Black Actors Fans Say Hollywood Only Casts as Criminals

The discussion surrounding typecasting in Hollywood often highlights how certain actors are repeatedly placed in roles that mirror specific stereotypes. Many fans and critics have observed a recurring pattern where talented Black male actors are primarily offered roles as criminals or street hardened individuals. This trend spans across decades and affects both veteran performers and emerging stars in the entertainment industry. While these actors frequently deliver nuanced performances that elevate the material the frequency of such roles remains a point of contention for audiences seeking more diverse representation. The following list identifies actors who have frequently been cast in roles involving illicit activities or the criminal justice system throughout their careers.

Michael Kenneth Williams

The late actor became famous for his portrayal of Omar Little on the HBO series ‘The Wire’ where he played a robber of drug dealers. He continued to take on roles involving organized crime and high stakes operations throughout his prolific career. Fans often noted that his distinct facial scar led many directors to cast him in gritty or intimidating parts. Even in historical dramas like ‘Boardwalk Empire’ he portrayed a powerful bootlegger during the Prohibition era. He remains a highly respected figure for bringing depth and humanity to characters often dismissed by society.

Wood Harris

This actor is most recognized for his leading role as the kingpin Avon Barksdale in the critically acclaimed series ‘The Wire’. He portrayed a similar high level figure in the movie ‘Paid in Full’ which followed the lives of Harlem drug dealers. Many of his characters exist within the underworld of major American cities and grapple with the consequences of crime. He also appeared in the film ‘Empire’ playing a lethal enforcer in a gang hierarchy. His career highlights the frequent casting of certain actors in the role of the urban antagonist.

JD Williams

Known for his early work in urban dramas he played the character Bodie Broadus who rose through the ranks of a street organization in ‘The Wire’. Before that performance he portrayed a prisoner in the intense HBO series ‘Oz’ which focused on the lives of inmates. Fans have frequently pointed out that he is often selected for roles that involve the drug trade or the incarceration system. He appeared in ‘Saints and Sinners’ where he continued to play characters with complex ties to criminal activities. His career reflects the repetitive nature of casting for actors with a background in gritty television.

Bokeem Woodbine

This versatile actor has appeared in numerous roles where he plays a criminal or a menacing figure. He gained significant attention for his performance in ‘Jason’s Lyric’ and later played a soft spoken but deadly gangster in the series ‘Fargo’. Many of his early roles in the nineties involved characters on the wrong side of the law. Fans often discuss how his physical presence and intense delivery make him a favorite for directors casting villainous parts. He has expressed interest in more diverse roles while acknowledging the impact of his streetwise characters.

Clifton Powell

With a career spanning several decades he is often recognized for playing tough or morally ambiguous characters. He played a memorable role as Pinky in ‘Next Friday’ and appeared in the classic urban film ‘Menace II Society’. His filmography is filled with roles as gang leaders or individuals involved in various criminal schemes. Fans frequently cite him as an example of an actor who is almost exclusively cast in urban crime stories. He consistently delivers high energy performances that make his characters stand out in any project.

Tommy Lister Jr.

The late actor was widely known for his intimidating physique and was frequently cast as the neighborhood bully or a criminal heavy. His most famous role as Deebo in ‘Friday’ became a cultural touchstone for the street tough archetype. He played similar roles in movies like ‘The Fifth Element’ where he portrayed a galactic president but still maintained a tough exterior. Fans often felt he was limited by his appearance to playing roles that were either physically imposing or criminal in nature. His long career made him one of the most recognizable faces in the genre of urban comedy and drama.

Sticky Fingaz

Originally known as a member of the rap group Onyx he transitioned into acting with roles that mirrored the aggressive nature of his music. He starred in the television series ‘Blade’ but is often remembered for his roles in street focused films like ‘Next Day Air’. Many of his characters are involved in robberies or drug dealing plots within inner city settings. Fans have noted that his acting career has stayed close to the criminal aesthetic he established as a musician. He often brings a raw and energetic quality to the streetwise characters he portrays.

Fredro Starr

Another member of Onyx who moved into acting he found success playing characters rooted in urban struggle. He had a recurring role as a street smart individual in ‘Moesha’ and appeared in the film ‘Clockers’ as a young man involved in the drug trade. His roles often focus on the challenges and criminal elements of life in the city. Fans frequently point out that he is rarely seen in roles that do not involve some level of street culture or law breaking. He remains a prominent figure in the history of nineties urban cinema.

