Black Stars Who Are Breaking Barriers in the Sci-Fi and Fantasy Genres

The landscape of science fiction and fantasy has undergone a profound transformation as Black actors take on pivotal roles that challenge traditional narratives. From sprawling space operas to gritty superhero universes, these performers are moving beyond secondary characters to lead major franchises and original stories. Their presence has not only increased visibility but also introduced diverse cultural perspectives to genres that were historically homogeneous. This shift reflects a growing demand for inclusive storytelling that resonates with a global audience. The following stars have redefined what it means to be a hero, a villain, or an explorer in the realms of the extraordinary.

John Boyega

John Boyega rose to international prominence as Finn in the ‘Star Wars’ sequel trilogy, starting with ‘The Force Awakens’. He portrayed a stormtrooper who defects from the First Order to join the Resistance, a pivotal role that challenged traditional casting norms in the franchise. Boyega also starred as Moses in the cult sci-fi hit ‘Attack the Block’, where he defended a South London housing estate from an alien invasion. His work in the ‘Pacific Rim’ sequel further solidified his status as a leading figure in high-budget genre films. He continues to advocate for diverse storytelling and better representation within major cinematic universes.

Lupita Nyong’o

Lupita Nyong’o made a significant impact in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Nakia in ‘Black Panther’ and ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’. She also provided the motion-capture performance and voice for the ancient, Force-sensitive Maz Kanata in the ‘Star Wars’ sequel trilogy. In the psychological horror-thriller ‘Us’, she delivered a dual performance that explored themes of identity through a terrifying sci-fi lens. Nyong’o’s involvement in these projects has helped bring nuanced, powerful Black female characters to the forefront of speculative fiction. Her career demonstrates a versatile ability to navigate both live-action and digital performance within the genre.

Chadwick Boseman

The late Chadwick Boseman became a global icon for his portrayal of King T’Challa in ‘Black Panther’, a role that redefined the superhero archetype. His performance brought a regal dignity and depth to the first major Black superhero lead in a modern blockbuster era. Boseman appeared in several ‘Avengers’ films, helping to steer the narrative arc of the most successful film franchise in history. Beyond the Marvel universe, he explored the limits of endurance and leadership in a world of high-stakes fantasy and action. His legacy remains a cornerstone of the movement toward inclusive representation in genre cinema.

Danai Gurira

Danai Gurira is widely recognized for her role as Michonne in the long-running series ‘The Walking Dead’, where she mastered the art of the katana-wielding survivor. She transitioned to the big screen as Okoye, the leader of the Dora Milaje, in ‘Black Panther’ and subsequent ‘Avengers’ films. Gurira’s characters are defined by their immense physical strength, tactical brilliance, and unwavering loyalty. Her portrayal of Okoye has become a symbol of female empowerment within the superhero genre. She has successfully balanced television and film, maintaining a dominant presence in genre storytelling.

Letitia Wright

Letitia Wright gained worldwide acclaim for her role as Shuri, the brilliant inventor and princess of Wakanda, in ‘Black Panther’. Her character broke stereotypes by depicting a young Black woman as the leading scientific mind in the world’s most technologically advanced nation. Wright reprised the role in ‘Avengers: Infinity War’ and took on the mantle of the protector in ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’. She also starred in the ‘Black Mirror’ episode ‘Black Museum’, further showcasing her range in the sci-fi genre. Her work continues to inspire a new generation of viewers to pursue interests in science and technology.

Zoe Saldaña

Zoe Saldaña is the only actor to have starred in three of the five highest-grossing films of all time, all of which are in the sci-fi or fantasy genres. She portrayed Neytiri in the ‘Avatar’ franchise, utilizing groundbreaking motion-capture technology to bring the Na’vi to life. In ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’, she played Gamora, the deadliest woman in the galaxy and a key member of the cosmic superhero team. Saldaña also took on the iconic role of Nyota Uhura in the modern ‘Star Trek’ film reboots. Her career is a testament to her dominance and longevity within major speculative fiction franchises.

