Black Actors Who Made History by Playing Characters Originally Written as White

Casting in the entertainment industry has undergone a significant transformation as filmmakers prioritize talent and representation over traditional character descriptions. Many iconic roles that were originally written as white in comic books and novels or historical records have been masterfully portrayed by Black actors. These performances have not only challenged long standing industry norms but have also brought fresh perspectives to beloved stories. This list explores the talented men who broke barriers and made history by taking on these legendary characters.

Samuel L. Jackson

Samuel L. Jackson took on the role of Nick Fury in the Marvel Cinematic Universe starting with ‘Iron Man’ in 2008. The character was originally depicted as a white man with graying temples in the primary Marvel comic book continuity. Jackson’s version was modeled after the Ultimate Marvel universe where the character’s likeness was specifically changed to resemble the actor. His portrayal became so iconic that he is now the primary version of the character across all media platforms. He brought a sense of cool authority and mystery to the director of SHIELD.

Morgan Freeman

Morgan Freeman played the role of Ellis Boyd Redding in the 1994 film ‘The Shawshank Redemption’ which was based on a Stephen King story. In the original novella the character was a redheaded Irishman. The filmmakers chose to keep the nickname Red while casting Freeman for his gravitas and presence. His performance earned him an Academy Award nomination and is widely considered one of the greatest supporting roles in cinema history. He provided a soulful and wise perspective that grounded the entire emotional core of the movie.

Michael Clarke Duncan

Michael Clarke Duncan portrayed Wilson Fisk who is also known as the Kingpin in the 2003 movie ‘Daredevil’. The character was originally a white crime lord in the Marvel comics. Duncan had to maintain a massive physical stature to convincingly play the imposing villain. His performance captured the menace and power required for the role while breaking racial barriers in superhero casting. This part helped establish him as a versatile actor capable of playing both gentle giants and terrifying antagonists.

Will Smith

Will Smith played Agent J in the ‘Men in Black’ series which was originally a comic book featuring a white protagonist. Smith brought his unique energy and humor to the science fiction comedy and made it a massive global success. He later played Robert Neville in ‘I Am Legend’ which was another role originally written for a white man in the source novel. Both performances helped solidify his status as one of the biggest movie stars in the world. He proved that audiences would embrace a Black lead in stories that were traditionally not written for them.

Idris Elba

Idris Elba played the role of Heimdall in the Marvel Cinematic Universe beginning with the movie ‘Thor’. In the original comics and Norse mythology the character was known as the whitest of the gods. Elba also played Roland Deschain in the film adaptation of ‘The Dark Tower’ which was a character based on a white gunslinger. He received praise for his ability to bring stoicism and intensity to these legendary figures. His casting in these roles sparked discussions about diversity in fantasy and action genres.

Laurence Fishburne

Laurence Fishburne played Perry White the editor of the Daily Planet in the 2013 film ‘Man of Steel’. Perry White was historically depicted as a white man in Superman comics and previous live action adaptations. Fishburne brought a modern and tough intelligence to the role that suited the gritty tone of the movie. He reprised the character in ‘Batman v Superman Dawn of Justice’ and continued to provide a grounded human element to the story. This casting choice updated a classic character for a new generation of viewers.

Michael B. Jordan

Michael B. Jordan played Johnny Storm who is known as the Human Torch in the 2015 ‘Fantastic Four’ film. The character was originally a blonde white man in the Marvel comic books. Jordan later played Guy Montag in the television movie adaptation of ‘Fahrenheit 451’ which was also a role originally written as white. He brought passion and emotional depth to both characters while facing significant media attention for the casting changes. These roles highlighted his talent as a leading man in major studio productions.

Jeffrey Wright

Jeffrey Wright played Commissioner James Gordon in the 2022 film ‘The Batman’ directed by Matt Reeves. James Gordon has been a white character in the DC comics for many decades. Wright also played Felix Leiter in several James Bond films which was a character originally written as white by Ian Fleming. His performance as Gordon was praised for its quiet strength and partnership with the titular hero. He brought a sense of world weary integrity to the role of the Gotham City policeman.

