Top 50 Black Actresses In Their 30s [2025]

Janelle Monáe stands out as a dynamic talent in both the music and film industries, recognized for her unique artistry and genre-blending sound. Her music skillfully fuses R&B, funk, soul, pop, and hip-hop, captivating audiences worldwide.

Celebrated for her theatrical, visually striking live performances, Monáe is also a passionate activist, advocating strongly for marginalized communities. Her impressive acting career includes roles in acclaimed films like Moonlight, Hidden Figures, Harriet, and Glass Onion.

In addition to her film work, this innovative artist has starred in the television series Homecoming. Monáe’s exceptional contributions have earned her numerous accolades, including several Grammy nominations.

Issa Rae is a talented actress, writer, and producer who initially rose to fame for her groundbreaking YouTube series Awkward Black Girl. Her creative vision led her to co-create, co-write, and star in the critically acclaimed HBO series Insecure, which catapulted her into the spotlight.

Since 2011, Rae has expanded her YouTube platform to showcase content made by Black artists, amplifying underrepresented voices in the industry. Her work on Insecure earned her multiple Golden Globe and Primetime Emmy nominations, highlighting her impact in television.

Issa Rae was named to Time's prestigious list of the 100 most influential people in the world in both 2018 and 2022. Beyond television, she has delivered memorable performances in films like The Hate U Give, Little, The Photograph, The Lovebirds, and Barbie.

Keke Palmer first rose to prominence with her breakout role in "Barbershop 2: Back in Business." Though she began singing in her church at age five, it was her performance in this film that inspired her family to move to California to pursue her talent further.

Soon after, Palmer started appearing in popular television shows such as "Cold Case," "ER," "Law & Order: SVU," and "Second Time Around." She continued building her resume with notable roles in "Knights of the South Bronx" and especially "Akeelah and the Bee."

Her acclaimed portrayal in "Akeelah and the Bee" marked a turning point in her career, earning her widespread recognition and several prestigious awards, including the NAACP Image Award, Chicago Film Critics Association Award, Black Reel Award, and BET Award.

Palmer’s transition into more mature roles began with her part in the acclaimed VH1 biographical drama, "CrazySexyCool: The TLC Story." She has also showcased her talent as a host on "Just Keke" and as a co-host on "Strahan, Sara & Keke."

Letitia Wright is recognized as one of the most talented Black actresses of her generation. Born in Guyana, she moved to the United Kingdom with her family at the age of seven, where her passion for acting began to flourish.

While Wright appeared in numerous films and television series early on, it was her breakthrough role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe that truly propelled her to fame. She captivated audiences as Shuri in the Black Panther franchise, as well as in Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame.

Her exceptional portrayal of Shuri earned her both a NAACP Image Award and a SAG Award, highlighting her remarkable talent. In 2020, she further showcased her dynamic range by starring in Steve McQueen's acclaimed anthology series, Small Axe, which brought her a Satellite Award nomination.

Wright’s versatile filmography also includes significant roles in Top Boy, Doctor Who, Black Mirror, Coming Up, Chasing Shadows, and Urban Hymn, among others, underscoring her inspiring journey and impact on the industry.

Jurnee Diana Smollett is a talented actress who began her career as a child star, first appearing in several television movies before transitioning to well-known TV shows.

She received early recognition for her charming roles in sitcoms like On Our Own and Full House, which quickly established her as a standout young talent.

Smollett's critically acclaimed performance in the film Eve's Bayou brought her even greater fame. Her impressive film credits also include The Great Debaters, Temptation: Confessions of a Marriage Counselor, and Birds of Prey, among others.

Her powerful portrayal in the TV series Lovecraft Country earned her a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series, highlighting her remarkable versatility and talent.

Dominique Fishback began her acting career with a debut role in the television series The Knick in 2013. She gained widespread recognition for her portrayal of Billie Rowan in the acclaimed miniseries Show Me a Hero, and further showcased her talent in the popular TV show The Deuce.

Fishback's impressive versatility is also evident in her film work. She has delivered notable performances in movies such as Project Power, The Hate U Give, Night Comes On, and Judas and the Black Messiah, among others.

Her compelling role in Judas and the Black Messiah earned her a BAFTA nomination for Best Actress in a Supporting Role, highlighting her as one of the most talented actresses of her generation.

Raven-Symoné is a dynamic talent known for her vibrant personality and impressive versatility. Not just a celebrated singer and songwriter, she has also made her mark as an accomplished screen performer. Her journey began early, with modeling gigs and appearances in TV and print commercials for brands like Ritz Crackers, Jell-O, Fisher-Price, and Cool Whip.