Idris Elba

Idris Elba has become a staple of genre cinema, notably playing the all-seeing Heimdall in the ‘Thor’ films and the wider Marvel Cinematic Universe. He led the sci-fi action epic ‘Pacific Rim’ as Stacker Pentecost, delivering an iconic speech about “canceling the apocalypse.” Elba also appeared as the villainous Krall in ‘Star Trek Beyond’ and voiced Knuckles in the ‘Sonic the Hedgehog’ cinematic universe. In ‘The Dark Tower’, he brought Stephen King’s Gunslinger to life, merging elements of fantasy and western. His commanding screen presence has made him a go-to actor for complex, high-stakes roles.

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II has quickly ascended the ranks of genre stars with his role as Black Manta in ‘Aquaman’ and its sequel. He earned critical acclaim for his portrayal of Cal Abar and Doctor Manhattan in the ‘Watchmen’ limited series on HBO. Abdul-Mateen II also stepped into the iconic role of Morpheus in ‘The Matrix Resurrections’, offering a new interpretation of the legendary character. His work often explores the intersection of humanity and superhuman ability. He is frequently cited as one of the most versatile actors working in modern science fiction and fantasy.

Sonequa Martin-Green

Sonequa Martin-Green made history as Captain Michael Burnham in ‘Star Trek: Discovery’, becoming the first Black woman to lead a series in the franchise. Her character’s journey from a disgraced officer to a starship captain provided a deep, serialized exploration of the ‘Star Trek’ ethos. Before her time in space, she was a fan favorite as Sasha Williams in ‘The Walking Dead’, battling through the zombie apocalypse. Martin-Green’s work has been praised for its emotional depth and physical intensity. She remains a trailblazing figure in the expansion of the ‘Star Trek’ universe.

Ncuti Gatwa

Ncuti Gatwa made television history by becoming the first Black actor to lead ‘Doctor Who’ as the Fifteenth Doctor. His casting represents a significant milestone for the long-running British sci-fi series, which has been an institution since 1963. Before stepping into the TARDIS, he gained international fame for his role in ‘Sex Education’, demonstrating a charismatic energy that fits the Doctor’s eccentric nature. Gatwa’s tenure marks a new era of modernization and diversity for one of the most beloved characters in science fiction. He continues to receive praise for his groundbreaking approach to the iconic Time Lord.

Anthony Mackie

Anthony Mackie has become a central figure in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, initially appearing as Sam Wilson, also known as the Falcon. In the series ‘The Falcon and the Winter Soldier’, his character grappled with the legacy of the shield before officially becoming the new Captain America. Mackie has also ventured into other sci-fi projects, including the lead role in the second season of ‘Altered Carbon’. He starred in the action-fantasy series ‘Twisted Metal’, based on the popular video game franchise. His transition to a titular lead reflects the evolving landscape of superhero leadership.

Jonathan Majors

Jonathan Majors made a significant impact as the multi-faceted antagonist Kang the Conqueror and his variants in ‘Loki’ and ‘Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania’. His performance was noted for bringing a Shakespearean gravity to the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s multiversal threats. Majors also starred in ‘Lovecraft Country’, a series that blended historical drama with cosmic horror and fantasy elements. The show explored the terrors of Jim Crow America alongside monsters inspired by H.P. Lovecraft. His ability to anchor high-concept genre stories with grounded emotional performances has been widely recognized.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson redefined the character of Valkyrie in ‘Thor: Ragnarok’, bringing a gritty, seasoned perspective to the Asgardian warrior. She reprised the role in ‘Avengers: Endgame’ and ‘Thor: Love and Thunder’, where her character eventually became the King of New Asgard. Thompson also starred as Charlotte Hale in the intricate sci-fi series ‘Westworld’, navigating complex themes of artificial intelligence and consciousness. In ‘Men in Black: International’, she took on the role of Agent M, expanding the classic sci-fi comedy franchise. Her career is characterized by choosing roles that subvert traditional gender and genre expectations.

Michael B. Jordan

Michael B. Jordan delivered a powerful performance as Erik Killmonger in ‘Black Panther’, a character often cited as one of the best villains in modern cinema. He also took on the role of Johnny Storm, the Human Torch, in the 2015 ‘Fantastic Four’ film. Jordan starred in and executive produced the HBO adaptation of ‘Fahrenheit 451’, a classic dystopian sci-fi tale. Beyond acting, he has shown a deep interest in the genre by producing projects like ‘Static Shock’ and ‘Raising Dion’. His influence extends to both the screen and the creative direction of genre-bending stories.

