10 Black Creators Behind Today’s Biggest TV and Movie Hits

Black creators are driving some of the most exciting stories in TV and film right now. Their work brings fresh voices, bold ideas, and authentic experiences to screens, reshaping entertainment with every project.

From groundbreaking dramas to hilarious comedies, this article celebrates 10 Black creators who are behind today’s biggest hits. Their talent and vision are leaving a lasting mark on Hollywood and beyond.

Ryan Coogler

Ryan Coogler has become a household name with films like ‘Black Panther’ (2018), which grossed over $1.3 billion worldwide and became a cultural phenomenon. His ability to blend action with deep social commentary made the movie a landmark, showcasing Black excellence and pride. Coogler’s earlier work, like ‘Fruitvale Station’ (2013), showed his knack for raw, emotional storytelling, cementing his place as a visionary director.

He’s now working on ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ (2022), continuing to push boundaries with complex characters and themes. Coogler’s storytelling feels personal yet universal, making him a standout creator who elevates every project he touches.

Shonda Rhimes

Shonda Rhimes redefined TV with shows like ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ (2005-present) and ‘Scandal’ (2012-2018), creating addictive dramas that draw millions. Her Netflix hit ‘Bridgerton’ (2020-present) reimagined historical romance with diverse casting, pulling in over 82 million viewers in its first month.

Through her company Shondaland, Rhimes champions inclusive storytelling and complex characters. Her ability to craft emotional, high-stakes narratives keeps audiences hooked, making her one of the most influential producers in the industry.

Ava DuVernay

Ava DuVernay broke barriers as the first Black woman to direct a film with a budget over $100 million, ‘A Wrinkle in Time’ (2018). Her work on ‘Selma’ (2014) earned her a Golden Globe nomination, and her series ‘When They See Us’ (2019) delivered a gut-punching look at the Central Park Five case.

DuVernay’s storytelling blends activism with art, shining a light on injustice while crafting compelling narratives. Her production company, Array, supports diverse filmmakers, ensuring her impact extends beyond her own projects.

Jordan Peele

Jordan Peele redefined horror with ‘Get Out’ (2017), a film that tackled racism head-on and earned him an Oscar for Best Original Screenplay. His follow-ups, ‘Us’ (2019) and ‘Nope’ (2022), continued to blend social commentary with genre-bending thrills, grossing hundreds of millions combined.

Through Monkeypaw Productions, Peele produces projects like ‘Candyman’ (2021), amplifying Black voices in film. His ability to make audiences think while keeping them on edge has made him a game-changer in Hollywood.

Tyler Perry

Tyler Perry built an empire with his Madea films, like ‘Madea’s Family Reunion’ (2006), which grossed over $63 million on a $6 million budget. His studio, Tyler Perry Studios, is the largest film production lot in the U.S., churning out hits like ‘The Oval’ (2019-present) and ‘Sistas’ (2019-present).

Perry’s work blends humor, heart, and melodrama, resonating with audiences often overlooked by mainstream Hollywood. His hustle and creative control make him a powerhouse in TV and film.

Quinta Brunson

Quinta Brunson’s ‘Abbott Elementary’ (2021-present) is a comedy gem, earning Emmy and Golden Globe wins for its sharp take on public school life. Brunson, who created, writes, and stars in the show, brings warmth and wit to every episode, drawing from her own experiences.

Her background in viral comedy sketches gave her a unique voice, blending humor with heart. Brunson’s rise as a creator is proof that authentic storytelling can break through in a crowded industry.

Lena Waithe

Lena Waithe created ‘The Chi’ (2018-present), a raw drama about life on Chicago’s South Side, earning praise for its authentic portrayal of Black communities. She also co-created ‘Boomerang’ (2019-2020), a fresh spin on the classic film, showcasing her range.

Waithe’s work often explores identity and resilience, grounded in real-world experiences. Her ability to tell underrepresented stories with depth and humor makes her a vital voice in modern TV.

Issa Rae

Issa Rae’s ‘Insecure’ (2016-2021) turned her web series into an HBO hit, blending comedy and drama to explore Black womanhood in L.A. Her production company, Hoorae, backed ‘A Black Lady Sketch Show’ (2019-present), amplifying diverse comedic voices.

Rae’s knack for relatable, sharp storytelling has made her a star both on and off screen. Her upcoming projects, like ‘Rap Sh*t’ (2022-present), show she’s just getting started.

Kenya Barris

Kenya Barris created ‘Black-ish’ (2014-present), a sitcom tackling race, family, and identity with humor and heart, spawning spin-offs like ‘Grown-ish’ and ‘Mixed-ish’. His work blends mainstream appeal with cultural commentary, earning critical acclaim and massive viewership.

Barris also penned films like ‘Girls Trip’ (2017), which grossed over $140 million worldwide. His ability to balance comedy with social insight keeps him at the forefront of TV and film.

Barry Jenkins

Barry Jenkins won an Oscar for ‘Moonlight’ (2016), a stunning coming-of-age story that redefined Black storytelling in cinema. His follow-up, ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’ (2018), brought James Baldwin’s novel to life with emotional depth and visual beauty.

Jenkins’ work is intimate yet powerful, focusing on love, identity, and systemic struggles. His upcoming projects, like a prequel series for ‘The Lion King’ (2024), show his versatility and lasting impact.

Which Black creator’s work inspires you most, or is there another name I should’ve included? Share your thoughts in the comments