Black Actors Who Deserve More Leading Roles

The landscape of modern cinema is increasingly defined by versatile performers who command the screen across genres ranging from historical dramas to high-octane action. While many Black male actors have achieved critical acclaim and commercial success, a significant number of exceptionally talented individuals continue to shine primarily in supporting roles or ensemble casts. These actors have demonstrated the depth, charisma, and technical skill necessary to anchor major productions as primary leads. Expanding the opportunities for these performers ensures a richer and more representative cinematic experience for audiences worldwide.

Aaron Pierre

Aaron Pierre gained significant attention for his breakout performance in the 2024 action thriller ‘Rebel Ridge’. He previously demonstrated his range in Barry Jenkins’ limited series ‘The Underground Railroad’ and provided the voice for the titular character in ‘Mufasa: The Lion King’. Pierre possesses a commanding physical presence and a disciplined acting style that critics have noted is suited for leading man status. His ability to anchor intense, high-stakes narratives makes him a prime candidate for more central roles in major studio productions.

Aldis Hodge

Aldis Hodge is a veteran actor known for his long-running role as Alec Hardison in the series ‘Leverage’. He has consistently delivered strong performances in films such as ‘Hidden Figures’ and as Carter Abboud in ‘City on a Hill’. In 2022, he entered the superhero genre as Hawkman in ‘Black Adam’, where he was praised for his charisma and physicality. Despite his extensive filmography, Hodge often occupies supporting roles that showcase his ability to elevate the material around him.

Algee Smith

Algee Smith first rose to prominence with his harrowing performance in the 2017 historical drama ‘Detroit’. He followed this with a significant role in the young adult drama ‘The Hate U Give’ and a recurring part in the HBO series ‘Euphoria’. Smith has shown a particular talent for portraying sensitive and complex young men facing social challenges. His lead performance in the sci-fi thriller ‘Mother/Android’ further proved his capability to carry a feature-length narrative.

André Holland

André Holland is widely respected for his understated and powerful performance as Kevin in the Academy Award-winning film ‘Moonlight’. He also starred in the period medical drama ‘The Knick’ and led the cast of Steven Soderbergh’s sports drama ‘High Flying Bird’. Holland’s work is characterized by a high level of intellectual depth and emotional precision. While he is a frequent collaborator with top-tier directors, he remains an actor who would thrive with more frequent top-billed opportunities.

Ashton Sanders

Ashton Sanders delivered a career-defining performance as the teenage Chiron in the 2016 film ‘Moonlight’. Since then, he has taken on diverse roles in projects like ‘The Equalizer 2’ and the 2019 adaptation of ‘Native Son’. He also portrayed Bobby Diggs in the series ‘Wu-Tang: An American Saga’, demonstrating his ability to lead a long-form biographical story. Sanders has a unique screen presence that blends vulnerability with a simmering intensity.

Bokeem Woodbine

Bokeem Woodbine has been a staple of the film and television industry since the 1990s, often appearing in memorable supporting roles. He received widespread critical acclaim for his portrayal of Mike Milligan in the second season of ‘Fargo’, which earned him an Emmy nomination. Woodbine has also appeared in major blockbusters like ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’ and ‘Ghostbusters: Afterlife’. His ability to steal scenes with his distinctive delivery and gravitas suggests he is long overdue for a leading role in a major dramatic series or film.

Brian Tyree Henry

Brian Tyree Henry became a household name through his role as Alfred ‘Paper Boi’ Miles in the critically acclaimed series ‘Atlanta’. He received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor for his work alongside Jennifer Lawrence in the 2022 film ‘Causeway’. His filmography includes a wide array of genres, from the superhero epic ‘Eternals’ to the action-comedy ‘Bullet Train’. Henry’s exceptional range and ability to ground fantastical stories in human emotion make him one of the most compelling actors working today.

Caleb McLaughlin

Caleb McLaughlin is best known for his role as Lucas Sinclair in the global phenomenon ‘Stranger Things’. He successfully transitioned into more mature dramatic territory with the 2020 film ‘Concrete Cowboy’, starring alongside Idris Elba. McLaughlin has demonstrated that he possesses the maturity and emotional range to move beyond his child-actor roots. As he continues to choose more adult-oriented projects, he remains a strong candidate for leading roles in character-driven dramas.

Colman Domingo

Colman Domingo has spent years building a reputation as one of the industry’s most versatile character actors in projects like ‘Lincoln’ and ‘Fear the Walking Dead’. He reached a new career milestone with his Oscar-nominated lead performance in the 2023 biopic ‘Rustin’. Domingo followed this success with a powerful turn in the prison drama ‘Sing Sing’, which was met with universal acclaim. His commanding presence and theatrical background provide him with the tools to lead any genre of film.

