The Best Black Actors of 2025

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These actors have created impressive careers in movies and TV, winning major awards and becoming the faces of popular franchises. Here, you’ll find brief overviews of their accomplishments, most famous roles, and key moments that demonstrate their impact on the entertainment industry and their efforts to increase diversity both on and off screen.

Denzel Washington

Denzel Washington is a highly acclaimed actor and director with two Oscars – one for ‘Glory’ and one for ‘Training Day’ – and many other Academy Award nominations. He’s also a celebrated stage actor, winning a Tony Award and receiving praise for roles in plays like ‘Fences’ and ‘A Raisin in the Sun’. Beyond acting, Washington has directed films including ‘Antwone Fisher’ and ‘Fences’, skillfully leading large casts. Throughout his career, he’s appeared in a wide range of successful films, from powerful dramas and suspenseful thrillers to sweeping historical stories.

Viola Davis

Viola Davis has achieved EGOT status, winning a Grammy for the audiobook of her memoir and adding it to her collection of awards including an Oscar, Emmy, and Tony. She won an Academy Award for her performance in ‘Fences’ and starred as the lead in ‘How to Get Away with Murder’ for six seasons. Through her production company, she focuses on developing stories that highlight underrepresented communities. She’s also become a familiar face in blockbuster films, appearing in ‘The Suicide Squad’ and its associated projects.

Mahershala Ali

Mahershala Ali has won two Academy Awards, for his roles in ‘Moonlight’ and ‘Green Book’. He’s also known for his strong performances on TV shows like ‘True Detective’ and ‘House of Cards’, and he voiced a character in ‘Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse’. Currently, he’s set to star in the upcoming Marvel film ‘Blade’, showing he’ll continue to be involved in major action and genre projects.

Daniel Kaluuya

Daniel Kaluuya is an Academy Award-winning actor, recognized for his performance in ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’. He first gained widespread attention with his role in ‘Get Out’, which earned him significant nominations and international acclaim. Since then, he’s appeared in blockbuster films like ‘Black Panther’ and reunited with director Jordan Peele for ‘Nope’. Kaluuya has also expanded his creative work beyond acting, co-writing and producing the film ‘The Kitchen’.

Lupita Nyong’o

Lupita Nyong’o won an Oscar for her performance in ’12 Years a Slave’. She’s also known for her roles in films like ‘Us’ and ‘Black Panther’, and she appeared on Broadway in ‘Eclipsed’. Beyond acting, she provided the voice and motion capture for the character Maz Kanata in ‘Star Wars: The Force Awakens’. Nyong’o is also dedicated to projects focused on culture and conservation, including documentaries and books for children.

Regina King

Regina King is an award-winning actress and director. She won an Oscar for her performance in ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’ and has received multiple Emmys for her work on ‘American Crime’ and ‘Watchmen’. She recently made her directorial debut with the film ‘One Night in Miami…’, building on her experience directing television episodes. King began her career with memorable roles in films like ‘Boyz n the Hood’ and ‘Jerry Maguire’, and has consistently demonstrated her versatility. Currently, she’s also a producer dedicated to supporting diverse and inclusive stories.

Idris Elba

Idris Elba is best known for playing John Luther in the TV show ‘Luther’ and the movie ‘Luther: The Fallen Sun’. He’s also appeared in several popular films, including ‘Beasts of No Nation’, ‘Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom’, and ‘Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw’. Beyond live-action roles, Elba has lent his voice to animated favorites like ‘Zootopia’ and ‘Finding Dory’. In addition to acting, he’s a producer and also works as a musician and DJ around the world.

Michael B. Jordan

I’ve been a huge fan of Michael B. Jordan for years! From his powerful performance in ‘Fruitvale Station’ to his unforgettable role as Killmonger in ‘Black Panther,’ he consistently delivers. It was amazing to see him take the reins as director with ‘Creed III,’ especially after leading that whole series. Even earlier in his career, he was in shows I loved like ‘The Wire’ and ‘Friday Night Lights.’ And it’s really cool that he’s using his success to help new filmmakers and storytellers through his production company – he’s truly a talent both in front of and behind the camera.

Colman Domingo

Colman Domingo gained significant praise and awards for his role as Bayard Rustin in ‘Rustin’. He’s a versatile performer with experience in movies like ‘Zola’ and ‘Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom’, as well as the TV series ‘Fear the Walking Dead’. He’s been nominated for Tony Awards for both his acting and his writing. Beyond performing, Domingo is dedicated to helping young artists and supporting the arts community.

