Black Celebs Whose Versatility Gets Ignored

Many entertainers in the industry are celebrated for a specific talent, whether it is commanding the screen in dramatic roles or dominating the music charts with chart-topping hits. However, there exists a significant group of Black celebrities who possess a vast range of skills that often go unacknowledged by the general public. These artists seamlessly transition between acting, directing, writing, and musical performance, frequently mastering genres that appear diametrically opposed. Their portfolios include broadway productions, voice acting, producing, and even visual arts, proving they are true Renaissance figures. The following list highlights these multi-talented individuals who consistently defy categorization.

Jamie Foxx

Jamie Foxx began his career as a stand-up comedian and a cast member on the sketch comedy show ‘In Living Color’. He transitioned into dramatic acting with a defining performance in ‘Ray’, which earned him the Academy Award for Best Actor. Beyond acting, he is a Grammy-winning musician who has produced chart-topping R&B hits and collaborated with major artists. His ability to switch between slapstick comedy, intense drama, and soulful musical performance makes him a unique force in Hollywood.

Queen Latifah

Starting as a beat-boxing pioneer in the golden age of hip-hop, Queen Latifah successfully crossed over into film and television production. She showcased her vocal range by performing jazz standards in ‘Living Out Loud’ and earning an Oscar nomination for the musical ‘Chicago’. Her acting resume covers everything from broad comedies like ‘Girls Trip’ to gritty action roles in ‘The Equalizer’. She also manages a successful production company that champions diverse stories across various media platforms.

Donald Glover

Donald Glover first gained attention as a writer for the sitcom ’30 Rock’ and a star of the comedy series ‘Community’. He later created, directed, and starred in the surrealist drama ‘Atlanta’, which won him critical acclaim and multiple Emmy Awards. Under the stage name Childish Gambino, he releases music that ranges from aggressive hip-hop to psychedelic funk. His ability to excel simultaneously as a comedian, serious auteur, and musical icon is rare in the entertainment industry.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe initially captivated audiences with high-concept science fiction-themed R&B albums and theatrical live performances. She pivoted to acting with critically acclaimed roles in major films like ‘Moonlight’ and ‘Hidden Figures’. Her filmography includes voice acting in ‘Rio 2’ and leading roles in thrillers such as ‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery’. Monáe continues to balance a music career with acting, often infusing her projects with her signature futuristic aesthetic.

Regina King

Regina King began her career as a teenage actress on the sitcom ‘227’ before transitioning to film roles in ‘Boyz n the Hood’ and ‘Jerry Maguire’. She eventually became a powerhouse in television drama, winning multiple Emmy Awards for her work in ‘American Crime’ and ‘Watchmen’. King expanded her repertoire by directing the feature film ‘One Night in Miami’, which received significant awards recognition. Her evolution from child star to celebrated director highlights a deep understanding of cinematic storytelling.

Jeffrey Wright

Jeffrey Wright is a character actor known for disappearing completely into diverse roles, starting with his Tony-winning performance in ‘Angels in America’. He has played historical figures like Jean-Michel Basquiat in ‘Basquiat’ and fictional tech geniuses in ‘Westworld’. His voice work includes the watcher in ‘What If…?’ and he provided a grounded presence as James Gordon in ‘The Batman’. Wright consistently delivers nuanced performances across theater, blockbuster franchises, and independent cinema.

Forest Whitaker

Forest Whitaker is widely recognized for his intense method acting, famously portraying Idi Amin in ‘The Last King of Scotland’. Before his acting career took off, he studied opera and has retained a strong connection to music throughout his life. He has also directed films such as ‘Waiting to Exhale’, showcasing his capability behind the camera. His versatility extends to producing and humanitarian work, proving his talents go far beyond his on-screen intensity.

Idris Elba

Idris Elba is best known for his commanding screen presence in dramas like ‘The Wire’ and ‘Luther’. However, he is also an accomplished DJ and musician who performs at major festivals under the name DJ Big Driis. His acting range includes comedy in ‘The Office’, action in ‘Hobbs & Shaw’, and voice work in animation like ‘Zootopia’. He has also written and directed feature films, further establishing himself as a multifaceted creator.

