25 TV Shows That Cast Black Leads in Non-Trauma Roles for Once

Television has historically struggled to depict Black characters outside of narratives centered on suffering or systemic oppression. A refreshing wave of content has emerged that allows these protagonists to simply exist as heroes or friends and professionals. These stories span genres from science fiction and fantasy to workplace comedies and family sitcoms. The following series highlight Black leads living lives defined by joy and adventure rather than trauma.

‘Abbott Elementary’ (2021–Present)

Quinta Brunson stars as Janine Teagues in this mockumentary about passionate teachers in a Philadelphia public school. The series focuses on the daily humorous challenges educators face while trying to help their students succeed. Janine maintains her relentless optimism despite budget cuts and a quirky principal who often hinders more than helps. Viewers watch her navigate workplace romances and professional growth without the heavy burden of traumatic storylines. The show celebrates the resilience and joy of Black educators in a heartwarming format.

‘Insecure’ (2016–2021)

Issa Rae created and stars in this comedy series that explores the awkward experiences of a contemporary African American woman. The plot follows best friends Issa and Molly as they navigate their careers and relationships in Los Angeles. The narrative centers on friendship and personal growth rather than societal suffering or violence. Characters deal with relatable mistakes and triumphs that feel authentic to the modern millennial experience. It offers a vibrant look at Black life that prioritizes nuance and humor over tragedy.

‘Lupin’ (2021–Present)

Omar Sy plays Assane Diop who is a gentleman thief inspired by the adventures of literary character Arsène Lupin. He sets out to avenge his father by using his mastery of disguise and thievery to expose a wealthy tycoon. The show presents a slick and intelligent lead character who outsmarts his enemies at every turn. Assane operates with confidence and charm in a high-stakes world of espionage and crime. This series positions a Black protagonist as a brilliant mastermind in a global thriller setting.

‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’ (1990–1996)

Will Smith stars as a fictionalized version of himself who moves from West Philadelphia to a wealthy Los Angeles neighborhood. The sitcom contrasts his street-smart upbringing with the upper-class lifestyle of his relatives the Banks family. Will brings humor and heart to the household while forming deep bonds with his cousins and Uncle Phil. The show tackles various social issues but remains grounded in familial love and comedy. It stands as a seminal representation of Black affluence and joy on television.

‘Living Single’ (1993–1998)

Queen Latifah leads an ensemble cast of four women and two male neighbors living in a Brooklyn brownstone. The series chronicles their professional lives and romantic pursuits with wit and camaraderie. Khadijah James runs her own magazine while navigating the ups and downs of entrepreneurship alongside her cousin and friends. The show is celebrated for depicting successful Black professionals supporting one another through life. It remains a blueprint for modern friendship sitcoms featuring diverse casts.

‘Black-ish’ (2014–2022)

Anthony Anderson plays Dre Johnson who is a family man determined to establish a sense of cultural identity for his children. The Johnsons live in a predominantly white upper-middle-class neighborhood where they balance assimilation with heritage. Tracee Ellis Ross stars alongside him as a successful doctor and matriarch of the chaotic household. The series uses comedy to address sociopolitical topics without losing its lighthearted tone. It focuses on the specific dynamics of a modern Black family enjoying their success.

‘Girlfriends’ (2000–2008)

Tracee Ellis Ross stars as Joan Clayton who is a successful lawyer searching for love and fulfillment. She relies on her close circle of friends including Maya and Lynn and Toni to navigate life in Los Angeles. The show explores the complexities of female friendship and career ambition among complex women. Each character pursues their own definition of happiness while dealing with realistic relationship hurdles. The narrative prioritizes their bond and personal evolution over external societal trauma.