Corey Hawkins

Corey Hawkins gained massive recognition for his portrayal of Dr. Dre in the 2015 biographical hit ‘Straight Outta Compton’. He has since showcased his versatility in the musical ‘In the Heights’ and the prestige drama ‘The Tragedy of Macbeth’. Hawkins also led the series ’24: Legacy’, proving his ability to handle the demands of a high-octane action franchise. His classical training at Juilliard is evident in the precision and weight he brings to every role he inhabits.

Damson Idris

Damson Idris is most famous for his lead role as Franklin Saint in the acclaimed crime drama series ‘Snowfall’. The British actor’s performance earned him multiple award nominations and established him as a major talent in the United States. He has also ventured into film with roles in the sci-fi action movie ‘Outside the Wire’. Idris has the charisma and intensity required to transition from prestige television to leading roles in major cinematic franchises.

Daveed Diggs

Daveed Diggs originally achieved stardom for his Tony and Grammy-winning dual roles in the Broadway musical ‘Hamilton’. He translated this success to the screen by writing and starring in the 2018 film ‘Blindspotting’, which was later adapted into a television series. Diggs also led the cast of the post-apocalyptic series ‘Snowpiercer’ for several seasons. His background as a writer and performer allows him to bring a unique perspective to the leading roles he undertakes.

Jacob Latimore

Jacob Latimore began his career as a singer before establishing himself as a talented actor in films like ‘Black Nativity’ and ‘Sleight’. He is perhaps best known for his long-standing role as Emmett Washington in the Showtime series ‘The Chi’. Latimore has consistently shown that he can handle complex storylines involving fatherhood, crime, and personal growth. His natural charm and consistent performance level make him a reliable choice for leading cinematic roles.

Jeremy Pope

Jeremy Pope made history by becoming the first person to be nominated for two Tony Awards in different categories in the same year. He transitioned to television with starring roles in Ryan Murphy’s ‘Hollywood’ and the final season of ‘Pose’. In 2022, he received a Golden Globe nomination for his lead role in the military drama ‘The Inspection’. Pope’s ability to convey deep internal conflict with minimal dialogue is a hallmark of his acting style.

Jharrel Jerome

Jharrel Jerome first caught the public eye in the Oscar-winning film ‘Moonlight’ before delivering an Emmy-winning performance in ‘When They See Us’. He recently showcased his range by playing a 13-foot-tall man in the surrealist comedy-drama series ‘I’m a Virgo’. Jerome’s performances are often noted for their immense emotional weight and physical commitment. Despite his young age, he has already proven he can anchor major prestige projects with ease.

John Boyega

John Boyega became an international star as Finn in the ‘Star Wars’ sequel trilogy, starting with ‘The Force Awakens’. Since leaving the franchise, he has focused on smaller, high-impact projects like ‘Small Axe: Red, White and Blue’ and the thriller ‘Breaking’. He also delivered a strong performance in the historical epic ‘The Woman King’. Boyega’s outspoken nature and commitment to character-driven stories suggest he is destined for a career of impactful leading roles.

Jovan Adepo

Jovan Adepo first made an impression in the film adaptation of ‘Fences’ and later starred in the action-horror film ‘Overlord’. He received an Emmy nomination for his role as Will Reeves in the HBO limited series ‘Watchmen’. Adepo also appeared in the sprawling ensemble of ‘Babylon’, where he played a jazz musician navigating the shift to talkies. His ability to hold his own against industry veterans makes him a standout choice for more central protagonist roles.

Justice Smith

Justice Smith has anchored several large-scale productions, including ‘Pokémon Detective Pikachu’ and ‘Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom’. He also led the cast of the musical drama series ‘The Get Down’ and starred in the 2024 film ‘The American Society of Magical Negroes’. Smith often brings a relatable, “everyman” quality to his characters that resonates with younger audiences. His experience with both blockbuster spectacle and indie drama provides him with a balanced foundation for future lead roles.

Kelvin Harrison, Jr.

Kelvin Harrison Jr. is frequently cited by critics as one of the most talented actors of his generation. He delivered incredible performances in the indie dramas ‘Luce’ and ‘Waves’, both released in 2019. He later moved into historical territory with roles in ‘The Trial of the Chicago 7’ and the title role in ‘Chevalier’. Harrison Jr. is known for his intense preparation and his ability to completely transform his physicality and voice for a role.

Kingsley Ben-Adir

Kingsley Ben-Adir has specialized in portraying iconic historical figures, including Malcolm X in ‘One Night in Miami…’ and the title character in ‘Bob Marley: One Love’. He also appeared as a villain in the Marvel Cinematic Universe series ‘Secret Invasion’. Ben-Adir possesses a regal screen presence and a meticulous approach to character work. His success in biographical films has proven that he has the magnetism necessary to carry a major motion picture.

