Underrated Black Actresses You May Not Know

Many incredibly talented Black actresses are consistently delivering outstanding performances in movies, television shows, and on stage, but they don’t always get the recognition they deserve. This list highlights those performers – from those known for independent films and high-quality TV to Broadway stars and genre favorites. You’ll find leading ladies, actors who steal every scene, and multi-talented creatives working on projects all over the world. It’s a great way to discover new favorites or revisit performances you may have missed.

Thuso Mbedu

Thuso Mbedu is a South African actress who gained worldwide recognition for her roles in ‘The Underground Railroad’ and ‘The Woman King’. She honed her skills at both the University of the Witwatersrand and the Stella Adler Studio of Acting. Mbedu first became known for her compelling and realistic performances in South African TV shows like ‘Is’Thunzi’, and she continues to work on projects both internationally and in Africa.

Wunmi Mosaku

Wunmi Mosaku is a British-Nigerian actress who has earned praise for her complex performances in shows like ‘His House’ and ‘Lovecraft Country’. She received her training at RADA and has performed with leading theatre companies in the UK. She’s also well-known for her roles in television series such as ‘Luther’ and ‘We Own This City’. Often, she selects projects that combine important social issues with elements of genre fiction, like horror or fantasy.

Dominique Fishback

Dominique Fishback quickly became a recognized talent after appearing in ‘The Deuce’, followed by strong performances in ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’ and ‘Swarm’. Before acting, she honed her skills as a spoken-word poet and created her own one-person show. She’s worked on a variety of projects, from serious dramas and biographical films to large-scale blockbusters like ‘Transformers: Rise of the Beasts’. Her characters often grapple with themes of community, personal goals, and overcoming challenges.

Kirby Howell-Baptiste

Kirby Howell-Baptiste is a talented actress known for her roles in popular shows like ‘The Good Place’, ‘Barry’, and ‘Killing Eve’. She’s skilled at both comedy and drama, and also lends her voice to animated series such as ‘Infinity Train’. She’s appeared in films like ‘Cruella’ and a variety of independent projects, often working on productions in both the US and the UK.

Sheila Atim

Sheila Atim is a talented Ugandan-British actress and musician who has won a Laurence Olivier Award for her work in theatre. You might recognize her from films like ‘The Woman King’, ‘The Underground Railroad’, and ‘Bruised’. She also writes and performs original music for plays, and is known for choosing roles that tell important historical stories and require a lot of physical commitment.

Jodie Turner-Smith

Jodie Turner-Smith is an actress who first gained recognition for her leading role in ‘Queen & Slim,’ and has since appeared in shows like ‘Anne Boleyn’ and ‘The Acolyte.’ She started her career as a model before moving into acting with roles in series like ‘The Last Ship.’ Her work includes a variety of genres – from realistic dramas to historical stories and science fiction – and she’s known for bringing a unique and modern approach to classic themes.

Lashana Lynch

Lashana Lynch gained international recognition with her roles in ‘Captain Marvel’ and the James Bond film ‘No Time to Die’. She received critical acclaim for ‘The Woman King’ and showcased her musical talents in ‘Matilda the Musical’. Her training at ArtsEd instilled in her a strong work ethic and dedication to both action sequences and developing complex characters. Lynch consistently chooses projects that promote greater diversity and inclusion in popular films.

Teyonah Parris

Teyonah Parris has quickly become a prominent actress, transitioning from a role on ‘Mad Men’ to leading parts in films like ‘Chi-Raq’ and the popular Marvel series ‘WandaVision’. A Juilliard graduate, she’s proven her versatility in a variety of genres, including comedy, drama, and action. Parris is known for her ability to ground ensemble casts with both emotional depth and careful attention to detail, and she continues to work on both smaller TV series and larger films.

Amber Gray

Amber Gray is a talented performer who’s gained recognition for her work in theater, particularly the musical ‘Hadestown,’ and has also appeared in TV shows like ‘Gaslit.’ A graduate of NYU, she’s known for her powerful voice and expressive physicality. Many of her roles in film and television explore historical and political themes, and she expertly brings the energy of the stage to more personal on-screen moments.