Hassan Johnson

This actor is best known for his role as Roland Wee Bey Brice in ‘The Wire’ where he played a loyal soldier and hitman for a drug organization. He also appeared in ‘Belly’ which is a film known for its depiction of high level criminal life. His career has been largely defined by roles that involve firearms and gang activity. Audiences often associate him with the gritty reality of street level crime dramas. He has maintained a steady career by specializing in these types of intense and authentic characters.

Jamie Hector

While he has played a detective in the series ‘Bosch’ he is most famously remembered for his role as the ruthless Marlo Stanfield in ‘The Wire’. His portrayal of a cold and calculating kingpin remains one of the most iconic criminal characters in television history. He often takes on roles that involve high level crime or characters with a dangerous edge. Fans have noted that even when he plays a law enforcement officer his previous criminal roles still define his public image. He is praised for his ability to convey menace with very few words.

Gbenga Akinnagbe

He rose to prominence playing the role of Chris Partlow who was a disciplined and terrifying enforcer in ‘The Wire’. He has appeared in other series like ‘The Deuce’ where he played a pimp operating in historical New York City. Many of his projects involve characters who navigate the dark underbelly of society. Fans often point to him as an actor who is frequently chosen for roles that require a cold and professional criminal demeanor. His performances are known for being subtle yet deeply impactful.

Anwan Glover

This actor and musician is widely recognized for his role as Slim Charles in the HBO drama ‘The Wire’. He portrayed a character who was a high level advisor and enforcer within various criminal organizations. Many of his roles draw on his personal experiences and his background in Washington D.C. street culture. Fans appreciate his authenticity but often note that he is rarely cast in roles outside of the urban crime genre. He continues to be a staple in productions that aim for a realistic portrayal of street life.

Tray Chaney

He gained fame playing the character Poot Carr in ‘The Wire’ which followed a young man through the rise and fall of a drug crew. Since that role he has appeared in several independent films and series like ‘Saints and Sinners’ that deal with criminal themes. His characters often start as low level street dealers before facing the harsh realities of their lifestyle. Fans frequently see him as an actor who is synonymous with the urban struggle depicted in early two thousands television. He has used his platform to advocate for more diverse storytelling in the industry.

Lawrence Gilliard Jr.

His performance as D’Angelo Barksdale in ‘The Wire’ established him as a talented actor capable of showing the emotional weight of criminal life. He also appeared in ‘The Walking Dead’ and ‘The Deuce’ often playing characters who are either criminals or living on the fringes of the law. Fans have observed that his career often returns to stories about the drug trade or street organizations. Despite his range he is frequently associated with characters who are trapped in cycles of crime. He is highly regarded for bringing a sense of vulnerability to these tough roles.

Tyrin Turner

This actor became a household name for his starring role as Caine in the film ‘Menace II Society’. That performance defined the archetype of a young man caught in the violent cycle of gang culture in Los Angeles. He has appeared in various music videos and films that maintain a similar street aesthetic. Fans often discuss how this single iconic role has made it difficult for him to be seen in other types of characters. He remains a legendary figure in the world of urban cinema due to his realistic portrayal of street life.

Glenn Plummer

He is a veteran actor who has appeared in numerous films that focus on urban conflict and criminal activity. His roles in ‘South Central’ and ‘Menace II Society’ cemented his reputation as an actor who can portray the complexities of street life. He often plays characters who are either involved in gangs or struggling to survive in high crime neighborhoods. Fans have noted that he is a go to actor for directors looking to add authenticity to urban dramas. His long list of credits shows a consistent pattern of being cast in these specific types of roles.

Michael Wright

Known for his intense acting style he played a memorable role in ‘The Five Heartbeats’ before moving into more criminal focused roles. He portrayed a prisoner in the series ‘Oz’ and appeared in the film ‘Sugar Hill’ as a man involved in a drug empire. His characters are often volatile and deeply involved in the underworld of crime. Fans frequently mention his performance in ‘Oz’ as a career defining moment that led to more typecasting. He is praised for his ability to play characters that are both frightening and sympathetic.

Bill Duke

This actor and director has a career that dates back to the seventies and includes many roles as a tough guy or a criminal. He appeared in ‘Predator’ and later directed and acted in films like ‘Menace II Society’ and ‘Hoodlum’. His large stature and deep voice often lead to him being cast as a high level gang leader or a powerful antagonist. Fans respect his contributions to cinema but often note that his roles are rarely outside the realm of crime or law enforcement. He remains a powerful figure in the industry with a distinct and recognizable presence.

