Black Actors Who Say They’re Tired of “Trauma” Roles Only

The entertainment industry has long relied on stories that center the suffering of Black characters to achieve critical acclaim. Many performers are now vocalizing their desire to break free from these narrow narratives to explore genres like science fiction and romantic comedy. This shift represents a broader movement toward authentic representation that includes joy and mundane human experiences. By advocating for diverse storytelling, these actors aim to provide a more holistic view of the Black experience on screen. This list highlights several talented men who are pushing for roles that go beyond historical and systemic pain.

Idris Elba

Idris Elba has consistently advocated for characters that are not defined primarily by their race or the hardships associated with it. He has expressed a desire to be known as an actor rather than a Black actor to avoid being boxed into specific types of narratives. The star of ‘Luther’ believes that focusing too much on identity can sometimes limit the creative possibilities of a script. He seeks out projects that offer high stakes and complex motivations regardless of the cultural background involved. This approach allows him to inhabit a wide variety of personas from action heroes to dramatic leads.

John Boyega

John Boyega has been vocal about the need for major franchises to treat their characters of color with the same nuance as their peers. After his experience in the ‘Star Wars’ sequels, he emphasized the importance of giving these characters significant story arcs that do not rely on suffering. He actively looks for roles that showcase the versatility of the Black experience in modern and futuristic settings. The actor often champions projects that allow for a sense of adventure and personal agency rather than a focus on societal trauma. He remains a prominent voice in the push for more imaginative and equitable storytelling in Hollywood.

Daniel Kaluuya

Daniel Kaluuya has expressed his exhaustion with being asked to discuss race and trauma in every interview related to his work. He prefers to focus on the craft of acting and the specific emotional journeys of the characters he portrays on screen. While he has appeared in powerful films like ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’ and ‘Get Out’ he seeks a balance with more imaginative projects. The actor wants to see more stories where Black people are allowed to exist in fantastical or ordinary worlds without their identity being the main source of conflict. He continues to select roles that challenge perceptions and expand the scope of Black narratives.

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II has spoken about the importance of finding joy and playfulness in the roles he chooses to accept. He intentionally looks for characters that offer a sense of levity or wonder as seen in his work in the ‘Aquaman’ and ‘The Matrix Resurrections’ films. The actor believes that playing characters who are simply having a good time is a radical act of representation in itself. He aims to avoid a career trajectory that is weighed down by the constant reenactment of historical or modern pain. By prioritizing variety, he demonstrates that Black actors can excel in any genre from high fantasy to romantic drama.

Anthony Mackie

Anthony Mackie has often shared his perspective on the need for more leading roles that celebrate Black men as everyday heroes. He took on the mantle of ‘Captain America’ to provide a symbol of hope and strength that is not rooted in a tragedy first narrative. The actor values stories that emphasize family and professional excellence without relying on the tropes of struggle and systemic oppression. He believes that the industry should create more space for Black actors to participate in lighthearted and uplifting projects. His career choices reflect a commitment to building a legacy of inspiration and diverse representation.

Sterling K. Brown

Sterling K. Brown has voiced his desire to participate in projects that showcase Black families experiencing happiness and success. While he is known for the emotional depth of ‘This Is Us’ he also pursues roles in comedies and animated films. He believes it is vital for the audience to see Black characters navigate the world with a sense of peace and fulfillment. The actor often discusses the importance of expanding the narrative landscape to include more stories of love and achievement. He remains dedicated to portraying well rounded men who are not solely defined by their response to trauma.

Winston Duke

Winston Duke has advocated for the inclusion of Black bodies in spaces of power and imagination like the world of ‘Black Panther’ and its sequels. He wants to see more roles that allow for physical presence and intellectual depth without being tied to a narrative of victimization. The actor enjoys exploring characters who have a strong sense of self and a place in a larger fantastical world. He believes that the industry needs to move past the idea that Black stories must be grounded in realism and struggle to be valid. His work reflects a desire to explore the infinite possibilities of Black identity through a lens of strength and creativity.