Nikki Amuka-Bird

Nikki Amuka-Bird is a versatile actress known for her work in popular shows like ‘Luther’ and ‘Avenue 5’, as well as the film ‘Old’. After training at LAMDA, she’s established herself in theater, television, and film, often playing smart, capable characters dealing with stressful circumstances. She’s a regular face in high-quality British dramas and often appears in international projects.

Carmen Ejogo

Carmen Ejogo is a versatile actress known for both realistic roles, like her portrayal of a historical figure in ‘Selma’, and genre films such as ‘It Comes at Night’. She started her acting career as a teenager in the UK and later moved on to work on American productions. Some of her notable television appearances include ‘True Detective’ and ‘The Girlfriend Experience’. She consistently chooses projects that delve into complicated relationships between people.

Susan Kelechi Watson

Susan Kelechi Watson is well-known for her role in the TV show ‘This Is Us,’ but she’s also a dedicated stage actress. She received training at both Howard University and the prestigious Moscow Art Theatre program. Beyond ‘This Is Us,’ she’s appeared in guest roles on shows like ‘The Blacklist’ and has acted in several character-driven films. She also frequently works behind the scenes as a producer and helps develop scripts.

Yetide Badaki

I’ve been really impressed with Yetide Badaki ever since seeing her in ‘American Gods.’ I’ve also learned she’s a talented writer and producer who’s worked on independent projects. She’s clearly dedicated to her craft, earning an MFA from Illinois State University and gaining experience performing both classic and modern plays on stage. What I really appreciate is how seamlessly she moves between playing characters in epic, mythological stories and more grounded, contemporary roles. Plus, she’s a strong advocate for sharing the stories of immigrants and people from the Nigerian diaspora, which is something I deeply admire.

Anna Diop

Anna Diop is an actress known for playing Starfire in the series ‘Titans’ and for her role in the thriller ‘Nanny’. Originally from Senegal, she immigrated to the United States and has also appeared in shows like ‘24: Legacy’. Her work often combines exciting action with stories rooted in specific cultures, and she often partners with directors who focus on themes of identity and feeling like an outsider.

Rutina Wesley

Rutina Wesley is known for her roles in shows like ‘True Blood’ and ‘Queen Sugar’. Trained at the prestigious Juilliard School, she brings a strong theatrical background to her acting. She’s worked on both independent films and popular TV series, and frequently plays characters who are navigating the challenges of family obligations while also striving for personal growth.

Antoinette Robertson

Antoinette Robertson is an actress best known for her role in ‘Dear White People’ and appearances on shows like ‘Hart of Dixie’. Before becoming a full-time actress, she attended Stony Brook University. Her performances frequently explore themes of college life, personal connections, and striving for success. Beyond acting, she’s also dedicated to supporting programs that promote science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education, as well as the arts.

Adina Porter

Adina Porter is a seasoned actress with notable roles in shows like ‘American Horror Story’, ‘True Blood’, and ‘The Newsroom’. She started her career on stage, gaining recognition for her work in off-Broadway plays. She’s often cast in television roles that require portraying characters with difficult choices and inner conflict, and she consistently delivers a powerful and captivating performance, especially in shorter, self-contained series.

Simone Missick

Simone Missick is an actress known for playing Misty Knight in ‘Luke Cage’ and starring in ‘All Rise’. She honed her skills through training at Howard University and experience in regional theater. Her work spans various genres, including action, legal dramas, and shows focused on compelling characters. Beyond acting, Missick dedicates time to mentoring up-and-coming performers.

Zainab Jah

Zainab Jah is an acclaimed actress originally from Sierra Leone. She’s known for her stage work, including the play ‘Eclipsed,’ and her television role in ‘Blindspot.’ She’s performed on prominent New York stages and at festivals around the world. Jah’s work often focuses on important global issues like politics and migration, and she brings her skills in multiple languages and physical movement to every performance.

