African-American Actors Who Are Over 6 Feet Tall

The film industry often prizes actors with a significant physical presence to fill demanding and authoritative roles. Many of the most celebrated performers in Hollywood stand well above the average height which helps them dominate the screen in action and drama alike. This collection of talent features prominent African-American men who have established successful careers while measuring at least six feet and one inch in height. These individuals have used their stature and skill to portray a diverse range of characters across various genres.

Winston Duke

Winston Duke gained significant recognition for his role as M’Baku in the ‘Black Panther’ film series within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. He stands at a height of six feet and five inches and frequently uses his size to portray powerful and imposing characters. The actor also starred in the psychological horror film ‘Us’ as a protective father dealing with a terrifying situation. He received his formal training at the Yale School of Drama which prepared him for a variety of roles on stage and screen. His height was also an asset during his time playing collegiate sports before he committed to an acting career.

Dennis Haysbert

Dennis Haysbert is widely recognized for his authoritative voice and his role as President David Palmer in the hit series ’24’. He stands at six feet and five inches and often plays characters that require a strong sense of leadership. Many viewers also know him as the spokesperson for Allstate insurance where his stature and voice provide a sense of reliability. His career includes memorable performances in films like ‘Major League’ and ‘Far from Heaven’. He has maintained a steady presence in both film and television for several decades.

Tyler Perry

Tyler Perry is a prolific filmmaker and actor who stands at six feet and five inches tall. He is most famous for creating and portraying the character Madea in a long running series of plays and films. Beyond his comedic work he has appeared in dramatic roles in movies such as ‘Gone Girl’ and ‘Alex Cross’. Perry also owns his own major film studio in Atlanta where he produces a vast amount of content for television and cinema. His physical height often makes him a standout figure during red carpet events and public appearances.

Bill Duke

Bill Duke is a veteran actor and director who stands at six feet and four inches. He became well known for his roles in classic action films such as ‘Predator’ and ‘Commando’ during the nineteen eighties. His large frame and intense gaze allowed him to play formidable characters alongside some of the biggest action stars in history. In addition to his acting work he has directed numerous films including ‘A Rage in Harlem’ and ‘Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit’. He remains a respected figure in the industry for both his on screen performances and his work behind the camera.

Boris Kodjoe

Boris Kodjoe is an actor and former fashion model who measures six feet and four inches in height. He rose to fame starring in the television series ‘Soul Food’ and later joined the cast of ‘Station 19’. His athletic build and height helped him start his career in the fashion industry before he successfully transitioned into full time acting. He has also appeared in several films including ‘Brown Sugar’ and ‘Resident Evil: Afterlife’. Kodjoe continues to be a prominent leading man in various television dramas and romantic comedies.

Harry Lennix

Harry Lennix is a distinguished actor who stands at six feet and four inches tall. He is well known for his role as Harold Cooper on the long running NBC series ‘The Blacklist’. His career spans several decades and includes significant roles in films like ‘The Five Heartbeats’ and ‘Man of Steel’. Lennix often portrays high ranking officials or intellectual characters who benefit from his commanding physical presence and deep voice. He is also a highly trained stage actor who has performed in numerous Shakespearean plays.

Louis Gossett Jr.

Louis Gossett Jr. was a legendary actor who stood six feet and four inches tall during his long and storied career. He became the first African-American man to win the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in ‘An Officer and a Gentleman’. His performance as a tough drill instructor remains one of the most iconic portrayals in cinema history. He also earned an Emmy Award for his work in the groundbreaking miniseries ‘Roots’. Throughout his life he used his impressive stature to bring gravitas to every role he inhabited.

Danny Glover

Danny Glover is an actor and activist who stands at six feet and four inches. He is best known for starring as Roger Murtaugh in the ‘Lethal Weapon’ film franchise alongside Mel Gibson. His career includes a wide variety of roles in acclaimed movies such as ‘The Color Purple’ and ‘To Sleep with Anger’. Glover has often used his celebrity platform to advocate for various social and political causes around the world. His tall frame and expressive face have made him a beloved figure in international cinema for over forty years.

Henry Simmons

Henry Simmons is an actor who measures six feet and four inches in height. He gained widespread popularity for his role as Alphonso Mack Mackenzie in the Marvel series ‘Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.’. Before his work in the superhero genre he was a series regular on the long running police drama ‘NYPD Blue’. His physical fitness and height often lead to him being cast as law enforcement officers or heroic figures. He continues to work steadily in television and film while maintaining a strong presence in the industry.