Sterling K. Brown

Sterling K. Brown is an Emmy-winning actor, recognized for his roles in ‘This Is Us’ and ‘The People v. O. J. Simpson: American Crime Story’. He’s also appeared in films like ‘Waves’ and ‘American Fiction’, which has earned him significant awards buzz. Beyond live-action, Brown lends his voice to animated films, including ‘Frozen II’. He’s also a producer dedicated to supporting stories that explore complex family dynamics and identity.

Angela Bassett

Angela Bassett received a special Academy Award honoring her incredible career. She’s known for powerful roles in films like ‘What’s Love Got to Do with It’ and the ‘Black Panther’ movies, and also stars in and produces the TV show ‘9-1-1’. Throughout her work, Bassett has often brought historical figures to life, becoming a standard for excellent biographical performances.

Letitia Wright

Letitia Wright gained recognition with the BAFTA Rising Star Award and became a central figure in ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’. She’s demonstrated her acting versatility in shows like ‘Small Axe’ and ‘Black Mirror’, proving her ability to excel in both limited series and anthology formats. Before achieving international fame, she honed her skills with roles in British television. Now, she skillfully combines work on large studio films with more intimate, character-focused projects.

Lakeith Stanfield

Lakeith Stanfield first gained recognition with films like ‘Short Term 12’ and ‘Sorry to Bother You’. He received an Oscar nomination for his performance in ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’. On the TV show ‘Atlanta’, he demonstrated both a talent for quirky comedy and serious acting. He consistently works on a variety of projects, moving between independent films and big studio productions.

John Boyega

John Boyega first gained fame playing a role in the recent ‘Star Wars’ films. He received a Golden Globe award for his work in ‘Small Axe: Red, White and Blue.’ Early in his career, he starred in ‘Attack the Block,’ which became a fan favorite and is now getting a sequel. Beyond acting, Boyega is also working as a producer to help create and support stories told by people from diverse backgrounds.

Danai Gurira

As a huge film and theater fan, I’m always impressed by actors who do it all, and Danai Gurira is definitely one of them! You probably know her as Okoye from the ‘Black Panther’ movies, or maybe from her powerful role on ‘The Walking Dead.’ But she’s also an incredibly talented playwright – her play ‘Eclipsed’ was nominated for a Tony Award and even a Pulitzer Prize! Beyond her work as an artist, she’s really committed to making a difference, supporting global health initiatives and expanding access to the arts. What I really admire is how she uses her platform to tell important stories, focusing on African and diaspora experiences both on screen and on stage.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson is a well-known actress who plays major roles in both the ‘Creed’ movies and the Marvel Cinematic Universe, notably as Valkyrie in ‘Thor: Ragnarok’ and other films. She also starred in the TV series ‘Westworld’. Beyond acting, Thompson has worked as a producer and starred in independent films like ‘Little Woods’, and is involved in creative projects that examine themes of the future and personal identity. She’s also explored music and done voice work for animated projects.

Zendaya

Zendaya is an Emmy-winning actress known for her leading role in the hit show ‘Euphoria’. She’s also appeared in popular films like ‘Dune’ and the ‘Spider-Man’ movies. Starting her career with music and Disney Channel, she’s successfully moved into more mature and dramatic roles. Zendaya frequently takes on projects where she also produces, often focusing on stories with complicated young characters.

Will Smith

Will Smith is an award-winning actor, best known for his leading roles in popular films like ‘King Richard’, ‘Ali’, ‘The Pursuit of Happyness’, ‘Men in Black’, and ‘Independence Day’. He’s also a successful producer with long-term partnerships in the film and television industry. Over the years, Smith has starred in a wide range of hit movies – from action and science fiction to dramatic roles – and consistently delivered strong results at the box office.

Octavia Spencer

As a film lover, I’m a huge fan of Octavia Spencer! She’s incredible – remember when she won an Oscar for ‘The Help’? Beyond that, she’s been in so many fantastic things like ‘Hidden Figures’ and ‘The Shape of Water,’ and I really enjoyed her in the series ‘Self Made.’ What I admire most is that she doesn’t just act; she also produces projects that focus on true stories and bringing overlooked histories to light. It’s awesome! And it’s not just film and TV – she also does voice work for audiobooks and actively supports programs that help young people get into the creative fields.