Winston Duke

Winston Duke became a breakout star for his portrayal of M’Baku, the leader of the Jabari Tribe, in the ‘Black Panther’ films. His character provided a distinct perspective on Wakandan culture and became a fan favorite for his humor and strength. Duke also appeared in ‘Avengers: Infinity War’ and ‘Avengers: Endgame’, participating in the franchise’s largest battle sequences. In the sci-fi thriller ‘Us’, he played a dual role that showcased his ability to handle both horror and comedy. He continues to be a prominent voice in the push for more diverse representation in speculative fiction.

Daniel Kaluuya

Daniel Kaluuya gained international attention for his lead role in the genre-defying ‘Get Out’, which blended social commentary with psychological horror. He furthered his sci-fi credentials as W’Kabi in ‘Black Panther’, playing a key role in the political landscape of Wakanda. Kaluuya also starred in the ‘Black Mirror’ episode ‘Fifteen Million Merits’, a dystopian critique of consumerism and entertainment. More recently, he led Jordan Peele’s ‘Nope’, a film that re-imagined the classic UFO encounter through a modern, cinematic lens. His work consistently explores deep social themes through the framework of speculative storytelling.

Keke Palmer

Keke Palmer delivered a high-energy lead performance in ‘Nope’, playing a horse trainer attempting to capture footage of an unidentified flying object. She also voiced the character Izzy Hawthorne in the ‘Toy Story’ spin-off ‘Lightyear’, a sci-fi adventure set in the far reaches of space. Palmer’s early career included the genre-tinged ‘Scream Queens’, where she navigated a stylized world of horror and comedy. Her recent work in major sci-fi productions has solidified her status as a versatile talent capable of anchoring large-scale spectacles. She continues to bring a vibrant and relatable presence to the genre.

Regina King

Regina King starred as Angela Abar, also known as Sister Night, in the critically acclaimed ‘Watchmen’ limited series. Her performance earned her an Emmy Award and was praised for its depth, vulnerability, and physical prowess. The series used the superhero genre to explore complex themes of racial trauma and American history. King’s involvement in the project helped elevate it to a cultural phenomenon that transcended typical comic book adaptations. She remains one of the most respected figures in television, frequently choosing projects that challenge societal norms.

Caleb McLaughlin

Caleb McLaughlin rose to fame as Lucas Sinclair in the global phenomenon ‘Stranger Things’, a series that pays homage to 1980s sci-fi and horror. His character has grown from a skeptical child to a brave young man facing supernatural threats from the Upside Down. McLaughlin has been a consistent presence in the show’s ensemble, contributing to its massive success on Netflix. Outside of the series, he has explored other roles but remains best known for his contribution to modern sci-fi television. His work has helped define the coming-of-age experience within a fantastical setting.

Javicia Leslie

Javicia Leslie made history by becoming the first Black actress to portray Batwoman in a live-action television series. She took over the lead role in the second season of ‘Batwoman’ on The CW, playing Ryan Wilder, an original character who finds her purpose in the cowl. Leslie’s portrayal brought a new socioeconomic perspective to the gritty world of Gotham City. She also participated in the ‘Armageddon’ crossover event within the Arrowverse, interacting with other iconic DC heroes. Her presence in the role was a significant moment for LGBTQ+ and Black representation in superhero media.

Dominique Thorne

Dominique Thorne made her debut in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Riri Williams in ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’. Her character is a teenage genius who builds her own suit of advanced armor, paralleling the legacy of Iron Man. Thorne is set to headline her own Disney+ series, ‘Ironheart’, which will further explore her journey as a young hero and inventor. Her role is part of a new wave of diverse characters taking center stage in the MCU’s fifth and sixth phases. She brings a fresh, youthful energy to the technological side of the superhero genre.

Teyonah Parris

Teyonah Parris joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as the adult Monica Rambeau in the experimental series ‘WandaVision’. Her character gained superhuman abilities after passing through a mystical barrier, a transformation that led her to a lead role in the film ‘The Marvels’. Parris also starred in the satirical sci-fi film ‘They Cloned Tyrone’, which blends elements of blaxploitation and conspiracy thrillers. Her work in these projects showcases her ability to handle both large-scale action and nuanced, genre-bending narratives. She is quickly becoming a central figure in modern science fiction cinema.