Damson Idris

Damson Idris has spoken about his ambition to play a variety of roles that move beyond the gritty dramas he is often associated with. He has expressed interest in romantic comedies and high fashion period pieces that offer a different aesthetic for Black performers. The actor believes that the industry should provide more opportunities for Black men to be seen as romantic leads and intellectual figures. He actively works to broaden his filmography to include projects that are not centered on the hardships of street life or systemic issues. By doing so he hopes to inspire a new generation of actors to seek out diverse and multifaceted roles.

Caleb McLaughlin

Caleb McLaughlin has shared his experiences navigating the industry as a young actor and the desire to see more diverse storytelling for his generation. He wants to move beyond the specific tropes that are often assigned to young Black performers in popular media. The actor advocates for more roles in the science fiction and fantasy genres where characters of color can lead extraordinary lives. He believes that seeing Black joy on screen is just as important as seeing the struggles that are more commonly depicted. His work in ‘Stranger Things’ has paved the way for him to seek out even more varied and imaginative projects in the future.

Lakeith Stanfield

Lakeith Stanfield is known for choosing eccentric and unconventional roles that defy traditional Hollywood expectations. He has mentioned his interest in surrealism and projects that allow him to explore the weirder sides of human nature as seen in ‘Sorry to Bother You’ and ‘Atlanta’ episodes. The actor consciously avoids being cast in roles that are solely defined by their relationship to racial trauma or societal issues. He values the ability to disappear into characters that are complex and unpredictable without being didactic. This commitment to artistic variety helps to expand the definition of what a Black actor can achieve in the modern era.

Aldis Hodge

Aldis Hodge has spoken about the need for more films that highlight Black excellence and the contributions of Black intellectuals throughout history. He enjoys playing characters who are experts in their fields and who possess a strong sense of agency and purpose. The actor believes that it is crucial to balance historical dramas with stories of contemporary success and technological advancement. He often looks for roles that allow him to showcase his skills in action and drama without relying on a narrative of suffering. His career is a testament to the idea that Black stories can be both empowering and entertaining without being rooted in pain.

David Oyelowo

David Oyelowo has played several iconic historical figures but he has also voiced the need for more diversity in the types of stories being told. He believes that Black actors should not be limited to the roles of the victim or the civil rights leader in every major production. The actor has branched out into producing and directing to help create more opportunities for varied narratives that include mystery and family drama. He advocates for a more inclusive industry where Black talent can thrive in any genre they choose to pursue. His efforts are aimed at ensuring that future generations have a wider range of roles to inhabit on screen.

Michael B. Jordan

Michael B. Jordan has been a strong advocate for colorblind casting and the creation of roles that were not specifically written for Black actors. He wants to see more Black men in leading roles within the action and thriller genres where the character race is not the focal point. The ‘Creed’ star uses his production company to develop projects that emphasize universal themes and high energy entertainment. He believes that by playing a wide range of characters he can help to break down the barriers that limit Black performers to certain types of stories. His focus remains on building a career that is defined by versatility and commercial success.

Jeffrey Wright

Jeffrey Wright has had a long career playing a vast array of characters across multiple genres from science fiction to Westerns. He has expressed a preference for roles that allow him to explore the complexities of the human condition without being restricted by racial stereotypes. The actor values intelligence and depth in the scripts he chooses to ensure that his characters have a significant impact on the story. He believes that the industry is slowly moving toward a more inclusive approach that recognizes the talent of Black actors in all types of roles. His work in ‘Westworld’ and ‘The Batman’ serves as a model for the kind of variety that is possible in a modern acting career.

Tyler James Williams

Tyler James Williams has discussed his desire to play ordinary characters who deal with the everyday challenges of life rather than extraordinary trauma. He enjoys the nuance of situational comedy and the chance to portray a Black man navigating the world with humor and relatability. The actor believes that there is a profound power in seeing Black joy and domestic life represented on screen in a regular way. He actively seeks out projects that allow him to showcase his comedic timing and emotional range without a heavy political subtext. His work on ‘Abbott Elementary’ highlights the importance of stories that are grounded in community and positive interactions.