Mahershala Ali

Mahershala Ali made history as the first Muslim actor to win an Oscar, acclaimed for his sensitive performances in ‘Moonlight’ and ‘Green Book’. Before his major acting break, he pursued a rap career under the name Prince Ali and released music on independent labels. He has successfully navigated science fiction in ‘Alita: Battle Angel’ and voiced characters in ‘Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse’. His quiet intensity allows him to play both villains and empathetic heroes with equal conviction.

Viola Davis

Viola Davis is one of the few performers to achieve EGOT status, having won an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony. She is primarily known for heavy dramatic roles in ‘Fences’ and ‘How to Get Away with Murder’, where she displays immense emotional depth. Yet, she also handles action-heavy roles such as the lead in ‘The Woman King’ and plays the ruthless government official Amanda Waller in superhero films. Her production company, JuVee Productions, actively develops projects that expand the narrative scope for people of color.

Daveed Diggs

Daveed Diggs originated the roles of Marquis de Lafayette and Thomas Jefferson in the musical ‘Hamilton’, showcasing his rapid-fire rapping skills. He is a member of the experimental hip-hop group Clipping, which produces abrasive and complex industrial music. On screen, he leads the post-apocalyptic drama ‘Snowpiercer’ and voices characters in Disney animations like ‘The Little Mermaid’. His work consistently bridges the gap between avant-garde music and mainstream narrative storytelling.

Cynthia Erivo

Cynthia Erivo gained worldwide fame for her Tony-winning performance in the Broadway revival of ‘The Color Purple’. She transitioned to film with a physically demanding role in the biopic ‘Harriet’, for which she wrote and performed the Oscar-nominated original song. Her versatility allows her to play the wicked witch Elphaba in ‘Wicked’ and investigative genius Holly Gibney in ‘The Outsider’. Erivo is a powerhouse vocalist who seamlessly integrates her musical talents into her acting projects.

Common

Common debuted as a highly respected lyricist in the conscious hip-hop movement before moving into acting. He has taken on dramatic roles in films like ‘Selma’ and action roles in the ‘John Wick’ franchise. He is also an author who has written memoirs and children’s books, showcasing his skill with the written word. His work earned him an Oscar for Best Original Song, solidifying his status as a dual threat in music and film.

Yasiin Bey

Yasiin Bey, formerly known as Mos Def, is a hip-hop legend known for his socially conscious lyrics and smooth flow. As an actor, he has delivered acclaimed performances in everything from the sci-fi comedy ‘The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy’ to the medical drama ‘Something the Lord Made’. He has also performed on Broadway, proving his stage presence translates to live theater. His career is marked by a refusal to be pigeonholed into a single genre or medium.

Ludacris

Chris “Ludacris” Bridges began as a radio DJ and became one of the best-selling rappers of the early 2000s. He transitioned into acting with a standout performance in the Best Picture winner ‘Crash’ and became a staple of the ‘Fast & Furious’ franchise. He also created the animated children’s series ‘Karma’s World’ and has done extensive voice acting work. His ability to move between raunchy hip-hop, high-octane action, and family-friendly content is remarkable.

Terry Crews

Terry Crews is a former NFL player who leveraged his physicality into a successful acting career. He is also a talented illustrator and furniture designer who has released his own design collections. While famous for comedic roles in ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’ and ‘White Chicks’, he has also hosted major television shows like ‘America’s Got Talent’. Crews constantly surprises audiences with his artistic sensitivity and varied skill set.