Lashana Lynch

Lashana Lynch made a significant impact as Maria Rambeau, a skilled pilot and mother to Monica Rambeau, in ‘Captain Marvel’. She later appeared as a variant of Captain Marvel in ‘Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness’, showcasing her character’s power on a cosmic scale. Lynch also broke barriers in the action genre as Nomi in ‘No Time to Die’, taking over the 007 designation. Her roles often emphasize strength, tactical expertise, and the breaking of traditional glass ceilings. She continues to be a high-profile actress in both the MCU and major action-fantasy franchises.

Mahershala Ali

Mahershala Ali is set to lead the ‘Blade’ reboot for the Marvel Cinematic Universe, taking on the role of the iconic vampire hunter. He previously appeared in ‘Luke Cage’ as the sophisticated yet brutal villain Cornell “Cottonmouth” Stokes. Ali also provided the voice for the Prowler in the Academy Award-winning ‘Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse’. In the sci-fi film ‘Alita: Battle Angel’, he played Vector, a high-ranking official in a dystopian future city. His involvement in these projects brings an Academy Award-winning level of gravitas to the genre.

Mike Colter

Mike Colter became a cornerstone of the Marvel-Netflix era as the titular character in ‘Luke Cage’. He portrayed a man with unbreakable skin and superhuman strength, using his abilities to protect the neighborhood of Harlem. Colter also appeared in ‘The Defenders’ and ‘Jessica Jones’, forming a key part of the street-level hero ensemble. Beyond the MCU, he stars in the supernatural drama ‘Evil’, which explores the intersection of science and religion through a genre lens. His portrayal of Luke Cage remains a definitive example of a Black superhero grounded in real-world community issues.

Don Cheadle

Don Cheadle has played Colonel James “Rhodey” Rhodes, also known as War Machine, in the Marvel Cinematic Universe since ‘Iron Man 2’. His character is a high-ranking military officer who balances his duty to the government with his loyalty to the Avengers. Cheadle has appeared in numerous MCU films, including the record-breaking ‘Avengers: Endgame’, and the series ‘Secret Invasion’. He is slated to lead his own film, ‘Armor Wars’, which will explore the legacy of Stark technology. Cheadle’s long-standing presence in the franchise has made him one of the most recognizable Black stars in sci-fi history.

Samuel L. Jackson

Samuel L. Jackson is a legendary figure in genre cinema, famously portraying Nick Fury, the director of S.H.I.E.L.D., in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. He has appeared in over a dozen MCU projects, serving as the connective tissue for the franchise since its inception. Jackson also played the Jedi Master Mace Windu in the ‘Star Wars’ prequel trilogy, becoming the first actor to wield a purple lightsaber. His genre filmography includes roles in ‘Jurassic Park’, ‘Unbreakable’, and ‘Kong: Skull Island’. He remains one of the most prolific and influential actors in the history of science fiction and fantasy.

Billy Dee Williams

Billy Dee Williams became a pioneer for Black actors in space opera as Lando Calrissian in ‘The Empire Strikes Back’ and ‘Return of the Jedi’. His character brought a sense of charm, sophistication, and moral ambiguity to the ‘Star Wars’ universe. Decades later, he returned to the role in ‘The Rise of Skywalker’, much to the delight of longtime fans. Williams also played Harvey Dent in the 1989 ‘Batman’ film, contributing to the early foundation of modern superhero cinema. His legacy as Lando remains a defining moment for Black representation in major film franchises.

Nichelle Nichols

The late Nichelle Nichols was a true trailblazer for her role as Lieutenant Nyota Uhura in the original ‘Star Trek’ series. Her presence on the bridge of the Enterprise was one of the first times a Black woman was depicted in a position of authority on television. She famously shared one of the first interracial kisses on American television, a moment that became a milestone for civil rights and media. Nichols later worked with NASA to recruit minority and female astronauts, bridging the gap between sci-fi and real-world science. Her impact on the genre and society at large is immeasurable.

LeVar Burton

LeVar Burton is beloved for his portrayal of Lieutenant Commander Geordi La Forge in ‘Star Trek: The Next Generation’. His character, who served as the Chief Engineer of the Enterprise-D, was a brilliant technician and a loyal friend. Geordi’s VISOR became an iconic piece of sci-fi technology, representing a unique exploration of disability and enhancement in the future. Burton reprised the role in several films and the third season of ‘Star Trek: Picard’. His work has inspired countless viewers to take an interest in engineering and space exploration.