Method Man

The Wu Tang Clan member has successfully transitioned into a full time acting career with a focus on crime dramas. He played the role of Cheese in ‘The Wire’ and currently stars in ‘Power Book II’ as a defense attorney for high level criminals. Many of his characters exist within the world of organized crime or the legal battles that surround it. Fans often discuss how his transition from rap to acting was made easier by playing characters that fit his musical persona. He has shown great versatility but remains a staple of the urban crime genre.

DMX

The late rapper and actor became a prominent figure in urban action cinema during the late nineties and early two thousands. He starred in films like ‘Belly’ where he played a high level criminal and ‘Romeo Must Die’ as a club owner with street ties. His roles were almost always characterized by a gritty realism and a connection to the criminal underworld. Fans often felt that he was perfect for these roles because of his real life experiences and intense energy. His filmography is a testament to the popularity of the street soldier archetype in Hollywood.

Andre Royo

He delivered a legendary performance as Bubbles in ‘The Wire’ playing a confidential informant and petty thief struggling with addiction. While the role was highly acclaimed it associated him deeply with the lower levels of the criminal justice system. He has since appeared in roles in ‘Empire’ and other dramas where he plays characters with questionable morals. Fans admire his ability to humanize characters that are often ignored by society. However he is frequently cited as an actor who is stuck in roles related to the street economy.

Giancarlo Esposito

While he is a highly versatile actor he has become the definitive face of the high level criminal mastermind in recent years. His portrayal of Gustavo Fring in ‘Breaking Bad’ and ‘Better Call Saul’ redefined the television villain. He has played similar authoritative and dangerous figures in ‘The Boys’ and ‘The Mandalorian’. Fans often point out that he is now the first choice for any role involving a cold and calculating antagonist. His ability to project power and menace has made him a legend in the crime drama genre.

Damson Idris

He rose to international fame playing the lead role of Franklin Saint in the series ‘Snowfall’ which depicts the rise of the crack cocaine epidemic. The role required him to transform from a young student into a ruthless drug kingpin. Fans have noted that his biggest project to date is centered entirely around the criminal life. He has appeared in other thriller and action films that often involve high stakes and illegal activities. His career is currently on an upward trajectory but remains heavily influenced by his portrayal of a legendary street figure.

Jason Mitchell

He gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of Eazy E in the biopic ‘Straight Outta Compton’. Following that success he starred in the series ‘The Chi’ where his character dealt with the complexities of life in a high crime neighborhood. He has also appeared in films like ‘Superfly’ which focus on the lifestyle of drug dealers. Fans have observed that his most prominent roles involve characters who are either in gangs or living in the thick of urban conflict. He is known for providing a grounded and realistic look at these types of individuals.

Corey Hawkins

After starring as Dr. Dre in ‘Straight Outta Compton’ he moved into various action roles that often involved high intensity situations. He appeared in ‘6 Underground’ and the series ’24 Legacy’ where he played characters navigating dangerous worlds. While he has played a variety of parts fans often associate him with the street focused beginnings of his career. He is frequently cast in roles that require a tough and resilient persona. His talent has allowed him to branch out into theater and musicals but his film career still leans toward the gritty.

Michael Beach

This veteran actor has appeared in countless television shows and films often playing characters with a tough or criminal edge. He had a notable role in ‘Third Watch’ and has appeared in ‘Saints and Sinners’ playing a man with deep ties to the underworld. Fans frequently see him in roles where he is either a criminal or a hard nosed authority figure. He is often used to bring a sense of gravity and experience to urban dramas. His long career shows a consistent demand for his ability to play morally complex men.

De’Aundre Bonds

He is well known for his roles in classic urban films like ‘The Wood’ and ‘Tales from the Hood’. He also played a memorable character in ‘Dope’ where he portrayed a man involved in the neighborhood street life. Fans often note that he is frequently cast as the unpredictable street tough or the criminal associate. His career has remained largely within the genre of urban drama and comedy. He is appreciated for his authentic delivery and his ability to represent the street culture of Los Angeles.