Terry Crews

Terry Crews is an actor and former professional football player who stands at six feet and three inches. He is widely celebrated for his comedic roles in shows like ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’ and ‘Everybody Hates Chris’. His muscular physique and height are often used for comedic effect or in high octane action films like ‘The Expendables’. Beyond acting he has served as a host for ‘America’s Got Talent’ and has written several books about his life experiences. His infectious energy and physical presence have made him a household name across multiple media platforms.

Mike Colter

Mike Colter is best known for his portrayal of the indestructible hero in the Marvel series ‘Luke Cage’. He stands at six feet and three inches and possesses a powerful physical build that suited the role of a superhero perfectly. He has also starred in the critically acclaimed supernatural drama series ‘Evil’ as a priest in training. His career includes roles in major films like ‘Million Dollar Baby’ and ‘Zero Dark Thirty’. Colter often plays calm and collected characters who possess a hidden strength.

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II is a rising star in Hollywood who stands at six feet and three inches. He won an Emmy Award for his role as Cal Abar in the limited series ‘Watchmen’. The actor has appeared in major blockbusters including ‘Aquaman’ where he played the villainous Black Manta. He also took on the iconic role of Morpheus in ‘The Matrix Resurrections’ and starred in the horror sequel ‘Candyman’. His background in architecture and his physical stature give him a unique presence in every project he joins.

Wood Harris

Wood Harris is a talented actor who measures six feet and three inches in height. He is most famous for his portrayal of the drug kingpin Avon Barksdale in the legendary HBO series ‘The Wire’. He also delivered a memorable performance as Julius Campbell in the beloved sports film ‘Remember the Titans’. Harris has appeared in the ‘Creed’ film series as a boxing trainer and in the musical drama ‘Empire’. His ability to play both gritty and sympathetic characters has earned him a loyal following throughout his career.

Keith David

Keith David is an actor and voice artist who stands at six feet and three inches. He has appeared in numerous classic films such as ‘The Thing’ and ‘Platoon’ where his height and deep voice were notable features. David is also highly sought after for his voice work in animated series and video games including the ‘Halo’ franchise. He recently starred in the series ‘Greenleaf’ as a powerful bishop leading a large congregation. His long career is marked by a consistent ability to bring authority and elegance to his performances.

Delroy Lindo

Delroy Lindo is a highly respected actor who stands at six feet and three inches. He has collaborated frequently with director Spike Lee on films such as ‘Malcolm X’ and ‘Da 5 Bloods’. His performance in ‘Da 5 Bloods’ received widespread critical acclaim and several award nominations. Lindo also starred in the legal drama ‘The Good Fight’ and the crime thriller ‘Get Shorty’. His tall stature and intense delivery often make him the focal point of the scenes in which he appears.

Mustafa Shakir

Mustafa Shakir is an actor and musician who measures six feet and three inches in height. He gained significant attention for his role as the villain Bushmaster in the second season of ‘Luke Cage’. He also appeared as Jet Black in the live action adaptation of ‘Cowboy Bebop’ on Netflix. His career includes a recurring role in the drama series ‘The Deuce’ which explores the rise of the adult film industry. Shakir often incorporates his physical fitness and commanding presence into his diverse acting roles.

Corey Hawkins

Corey Hawkins is a versatile actor who stands at six feet and three inches. He first rose to prominence portraying Dr. Dre in the biographical film ‘Straight Outta Compton’. He later took on the lead role in the action series ’24: Legacy’ and appeared in the monster movie ‘Kong: Skull Island’. Hawkins has also showcased his musical talents in the film adaptation of the Broadway hit ‘In the Heights’. He is a graduate of the Juilliard School and is known for his dedication to both stage and screen.

Samuel L. Jackson

Samuel L. Jackson is one of the highest grossing actors of all time and stands at six feet and two inches. He is famous for his frequent collaborations with director Quentin Tarantino in films like ‘Pulp Fiction’ and ‘The Hateful Eight’. Jackson is also a core member of the Marvel Cinematic Universe where he plays the director of S.H.I.E.L.D. Nick Fury. His career spans hundreds of roles across every imaginable genre from action to animation. His distinct voice and tall frame have made him one of the most recognizable people in the world.

Morgan Freeman

Morgan Freeman is an iconic actor and narrator who stands at six feet and two inches. He won an Academy Award for his role in ‘Million Dollar Baby’ and has been nominated for several others including for ‘The Shawshank Redemption’. His calm demeanor and deep resonant voice have led to him playing God and the President of the United States multiple times. Freeman began his career in theater and on the educational show ‘The Electric Company’. He is widely considered one of the greatest living actors in modern cinema.