At just four years old, Raven landed a role in the iconic "The Cosby Show," showcasing her talent to a wide audience. Soon after, she gained further recognition through projects like "Hangin' with Mr. Cooper," "That's So Raven," and "Dr. Dolittle."

Throughout her career, Raven has starred in numerous Disney productions, including "That’s So Raven," "Zenon: Girl of the 21st Century," and lending her voice to "Kim Possible." Her extensive contributions have made her a household name among Disney fans.

Beyond acting, Raven-Symoné is also celebrated for her music, having released several albums. In 2013, she chose to step away from acting for a time to pursue an associate degree in fine arts at university, emphasizing her commitment to personal growth and artistry.

Kiandra "KiKi" Layne, who recently entered her 30s, made her screen debut with an appearance on the television series Chicago Med.

She is widely recognized for her roles in acclaimed films such as If Beale Street Could Talk, Native Son, The Old Guard, and Coming 2 America, among others.

In addition to her acting career, KiKi Layne has also worked as a fashion model, representing the iconic brand Kate Spade New York.

Nicole Beharie made her acting debut in the 2008 feature film American Violet, quickly establishing herself as a talented performer. She has also starred in acclaimed motion pictures such as Miss Juneteenth, 42, Shame, and The Express: The Ernie Davis Story, showcasing her remarkable range and depth.

On television, Beharie is well known for her role in the popular show Sleepy Hollow. She gained additional attention in 2015 when she appeared in a tasteful nude photoshoot for the May issue of Allure magazine, further highlighting her confidence and presence both on and off screen.

Zoë Isabella Kravitz, the talented daughter of musician Lenny Kravitz and actress Lisa Bonet, has carved out her own identity in Hollywood with a string of acclaimed performances.

She made her cinematic debut in the romantic comedy "No Reservations" and has since showcased her versatility by starring in a variety of genres.

Kravitz is widely recognized for her roles in blockbuster films such as "X-Men: First Class," "The Divergent Series," and the "Fantastic Beasts" franchise.

Her performance in "X-Men: First Class" earned her nominations for both a Teen Choice Award and a Scream Award, highlighting her early success.

She continued to impress audiences in projects like "Big Little Lies," "High Fidelity," "Dope," and "Gemini." Kravitz gained global recognition after portraying Catwoman in the hit DC film "The Batman."

While "X-Men: First Class" marked her breakthrough, her critically acclaimed work in "The Batman" and "Big Little Lies" solidified her reputation as a dynamic actress.

In 2022, Time magazine recognized her growing influence by including her in their list of the 100 most influential people in the world.

Nathalie Joanne Emmanuel rose to prominence with her unforgettable role in the blockbuster fantasy drama series Game of Thrones.

In addition to her standout performance on the show, she has appeared in numerous acclaimed films, steadily building a reputation as a versatile talent. Despite her rising fame, Nathalie remains notably private about her personal life, earning respect for her discretion off-screen.

Her impressive film credits include titles such as Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials, Maze Runner: The Death Cure, Furious 7, The Fate of the Furious, F9, and Army of Thieves, among others.

While she continues to take on key supporting roles in major Hollywood productions, Nathalie is still best remembered by many fans as the charismatic and loyal Missandei. More recently, she showcased her range in the supernatural horror film The Invitation, released in 2022.

Teyonah Parris began her acting career starring in a few short films before making a notable television debut on "The Good Wife" in 2010. Her standout performance quickly captured the attention of audiences and industry professionals alike.

Parris has since showcased her talent in acclaimed feature films such as "Dear White People," "Chi-Raq," and "If Beale Street Could Talk." Her versatility has allowed her to tackle a diverse range of roles in both independent and mainstream cinema.

On television, she has been recognized for her compelling performances in series including "WandaVision," "Mad Men," and "Survivor's Remorse." These roles have established her as a dynamic presence on the small screen.

Teyonah Parris's contributions have earned her two Black Reel Awards, as well as nominations for the Screen Actors Guild Awards and NAACP Image Awards, highlighting her growing influence in the entertainment industry.

Meaghan Rath made her film debut in 2001 with the feature "Lost and Delirious." Since then, she has built an impressive career, appearing in a variety of television projects that showcase her talent and versatility.

She is best known for standout roles in popular series such as "Being Human," "15/Love," "The Assistants," and "Hawaii Five-0." These performances have earned her recognition and praise within the industry.