‘Luther’ (2010–2019)

Idris Elba stars as John Luther who is a brilliant but troubled detective working for the Serious Crime Unit in London. He possesses a unique ability to understand the minds of psychopaths which helps him solve gruesome cases. The series focuses on his psychological cat-and-mouse games with criminals rather than racial victimization. Luther is defined by his intellect and his complex morality in a gritty noir setting. The role showcases a Black lead commanding authority and respect in the police procedural genre.

‘Bridgerton’ (2020–Present)

Regé-Jean Page stars in the first season as Simon Basset who is the dashing Duke of Hastings. The period drama reimagines Regency London with a diverse aristocracy where people of color hold titles and power. Simon navigates a fake courtship that turns into real love with Daphne Bridgerton amidst high society gossip. The character deals with daddy issues and commitment fears rather than historical oppression. This casting choice allows a Black lead to inhabit a romantic fantasy typically reserved for white actors.

‘Star Trek: Discovery’ (2017–2024)

Sonequa Martin-Green portrays Michael Burnham who eventually rises to become the captain of the USS Discovery. The science fiction series follows her journey through space and time as she confronts alien threats and anomalies. Burnham is a highly skilled xenoanthropologist who relies on logic and bravery to save the galaxy. Her story arc centers on leadership and exploration within the utopic vision of the Federation. The show places a Black woman at the helm of a major franchise flagship vessel.

‘Atlanta’ (2016–2022)

Donald Glover created and stars in this surreal comedy about two cousins navigating the rap music scene. Earn Marks tries to manage the career of his cousin Paper Boi while dealing with homelessness and family responsibilities. The show utilizes magical realism to explore existential themes and cultural absurdities. It deviates from traditional sitcom structures to offer a bizarre and artistic perspective on Black life. The characters experience strange adventures that are distinct from standard dramatic tropes.

‘Sister, Sister’ (1994–1999)

Tia and Tamera Mowry star as twin sisters separated at birth who reunite as teenagers in a shopping mall. The sitcom follows their lives after they move in together with their adoptive single parents. They navigate high school and dating while dealing with their opposing personalities. The show focuses on the unique bond of sisterhood and the blending of two distinct families. It provides wholesome entertainment centered on the joys and growing pains of adolescence.

‘Everybody Hates Chris’ (2005–2009)

Tyler James Williams plays a young Chris Rock in this sitcom inspired by the comedian’s teenage years in Brooklyn. The show depicts the struggles of a teenager trying to fit in at school and manage his eccentric family. Chris deals with a frugal father and a strict mother while often ending up in unlucky situations. The humor comes from the relatable awkwardness of growing up rather than heavy drama. It captures the essence of 1980s New York through a nostalgic and comedic lens.

‘Moesha’ (1996–2001)

Brandy Norwood stars as the titular character who is a teenager navigating life in the Leimert Park neighborhood of Los Angeles. Moesha Mitchell deals with the challenges of high school and family dynamics after her father remarries. The series explores dating and friendship and identity with a distinct focus on the Black middle-class experience. Moesha is an ambitious and outspoken girl who often learns hard lessons through her diary entries. The show serves as a classic coming-of-age story for a young Black woman.

‘Family Matters’ (1989–1998)

The Winslow family takes center stage in this long-running sitcom set in Chicago. While it began as a standard family show it became famous for the breakout character Steve Urkel played by Jaleel White. The series balances slapstick comedy with genuine moments of connection between the family members. Carl Winslow is a police officer who tries to maintain order in a house full of love and laughter. It remains a staple of television history for its depiction of a loving Black family unit.

‘The Jamie Foxx Show’ (1996–2001)

Jamie Foxx stars as Jamie King who is an aspiring musician working at his aunt and uncle’s hotel in Los Angeles. The sitcom highlights his comedic talents as he tries to launch his entertainment career while managing hotel mishaps. Jamie often clashes with his uptight uncle Junior but finds support from his coworkers and friends. The show features musical performances and romantic subplots that showcase the lead’s versatility. It is a story about chasing dreams and finding humor in the daily grind.