James Earl Jones

James Earl Jones was a legendary performer who stood six feet and two inches tall. He is world famous for providing the voice of Darth Vader in the ‘Star Wars’ franchise and Mufasa in ‘The Lion King’. His physical acting career includes an Oscar nominated performance in ‘The Great White Hope’ and a role in ‘Field of Dreams’. He was a member of the elite group of EGOT winners having earned Emmy Grammy Oscar and Tony awards. His presence on Broadway and in film was defined by his incredible vocal power and regal stature.

Will Smith

Will Smith is a global superstar who measures six feet and two inches in height. He first found fame as a rapper and the star of the sitcom ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’. He successfully transitioned into a major movie star with blockbusters like ‘Independence Day’ and ‘Men in Black’. Smith won an Academy Award for his portrayal of Richard Williams in the biographical drama ‘King Richard’. He has maintained his status as a leading man for over three decades through a mix of action comedy and drama.

Forest Whitaker

Forest Whitaker is an acclaimed actor and director who stands at six feet and two inches. He won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his terrifying and brilliant portrayal of Idi Amin in ‘The Last King of Scotland’. His career includes significant roles in ‘Platoon’ and ‘Ghost Dog: The Way of the Samurai’. He currently stars in the series ‘Godfather of Harlem’ as the real life crime boss Bumpy Johnson. Whitaker is known for his deep immersion into his characters and his soft spoken yet powerful delivery.

Lance Reddick

Lance Reddick was a distinguished actor who stood six feet and two inches tall. He was best known for his roles in high profile television series such as ‘The Wire’ and ‘Fringe’. In film he played the elegant hotel concierge Charon in the ‘John Wick’ franchise. Reddick was also a talented musician and provided his voice and likeness to several popular video games including ‘Destiny’. His characters were often characterized by their professionalism and a quiet but intense authority.

Colman Domingo

Colman Domingo is a versatile actor and playwright who stands at six feet and two inches. He gained widespread recognition for his role as Victor Strand in the series ‘Fear the Walking Dead’. He received an Academy Award nomination for his lead performance in the film ‘Rustin’ where he played civil rights activist Bayard Rustin. Domingo has also appeared in the drama series ‘Euphoria’ and films such as ‘Lincoln’. His tall frame and sophisticated style have made him a standout talent in both theater and film.

Jesse L. Martin

Jesse L. Martin is an actor and singer who measures six feet and two inches in height. He is well known for his long tenure as Detective Ed Green on the procedural drama ‘Law and Order’. Martin also originated the role of Tom Collins in the Broadway musical ‘Rent’ and reprised it in the film version. He played the character Joe West for several seasons on the superhero series ‘The Flash’. His background in musical theater often informs his rhythmic and engaging acting performances.

Mykelti Williamson

Mykelti Williamson is an actor who stands at six feet and two inches tall. He is most famous for his role as Benjamin Buford Bubba Blue in the classic film ‘Forrest Gump’. His career includes appearances in ‘Con Air’ and ‘Heat’ as well as a significant role in the film adaptation of ‘Fences’. He has also been a regular on television series like ‘Justified’ and ‘Chicago P.D.’. Williamson has a long history of playing loyal and hardworking characters who leave a lasting impression on the audience.

Billy Brown

Billy Brown is an actor who measures six feet and two inches in height. He is best known for his role as Nate Lahey on the legal thriller series ‘How to Get Away with Murder’. He has also had recurring roles in popular shows such as ‘Dexter’ and ‘Sons of Anarchy’. His deep voice and athletic physique have led to many roles in the crime and drama genres. Brown has also provided voice work for several commercials and animated projects throughout his career.

Nnamdi Asomugha

Nnamdi Asomugha is a former professional football player turned actor who stands at six feet and two inches. After a successful career in the NFL he transitioned into the entertainment industry as both a performer and a producer. He starred in and produced the film ‘Crown Heights’ which won the Audience Award at the Sundance Film Festival. He also appeared alongside Anne Hathaway in the thriller ‘The Good Nurse’ and in the romance ‘Sylvie’s Love’. Asomugha has quickly established himself as a serious talent in the independent film world.