Donald Glover

Donald Glover has used his multifaceted career in music and acting to create space for unconventional and surreal Black narratives. He avoids traditional trauma based storytelling in favor of projects that explore identity through a lens of irony and artistic experimentation. The creator of ‘Atlanta’ has demonstrated that Black stories can be weird and funny and philosophical all at once. He believes that the freedom to be creative and experimental is essential for the growth of Black art in the mainstream. His influence has encouraged other creators to move beyond the established norms of what a Black story should look like.

Jharrel Jerome

Jharrel Jerome made a significant impact with his performances in ‘Moonlight’ and ‘When They See Us’ but he is now looking toward more varied roles. He has expressed an interest in projects that allow him to explore different genres like action or lighthearted drama. The actor believes that while telling stories of trauma is important it should not be the only thing a Black actor is asked to do. He looks for characters that offer a sense of hope and a chance to show a different side of his acting abilities. His goal is to build a filmography that is as diverse and complex as the people he represents.

Stephan James

Stephan James has played several historical figures and has recently spoken about his desire to explore more contemporary and joyful narratives. He wants to see more Black men in romantic leads and high concept thrillers that do not center on racial conflict. The actor believes that there is a great demand for stories that celebrate the beauty and complexity of Black life in the present day. He is committed to finding roles that allow him to be versatile and to show that he can lead a variety of different types of films. His career continues to evolve as he seeks out new challenges and more diverse storytelling opportunities.

Regé-Jean Page

Rege-Jean Page became a global sensation for his role in ‘Bridgerton’ which showcased a Black man in a high society romantic lead. He has spoken about the importance of escapism and the joy of playing characters who are allowed to be charming and successful. The actor avoids roles that are solely focused on the historical suffering of Black people in favor of those that offer a more positive and aspirational outlook. He believes that representation in genres like romance and adventure is vital for a more balanced media landscape. His success has opened doors for more Black actors to be considered for roles that were traditionally reserved for white performers.

Ncuti Gatwa

Ncuti Gatwa has gained fame for his role in ‘Sex Education’ and as the first Black lead in ‘Doctor Who’ which signifies a major shift in genre representation. He has expressed his excitement about playing characters who are defined by their wit and their sense of adventure rather than their pain. The actor believes that it is important for young people to see Black characters in roles that are imaginative and full of life. He advocates for more stories that allow Black performers to be part of the fantasy and science fiction worlds. His presence in these iconic roles is a powerful statement about the future of diverse storytelling.

Colman Domingo

Colman Domingo is a versatile performer who has worked in theater and film and television while consistently seeking out unique characters. He has spoken about the need for Black actors to have the opportunity to play villains and heroes and everything in between. The actor values the craft of storytelling and looks for scripts that offer a high level of artistic integrity and complexity. He avoids being typecast into roles that are only about struggle and instead focuses on the psychological depth of his characters. His career is a celebration of the range and talent that Black actors bring to every project they touch.

Micheal Ward

Micheal Ward has quickly become a rising star in the United Kingdom and has expressed a desire to move beyond the urban dramas he is often cast in. He wants to explore a wide range of genres including period pieces and romantic stories that offer a different perspective on Black life. The actor believes that it is important for the industry to recognize the breadth of Black experiences and to tell stories that reflect that diversity. He is dedicated to finding roles that challenge him and allow him to grow as an artist in new and exciting directions. His work continues to gain international recognition as he pushes for more varied representation.

Paapa Essiedu

Paapa Essiedu is a classically trained actor who has voiced his desire for more imaginative and boundary pushing roles for Black men. He has appeared in a variety of projects from Shakespearean plays to modern thrillers and science fiction series. The actor believes that the industry should move away from the expectation that Black stories must always be grounded in social realism. He seeks out characters that are complex and intellectually stimulating regardless of the genre or the setting. His commitment to diverse storytelling is evident in the unique and varied roles he has chosen throughout his career.