Keke Palmer

Keke Palmer started as a child star in the drama ‘Akeelah and the Bee’ and released pop albums as a teenager. She reinvented herself as a talk show host and a comedic force on social media, displaying sharp wit and timing. Her dramatic acting chops were reaffirmed in Jordan Peele’s ‘Nope’, where she balanced horror and comedy effortlessly. She also runs her own digital network, showcasing her business acumen alongside her performance skills.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson oscillates between indie darlings like ‘Sorry to Bother You’ and massive blockbusters like ‘Thor: Ragnarok’. She is a member of the electro-soul band Caught a Ghost, which contributed to the soundtrack of ‘Dear White People’. Her acting resume includes complex sci-fi roles in ‘Westworld’ and period dramas like ‘Passing’. Thompson frequently engages in performance art and produces projects that challenge traditional narratives.

Lakeith Stanfield

Lakeith Stanfield is known for his unpredictable choices in roles, ranging from the surrealist comedy of ‘Atlanta’ to the romantic drama ‘The Photograph’. He earned an Oscar nomination for his portrayal of an FBI informant in ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’. He also releases music under the moniker Htiekal, exploring moody and experimental hip-hop sounds. His career is defined by a willingness to take risks on eccentric and challenging characters.

Sophie Okonedo

Sophie Okonedo is a British actress who moves seamlessly between theater, film, and television. She received an Oscar nomination for ‘Hotel Rwanda’ and a Tony Award for her work in ‘A Raisin in the Sun’. Her voice work includes narration for audiobooks and documentaries, showcasing her commanding vocal presence. She frequently takes on roles requiring diverse accents and intense emotional range, often without the fanfare of a movie star.

Danai Gurira

Danai Gurira became a global icon as the katana-wielding Michonne in ‘The Walking Dead’ and Okoye in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. However, she is also an acclaimed playwright whose work ‘Eclipsed’ received a Tony nomination for Best Play. Her writing focuses on the experiences of African women, providing depth that complements her action-heavy acting roles. She effortlessly balances the physical demands of blockbuster filmmaking with the intellectual rigors of theater writing.

Michaela Coel

Michaela Coel exploded onto the scene by writing, directing, and starring in the comedy ‘Chewing Gum’. She followed this with the groundbreaking drama ‘I May Destroy You’, which explored trauma with dark humor and nuance. Coel is also a singer and poet who released music prior to her television success. Her total control over her creative projects demonstrates a singular vision that spans multiple disciplines.

Mary J. Blige

Mary J. Blige is the undisputed Queen of Hip-Hop Soul with a discography that has influenced a generation of singers. She surprised critics with her understated, Oscar-nominated performance in the period drama ‘Mudbound’. Since then, she has taken on a leading role in the crime drama ‘Power Book II: Ghost’, playing a ruthless matriarch. Her transition from arena-filling vocalist to serious dramatic actress has been seamless and impressive.

Method Man

Clifford “Method Man” Smith is a founding member of the Wu-Tang Clan and a platinum-selling solo rapper. He proved his acting chops early in the cult comedy ‘How High’ and the critically acclaimed drama ‘The Wire’. He continues to expand his range with roles in ‘The Deuce’ and voice work for podcasts and animation. His natural charisma allows him to play everything from comedic stoners to intimidating gangsters.

Jill Scott

Jill Scott entered the entertainment world as a spoken-word poet and neo-soul singer with a devoted following. She successfully crossed over into acting with the lead role in ‘The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency’, filmed on location in Botswana. Her filmography includes Tyler Perry films as well as the superhero series ‘Black Lightning’, where she played a villain. Scott brings a lyrical quality to her acting that stems from her background in poetry.

Lenny Kravitz

Lenny Kravitz is a rock icon who plays multiple instruments on his albums and has won four consecutive Grammy Awards. As an actor, he delivered a subdued and empathetic performance as Cinna in ‘The Hunger Games’ franchise. He also runs a successful design firm, Kravitz Design, creating interiors for hotels and high-end residences. His artistic vision permeates his music, his acting choices, and his tangible design work.

Rashida Jones

Rashida Jones is well-known for her comedic acting in sitcoms like ‘The Office’ and ‘Parks and Recreation’. Behind the scenes, she is a skilled writer who co-wrote ‘Toy Story 4’ and the ‘Black Mirror’ episode ‘Nosedive’. She has also directed documentaries, including one about her father, Quincy Jones. She sings backup vocals for the band Maroon 5 and has released her own music, proving her talents are multifaceted.