On a personal note, Rath welcomed her first son in 2021, a year after getting married. Her younger brother, Jesse Rath, also shares her passion for acting and works in the entertainment business.

Lashana Lynch began her acting career in 2007 with a role on the television series The Bill. She has since earned recognition as a talented performer, including winning the BAFTA Rising Star Award, and gained attention for her role in the period drama series Still Star-Crossed.

Her impressive filmography includes key appearances in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, where she starred in Captain Marvel and Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.

Lynch has also made a memorable impact as the first Black female 007, taking on the iconic role in the James Bond film No Time to Die.

Sonequa Chaunté Martin-Green made her television debut in 2008 with a role on Law & Order: Criminal Intent. She rose to prominence as the star of the acclaimed series Star Trek: Discovery, capturing audiences with her dynamic performances.

Throughout her career, Martin-Green has taken on several independent film projects and has appeared in popular TV shows like The Walking Dead, Once Upon a Time, New Girl, and The Good Wife. Her versatility shines through every role she undertakes.

Beyond her screen work, Sonequa is also dedicated to making a difference as an ambassador for Stand Up to Cancer, demonstrating her commitment both on and off the stage.

Zazie Olivia Beetz made her feature film debut in James White in 2015. She quickly rose to recognition for her standout role in the acclaimed comedy-drama series Atlanta.

Her performance in Atlanta earned her a prestigious Primetime Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series, highlighting her remarkable talent.

In addition to her television work on shows like Invincible and Easy, Zazie Beetz has distinguished herself in major films, including Deadpool 2, Geostorm, and Joker, among others.

Kiersey Clemons began their acting career with a screen debut on the television show Shake It Up in 2010. As a proud member of the queer community, Clemons uses they/them pronouns. Their impact on the industry was quickly felt, as they transitioned seamlessly into film roles soon after their debut.

Rapidly building a resume, Clemons appeared in movies such as Neighbors 2: Sorority Rising, Flatliners, Scoob!, Hearts Beat Loud, and Sweetheart. However, it was their standout performance in the acclaimed film Dope that truly established them as a rising star in Hollywood.

Drea Castro is a talented American actress and film director who first appeared on screen in the 2005 project, Zombiez.

She has gained recognition for her performances in notable films such as Act of Valor, I Think I Love My Wife, Big Bad Bugs, and 12 Pound Balls, among others.

Growing up in a musical family, Castro developed a passion for performing early on by singing. This foundation in music helped shape her artistic abilities.

Her entry into acting began with involvement in high school musical theater, where she discovered her love for the craft. Since then, her enthusiasm for acting has only deepened over the years.

Kyla Alissa Pratt began her acting career with an appearance on the television show Where I Live in 1993.

She gained widespread recognition as the daughter of Eddie Murphy's character in the popular films Dr. Dolittle and Dr. Dolittle 2. Pratt later starred as the leading role in the franchise's spin-off movies, including Dr. Dolittle 3, Dr. Dolittle: Tail to the Chief, and Dr. Dolittle: Million Dollar Mutts.

Beyond her work in film, Kyla Pratt has appeared in several television series, such as Black Ink Crew: Compton, Let's Stay Together, and Call Me Kat, showcasing her versatility as an actress.

Mame-Anna Diop made her acting debut on the television show Everybody Hates Chris in 2006. She is best known for portraying Kory Anders on the television series Titans.

Also known for having appeared in television shows such as The Messengers and 24: Legacy, the actress moved to New York at the age of sixteen to pursue acting as a career.

Later, she was seen participating in television shows and motion pictures such as Quantico, Greenleaf, Titans, Whitney, Us, and The Moment, to name a few.

Katerina Alexandre Hartford Graham, professionally known as Kat Graham, made her feature film debut with The Parent Trap in '98.

Considered to be one of the most beautiful Black female celebrities, she has continuously been nominated for Teen Choice Awards.

The actress started her career by working in television commercials. Before finding an opportunity to act and sing, she also tested herself as a background dancer.

Best known for playing a character in the supernatural drama series The Vampire Diaries, she can also be seen in motion pictures such as 17 Again, The Roommate, Honey 2, Addicted, and All Eyez on Me.

Diarra Kilpatrick is yet another Black female celebrity whose exact date of birth eludes the internet. Best known for playing a character on the ABC Digital series American Koko, she has also participated in television shows such as Perry Mason, Private Practice, The Last O. G., and The Twilight Zone.