Jamie Foxx

Jamie Foxx won an Oscar for his role in ‘Ray’ and has been nominated for several more awards for his work in both acting and music. He’s known for films like ‘Collateral’ and ‘Django Unchained,’ and has also appeared in major comic book movie franchises. Beyond acting, Foxx is also a successful recording artist and music producer. He’s also worked in television, both hosting and producing shows that showcase new talent.

Morgan Freeman

Morgan Freeman is an Academy Award-winning actor, famous for his role in ‘Million Dollar Baby,’ and has been nominated for many more awards throughout his career. He’s known for iconic films like ‘The Shawshank Redemption,’ ‘Se7en,’ and ‘Invictus.’ Beyond acting, Freeman is a talented narrator of documentaries and has also worked behind the scenes as a producer for various film and TV projects. He continues to act in both leading and supporting roles while also pursuing his production work and utilizing his recognizable voice.

Samuel L. Jackson

Samuel L. Jackson has received a special Academy Award honoring his incredible career and impact on film. He’s known for iconic roles in movies like ‘Pulp Fiction’ and ‘Jackie Brown,’ as well as his long-running portrayal of Nick Fury in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Jackson consistently appears in both blockbuster hits and smaller, independent films, and also works as a producer through his established company relationships.

Don Cheadle

Don Cheadle is a highly acclaimed actor, receiving an Academy Award nomination for his performance in ‘Hotel Rwanda’. He’s known for his roles in films like ‘Crash’ and ‘Ocean’s Eleven’, and he’s consistently played James Rhodes in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Beyond acting, Cheadle has won awards for his work on ‘House of Lies’ and received numerous other television nominations. He also directs and produces, often focusing on projects that highlight important social issues and documentaries.

Forest Whitaker

Forest Whitaker is an Academy Award-winning actor, known for his performance in ‘The Last King of Scotland’ and roles in films like ‘Bird’, ‘Arrival’, and ‘Rogue One: A Star Wars Story’. Beyond acting, he runs a nonprofit organization that uses the arts to strengthen communities and resolve conflicts. He often alternates between leading roles and supporting parts in big movies.

Chiwetel Ejiofor

Chiwetel Ejiofor is a highly acclaimed actor, nominated for an Academy Award for his role in ’12 Years a Slave’. He’s known for films like ‘Doctor Strange’, ‘The Martian’, and ‘Children of Men’, and has also worked as a writer and director. Alongside his film work, he continues to perform on stage in both London and New York, taking on diverse roles in science fiction, historical dramas, and modern thrillers.

Jeffrey Wright

Jeffrey Wright is an award-winning actor, recognized with both Tony and Emmy Awards for his work in ‘Angels in America’ and an Academy Award nomination for ‘American Fiction’. He’s known for roles in popular projects like ‘Westworld’, ‘The Batman’, and ‘Basquiat’. Wright skillfully brings to life both real-life historical figures and characters from comic books, and also works behind the camera as a narrator and producer of documentaries.

David Oyelowo

David Oyelowo is a highly acclaimed actor, known for his powerful performance as Martin Luther King Jr. in ‘Selma’. He now stars in and helps produce the series ‘Lawmen: Bass Reeves’. He’s also appeared in films like ‘A United Kingdom’, ‘Queen of Katwe’, and ‘Nightingale’. Beyond acting, Oyelowo has a production company dedicated to creating stories with global appeal and a focus on family.

Djimon Hounsou

Djimon Hounsou has been nominated for an Academy Award twice, for his roles in ‘In America’ and ‘Blood Diamond’. You might also recognize him from films like ‘Gladiator’, ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’, and ‘Shazam!’. He’s a versatile actor who works in a variety of genres – including action, drama, and fantasy – and also does voice work for animated projects and video games. Hounsou is also a strong advocate for greater diversity and representation in films made with international collaboration.

Wesley Snipes

Wesley Snipes is known for starring in ‘Blade’, a film that helped define the look and feel of modern comic book action movies. He’s also appeared in popular films like ‘White Men Can’t Jump’, ‘New Jack City’, and ‘Demolition Man’. Beyond acting, Snipes has worked as a film producer and incorporates his martial arts training into his roles. He continues to act in both action films and comedies.

Eddie Murphy

Eddie Murphy is a celebrated actor known for his role in ‘Dreamgirls’, which earned him a Golden Globe and an Academy Award nomination. He’s starred in iconic films like ‘Beverly Hills Cop’ and ‘Coming to America,’ as well as popular family comedies like ‘The Nutty Professor.’ Many also recognize him as the voice of Donkey in the ‘Shrek’ movies. Beyond acting, Murphy continues to create and develop both stand-up and scripted content for film and streaming platforms.