Zazie Beetz

Zazie Beetz gained widespread recognition for her role as Domino in ‘Deadpool 2’, where she portrayed a mutant with the power of luck. Her character was noted for her cool demeanor and unique visual design, differing from previous comic iterations. Beetz also starred as Sophie Dumond in the psychological thriller ‘Joker’, which offered a grounded take on the fantasy-adjacent origin story. She appeared in the ‘Black Mirror’ episode ‘Mazey Day’, further demonstrating her range within the sci-fi and horror genres. Her ability to blend humor with high-concept action has made her a sought-after talent in modern cinema.

Erin Kellyman

Erin Kellyman starred as Karli Morgenthau, the leader of the Flag Smashers, in the Marvel series ‘The Falcon and the Winter Soldier’. She also played Enfys Nest in ‘Solo: A Star Wars Story’, leading a group of sky-pirate rebels against the Galactic Empire. In the ‘Willow’ television series, she portrayed Jade, a knight-in-training, expanding her reach into the high fantasy genre. Kellyman’s roles often involve playing complex, revolutionary characters who challenge existing power structures. Her presence in major Disney franchises has established her as a rising star in speculative fiction.

Sophie Okonedo

Sophie Okonedo joined the world of high fantasy as Siuan Sanche in the adaptation of ‘The Wheel of Time’ series. Her character, the Amyrlin Seat, is a position of immense political and magical power within the show’s lore. Okonedo also appeared in the sci-fi film ‘After Earth’ and voiced characters in animated genre projects. She had a memorable role in ‘Doctor Who’ as Liz X, a future monarch of Britain. Her extensive background in theater and film brings a sophisticated gravitas to every fantastical world she inhabits.

Rosario Dawson

Rosario Dawson brought the fan-favorite character Ahsoka Tano to live-action in ‘The Mandalorian’ and ‘The Book of Boba Fett’ before leading her own series, ‘Ahsoka’. She also played a central role in the Marvel-Netflix universe as Claire Temple, appearing across ‘Daredevil’, ‘Luke Cage’, and ‘The Defenders’. Dawson’s voice work is extensive, including portraying Wonder Woman in several DC animated films. In the fantasy film ‘Haunted Mansion’, she led an ensemble cast through a supernatural adventure. Her career spans almost every major sci-fi and fantasy universe currently in production.

Daveed Diggs

Daveed Diggs starred as Andre Layton in the television adaptation of ‘Snowpiercer’, leading a class revolution aboard a perpetually moving train. His performance anchored the sci-fi series, which explored themes of social hierarchy and climate catastrophe. Diggs also provided the voice for Sebastian in the live-action ‘The Little Mermaid’, bringing a classic fantasy character to a new generation. In the Pixar film ‘Soul’, he contributed to a story that explored the metaphysical realms of the afterlife. His background in music and theater adds a unique rhythmic quality to his genre performances.

Will Smith

Will Smith was one of the first Black actors to become a dominant force in the sci-fi blockbuster era. He starred in the ‘Men in Black’ trilogy as Agent J, a role that blended comedy with alien-hunting action. Smith also led the post-apocalyptic thriller ‘I Am Legend’ and the robotic uprising story ‘I, Robot’. In ‘Independence Day’, he played a key role in defending Earth from an extraterrestrial invasion, a film that remains a staple of the genre. His massive commercial success in these films helped prove that diverse leads could carry global franchises.

Laurence Fishburne

Laurence Fishburne delivered a career-defining performance as Morpheus in ‘The Matrix’ trilogy, serving as the mentor to Neo. His portrayal of the revolutionary leader is one of the most recognizable figures in sci-fi history. Fishburne also joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Bill Foster in ‘Ant-Man and the Wasp’, a character with a history as the hero Giant-Man. In the ‘John Wick’ series, he plays the Bowery King, a role that leans into the heightened, stylized world of modern action-fantasy. His commanding voice and presence have made him a pillar of genre storytelling for decades.

