ‘The Holdovers’. She started her career on Broadway, earning a Tony nomination, and has since found success in films like ‘Dolemite Is My Name’ and the TV series ‘Only Murders in the Building’. Critics praise her for seamlessly combining humor with heartfelt emotion, and she’s now landing leading roles in major projects, solidifying her status as a rising star.

Ayo Edebiri

Ayo Edebiri is a rapidly rising star known for her work as an actress, comedian, and writer. She recently gained widespread recognition and critical acclaim – including an Emmy and Golden Globe – for her role as Sydney Adamu in the popular series ‘The Bear’, where she delivers a realistic and relatable performance. She’s also lent her voice to animated projects like ‘Big Mouth’ and ‘Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse’. Edebiri’s sharp humor and ability to play diverse roles have quickly established her as a leading talent in television today.

Damson Idris

Damson Idris first became well-known for playing Franklin Saint in the popular TV series ‘Snowfall,’ where he starred for six seasons and proved himself as a talented dramatic actor. He’s now moving into major movies, including a new film about Formula 1 racing with Brad Pitt. Beyond acting, Idris is also becoming a fashion icon, appearing in ad campaigns for high-end brands like Prada.

Storm Reid

Storm Reid first became well-known for her leading role in the movie ‘A Wrinkle in Time’ and has quickly become a prominent figure on television. She’s earned critical acclaim, including an Emmy Award for her appearance on ‘The Last of Us,’ and is a regular cast member on the popular show ‘Euphoria.’ Beyond acting, Reid also runs her own production company, A Seed & Wings Productions, creating and developing her own projects. This demonstrates her increasing power and respect within the entertainment industry as she successfully moves from a young performer to a versatile actress and producer.

Marsai Martin

Marsai Martin is a young trailblazer in Hollywood. She first became known for her role on the TV show ‘Black-ish’, and then made history as the youngest executive producer ever with the movie ‘Little’, where she also acted. Through her production company, Genius Productions, she’s focused on creating content for younger viewers and is inspiring a new generation of creators.

Naomi Campbell

Naomi Campbell is a world-renowned supermodel with a career lasting more than thirty years. As a member of the original group of top supermodels, she’s worked with all the leading fashion brands and graced the covers of magazines worldwide. Beyond her work as a model, she’s been a strong voice for inclusivity in the fashion industry and has dedicated herself to charitable causes in Africa. Even today, she remains a powerful figure in fashion and actively guides up-and-coming models.

Eddie Murphy

Eddie Murphy is one of the most famous comedians ever, known for his early work on ‘Saturday Night Live’ and hit movies like ‘Beverly Hills Cop’. After taking a break from acting, he made a big comeback with films like ‘Dolemite Is My Name’ and ‘Coming 2 America’. He received the Cecil B. DeMille Award at the Golden Globes, recognizing his incredible impact on entertainment. Murphy continues to be a major influence on comedy and remains a beloved star.

Laurence Fishburne

Laurence Fishburne is a highly respected actor known for his work in both theater and film. He’s particularly famous for playing Morpheus in ‘The Matrix’ movies. Throughout his career, he’s won a Tony Award and several Emmys. You’ve likely seen him in big franchises like ‘John Wick’ and the DC Universe, as well as the popular TV show ‘Black-ish.’ He brings a powerful and commanding presence to every role he plays.

Forest Whitaker

Forest Whitaker is a celebrated actor who has won an Academy Award for his powerful and realistic performances. He’s famous for playing Idi Amin in ‘The Last King of Scotland’, and has also appeared in popular films like ‘The Butler’ and ‘Black Panther’. Beyond acting, Whitaker is deeply committed to helping others. He works with UNESCO to promote peace and reconciliation, and through his Whitaker Peace & Development Initiative, he’s made a real difference in communities around the world affected by conflict.

Halle Berry

I’ve always been a huge fan of Halle Berry! It was incredible to see her make history when she won the Best Actress Oscar for ‘Monster’s Ball’ – a truly groundbreaking moment. Beyond that, she’s been a part of some of my favorite franchises, like ‘X-Men’ as Storm and ‘James Bond’ as Jinx. I was so impressed to see her step behind the camera and direct ‘Bruised’, and to see her take on such a physically demanding role as an MMA fighter. She’s more than just an actress, though; she’s a real role model who consistently champions health, wellness, and empowering women, and that’s something I really admire.

Ruth E. Carter

Ruth E. Carter is a celebrated costume designer who made history as the first Black woman to win two Academy Awards for her work. She’s famous for the detailed and beautiful costumes she created for ‘Black Panther’ and ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever,’ which highlighted African culture and style. Throughout her career, she’s worked with famous directors like Spike Lee and Steven Spielberg on well-known films including ‘Malcolm X’ and ‘Amistad.’ Carter’s designs have had a significant global impact on both fashion and how stories are told visually in movies.

I’m really curious to hear who’s inspired you the most from this list! Let me know in the comments which figure has had the biggest impact on you personally – I’m excited to read your thoughts.

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2026-02-02 06:57