Daveed Diggs

Daveed Diggs has used his background in theater and music to bring a unique energy to his film and television roles. He often gravitates toward projects that are experimental or that offer a fresh take on traditional genres like science fiction in the ‘Snowpiercer’ series. The actor has expressed a preference for stories that are not defined by trauma but instead explore the intricacies of character and society. He values the ability to play roles that are intellectually demanding and that offer a sense of wonder and curiosity. His career reflects a deep commitment to expanding the possibilities of Black storytelling through creative innovation.

Leslie Odom Jr.

Leslie Odom Jr. has reached high levels of success in theater and film and has consistently advocated for more nuanced roles for Black performers. He looks for characters that have a rich internal life and that are not simply reactions to the world around them. The actor believes that the industry should create more space for Black men to be seen in roles that emphasize their intelligence and their humanity. He is particularly interested in stories that explore the complexities of relationships and professional ambition in a contemporary setting. His work continues to inspire others to seek out roles that are as multifaceted as they are.

Algee Smith

Algee Smith has spoken about his desire to avoid being pigeonholed into roles that only focus on the negative aspects of the Black experience. He wants to see more stories that celebrate the ordinary and extraordinary moments of joy in Black life. The actor seeks out roles in different genres including music based dramas and science fiction thrillers to show his range. He believes that it is important for the audience to see Black characters who are allowed to be vulnerable and happy and successful. His career choices are guided by a desire to contribute to a more positive and diverse representation of Black men in media.

Shameik Moore

Shameik Moore has found great success voicing a lead in the animated ‘Spider-Verse’ films which offer a modern and uplifting take on the superhero genre. He has expressed his passion for projects that are visually innovative and that provide a sense of empowerment for young viewers. The actor avoids roles that are rooted in tragedy and instead focuses on stories of growth and adventure and self discovery. He believes that animation provides a unique space for Black characters to exist in worlds that are limited only by the imagination. His work in both live action and voice acting reflects a commitment to varied and positive storytelling.

Ashton Sanders

Ashton Sanders is known for his intense and emotional performances but he has also voiced a desire for more diverse and experimental roles. He wants to work on projects that move beyond the traditional narratives of struggle and explore more abstract and artistic themes. The actor believes that Black performers should have the freedom to be part of the avant garde and to challenge the expectations of the audience. He looks for characters that are complex and that offer a different perspective on the human condition. His dedication to his craft and his desire for variety make him a key figure in the shift toward more diverse Black narratives.

Mahershala Ali

Mahershala Ali has won multiple awards for his work and has used his platform to advocate for more substantial and varied roles for Black actors. He has moved into leading man status in projects like ‘Blade’ which allow him to explore the action and fantasy genres. The actor believes that it is important to play characters who are not just defined by their circumstances but by their internal strength and character. He consistently chooses roles that offer a high level of depth and that allow him to showcase his incredible range as a performer. His career is a powerful example of how a Black actor can achieve greatness across a wide variety of storytelling modes.

Brian Tyree Henry

Brian Tyree Henry has a reputation for bringing a sense of humanity and humor to every role he plays whether it is in a drama or a blockbuster film. He has spoken about his interest in playing characters who are allowed to be soft and vulnerable and funny. The actor avoids being cast in roles that are solely about the pain of being a Black man in America. Instead he seeks out projects that allow him to explore a wide range of emotions and to connect with the audience on a deeply personal level. His work in films like ‘Eternals’ and ‘Causeway’ demonstrates his ability to excel in any genre he chooses.

Delroy Lindo

Delroy Lindo has had a long and distinguished career and has seen the landscape of the industry change significantly over the decades. He has voiced the importance of longevity and the need for veteran Black actors to have access to complex and varied roles. The actor continues to seek out projects that challenge him and that offer a fresh perspective on the world. He believes that the industry should move away from the idea that older Black actors are only suited for certain types of historical or authoritative roles. His recent work continues to showcase his immense talent and his commitment to diverse and meaningful storytelling.

Courtney B. Vance

Courtney B. Vance has played many iconic characters and has consistently advocated for more high quality roles for Black men in the industry. He believes that it is vital for Black actors to have the opportunity to lead major productions that are not focused on trauma. The actor is a strong proponent of stories that highlight family and professional success and the everyday lives of Black people. He looks for roles that allow him to use his extensive training and experience to create characters that are truly memorable. His career is a testament to the importance of excellence and the need for more varied representation in Hollywood.

