African-American Actors Who Are From The UK

The landscape of American film and television features a significant number of talented performers who hail from the United Kingdom. These actors often master regional American accents to portray iconic roles in major Hollywood productions and television series. Their presence highlights the global nature of the entertainment industry and the versatility of British trained talent. This list explores several prominent male actors who have successfully transitioned from the British stage and screen to become household names in the United States.

Idris Elba

Idris Elba gained significant recognition for his portrayal of Stringer Bell in the acclaimed television series ‘The Wire’. The London born actor has since starred in numerous high profile films including ‘Mandela Long Walk to Freedom’ and ‘Pacific Rim’. He is also well known for his lead role in the detective series ‘Luther’ which earned him several awards. Elba has become a prominent figure in both the British and American film industries through his diverse range of performances.

Daniel Kaluuya

Daniel Kaluuya became a global star after his breakout performance in the horror film ‘Get Out’. He won an Academy Award for his portrayal of Fred Hampton in ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’. The actor also appeared in the blockbuster hit ‘Black Panther’ as W’Kabi. Kaluuya started his career in British television with roles in ‘Skins’ and ‘Black Mirror’.

John Boyega

John Boyega rose to international prominence as Finn in the ‘Star Wars’ sequel trilogy. He also received critical praise for his role in the film ‘Detroit’ where he played a security guard during the 1967 riots. The actor first gained attention in the British science fiction comedy ‘Attack the Block’. Boyega continues to take on challenging roles in both independent films and major studio productions.

Chiwetel Ejiofor

Chiwetel Ejiofor delivered a powerful performance as Solomon Northup in ’12 Years a Slave’ which earned him an Academy Award nomination. He has a long history of working in both theatre and film with notable roles in ‘Children of Men’ and ‘The Martian’. The London born actor also joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Mordo in ‘Doctor Strange’. His career is marked by a wide variety of dramatic and action oriented characters.

David Oyelowo

David Oyelowo is widely recognized for his portrayal of Martin Luther King Jr. in the historical drama ‘Selma’. He has appeared in several other American historical films such as ‘The Butler’ and ‘Lincoln’. The actor began his career with the Royal Shakespeare Company and starred in the British series ‘Spooks’. Oyelowo has successfully established himself as a leading man in Hollywood dramas.

Damson Idris

Damson Idris is best known for his lead role as Franklin Saint in the crime drama series ‘Snowfall’. The London native portrays a young drug dealer in 1980s Los Angeles with a convincing American accent. He has also appeared in films such as ‘Outside the Wire’ and ‘Farming’. Idris continues to gain popularity as a rising star in the television industry.

Regé-Jean Page

Regé-Jean Page became an overnight sensation for his role as the Duke of Hastings in the series ‘Bridgerton’. He has since appeared in major action films like ‘The Gray Man’ and ‘Dungeons and Dragons Honor Among Thieves’. The actor spent his childhood in Zimbabwe and London before pursuing an acting career. He is frequently cited as one of the most promising young talents working in the United States today.

Kingsley Ben-Adir

Kingsley Ben-Adir has portrayed several historical figures including Malcolm X in ‘One Night in Miami’ and Barack Obama in ‘The Comey Rule’. He also appeared as a version of Ken in the blockbuster film ‘Barbie’. The actor has a strong background in British television with roles in ‘Vera’ and ‘Peaky Blinders’. His ability to transform into real life icons has garnered significant critical acclaim.

David Harewood

David Harewood is well known to American audiences for his role as David Estes in ‘Homeland’. He also spent several seasons playing J’onn J’onzz on the superhero series ‘Supergirl’. The actor was born in Birmingham and has a prolific career in British theatre and television. Harewood was honored with an MBE for his services to drama.

Adrian Lester

Adrian Lester is a highly respected actor known for his work in the series ‘Hustle’ and the film ‘Primary Colors’. He has performed extensively with the Royal National Theatre in various Shakespearean productions. Lester portrayed a campaign manager in the American political drama ‘Primary Colors’ alongside John Travolta. He continues to work across stage and screen in both the United Kingdom and the United States.