Isaiah Washington

Before his well known role on ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ he appeared in several films directed by Spike Lee and others that focused on urban life. He played a criminal in the movie ‘Clockers’ and has taken on similar roles in smaller independent projects. Fans have discussed how he returned to these types of gritty roles after his departure from mainstream network television. He often plays characters who are either in positions of authority or deeply involved in the streets. His career reflects the challenges of maintaining a diverse filmography in Hollywood.

Larenz Tate

He became an icon of nineties cinema with his role as O-Dog in ‘Menace II Society’ which remains one of the most famous portrayals of a young criminal. He later starred in ‘Dead Presidents’ as a man who turns to bank robbery after returning from war. More recently he has appeared in the ‘Power’ universe as a corrupt politician with criminal ties. Fans often see him as the quintessential urban lead who is frequently involved in stories about crime and survival. He has maintained a long career by balancing these roles with more romantic and comedic parts.

Allen Payne

This actor is best remembered for his role as Gee Money in the classic crime film ‘New Jack City’. He also starred in the ‘House of Payne’ series but his film career is heavily defined by his early work in urban dramas. He appeared in ‘Jason’s Lyric’ and other films that dealt with the struggles of life in high crime areas. Fans often point to his role in ‘New Jack City’ as the reason he was frequently typecast in street roles. He remains a beloved figure for his contributions to the golden era of Black cinema.

Page Kennedy

This actor has built a career playing characters that are often involved in the criminal justice system or the streets. He had a recurring role in ‘The Shield’ as a gang leader and appeared in ‘Blue Mountain State’ in a more comedic but still physical role. He frequently portrays the large and intimidating street figure in both dramas and comedies. Fans often see him as a character actor who is perfectly suited for roles involving urban conflict. He is also a successful rapper which further connects him to the street culture he often portrays.

Amin Joseph

He is widely recognized for his role as Jerome Saint in the hit series ‘Snowfall’ where he played a man heavily involved in the drug trade. His character was known for being a powerful and sometimes violent protector of his family empire. He has also appeared in other action films and series that feature criminal activities. Fans have noted that his career has reached new heights through his portrayal of a street legend. He brings a physical intensity and a sense of loyalty to the characters he plays.

Isaiah John

As a young actor he gained fame playing Leon Simmons in ‘Snowfall’ where his character evolved from a street soldier to a leader. This role has defined his early career and placed him firmly in the genre of urban crime drama. Fans appreciate his growth in the role but often wonder if he will be offered different types of characters in the future. He has become a recognizable face for audiences who follow the stories of the crack cocaine era in Los Angeles. His performance is praised for being realistic and emotionally resonant.

Rotimi

This actor and singer is best known for his role as Dre in the ‘Power’ series where he played a manipulative and ambitious criminal. His character was involved in numerous betrayals and high level drug deals throughout the show. He has also appeared in other projects that lean into the urban thriller genre. Fans often identify him with the villainous and untrustworthy characters he has portrayed on screen. He continues to balance his music career with acting roles that often feature a street edge.

Sinqua Walls

He has appeared in a variety of roles but many fans remember him for his work in ‘Power’ as the son of a high level criminal. He also starred in the remake of ‘White Men Can’t Jump’ and other projects that focus on urban life. While he has played athletes and romantic leads he is often pulled into stories with criminal undertones. Fans have noted that he is frequently cast in roles that require a mix of physical prowess and street smarts. He remains a rising star with a presence in both television and film.

J. Alphonse Nicholson

He gained significant attention for his role as Lil Murda in ‘P-Valley’ where he played a rapper with ties to the street and the criminal underworld. The role explored the intersections of music and crime in a southern setting. He has also appeared in other dramas that focus on the struggles of the working class and the temptations of illegal activity. Fans appreciate his nuanced performance but note the recurring theme of street life in his work. He is recognized for bringing a high level of emotion to his characters.

Kevin Carroll

While he has a broad range of work he is often cast in roles that involve the darker sides of society. He played a significant role in ‘The Leftovers’ and more recently appeared in ‘Snowfall’ as a character with a complex past. Many of his roles involve men who are either criminals or dealing with the aftermath of criminal activities. Fans often see him as a reliable actor for roles that require a mysterious or weary demeanor. He is highly respected for his ability to play intellectually complex characters in gritty settings.