Mike Colter

Mike Colter is well known for his role in ‘Luke Cage’ where he played a superhero whose strength was not just physical but emotional as well. He has expressed a desire to move into more diverse genres including supernatural thrillers and contemporary dramas. The actor believes that it is important for Black men to be seen as leaders and protectors in a variety of different contexts. He looks for roles that offer a sense of mystery and that allow him to explore the darker and more complex sides of human nature. His work continues to expand as he seeks out new challenges and more varied storytelling opportunities in both television and film.

Omari Hardwick

Omari Hardwick has spoken about the importance of breaking out of the molds that the industry often tries to place on Black actors. He wants to see more roles that allow for intellectual depth and a sense of vulnerability in Black male characters. The actor has worked across a variety of genres from action packed series to more intimate dramas and poetry based projects. He believes that the freedom to be multifaceted is essential for any actor who wants to have a long and meaningful career. His focus remains on finding characters that are well rounded and that offer a realistic and positive view of the Black experience.

Terrence Howard

Terrence Howard has had a diverse career and has often voiced his desire for more stories that explore the philosophical and scientific aspects of life. He is interested in projects that challenge the audience to think and that offer a different perspective on the world around them. The actor believes that Black performers should not be limited to roles that are grounded in social issues or historical trauma. He looks for characters that are complex and that allow him to showcase his unique approach to acting. His work in both film and television reflects a commitment to exploring the many different facets of the human experience.

André Holland

André Holland has been praised for his work in critically acclaimed films but he has also expressed a desire for more variety in his roles. He wants to see more Black men in roles that are quiet and introspective and that do not rely on outward struggle. The actor values the ability to work on projects that are artistic and that offer a deep dive into the internal life of a character. He believes that the industry is beginning to recognize the value of these types of stories and is hopeful for the future. His commitment to high quality storytelling and diverse representation is evident in all the projects he chooses to be a part of.

William Jackson Harper

William Jackson Harper gained widespread recognition for his role in ‘The Good Place’ which allowed him to play a character defined by his intellect and comedic timing. He has spoken about the importance of avoiding typecasting and the desire to play roles that are not centered on race. The actor enjoys projects that are imaginative and that allow him to explore the more lighthearted and philosophical sides of life. He believes that seeing Black characters in these types of roles is essential for a more inclusive and accurate media landscape. His career continues to flourish as he takes on more varied and challenging roles in theater and film.

Chiké Okonkwo

Chiké Okonkwo is a British actor who has advocated for more diverse storytelling that reflects the global nature of the Black experience. He has expressed a desire to see more roles in the science fiction and fantasy genres for Black performers in the United Kingdom. The actor believes that the industry should provide more opportunities for Black talent to lead major international productions. He looks for characters that are complex and that offer a sense of agency and purpose in a wide variety of settings. His work across different countries and genres highlights his commitment to expanding the scope of Black narratives on a global scale.

Adrian Lester

Adrian Lester is a highly respected actor who has worked extensively in theater and film and television while consistently seeking out diverse roles. He has spoken about the need for more leading roles that showcase the versatility and skill of Black performers. The actor believes that it is important to move beyond the traditional narratives of struggle and to explore more imaginative and contemporary stories. He looks for characters that are intellectually demanding and that offer a high level of artistic integrity. His career is a celebration of the many different types of stories that Black actors are capable of telling with excellence.

Kingsley Ben-Adir

Kingsley Ben-Adir has played several real life figures and has expressed a desire to move into more original and diverse roles in the future. He wants to see more stories that allow Black actors to be part of a wide range of genres from romantic comedies to high concept thrillers. The actor believes that it is important for the industry to recognize the talent and versatility of Black performers in all types of roles. He is committed to finding characters that are complex and that offer a fresh and interesting perspective on the world. His work continues to gain critical acclaim as he pushes for more varied and meaningful representation in Hollywood.