The actress moved to Los Angeles in 2007. Soon after, she wrote, produced, and starred in the web series American Koko.

The aforementioned series was launched on YouTube and won the American Black Film Festival’s Best Web Series Award in 2015.

This Canadian singer and actress is known to have sung at many community and charity events as a child. At one such event, she was spotted by a Hollywood agent.

Not long after that, the talented youngster received a scholarship to study drama at a Hollywood acting school. This proved to be a golden opportunity for her as she began to make her presence felt on television soon after.

She went on to appear in shows such as The Latest Buzz, Harriet The Spy: Blog Wars, Frankie & Alice, My Babysitters a Vampire, A. N. T. Farm, Finding Carter, The Shannara Chronicles, Riverdale, etc.

Kylie Bunbury is a beautiful actress in her 30s who was born in Canada. After having given her career a kick-start as a model, she started trying her hands at acting.

Needless to say, she is seeing herself grow both in her personal and professional space. Not many people are aware of the fact that the celebrity got married in 2020.

She can be seen in television shows and motion pictures such as Under the Dome, When They See Us, Big Sky, Prom, and The Sitter, to mention a few.

Best known for playing a key role in the television series How to Get Away with Murder, Aja Naomi King started her acting career by making special appearances in a handful of television shows.

For her performance in How to Get Away with Murder, she received a nomination for an NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series.

The actress has also been featured in motion pictures such as Four, Reversion, The Birth of a Nation, and The Upside, to mention a few.

Aja made her acting debut on the television show Blue Bloods in 2010.

This American actress and comedienne, who is better known for her work as a senior correspondent on The Daily Show, was first seen on the television series Just for Kicks in 2006.

A frequent performer at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre in Los Angeles, she can be seen in feature films such as People Places Things, The Incredible Jessica James, Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald, and Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore.

The actress has earned a Black Reel Awards nomination for her work in The Incredible Jessica James.

Further fame followed after she starred as a therapist with a sense of humor in the critically acclaimed comedy-drama series Shrinking.

Candice Kristina Patton made her acting debut in the television show The Young and the Restless in 2004. She is best known for playing the role of Iris West-Allen in the hit television series The Flash.

The actress can also be seen making her presence felt in shows such as Sorority Forever, Supergirl, and Legends of Tomorrow, among others.

She received a Saturn Award for Best Supporting Actress on Television for her portrayal of Iris West.

Natalie Paul began her career by appearing in the musical drama television show Smash in 2005. Apart from the aforementioned series, she has also been a part of television shows such as The Deuce, The Sinner, and Power, to name a few.

She is also known for playing a crucial role in the film Crown Heights and the miniseries Show Me a Hero.

Alexandra Ruth Shipp is an actress and singer who shot to fame after playing the character of a singer named Aaliyah in the television film Aaliyah: The Princess of R&B.

The actress, who has also appeared in the Oscar-nominated feature Straight Outta Compton, is best known for her work in the X-Men franchise of films.

One can also find her playing a part in feature films such as Love, Simon, and tick, tick... BOOM!.

Ashleigh Murray made her mainstream acting debut after having appeared in the feature film Welcome to New York in 2012.

She is one of those female celebrities who has had to struggle a lot before making it within the entertainment industry.

Known for her consistency and hard work, the actress can be seen in television series such as Riverdale and Katy Keene.

She was also seen playing a part in the Netflix project Deidra & Laney Rob a Train. The movie had its world premiere at the Sundance Film Festival.

Hope Olaidé Wilson is a British actress who is best known for playing the character of Bertrise in the action-drama series The Last Ship.

The actress, who grew up in both the United Kingdom and Nigeria, is known to have studied acting at the London Academy of Music & Dramatic Art.

She was first seen playing a part in the documentary series Untold Stories of the ER. Not much has been revealed about her past life or her family members on the internet.

Not many people are aware of the fact that Raven Shamira Goodwin's maiden outing as an actress earned her an Independent Spirit Award nomination.

Her performance in the drama motion picture The Station Agent also fetched her a Screen Actors Guild Award nomination.

Since then, the actress has continued to be nominated for her performances. Goodwin, who was seen headlining the romantic drama Phat Girlz, shifted to playing roles on television after having featured in the Nickelodeon comedy series Just Jordan.

Logan Laurice Browning, who made her acting debut in the television show Summerland, shot to fame after having played a role in the satirical-drama series Dear White People.

The actress has also appeared in television shows such as Meet the Browns, Hit the Floor, and Powers, to mention a few.