Jordan Peele

Jordan Peele gained fame as a sketch comedian on ‘Key & Peele’, creating viral characters and impressions. He shocked the industry by reinventing himself as a horror auteur with the Oscar-winning film ‘Get Out’. His directorial style blends social commentary with suspense, a stark departure from his comedy background. He also produces films and narrates the reboot of ‘The Twilight Zone’, serving as a modern curator of the weird and terrifying.

Ice Cube

Ice Cube was a primary lyricist for N.W.A., writing songs that defined West Coast hip-hop. He transitioned to film by writing and starring in the comedy classic ‘Friday’, demonstrating a sharp ear for dialogue. He later became a family comedy star in movies like ‘Are We There Yet?’ and a dramatic actor in ‘Boyz n the Hood’. He is also a basketball league founder, showing a strong entrepreneurial spirit alongside his entertainment career.

Tracee Ellis Ross

Tracee Ellis Ross established herself as a comedic heavyweight in the long-running sitcoms ‘Girlfriends’ and ‘Black-ish’. In the film ‘The High Note’, she showcased her singing voice, playing a music superstar. She owns a hair care line, Pattern Beauty, which caters to the natural hair community. Her career balances physical comedy, dramatic moments, and business leadership with effortless style.

Jennifer Hudson

Jennifer Hudson first appeared as a contestant on ‘American Idol’ but was eliminated before the finals. She bounced back to win an Oscar for her debut film role in ‘Dreamgirls’ and later earned a Tony Award as a producer. She recently achieved EGOT status, highlighting her success across television, recording, film, and theater. Her own talk show allows her to display her hosting skills and personable nature to a daily audience.

Courtney B. Vance

Courtney B. Vance is a revered actor who has found immense success on both stage and screen. He won a Tony Award for ‘Lucky Guy’ and an Emmy for his portrayal of Johnnie Cochran in ‘The People v. O. J. Simpson’. His voice is frequently heard in narration for documentaries and commercials due to its authoritative tone. Vance consistently delivers grounded performances in everything from procedurals to high-stakes dramas.

Audra McDonald

Audra McDonald is the most decorated performer in Tony Awards history, winning in all four acting categories. While primarily a theater legend, she has a significant presence in television dramas like ‘The Good Fight’ and ‘Private Practice’. She is a classically trained soprano who performs concerts with major orchestras worldwide. Her ability to act through song is unmatched, yet her straight dramatic work is equally compelling.

Leslie Odom Jr.

Leslie Odom Jr. became a household name for his Tony-winning role as Aaron Burr in ‘Hamilton’. He proved his dramatic range by playing Sam Cooke in ‘One Night in Miami’, earning an Oscar nomination. He has released several jazz albums and a Christmas record, showcasing a smooth vocal style distinct from his theater work. Odom continues to balance film roles like ‘Glass Onion’ with his recording career.

Brian Tyree Henry

Brian Tyree Henry broke out as the rapper Paper Boi in ‘Atlanta’, displaying impeccable comedic timing and pathos. He earned an Oscar nomination for his quiet, heartbreaking performance in the drama ‘Causeway’. His stage work includes a Tony-nominated performance in ‘Lobby Hero’, proving his roots in theater are deep. He seamlessly transitions between blockbusters like ‘Godzilla vs. Kong’ and intimate indie films.

Gugu Mbatha-Raw

Gugu Mbatha-Raw gained attention for her role in the period drama ‘Belle’, where she navigated complex race and class dynamics. She showcased her singing and dancing abilities in the romantic drama ‘Beyond the Lights’. Her resume includes science fiction roles in ‘Loki’ and ‘Black Mirror’, as well as voice work in ‘The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance’. She brings a classic elegance to every genre she inhabits.