Malachi Kirby

Malachi Kirby became widely known for his role in ‘Roots’ but he has since voiced a desire to explore more contemporary and varied narratives. He wants to see more stories that focus on the future and the possibilities of the Black experience rather than just the past. The actor believes that it is vital for Black performers to have the opportunity to participate in more imaginative and genre defying projects. He looks for characters that offer a sense of hope and that allow him to explore the many different facets of modern life. His career is a reflection of his commitment to building a diverse and meaningful body of work that looks toward the future.

Daryl McCormack

Daryl McCormack has recently gained attention for his role in ‘Good Luck to You Leo Grande’ which focused on a nuanced and intimate human connection. He has expressed a desire to continue playing characters who are complex and who offer a different perspective on masculinity and race. The actor avoids roles that are solely defined by trauma and instead looks for stories that allow for a more positive and well rounded view of Black life. He believes that the industry is gradually opening up to more diverse and varied narratives that include romance and comedy. His work is a testament to the power of subtle and high quality storytelling that moves beyond traditional tropes.

Jacob Anderson

Jacob Anderson is a multitalented actor and musician who has voiced his desire for more imaginative and genre based roles for Black performers. He has found success in the fantasy genre with ‘Game of Thrones’ and as a lead in ‘Interview with the Vampire’ which offers a dark and complex narrative. The actor values the ability to play characters who are flawed and interesting and who inhabit fantastical worlds. He believes that it is important for the industry to move away from the idea that Black stories must be grounded in a specific type of social realism. His work continues to push the boundaries of what is possible for Black actors in modern media.

Archie Madekwe

Archie Madekwe has quickly risen in the industry with roles in high concept films like ‘Midsommar’ and the science fiction series ‘See’ which offer unique challenges. He has expressed an interest in projects that are visually and narratively different and that allow him to explore a wide range of human experiences. The actor believes that Black performers should have the opportunity to lead in every genre from horror to action to historical drama. He looks for characters that are complex and that offer a fresh perspective on the world and the people in it. His commitment to variety and quality is evident in the diverse projects he has chosen early in his career.

David Ajala

David Ajala has worked extensively in the science fiction genre and has voiced his passion for stories that allow Black characters to explore the universe and the future. He believes that it is important for the audience to see Black men in roles that emphasize their intelligence and their bravery in extraordinary circumstances. The actor looks for projects that are imaginative and that offer a sense of wonder and adventure as seen in ‘Star Trek Discovery’ episodes. He advocates for more diverse representation in genres that have traditionally been less inclusive. His work is a powerful reminder of the importance of imagination and variety in the stories we tell.

David Harewood

David Harewood has been a prominent voice in the United Kingdom regarding the need for better opportunities and more diverse roles for Black actors. He has spoken about his experiences of having to move to the United States to find more varied and substantial work. The actor believes that the industry should do more to foster a wide range of stories that include Black characters in all types of roles. He is committed to using his platform to advocate for change and to inspire the next generation of performers to seek out diverse narratives. His work across a variety of genres continues to showcase his talent and his dedication to the craft of acting.

Corey Hawkins

Corey Hawkins has a background in classical theater and has used his training to inhabit a wide variety of roles in film and television. He has expressed a desire for more stories that highlight the artistry and complexity of Black men in a modern context. The actor values roles that allow him to showcase his range and that offer a sense of excellence and achievement. He looks for projects that are not centered on trauma but instead focus on the personal and professional journeys of his characters. His work in ‘In the Heights’ and other major productions highlights his commitment to positive and diverse storytelling.

Jabari Banks

Jabari Banks has stepped into the spotlight with the reimagining of ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’ which offers a more dramatic and modern take on a classic story. He has spoken about the importance of representing a wide range of Black experiences and the desire to see more stories of joy and success. The actor believes that the new generation of performers has a unique opportunity to shape the future of diverse storytelling in Hollywood. He is dedicated to finding roles that are as multifaceted and vibrant as the world he lives in. His presence in the industry is a sign of the growing demand for more varied and authentic Black narratives.

Share your thoughts on which of these actors you would like to see in more lighthearted roles in the comments.