David Oyelowo

David Oyelowo played the role of Inspector Javert in the 2018 television miniseries ‘Les Misérables’. The character was originally a white man in the classic novel by Victor Hugo. Oyelowo focused on the character’s obsession with law and order rather than his background or appearance. His performance was lauded for its complexity and the way it challenged traditional perceptions of the role. He demonstrated how a classic literary character can be successfully reinterpreted by a talented actor of color.

Ncuti Gatwa

Ncuti Gatwa was cast as the Fifteenth Doctor in the long running science fiction series ‘Doctor Who’. For over fifty years the character of the Doctor was exclusively played by white men before the casting of Jo Martin and Jodie Whittaker. Gatwa became the first Black male actor to lead the series in the titular role. He brought a vibrant energy and a fresh wardrobe to the iconic character during his debut season. His casting marked a significant milestone for the franchise and for representation in British television history.

Lance Reddick

Lance Reddick played the character Albert Wesker in the ‘Resident Evil’ television series. Albert Wesker was a prominent white antagonist in the popular video game franchise that the show was based on. Reddick brought a chilling and calculated demeanor to the role that stayed true to the character’s villainous roots. He also appeared in various other projects where he played authority figures with immense poise and control. His presence on screen was always impactful and commanded the attention of the audience.

Billy Porter

Billy Porter played the character of the Fairy Godmother who was called the Fab G in the 2021 ‘Cinderella’ movie. The role was traditionally played by white women in past adaptations and animated features. Porter brought a genderless and magical energy to the character while wearing a stunning gold gown. His performance emphasized self empowerment and authenticity which resonated with modern audiences. He helped redefine a classic fairy tale archetype through his unique style and charisma.

Lakeith Stanfield

Lakeith Stanfield played the mysterious character known as L in the 2017 live action film ‘Death Note’. The character was originally a Japanese and white individual in the acclaimed anime and manga series. Stanfield captured the eccentric mannerisms and high intelligence of the brilliant detective. His portrayal added a new layer of intensity to the psychological battle between L and Light Turner. This casting choice was part of a broader effort to adapt the story for a global audience.

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II played the role of Cal Abar who was revealed to be Doctor Manhattan in the ‘Watchmen’ television series. Doctor Manhattan was originally a white scientist named Jon Osterman in the seminal graphic novel. The series explored the character’s choice to live as a Black man and the social implications of that decision. Abdul-Mateen won an Emmy Award for his nuanced and powerful performance in the role. He successfully bridged the gap between a godlike being and a man deeply in love.

Chiwetel Ejiofor

Chiwetel Ejiofor played Baron Karl Mordo in the Marvel Cinematic Universe starting with the 2016 film ‘Doctor Strange’. Baron Mordo was traditionally a white Transylvanian nobleman in the comic books. Ejiofor brought a sense of moral complexity and dignity to the character that evolved into an antagonistic role. He portrayed Mordo as a dedicated sorcerer who struggles with the ethical use of magic. His casting added a new level of depth to the magical corners of the cinematic universe.

Mehcad Brooks

Mehcad Brooks played the character James Olsen in the ‘Supergirl’ television series. James Olsen who is often called Jimmy was originally a freckled white photographer in the Superman comics. Brooks transformed the character into a confident and heroic figure who eventually became a vigilante known as Guardian. His portrayal was a departure from the sidekick persona and gave the character more agency in the story. This version of Jimmy Olsen was well received for its modern take on a classic supporting character.

David Harewood

David Harewood played the dual role of Hank Henshaw and J’onn J’onzz in the ‘Supergirl’ series. While J’onzz is an alien shape shifter he primarily used the form of a Black man as his secret identity. The character of Hank Henshaw was a white man in the DC comics before this television adaptation. Harewood brought a fatherly presence and a strong moral compass to the role of the Martian Manhunter. He became a staple of the show and a mentor to the main characters over several seasons.