Alfred Enoch

Alfred Enoch gained fame for playing Dean Thomas in the ‘Harry Potter’ film series. He later transitioned to American television with a starring role as Wes Gibbins in ‘How to Get Away with Murder’. The actor is the son of British actor William Russell and has a diverse background in theatre. Enoch has appeared in the science fiction series ‘Foundation’ on Apple TV+.

Lucien Laviscount

Lucien Laviscount is widely recognized for his role as Alfie in the popular series ‘Emily in Paris’. He began his career as a child actor in British television shows like ‘Grange Hill’ and ‘Coronation Street’. The actor has also appeared in American series such as ‘Scream Queens’ and ‘Snatch’. He continues to build a successful career in romantic comedies and dramas.

Daryl McCormack

Daryl McCormack earned critical praise for his leading role in the film ‘Good Luck to You Leo Grande’. He has appeared in the popular British crime drama ‘Peaky Blinders’ as Isaiah Jesus. The actor also had a role in the fantasy series ‘The Wheel of Time’. McCormack is originally from Ireland but has built a significant part of his career in the British and international markets.

Malachi Kirby

Malachi Kirby is best known for playing Kunta Kinte in the 2016 remake of the miniseries ‘Roots’. He also starred in the ‘Black Mirror’ episode titled ‘Men Against Fire’. The actor has appeared in British productions like ‘Small Axe’ and ‘Curfew’. Kirby has received acclaim for his intense and emotional performances in historical dramas.

Aml Ameen

Aml Ameen is known for his roles in the films ‘The Maze Runner’ and ‘Yardie’. He also played Capheus in the first season of the Netflix series ‘Sense8’. The actor transitioned into directing with the holiday film ‘Boxing Day’ which he also starred in. Ameen has a long history of working in both British dramas and American studio films.

Arinzé Kene

Arinzé Kene is a playwright and actor known for his work in the film ‘I’m Your Woman’. He has appeared in British television series such as ‘Informer’ and ‘Flack’. The actor gained critical attention for his one man play ‘Misty’ which transferred to the West End. Kene continues to balance his career between acting in major films and writing for the stage.

Paapa Essiedu

Paapa Essiedu earned an Emmy nomination for his performance in the limited series ‘I May Destroy You’. He is also known for his work in the series ‘The Lazarus Project’ and ‘Gangs of London’. The actor made history as the first Black actor to play Hamlet for the Royal Shakespeare Company. Essiedu has become a prominent figure in contemporary British and American television.

Lennie James

Lennie James is best known to global audiences as Morgan Jones in ‘The Walking Dead’ and ‘Fear the Walking Dead’. He also wrote and starred in the acclaimed British series ‘Save Me’. The actor appeared in films such as ‘Snatch’ and ‘Blade Runner 2049’. James has a long and distinguished career spanning several decades in both the United Kingdom and the United States.

Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje

Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje is famous for his roles in ‘Oz’ as Simon Adebisi and ‘Lost’ as Mr. Eko. He has appeared in major films like ‘The Mummy Returns’ and ‘Suicide Squad’. The actor made his directorial debut with the film ‘Farming’ which is based on his own life. Akinnuoye-Agbaje is known for his powerful physique and ability to play complex characters.

Nonso Anozie

Nonso Anozie played the character Xaro Xhoan Daxos in the fantasy series ‘Game of Thrones’. He also stars as Tommy Jepperd in the series ‘Sweet Tooth’. The actor has appeared in several major films including ‘Cinderella’ and ‘The Grey’. Anozie is recognized for his deep voice and significant screen presence.

Jimmy Akingbola

Jimmy Akingbola is known for his role as Geoffrey in the ‘Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’ reboot titled ‘Bel-Air’. He has appeared in several British series including ‘Holby City’ and ‘Kate and Koji’. The actor also played the villain Baron Reiter in the superhero series ‘Arrow’. Akingbola is a co-founder of the Triforce Creative Network which promotes diversity in the arts.