Mekhi Phifer

He rose to fame in the nineties with his role in ‘Clockers’ playing a young man involved in a murder investigation in a drug ridden neighborhood. He followed that success with ‘Paid in Full’ where he played a legendary Harlem figure in the drug trade. While he had a long run on the medical drama ‘ER’ fans still frequently associate him with his early street roles. He has appeared in numerous crime thrillers and urban dramas throughout his career. He remains one of the most recognizable actors from the era of classic urban cinema.

Michael James Shaw

Known for his imposing height and deep voice he has been cast as a formidable villain in several high profile projects. He played the character Midnite in the series ‘Constantine’ and appeared as a high level enforcer in ‘The Walking Dead’. His roles often involve characters who are either criminals or leaders of dangerous groups. Fans have noted that his physical presence makes him a natural fit for roles that require a sense of menace. He continues to take on roles that showcase his ability to play powerful and intimidating men.

Mustafa Shakir

He made a significant impression as the villain Bushmaster in the second season of ‘Luke Cage’ where he played a criminal leader with a personal vendetta. He also appeared in ‘The Deuce’ as a man operating in the world of organized crime and street commerce. His roles often focus on characters who are both physically strong and strategically minded. Fans appreciate his ability to bring a cultural depth to the criminal characters he portrays. He is frequently cast in projects that deal with the complexities of the urban underworld.

Erik LaRay Harvey

This actor is well known for his portrayal of Diamondback in ‘Luke Cage’ and his role as Dunn Purnsley in ‘Boardwalk Empire’. Both characters were high level criminals who operated with a sense of style and extreme violence. He has a distinct look and voice that often leads to him being cast as a memorable antagonist. Fans often point to him as a perfect example of an actor who excels in the role of the criminal mastermind. He brings a theatrical flair to the gritty worlds his characters inhabit.

Steve Harris

He is a veteran actor who has appeared in numerous television dramas often playing characters with a tough or streetwise background. He had a long running role in ‘The Practice’ but also appeared in ‘BMF’ as a man involved in the world of high level crime. Many of his roles involve characters who are either in law enforcement or on the opposite side of the law. Fans frequently see him as an actor who can deliver intense and commanding performances in urban settings. He is often used to bring a sense of authority to crime dramas.

Omar Epps

Starting his career in the classic film ‘Juice’ he played a young man caught in the middle of a violent street conflict. He has since had a long career with various roles including a doctor on ‘House’ but many fans still return to his early street focused work. He has appeared in ‘Power Book III’ where he plays a detective with a complex relationship with the criminal world. Fans often discuss his ability to play characters who are trying to escape or manage the pressures of the street. He remains a prominent figure in Black cinema with a history of gritty performances.

Trevante Rhodes

He gained international acclaim for his role in ‘Moonlight’ where he played a man who had become a hardened drug dealer as a result of his upbringing. Since then he has appeared in several action and thriller films that often feature him as a physically dominant and dangerous individual. While he is a leading man fans note that his roles often involve some level of criminal activity or intense violence. He is praised for his physical transformation and the emotional depth he brings to tough characters. He continues to be a high demand actor for gritty and realistic dramas.

Ashton Sanders

Also known for his work in ‘Moonlight’ he has since starred in ‘The Equalizer 2’ and the series ‘Wu Tang An American Saga’. His roles often focus on young men who are either victims of their environment or involved in the street life of New York City. Fans have observed that his career is currently focused on the historical and contemporary depiction of urban struggle. He brings a raw and vulnerable energy to characters who are often cast in a negative light. He is considered one of the most promising young actors in the genre of urban drama.

Jharrel Jerome

After winning an Emmy for his role in ‘When They See Us’ he has become a symbol for stories about the flaws in the criminal justice system. He often plays young men who are either wrongfully accused or caught in the machinery of the law. His work in ‘Moonlight’ and other projects has placed him in the center of discussions about the depiction of Black men in Hollywood. Fans appreciate his commitment to telling these difficult stories but note the recurring theme of criminalization. He is recognized for his immense talent and his ability to handle heavy subject matter.

Algee Smith

He gained prominence with his role in ‘The New Edition Story’ and later starred in ‘Detroit’ which focused on the violence and crime during the city riots. He also appeared in the series ‘Euphoria’ and ‘The Hate U Give’ playing characters who deal with the consequences of street life and police conflict. Fans have noted that his most significant roles involve high stakes drama and the legal system. He is often cast as a young man trying to navigate a world that is stacked against him. He remains a sought after actor for projects that aim to reflect the realities of the Black experience.

Please share your thoughts on the typecasting of these talented performers in the comments.