Isaiah Mustafa

Isaiah Mustafa played the character Luke Garroway in the television series ‘Shadowhunters’. The character was originally a white man in the ‘The Mortal Instruments’ book series written by Cassandra Clare. Mustafa portrayed Luke as a strong and protective father figure who was also the leader of a werewolf pack. His performance was praised for bringing emotional depth and a commanding presence to the fantasy drama. He successfully transitioned the character from the page to the screen with a new physical identity.

Regé-Jean Page

Regé-Jean Page played Simon Basset the Duke of Hastings in the first season of ‘Bridgerton’. The character was originally white in the series of novels written by Julia Quinn. Page became an overnight sensation for his portrayal of the brooding and romantic lead. The show utilized a color conscious casting approach to create a diverse Regency era society. His success in the role opened up new opportunities for him in major Hollywood productions and action films.

Giancarlo Esposito

Giancarlo Esposito played the character Stan Edgar in the television series ‘The Boys’. In the original graphic novel Stan Edgar was a white executive at Vought International. Esposito brought a terrifyingly calm and corporate presence to the role of the man who controls the world’s superheroes. He also played Moff Gideon in ‘The Mandalorian’ who was a role that felt like a classic Imperial officer usually played by white actors. His ability to play sophisticated villains has made him one of the most respected actors in the industry today.

Jamie Foxx

Jamie Foxx played the character Max Dillon who is also known as Electro in ‘The Amazing Spider-Man 2’. The character was originally a white electrical engineer in the classic Marvel comics. Foxx later returned to the role in ‘Spider-Man No Way Home’ with a redesigned look and more confidence. He brought a sense of humor and menace to the character that differentiated his version from previous interpretations. This casting allowed for a fresh take on one of Spider-Man’s most iconic enemies.

Billy Dee Williams

Billy Dee Williams played District Attorney Harvey Dent in the 1989 film ‘Batman’ directed by Tim Burton. Harvey Dent was historically a white character in the comics and later became the villain Two Face. Williams was cast with the intention of having him play the villainous persona in a future sequel but the role was eventually recast. He finally got the chance to voice the character in ‘The Lego Batman Movie’ many years later. His inclusion in the 1989 film was a pioneering moment for Black actors in major superhero films.

Aldis Hodge

Aldis Hodge played Carter Hall who is also known as Hawkman in the 2022 film ‘Black Adam’. Hawkman was originally a white archaeologist or alien prince in the DC comic books depending on the era. Hodge brought a regal and warrior like intensity to the character as the leader of the Justice Society. He emphasized the character’s long history and sense of duty to protect the world. His portrayal was noted for its physical strength and the chemistry he shared with his fellow teammates.

Leslie Odom Jr.

Leslie Odom Jr. originated the role of Aaron Burr in the Broadway musical ‘Hamilton’. Aaron Burr was a real historical figure who was a white man and the third Vice President of the United States. The musical used a diverse cast to tell the story of the founding fathers through hip hop and R&B music. Odom won a Tony Award for his performance as the calculated and ambitious rival of Alexander Hamilton. He helped show how history could be reinterpreted through the lens of modern American identity.

Daveed Diggs

Daveed Diggs played the roles of Thomas Jefferson and the Marquis de Lafayette in the musical ‘Hamilton’. Both of these men were prominent white figures in American and French history. Diggs used his incredible speed and skill as a rapper to bring a unique flair to both characters. He won a Tony Award for his dual performance which became one of the highlights of the stage production. His portrayal of Jefferson was particularly memorable for its flamboyant style and sharp wit.

Christopher Jackson

Christopher Jackson played the role of George Washington in the musical ‘Hamilton’. George Washington was the first President of the United States and a white man of immense historical significance. Jackson brought a commanding presence and a powerful singing voice to the role of the general and leader. He portrayed Washington as a dignified and weary man who was aware of his place in history. This casting was essential to the show’s mission of reflecting the people of modern America.