Paterson Joseph

Paterson Joseph is a veteran actor known for his roles in ‘Peep Show’ and ‘The Leftovers’. He has appeared in numerous British television series such as ‘Casualty’ and ‘Timeless’. The actor also played the character Arthur Slugworth in the film ‘Wonka’. Joseph is highly regarded for his versatility across comedy and drama.

Delroy Lindo

Delroy Lindo was born in London and later moved to the United States where he built a legendary career. He is known for his frequent collaborations with director Spike Lee in films like ‘Malcolm X’ and ‘Da 5 Bloods’. The actor also starred in the legal drama series ‘The Good Fight’. Lindo has received numerous awards and nominations for his work in film and theatre.

Ashley Walters

Ashley Walters is best known for his lead role as Dushane in the series ‘Top Boy’. He first gained fame as a member of the UK garage group So Solid Crew. The actor has appeared in films like ‘Bullet Boy’ and ‘Get Rich or Die Tryin’. Walters has been a central figure in British urban drama for over two decades.

Micheal Ward

Micheal Ward won the BAFTA Rising Star Award for his role in the film ‘Blue Story’. He also starred in the series ‘Top Boy’ as Jamie and in the film ‘Empire of Light’. The actor has appeared in the anthology series ‘Small Axe’ directed by Steve McQueen. Ward is considered one of the most exciting young talents in the British film industry.

Colin Salmon

Colin Salmon is well known for playing Charles Robinson in three ‘James Bond’ films. He has appeared in the American series ‘Arrow’ and ‘Limitless’. The actor is also recognized for his voice work and his appearances in ‘Resident Evil’. Salmon has a long career in both British television and international cinema.

Eamonn Walker

Eamonn Walker is best known for his role as Chief Wallace Boden in the series ‘Chicago Fire’. He previously starred as Kareem Saïd in the prison drama ‘Oz’. The London born actor has appeared in films like ‘Unbreakable’ and ‘Lord of War’. Walker was the first Black actor to play Othello at the Globe Theatre in London.

Nicholas Pinnock

Nicholas Pinnock starred as Aaron Wallace in the legal drama series ‘For Life’. He is also known for his roles in the British series ‘Top Boy’ and ‘Marcella’. The actor appeared in the science fiction series ‘Counterpart’ and ‘Django’. Pinnock has a background in dance and physical theatre which informs his acting work.

Babou Ceesay

Babou Ceesay starred in the limited series ‘Guerrilla’ alongside Freida Pinto. He is also known for his roles in the British series ‘Dark Money’ and ‘Wolfe’. The actor appeared in the film ‘Rogue One A Star Wars Story’ and ‘Eye in the Sky’. Ceesay has been nominated for a BAFTA for his work in television drama.

Ariyon Bakare

Ariyon Bakare is known for his role as Lord Boreal in the series ‘His Dark Materials’. He has appeared in films such as ‘Life’ and ‘Jupiter Ascending’. The actor also had a recurring role in the Amazon series ‘Good Omens’. Bakare has a long list of credits in British television dramas and science fiction projects.

O-T Fagbenle

O-T Fagbenle is widely recognized for his role as Luke Bankole in ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. He also played Rick Mason in the Marvel film ‘Black Widow’. The actor created and starred in the comedy series ‘Maxxx’. Fagbenle is an accomplished musician and director in addition to his acting career.

Ricky Whittle

Ricky Whittle starred as Shadow Moon in the fantasy series ‘American Gods’. He gained early fame in the British soap opera ‘Hollyoaks’ and the series ‘The 100’. The actor also participated in the reality show ‘Strictly Come Dancing’. Whittle has successfully transitioned from British television to leading roles in American prestige dramas.

Jacob Anderson

Jacob Anderson is globally known for his portrayal of Grey Worm in ‘Game of Thrones’. He currently stars as Louis de Pointe du Lac in the series ‘Interview with the Vampire’. The actor is also a successful singer and songwriter under the name Raleigh Ritchie. Anderson has appeared in British series such as ‘Broadchurch’ and ‘Doctor Who’.