Patina Miller

Patina Miller is an award-winning actress, known for her Tony Award-winning performance in ‘Pippin’ and her recent work on the television series ‘Power Book III: Raising Kanan’. A graduate of Carnegie Mellon University, she brings a powerful vocal ability honed through musical theater to all her roles. She’s also appeared in ‘The Hunger Games’ films, playing a significant supporting character, and seamlessly blends her musical stage background with realistic screen performances.

Deborah Ayorinde

Deborah Ayorinde is an actress known for her roles in shows like ‘Them’ and ‘Luke Cage,’ and for appearing in suspenseful films that tell stories about people of the African diaspora. Having grown up in both London and the United States, she brings a unique viewpoint to her performances. Many of her projects focus on women dealing with and overcoming difficult, widespread trauma. In addition to acting, she also creates and produces her own independent work.

Logan Browning

Logan Browning is known for her roles in shows like ‘Dear White People’ and the movie ‘The Perfection’. Starting her acting career at a young age, she’s gained experience in both comedy and serious drama. Her work often explores themes of satire, college life, and the inner workings of the entertainment industry. She’s also a strong advocate for better representation in media and realistic portrayals of student experiences.

Taylour Paige

Taylour Paige began her career as a dancer with the Los Angeles Laker Girls before becoming an actress. She’s received praise for her performance in ‘Zola’ and has appeared in well-regarded films like ‘Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom’. She’s also shown her versatility with roles in various television shows, demonstrating both comedic and dramatic skills. Paige often chooses projects that focus on the lives of working-class people and those pursuing creative careers.

Cleopatra Coleman

Cleopatra Coleman is an Australian actress who has appeared in shows like ‘The Last Man on Earth’ and the thriller ‘In the Shadow of the Moon’. She’s worked on both Australian TV and American streaming series, with a diverse film history spanning science fiction, comedy, and dark, suspenseful stories. She also enjoys writing and creating her own genre-based projects.

Kiersey Clemons

Kiersey Clemons first gained recognition in the film ‘Dope’ and has since appeared in movies like ‘Hearts Beat Loud’ and the blockbuster ‘The Flash’. She skillfully moves between independent and mainstream projects, and also lends her voice to animated roles and appears in television series. She’s known for playing vibrant, young characters who are figuring out who they are and building relationships.

Nicole Beharie

Nicole Beharie first gained recognition with her role in ‘Shame’ and later starred in the TV series ‘Sleepy Hollow’. A Juilliard graduate, she also honed her skills at the British American Drama Academy. She’s appeared in films like ‘Miss Juneteenth’ and ‘Monsters and Men’, and often chooses roles that delve into themes of identity, community, and overcoming challenges.

Adepero Oduye

Adepero Oduye first gained recognition for her performance in ‘Pariah’ and went on to appear in the acclaimed film ‘12 Years a Slave’. Before becoming a successful actor and writer, she was a student at Cornell University. She’s also known for her television work, including roles in ‘When They See Us’ and ‘The Falcon and the Winter Soldier’. Many of her characters deal with challenges from systems and complex family relationships.

Lorraine Toussaint

I’ve always been impressed with Lorraine Toussaint – she really shines in everything she does, especially ‘Orange Is the New Black’ and ‘The Equalizer’! I knew she had serious training, having gone to Juilliard, and it’s amazing to see that background reflected in her work on stage and in films like ‘Selma’ and ‘Fast Color’. What I really notice is she often plays these incredible, strong women – leaders and mentors, but always within these really rich, complicated stories with a lot going on.

Erika Alexander

I first really noticed Erika Alexander in ‘Living Single,’ and I was so impressed with her range when she appeared in ‘Get Out.’ It’s amazing to see how versatile she is – not only is she an actress, but she also produces and even co-creates comic books and documentaries! She’s worked on some fantastic shows like ‘Wu-Tang: An American Saga’ and ‘Swimming with Sharks.’ What I really admire is how she seamlessly combines working on creative projects with actually being in front of the camera.

Aisha Hinds

Aisha Hinds is a versatile actress known for her compelling performances in shows like ‘9-1-1’ and historical dramas such as ‘Underground’. She started her career on stage and has since appeared in numerous television series and films, including ‘Godzilla: King of the Monsters’ and ‘If I Stay’. She frequently plays strong, resolute characters – often professionals or people dedicated to their communities.