Robert Guillaume

Robert Guillaume made history by playing the title character in ‘The Phantom of the Opera’ on stage. He was the first Black actor to play the Phantom in a major production of the Andrew Lloyd Webber musical. The role was originally written for and played by white actors like Michael Crawford. Guillaume brought his experience as a veteran stage and television performer to the complex and tragic role. His performance was a landmark moment for representation in musical theater.

Norm Lewis

Norm Lewis became the first Black actor to play the title role in ‘The Phantom of the Opera’ on Broadway. He followed in the footsteps of Robert Guillaume who had played the role in Los Angeles years earlier. Lewis was already a Broadway star known for his rich baritone voice and commanding stage presence. His casting was celebrated as a major step forward for diversity on the Great White Way. He brought a deep emotional resonance to the character of the tortured musical genius.

Denzel Washington

Denzel Washington played the role of Don Pedro in the 1993 film adaptation of ‘Much Ado About Nothing’. The character in the William Shakespeare play was historically portrayed by white actors in European settings. Washington brought his natural charisma and authority to the role of the noble prince. He fit perfectly into the star studded cast and the sunny atmosphere of the Italian location. This performance showed his versatility and his ability to master classical material with ease.

Louis Gossett Jr.

Louis Gossett Jr. played the role of Gunnery Sergeant Emil Foley in the 1982 film ‘An Officer and a Gentleman’. The character was originally written as a white man in the script but the director decided to cast the best actor for the part. Gossett gave a legendary performance as the tough drill instructor who pushes the recruits to their limits. He became the first Black man to win the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for this role. His portrayal remains one of the most iconic military characters in cinema history.

Dennis Haysbert

Dennis Haysbert played the character Manute in the 2014 film ‘Sin City A Dame to Kill For’. Manute was a massive and silent enforcer who was originally depicted as a white man in the Frank Miller graphic novels. Haysbert took over the role from Michael Clarke Duncan who had played the character in the first film. He brought a sense of stoic menace and physical power to the loyal bodyguard. His performance was a standout in the stylized noir world of the movie.

Bernie Casey

Bernie Casey played the character Felix Leiter in the 1983 James Bond film ‘Never Say Never Again’. Felix Leiter is a recurring CIA agent and friend to Bond who was originally white in the novels by Ian Fleming. Casey was the first Black actor to play the role on the big screen before Jeffrey Wright took it on years later. He provided a competent and cool ally for Sean Connery’s version of the secret agent. His performance helped break the color barrier in the long running Bond franchise.

Bernie Mac

Bernie Mac played the character Frank Catton in the ‘Ocean’s Eleven’ trilogy directed by Steven Soderbergh. In the original 1960 film the character equivalent was played by a white actor in the ensemble cast. Mac brought his hilarious personality and charm to the role of the casino dealer and con artist. He was a key member of the heist team and provided many of the films’ funniest moments. His involvement in the franchise helped modernize the story for contemporary audiences.

Don Cheadle

Don Cheadle played the role of Basher Tarr in the ‘Ocean’s Eleven’ series starting in 2001. Like his costar Bernie Mac he took on a role that was part of an ensemble originally composed of white actors in the first version. Basher was an expert in explosives with a thick Cockney accent that added a unique element to the group. Cheadle also played James Rhodes who is War Machine in the Marvel films but that character was always Black in the comics. His work in ‘Ocean’s Eleven’ showcased his ability to handle both comedy and action.

Corey Hawkins

Corey Hawkins played the character Heath in the television series ‘The Walking Dead’. In the original comic book series created by Robert Kirkman Heath was a white man with glasses. Hawkins brought the character to life as a resourceful and brave member of the Alexandria community. He captured the pragmatic nature of the character while navigating the dangers of the zombie apocalypse. His portrayal was a faithful adaptation of the character’s personality despite the change in ethnicity.