Joseph Marcell

Joseph Marcell is most famous for his role as Geoffrey the butler in ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’. He is an accomplished Shakespearean actor who has performed extensively with the Royal Shakespeare Company. The actor was born in Saint Lucia and moved to the United Kingdom at a young age. Marcell continues to work in theatre and television in both the UK and the US.

David Gyasi

David Gyasi is known for his roles in the films ‘Interstellar’ and ‘Cloud Atlas’. He also starred in the series ‘Containment’ and ‘Carnival Row’. The actor appeared in the Netflix political drama ‘The Diplomat’. Gyasi has a reputation for delivering strong performances in science fiction and dramatic roles.

Richard Ayoade

Richard Ayoade is famous for his role as Maurice Moss in the comedy series ‘The IT Crowd’. He has directed films such as ‘Submarine’ and ‘The Double’. The actor has provided voices for characters in ‘The Mandalorian’ and ‘The Bad Guys’. Ayoade is a well known comedian and television presenter in the United Kingdom.

Noel Clarke

Noel Clarke is known for his role as Mickey Smith in ‘Doctor Who’. He wrote and starred in the film trilogy starting with ‘Kidulthood’. The actor also appeared in the film ‘Star Trek Into Darkness’. Clarke has been a prolific producer and director within the British film industry.

Kobna Holdbrook-Smith

Kobna Holdbrook-Smith won an Olivier Award for his portrayal of Ike Turner in ‘Tina The Tina Turner Musical’. He has appeared in films like ‘Mary Poppins Returns’ and ‘Paddington 2’. The actor also had a role in the Marvel film ‘Doctor Strange’. He is recognized for his extensive work in musical theatre and classical drama.

Charles Venn

Charles Venn is known for his roles in British series such as ‘Casualty’ and ‘EastEnders’. He appeared in the Hollywood film ‘The Dark Knight’ as a bodyguard. The actor also starred in the series ‘Dream Team’ and ‘Footballers’ Wives’. Venn has been a consistent presence on British television for many years.

Tosin Cole

Tosin Cole is best known for playing Ryan Sinclair in ‘Doctor Who’. He also starred in the series ’61st Street’ and appeared in the film ‘Till’. The actor had a role in the film ‘Bob Marley One Love’ as Tyrone Downie. Cole began his career in the British series ‘The Cut’ and ‘Hollyoaks’.

Abubakar Salim

Abubakar Salim is known for his role as Father in the science fiction series ‘Raised by Wolves’. He also provided the voice and motion capture for Bayek in the video game ‘Assassin’s Creed Origins’. The actor has appeared in the series ‘House of the Dragon’ as Alyn of Hull. Salim founded a video game development studio called Silver Rain Games.

David Jonsson

David Jonsson earned critical acclaim for his role in the film ‘Rye Lane’. He also stars in the series ‘Industry’ as Gus Sackey. The actor appeared in the horror film ‘Alien Romulus’ as Andy. Jonsson is considered a breakout star in the contemporary British and American film scenes.

Ncuti Gatwa

Ncuti Gatwa rose to fame as Eric Effiong in the Netflix series ‘Sex Education’. He was recently cast as the Fifteenth Doctor in the long running series ‘Doctor Who’. The actor also appeared in the blockbuster film ‘Barbie’ as one of the Kens. Gatwa has won several awards for his comedic and dramatic performances.

Toheeb Jimoh

Toheeb Jimoh is best known for his role as Sam Obisanya in the comedy series ‘Ted Lasso’. He also stars in the series ‘The Power’ on Amazon Prime Video. The actor received an Emmy nomination for his work on ‘Ted Lasso’. Jimoh has quickly become a recognizable face in international television.

Kola Bokinni

Kola Bokinni plays the character Isaac McAdoo in the series ‘Ted Lasso’. He also appeared in the series ‘Top Boy’ and the ‘Black Mirror’ episode ‘Men Against Fire’. The actor is known for his work in both British drama and international comedy. Bokinni continues to expand his career with roles in major television productions.

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