Jada Pinkett Smith

Jada Pinkett Smith played Niobe, a skilled pilot and resistance leader, in ‘The Matrix Reloaded’ and ‘The Matrix Revolutions’. She reprised the role in ‘The Matrix Resurrections’, appearing as a much older, wiser version of the character. Pinkett Smith also portrayed the villainous Fish Mooney in the ‘Batman’ prequel series ‘Gotham’, where she created a unique, theatrical antagonist. Her work in these franchises has showcased her ability to lead in high-intensity, futuristic settings. She remains a significant figure in the expansion of the ‘Matrix’ lore.

Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje

Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje has appeared in several major genre franchises, including the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Algrim and Kurse in ‘Thor: The Dark World’. He also portrayed Killer Croc in the first ‘Suicide Squad’ film, utilizing heavy prosthetics to bring the DC villain to life. In the series ‘Lost’, his character Mr. Eko was a central figure in the show’s mysterious and supernatural island mythos. He also appeared in ‘Game of Thrones’ as Malko, further diversifying his work across sci-fi and fantasy. His physical presence and versatility have allowed him to inhabit a wide range of otherworldly characters.

John David Washington

John David Washington starred as the Protagonist in Christopher Nolan’s mind-bending sci-fi epic ‘Tenet’. The film required him to perform complex action sequences involving time inversion, a unique concept in modern cinema. Washington also led ‘The Creator’, a sci-fi film exploring the conflict between humanity and artificial intelligence in a war-torn future. His performances are noted for their grounded, physical realism within highly conceptual environments. He has quickly become a preferred lead for directors looking to push the boundaries of the sci-fi genre.

Gugu Mbatha-Raw

Gugu Mbatha-Raw starred as Ravonna Renslayer in the Marvel series ‘Loki’, playing a high-ranking judge in the Time Variance Authority. She also led the sci-fi film ‘Fast Color’, where she portrayed a woman with superhuman abilities on the run. In the ‘Black Mirror’ episode ‘San Junipero’, she delivered a critically acclaimed performance in a story about digital consciousness and love. Mbatha-Raw also appeared in ‘A Wrinkle in Time’ as Dr. Kate Murry, a role that blended science and fantasy. Her work often focuses on the emotional and human elements within extraordinary circumstances.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg first gained recognition as Rue in ‘The Hunger Games’, a pivotal role in the dystopian young adult franchise. She later starred in ‘The Darkest Minds’, portraying a teenager with powerful abilities in a world where children are feared. Stenberg is set to lead the ‘Star Wars’ series ‘The Acolyte’, playing a character during the final days of the High Republic era. Her casting represents a new chapter in the expansion of the ‘Star Wars’ universe on television. She continues to be a vocal advocate for intersectional representation in major media.

Kingsley Ben-Adir

Kingsley Ben-Adir appeared in the Marvel Cinematic Universe series ‘Secret Invasion’ as Gravik, the leader of a radical Skrull faction. His performance was noted for its intensity and the psychological depth he brought to the shape-shifting antagonist. Ben-Adir also had a role in the high-concept Netflix series ‘The OA’, which explored themes of interdimensional travel. In the ‘Barbie’ movie, he played one of the Kens, participating in a stylized, fantasy-adjacent world that became a global phenomenon. His rising profile includes a mix of gritty genre roles and high-profile character studies.

Zawe Ashton

Zawe Ashton portrayed the Kree revolutionary Dar-Benn in ‘The Marvels’, serving as the primary antagonist to Captain Marvel, Monica Rambeau, and Ms. Marvel. Her character sought to restore her home planet using powerful ancient artifacts, putting her at odds with the heroes. Ashton’s performance brought a fierce, vengeful energy to the cosmic side of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Outside of the MCU, she has worked in various television and film projects that touch on genre elements. Her entry into the superhero world marks a significant step in her international career.

Viola Davis

Viola Davis joined the ‘Hunger Games’ franchise as the villainous Dr. Volumnia Gaul in ‘The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’. She also portrays Amanda Waller, the ruthless director of the Suicide Squad, in the DC Extended Universe and its subsequent reboots. Davis’s Waller is known for her cold calculation and moral ambiguity, making her one of the most formidable non-superpowered characters in the genre. She also appeared in the sci-fi film ‘Ender’s Game’ as Major Gwen Anderson. Her presence brings an unmatched level of authority and intensity to every genre project she joins.

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