‘Martin’ (1992–1997)

Martin Lawrence plays a radio DJ named Martin Payne living in Detroit with his girlfriend Gina Waters. The series is known for its physical comedy and the host of eccentric characters also played by Lawrence. Martin and Gina represent a loving couple who navigate the hilarity of their friends and neighbors. The show focuses on the strength of their relationship despite the chaotic situations they encounter. It is a celebration of Black love and friendship fueled by high-energy humor.

‘My Wife and Kids’ (2001–2005)

Damon Wayans stars as Michael Kyle who is a patriarch trying to run his household with a unique parenting style. He often uses elaborate pranks and reverse psychology to teach his three children life lessons. Tisha Campbell plays his wife Janet who matches his wit and helps keep the family grounded. The sitcom explores the humorous side of marriage and raising children in a modern suburban setting. It presents a successful Black family dealing with universal domestic situations.

‘The Bernie Mac Show’ (2001–2006)

Bernie Mac plays a fictionalized version of himself who suddenly takes custody of his sister’s three children. The stand-up comedian breaks the fourth wall to address the audience about his parenting struggles. He tries to instill discipline in the kids while adjusting to his new life as a father figure. The show blends dry humor with touching moments as the unconventional family learns to live together. It offers a distinct voice in the genre of family sitcoms.

‘True Jackson, VP’ (2008–2011)

Keke Palmer stars as a teenager who is unexpectedly hired as the vice president of a major fashion company’s youth line. True navigates the corporate world while still dealing with high school drama and homework. She uses her unique perspective and creativity to succeed in a workplace filled with adults. The show empowers young viewers by presenting a capable Black girl in a position of authority. It is a lighthearted comedy about ambition and staying true to oneself.

‘High Fidelity’ (2020)

Zoë Kravitz plays Rob who is a record store owner in Brooklyn revisiting her past relationships through music. She breaks the fourth wall to explain her top five heartbreaks while struggling to move forward. The series adapts the classic novel with a cool and modern aesthetic centered on a Black female lead. Rob is allowed to be messy and confused and passionate about arts without tragic consequences. The show celebrates music culture and the universal messiness of romance.

‘Grand Crew’ (2021–2023)

This sitcom follows a group of young Black professionals in Los Angeles who bond over wine and dating stories. The ensemble cast navigates their careers and love lives while meeting regularly at their favorite wine bar. The show explores themes of Black masculinity and friendship in a relaxed and humorous setting. Viewers see men being vulnerable and supportive of one another without the backdrop of societal trauma. It is a refreshing take on the hangout comedy genre.

‘Chewing Gum’ (2015–2017)

Michaela Coel created and stars as Tracey Gordon who is a sheltered shop assistant wanting to explore the world. Tracey is desperate to lose her virginity and break away from her strict religious upbringing. The show is a vibrant and awkward comedy that relies on the lead’s expressive physical humor. It presents a unique coming-of-age story that is both bizarre and endearing. The narrative focuses on Tracey’s personal liberation and curiosity rather than victimization.

‘That’s So Raven’ (2003–2007)

Raven-Symoné stars as a teenager with psychic abilities who can see glimpses of the future. Raven Baxter often wears elaborate disguises and concocts wild schemes to prevent her visions from coming true. The show combines physical comedy with family values as she relies on her friends Eddie and Chelsea. It was a groundbreaking hit that showcased a charismatic Black girl as the face of a major children’s network. The series focuses on fun and friendship and the chaos of having a secret power.

‘K.C. Undercover’ (2015–2018)

Zendaya stars as K.C. Cooper who discovers that her parents are spies and eventually joins the family business. She balances her life as a high school math genius with secret missions to save the country. The show features action sequences and gadgets alongside typical teenage problems like homework and crushes. K.C. is portrayed as highly intelligent and capable in physical combat. The series provides an action-comedy platform for a young Black female lead.

Let us know which of these refreshing shows is your favorite in the comments.