Samira Wiley

Samira Wiley is known for her roles in popular shows like ‘Orange Is the New Black’ and ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’, and has received praise for her acting. A Juilliard graduate, she also lends her voice to animated projects and video games. While she’s appeared in independent films such as ‘Social Animals’ and various short films shown at festivals, many of her projects focus on themes of survival and people coming together.

Teyana Taylor

Teyana Taylor first gained recognition as a singer and dancer, but she’s now earning praise for her acting, especially in the film ‘A Thousand and One.’ She’s also appeared on TV shows like ‘The Breaks’ and in various other series. Beyond performing, Taylor often works behind the scenes as a choreographer and creative director. Her work often explores themes of motherhood, striving for success, and the realities of city life.

Michaela Coel

Michaela Coel is a talented writer, producer, and actress known for creating and starring in the critically acclaimed series ‘I May Destroy You’. She first gained recognition with ‘Chewing Gum’ and has also appeared in films like ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ and ‘Been So Long’. Her work often explores important themes of consent, power dynamics, and artistic expression.

Gugu Mbatha Raw

Gugu Mbatha-Raw is an actress who has appeared in films like ‘Belle’ and ‘Beyond the Lights’. She received training at RADA and has performed with the Royal Shakespeare Company, and has also been in television shows such as ‘Loki’ and ‘Black Mirror’. She’s often drawn to roles about characters who are redefining themselves and exploring their creativity.

Naomie Harris

Naomie Harris is a versatile actress known for her roles in critically acclaimed films like ‘Moonlight’ and the ‘James Bond’ franchise. She received training at both Cambridge University and the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, and has also appeared in movies such as ‘Southpaw’ and ‘Venom: Let There Be Carnage’. Harris often plays characters who are both fragile and powerfully in control.

Danai Gurira

Danai Gurira is a well-known actress, famous for her roles in ‘The Walking Dead’ and the ‘Black Panther’ movies. She’s also a successful playwright, having written the award-winning play ‘Eclipsed’. Beyond acting and writing, she’s passionate about supporting public health and the arts, and often works on projects that tell stories about Africa and its people.

Sonequa Martin Green

Sonequa Martin-Green is known for her roles in science fiction, including leading ‘Star Trek: Discovery,’ and for her previous work on ‘The Walking Dead.’ Before her television success, she trained as an actress at the University of Alabama and gained experience performing in local theater. She’s also appeared in films like ‘Holiday Rush’ and various independent projects, often portraying strong, determined characters in both futuristic and heartwarming stories.

Uzo Aduba

Uzo Aduba first became well-known for her role in ‘Orange Is the New Black’ and later starred in ‘Mrs America’ and ‘Painkiller’. She honed her skills at Boston University and started her career on stage before moving to television. She’s also appeared in films like ‘Beats’ and ‘National Champions’, taking on both dramatic and comedic roles. Often, her characters are women challenging powerful institutions and corporations.

Cynthia Erivo

I’ve been following Cynthia Erivo’s career with a lot of excitement. She absolutely blew everyone away in ‘The Color Purple’ on stage, and it’s been amazing to see her move into film with roles like ‘Harriet’. I know she really honed her craft at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, which explains her incredible performances. You might also recognize her from films like ‘Widows’ and ‘Bad Times at the El Royale’, and what a lot of people don’t know is she’s a talented songwriter too – I’ve heard her music pop up in a few shows and movies!

Jurnee Smollett

I’ve been a fan of Jurnee Smollett for a while now – she’s fantastic! You might recognize her from shows like ‘Lovecraft Country’ or the movie ‘Birds of Prey’. She actually started acting when she was really young and has consistently worked in TV and streaming ever since. I especially loved her in ‘Eve’s Bayou’ and recently, ‘The Burial’ was a really gripping watch. What I appreciate about her choices is that she seems drawn to stories that blend different genres with really interesting social commentary.

Let us know in the comments which actresses you think should be on this list, and tell everyone what great movies or shows they should watch featuring those actresses!

2025-10-22 04:23