Lakeith Stanfield

Lakeith Stanfield is known for his eccentric and deeply moving performances in projects like ‘Atlanta’ and ‘Sorry to Bother You’. He received an Academy Award nomination for his role as William O’Neal in ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’. Stanfield recently took on the lead role in the epic biblical comedy-drama ‘The Book of Clarence’. His career is marked by bold choices and a willingness to explore unconventional narratives, making him a unique leading man.

Leslie Odom Jr.

Leslie Odom Jr. is a multifaceted performer who rose to fame as Aaron Burr in the original cast of ‘Hamilton’. He earned two Oscar nominations for his work in ‘One Night in Miami…’, where he both acted and contributed to the soundtrack. Odom Jr. has also appeared in ensemble hits like ‘Murder on the Orient Express’ and ‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery’. His sophisticated acting style and musical talent provide a versatility that is rare in modern Hollywood.

Mamoudou Athie

Mamoudou Athie is recognized for his quiet intensity and subtle acting style in projects like ‘Patti Cake$’ and ‘The Front Runner’. He led the Netflix supernatural thriller series ‘Archive 81’ and provided the voice for the lead character in Pixar’s ‘Elemental’. Athie also appeared in ‘Jurassic World Dominion’, showcasing his ability to work within a massive franchise. His steady rise in the industry suggests he is ready for more frequent opportunities as a primary lead.

Ncuti Gatwa

Ncuti Gatwa became a breakout star for his role as Eric Effiong in the Netflix series ‘Sex Education’. He recently made history as the Fifteenth Doctor in the long-running British sci-fi series ‘Doctor Who’. Gatwa also appeared as one of the Kens in the global blockbuster ‘Barbie’. His high energy, comedic timing, and expressive acting style have made him a favorite among critics and audiences alike.

Shamier Anderson

Shamier Anderson is a Canadian actor who has been steadily gaining ground in Hollywood with roles in ‘Stowaway’ and the series ‘Invasion’. He had a high-profile turn as the Tracker in ‘John Wick: Chapter 4’, where he performed his own stunts and held his own against Keanu Reeves. Anderson’s athletic background and screen presence make him a natural fit for the action genre. He has also been active behind the scenes, co-founding the Black Academy to support Black talent in Canada.

Stephan James

Stephan James portrayed track star Jesse Owens in the 2016 biopic ‘Race’ and starred in the romantic drama ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’. He also led the first season of the psychological thriller series ‘Homecoming’ opposite Julia Roberts. James has a classic Hollywood leading man quality, often bringing a sense of dignity and gravitas to his roles. His consistent record of strong performances in prestigious projects marks him as an actor who deserves more top-billed work.

Trevante Rhodes

Trevante Rhodes achieved immediate fame for his role as the adult Chiron in the Oscar-winning film ‘Moonlight’. He followed this with roles in ‘Bird Box’ and the lead in the 2022 drama ‘Bruiser’, where he played a complex father figure. Rhodes is noted for his remarkable physicality and his ability to convey deep sensitivity through his eyes. His presence on screen is often described as magnetic, making him an ideal choice for intense dramatic leads.

William Jackson Harper

William Jackson Harper is best known for his comedic and intellectual turn as Chidi Anagonye in ‘The Good Place’. Since the show’s conclusion, he has taken on leading roles in ‘Love Life’ and the mystery-comedy series ‘The Resort’. He also received critical praise for his performance in the indie film ‘We 45’ and his role in ‘The Underground Railroad’. Harper’s ability to balance neurotic humor with genuine pathos makes him a highly relatable and effective leading man.

Winston Duke

Winston Duke made a massive impact with his film debut as M’Baku in ‘Black Panther’. He proved his range by playing dual roles in Jordan Peele’s horror hit ‘Us’ and later starred in the philosophical drama ‘Nine Days’. Duke possesses a formidable screen presence due to his height and powerful voice, yet he often brings a surprising gentleness to his characters. He is one of the few actors who can seamlessly transition between high-concept sci-fi and grounded character studies.

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II has rapidly become one of the most sought-after actors in the industry following his Emmy-winning role in ‘Watchmen’. He has played major roles in ‘Aquaman’, ‘The Trial of the Chicago 7’, and took over the role of Morpheus in ‘The Matrix Resurrections’. In 2022, he anchored the Michael Bay action film ‘Ambulance’ alongside Jake Gyllenhaal. His versatility and physical commitment to his roles have established him as a premier leading man in both television and film.

Which Black male actors would you like to see take on more leading roles in the future, and why, in the comments?