Michael James Shaw

Michael James Shaw is an actor who stands at six feet and two inches tall. He gained significant fame for playing the character Mercer in the final season of ‘The Walking Dead’. He also appeared as the villainous Corvus Glaive in the films ‘Avengers: Infinity War’ and ‘Avengers: Endgame’. His height and physical training allow him to excel in roles that involve complex stunts and combat. Shaw has also worked on the adventure series ‘Blood and Treasure’ where he played a recurring character.

Frankie Faison

Frankie Faison is a veteran actor who measures six feet and two inches in height. He is one of the few actors to appear in the first four films based on the Hannibal Lecter novels including ‘The Silence of the Lambs’. He is also well known for his role as Commissioner Ervin Burrell on the HBO series ‘The Wire’. Faison has appeared in comedies like ‘Coming to America’ and dramas such as ‘Banshee’. His consistent work in the industry has made him a familiar face to audiences of all ages.

Mahershala Ali

Mahershala Ali is a highly decorated actor who stands at six feet and two inches. He has won two Academy Awards for Best Supporting Actor for his roles in ‘Moonlight’ and ‘Green Book’. His career includes a leading role in the third season of ‘True Detective’ and a villainous turn in the series ‘Luke Cage’. He has also been cast as the titular vampire hunter in the upcoming Marvel film ‘Blade’. Ali is known for his quiet intensity and his ability to convey deep emotion with minimal dialogue.

Djimon Hounsou

Djimon Hounsou is an actor and model who measures six feet and two inches in height. He received Academy Award nominations for his roles in ‘In America’ and ‘Blood Diamond’. He first gained major attention for his performance in ‘Amistad’ directed by Steven Spielberg. Hounsou has also appeared in several large scale franchises including ‘Gladiator’ and ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’. His physical presence and powerful acting style have made him a prominent figure in international cinema.

Denzel Washington

Denzel Washington is a legendary actor and filmmaker who stands at six feet and one inch. He has won two Academy Awards for his performances in ‘Glory’ and ‘Training Day’. Washington is known for his powerful portrayals of real life figures such as Malcolm X and Steve Biko. His career includes a long list of successful films like ‘Fences’ and ‘The Equalizer’ series. He is widely regarded as one of the most talented and influential actors of his generation.

Michael Jai White

Michael Jai White is an actor and martial artist who stands at six feet and one inch. He was the first African-American to portray a major comic book superhero in a film when he starred in ‘Spawn’. He also wrote and starred in the cult classic action comedy ‘Black Dynamite’. White has appeared in ‘The Dark Knight’ and several martial arts films where he performs his own stunts. His physical skills and height make him a formidable presence in the action genre.

Blair Underwood

Blair Underwood is an actor who stands at six feet and one inch tall. He first rose to fame on the legal drama ‘L.A. Law’ and has since maintained a steady career in television. He has appeared in shows such as ‘Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.’ and ‘Dear White People’. Underwood has also performed on Broadway and received a Tony Award nomination for his work. His polished presence and height have made him a popular choice for playing professional and romantic lead characters.

Shemar Moore

Shemar Moore is an actor and former fashion model who stands at six feet and one inch. He is best known for his long running roles on ‘Criminal Minds’ and as the lead in the action series ‘S.W.A.T.’. He also spent many years on the daytime soap opera ‘The Young and the Restless’. Moore has a large and dedicated fan base and is known for his physical fitness and charismatic personality. He continues to be a major star in the world of television procedurals.

Charles Michael Davis

Charles Michael Davis is an actor and director who measures six feet and one inch in height. He is most famous for his role as Marcel Gerard in the supernatural series ‘The Originals’. He has also been a series regular on ‘Younger’ and appeared in ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. Before acting he worked as a model for several major brands which helped him enter the entertainment industry. Davis has also directed episodes of the television shows in which he has starred.

Aldis Hodge

Aldis Hodge is a talented actor who stands at six feet and one inch. He is well known for his role as Alec Hardison on the series ‘Leverage’ and its recent revival. He also played Hawkman in the DC superhero film ‘Black Adam’ and starred in the biographical drama ‘Straight Outta Compton’. Hodge is a skilled watchmaker and designer in addition to his successful acting career. His athletic build and height have helped him transition from child acting into adult leading roles.

Robert Wisdom

Robert Wisdom is an actor who stands at six feet and one inch tall. He is best known for his role as Howard Bunny Colvin in the critically acclaimed series ‘The Wire’. His career includes recurring roles in ‘Prison Break’ and the dark comedy series ‘Barry’. He has also appeared in films like ‘Ray’ and ‘The Dark Knight Rises’. Wisdom often plays characters with a strong moral compass or a high level of professional expertise.

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