James Earl Jones

James Earl Jones played the character of Big Daddy in an all Black production of ‘Cat on a Hot Tin Roof’. The character was originally a white Southern plantation owner in the classic play by Tennessee Williams. Jones brought his legendary voice and immense presence to the role of the dying patriarch. He explored the themes of legacy and family tension with incredible power and nuance. This production was a significant cultural event that demonstrated the universal nature of the story.

Sidney Poitier

Sidney Poitier played the character of Ben Munceford in the 1965 film ‘The Bedford Incident’. The character was a reporter on a naval vessel and was originally written as white in the novel of the same name. Poitier’s presence in the film added a layer of racial tension to the high stakes military thriller. He was known throughout his career for taking on roles that were not specifically written for Black actors. This role was another example of how he broke barriers and opened doors for future generations.

Harry Lennix

Harry Lennix played General Swanwick in the DC Extended Universe who was eventually revealed to be Martian Manhunter. While the alien character often appears as a green being his human disguise was a white general in some comic iterations. Lennix brought a sense of gravity and mystery to the military leader across several films. The revelation of his true identity was a major moment for fans of the character. He portrayed the hero as a watchful protector who had been hiding in plain sight for years.

Peter Mensah

Peter Mensah played the character Oenomaus in the television series ‘Spartacus’. Oenomaus was a historical figure who was a Gallic gladiator and was likely white or of European descent. Mensah portrayed him as a powerful and respected trainer of gladiators known as the Doctore. He brought incredible physical prowess and a stern sense of honor to the role. His performance made the character a fan favorite and a central figure in the rebellion.

Adrian Lester

Adrian Lester played the lead role of Mickey Bricks in the British television series ‘Hustle’. The character was a master con artist and leader of a group of grifters in London. While the show was original the character archetype of the gentleman thief was traditionally white in British media. Lester brought sophistication and intelligence to the role that defined the success of the series. He became the face of the show and was praised for his suave and calculated performance.

Jordan Fisher

Jordan Fisher played the titular role in the Broadway musical ‘Dear Evan Hansen’. The character was originally written for and played by white actors including Ben Platt who originated the role. Fisher brought a new perspective to the character of the anxious and lonely teenager. His performance was lauded for its emotional honesty and his exceptional vocal ability. He proved that the themes of the musical could resonate deeply regardless of the actor’s racial background.

Taye Diggs

Taye Diggs played the character of Benny in the original Broadway cast of the musical ‘Rent’. The character was based on the landlord in the opera ‘La Bohème’ and was written as a white Jewish man in early drafts. Diggs brought a corporate and antagonistic energy to the role as the former friend who turns into a landlord. He reprised the role in the 2005 film adaptation and helped define the character for a global audience. This role was part of a groundbreaking ensemble that redefined modern musical theater.

Nonso Anozie

Nonso Anozie played the character Tommy Jepperd in the television series ‘Sweet Tooth’. In the original comic book series by Jeff Lemire Tommy was a massive white man and former athlete. Anozie brought a gentle and protective quality to the role that balanced the character’s violent past. His performance was central to the emotional weight of the series as he guided a young hybrid child across a dangerous world. This casting choice added a new dynamic to the relationship between the two main characters.

Bokeem Woodbine

Bokeem Woodbine played the character Herman Schultz who is also known as the Shocker in ‘Spider-Man Homecoming’. The character was traditionally a white man in the Marvel comic books for many decades. Woodbine brought a gritty and street level intensity to the role of the high tech thief. He functioned as a dangerous enforcer for the Vulture’s criminal operation. His portrayal was part of a diverse cast that reflected the actual population of Queens New York.

Paterson Joseph

Paterson Joseph played the Marquis de Carabas in the television series and radio adaptations of ‘Neverwhere’. The character was a clever and charismatic manipulator who existed in a magical version of London. While the role was not strictly defined by race in the original script it was traditionally envisioned as a white aristocrat archetype. Joseph brought a flamboyant and witty energy to the part that made it one of the most memorable in the series. He successfully embodied the mysterious and resourceful nature of the character.

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