Thandiwe Newton

Thandiwe Newton has been a steady presence in film for decades, with roles ranging from the title character in ‘Beloved’ to a savvy android in ‘Westworld’. She displayed excellent comedic timing in ‘Norbit’ and intense dramatic skill in ‘Crash’. She is an advocate who uses her platform to speak on social issues, adding depth to her public persona. Her ability to play fragile characters and iron-willed survivors makes her highly versatile.

Don Cheadle

Don Cheadle is an acclaimed actor known for ‘Hotel Rwanda’ and his role as War Machine in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. He is also a talented director who helmed the Miles Davis biopic ‘Miles Ahead’, in which he also starred. Cheadle plays multiple instruments and learned to play the trumpet specifically for that role. His production work focuses on bringing socially relevant stories to the screen.

Alfre Woodard

Alfre Woodard has been a force in the industry for over forty years, with four Emmy Awards to her name. She moves effortlessly between playing villains in ‘Luke Cage’ and sympathetic mothers in films like ’12 Years a Slave’. Her voice work includes playing the cheetah mother in ‘The Wild Thornberrys’ movie. She produces independent films and remains one of the most consistent and versatile character actors working today.

Giancarlo Esposito

Giancarlo Esposito is iconic for playing the calculated villain Gus Fring in ‘Breaking Bad’. However, his career began on stage and includes early roles in Spike Lee films like ‘Do the Right Thing’. He has a strong background in musical theater and often surprises fans with his energetic and warm real-life personality. He directs and produces, constantly seeking to expand the types of characters he is allowed to portray.

Sterling K. Brown

Sterling K. Brown became a household name through the tear-jerking drama ‘This Is Us’, for which he won an Emmy. He displayed sharp comedic chops in ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’ and satirical brilliance in the film ‘American Fiction’. His voice work in ‘Frozen II’ and ‘Kipo and the Age of Wonderbeasts’ introduces him to younger audiences. Brown approaches every role with a cerebral intensity, whether it is comedy or tragedy.

Uzo Aduba

Uzo Aduba is best known for her role as Suzanne “Crazy Eyes” Warren in ‘Orange Is the New Black’, winning Emmys in both comedy and drama categories for the same character. She is a classically trained opera singer who has performed on Broadway. Her portrayal of Shirley Chisholm in ‘Mrs. America’ demonstrated her ability to handle historical biography. Aduba’s background in classical voice gives her a unique control over her vocal performances in acting.

Colman Domingo

Colman Domingo is a playwright and director who starred in the hit series ‘Euphoria’ as a recovering addict. He received an Oscar nomination for his lead role in the civil rights drama ‘Rustin’. He wrote the book for the Broadway musical ‘Summer: The Donna Summer Musical’. Domingo is a veteran of the stage who brings a theatrical gravity to his film and television work.

Halle Bailey

Halle Bailey started as one half of the R&B duo Chloe x Halle, earning multiple Grammy nominations for her complex vocal arrangements. She took on the massive responsibility of playing Ariel in the live-action ‘The Little Mermaid’, showcasing her acting potential. She also played a young Nettie in the musical adaptation of ‘The Color Purple’. Bailey is quickly establishing herself as a triple threat who can carry major studio films.

Taye Diggs

Taye Diggs originated the role of Benny in the Broadway phenomenon ‘Rent’ before moving to film with ‘How Stella Got Her Groove Back’. He has starred in procedurals like ‘Murder in the First’ and showed his comedic side in various guest appearances. He is also the author of several children’s books that address issues of race and self-esteem. Diggs frequently returns to the stage, keeping his theatrical roots alive while working in Hollywood.

Chiwetel Ejiofor

Chiwetel Ejiofor is a British actor with a commanding presence, known for his Oscar-nominated role in ’12 Years a Slave’. He played the drag queen Lola in the film ‘Kinky Boots’, displaying impressive singing and cabaret skills. He wrote and directed the film ‘The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind’, proving his talent behind the camera. His voice work includes the treacherous Scar in the photorealistic ‘The Lion King’ remake.

Please tell us which of these versatile stars surprised you the most in the comments.