Brian Tyree Henry

Brian Tyree Henry has received critical acclaim, including an Academy Award nomination for his role in ‘Causeway’. He’s best known for his work on the TV show ‘Atlanta’, and has also appeared in blockbuster films like ‘Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse’ and ‘Godzilla vs. Kong’. Before his screen success, Henry was a celebrated stage actor, earning a Tony Award nomination for his musical theater work. He skillfully moves between smaller, independent films and large-scale franchise projects.

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II is an Emmy winner, recognized for his role in ‘Watchmen’. He’s known for his work in popular films like ‘Aquaman’, ‘The Matrix Resurrections’, and ‘Candyman’. In addition to big-screen successes, he’s also performed on Broadway and in acclaimed television series. Currently, Abdul-Mateen is also producing his own projects, focusing on compelling stories with interesting characters and genre elements.

John David Washington

John David Washington first gained attention for his performance in ‘BlacKkKlansman’ and has since become known for leading roles in films like ‘Tenet’, ‘Malcolm and Marie’, and ‘Amsterdam’. He previously appeared on the television series ‘Ballers’, which helped launch his film career. Washington skillfully moves between high-energy action movies and more intimate, character-focused dramas.

Kelvin Harrison, Jr.

I’ve been really impressed with Kelvin Harrison Jr. lately. He first caught my eye in films like ‘Luce’ and ‘Waves,’ and he’s clearly got range. He’s amazing at bringing real people to life – I especially loved his performance in ‘Chevalier,’ where he played a historical musician. You might also recognize him from ensemble pieces like ‘The Trial of the Chicago 7’ and the unsettling thriller ‘It Comes at Night.’ What I really appreciate is that he seems to work with some seriously talented, visionary directors on both smaller indie projects and bigger studio films.

Aldis Hodge

Aldis Hodge is a versatile actor known for his roles as Jim Brown in ‘One Night in Miami…’ and Carter Hall in ‘Black Adam’. He’s also been a lead in the TV series ‘Leverage’ and ‘City on a Hill’. Beyond acting, Hodge is a designer and passionate about watchmaking. He dedicates his time to supporting STEM and arts education by mentoring students.

Winston Duke

Winston Duke first gained recognition with his role in ‘Black Panther’ and continued to impress in ‘Us’. He’s appeared in both dramatic films and genre projects, including ‘Nine Days’ and other Marvel movies. Beyond acting, Duke also produces films that focus on Caribbean and diaspora narratives. His talents extend to voice work in animated projects and video games as well.

Keke Palmer

I’ve been a huge fan of Keke Palmer for years! She’s seriously talented – you might recognize her from films like ‘Nope’ and ‘Hustlers’. But she’s not just an actress; she’s a total multi-hyphenate. She does amazing voice work in animated movies like ‘Lightyear’, and she’s fantastic hosting unscripted shows like ‘Password’. Beyond that, she’s really built her own empire, launching a digital network where she produces all sorts of content, both scripted and unscripted. And if that wasn’t enough, she’s also a musician who often contributes to film soundtracks. She’s constantly working and always impressive!

Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson is an acclaimed actress, receiving an Oscar nomination for her work in ‘The Curious Case of Benjamin Button’ and winning a Golden Globe for ‘Empire’. She’s known for her roles in films like ‘Hidden Figures’, ‘Hustle & Flow’, and ‘The Best of Enemies’. Beyond acting, Henson is a dedicated advocate for mental health, founding a nonprofit to provide related services. She also produces films and TV shows that showcase stories from communities often overlooked in media.

Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor

Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor is a highly accomplished actress, recognized with an Academy Award nomination for her role in ‘King Richard’. She’s known for powerful television performances in series like ‘When They See Us’ and ‘Lovecraft Country’, and seamlessly moves between big-budget studio films and smaller independent projects. Beyond acting, she also participates in theater and occasionally works as a producer.

Danielle Brooks

Danielle Brooks received an Academy Award nomination for her work in ‘The Color Purple’. Before that, she gained recognition for her role in ‘Orange Is the New Black’ and has a strong background in Broadway theater. She often records cast albums and performs her stage roles in concert. Brooks consistently takes on leading roles in film adaptations of popular stage productions.

Let us know in the comments which performances and roles you thought were particularly great – we’d love to see if your favorites match ours!

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2025-11-02 05:21