When it comes to feature films, Logan can be seen in projects such as Bratz: The Movie, Brotherly Love, and The Perfection.

Best known for playing the part of Claire Kyle in the sitcom My Wife and Kids, Jennifer Nicole Freeman is one of the most attractive actresses to make it to our story.

She made her acting debut by playing a minor role in the television show The '70s. The actress, who can also be seen playing a role in feature films such as You Got Served and Johnson Family Vacation, was named one of the Top 10 Hot Teens to watch out for by TV Guide in 2003.

Antonia Laura Thomas made her acting debut in 2010 in the television movie Stanley Park. She is both an actor and a singer.

She is best known for playing a character in television series such as Misfits, Lovesick, and The Good Doctor, to mention a few.

She is also known to have featured in the music video of a song named Charlie Brown by Coldplay.

Thomas can also be seen in motion pictures such as Survivor, The Hybrid, and Northern Soul, among others.

Deborah Olayinka Ayorinde is a British-Nigerian actress who was raised in the United States of America. She is best known for playing a part in the Amazon Prime horror series Them.

For her performance in the aforementioned show, she received a well-deserved Independent Spirit Award nomination. One can also catch the actress playing a character in motion pictures and television shows such as Fatherhood, Harriet, Girls Trip, and Luke Cage, among others.

Elarica Johnson, a native of London, United Kingdom, made her acting debut in the television movie Fallout in 2008.

The actress/model is best known for playing a role on television shows such as P-Valley, EastEnders, and Strike.

She was also seen playing a minor role in the popular Harry Potter motion picture, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.

Viewers can catch a glimpse of Johnson in shows such as Top Boy and Thirteen Steps Down as well.

The lovely Lauren Nicole London is a model, actress, and television personality who was first seen appearing in a few music videos.

She made her mainstream acting debut on the television show Everybody Hates Chris and shot to fame after playing a role in the feature film ATL.

She has also made her presence felt in television shows such as Entourage, 90210, and The Game, to mention a few.

In addition, one can even catch London in the Christmas-themed feature film This Christmas.

Cynthia Addai-Robinson is a popular actress who was first seen making an appearance on the television show The Education of Max Bickford in 2002.

She is best known for playing a part in popular television shows such as Spartacus, Arrow, and Shooter. The actress is also known to have made a special appearance in series such as Law & Order: Trial by Jury, Law & Order: Criminal Intent, CSI: Miami, Numbers, and Justice.

In addition to her aforementioned credits, Cynthia has marked her presence in the 2011 Zoe Saldana-starrer Colombiana.

Cush Jumbo is another actress on our list who was first seen in a television project. She made her acting debut in the television show My Family in 2007.

She is best known for playing the lead role of attorney Lucca Quinn in the television series The Good Wife and its spin-off series The Good Fight.

The actress, who has been appreciated for her work in theater, can also be seen in the crime-drama television series Vera.

Amber Stevens West was first seen appearing on the television show Complete Savages in 2005. The daughter of actor Shadoe Stevens, she seems to be doing alright in her career so far.

The actress is best known for playing a role in television shows such as Greek, The Carmichael Show, and Happy Together, among others.

One can also catch her in popular motion pictures such as The Amazing Spider-Man, 22 Jump Street, Jessabelle, and Love Jacked, to name a few.

Tiffany Boone graduated from the California Institute of the Arts and was first seen making an appearance in the independent feature film Hamilton in 2006.

She soon gained recognition after having participated in a string of television series. Best known for portraying the character of Roxy Jones in Hunters, one can also find her in television shows such as The Following, Complications, The Chi, and Little Fires Everywhere.

Boone can also be seen in motion pictures such as Beautiful Creatures, Detention, and The Midnight Sky, among others.

Xosha Kai Roquemore is a talented screen performer who was first seen making an appearance in the television show Viralcom in 2008.

The actress, who is named after the Xhosa people of South Africa, played the character of Jo Ann in her first prominent feature film Precious.

She can even be seen in popular television shows such as Kirstie, The Mindy Project, Black Monday, and Cherish the Day, to mention a few.

While Maisie Richardson-Sellers made her debut on television with the show The Originals, she was fortunate enough to play a cameo role in her maiden feature film Star Wars: The Force Awakens.

The actress is best known for playing a role in television series such as Of Kings and Prophets and Legends of Tomorrow.

That said, she has also not shied away from participating in short features either. Also, one can find her portraying Chloe Winthrop in the second and third installments of The Kissing Booth series of motion pictures.

This well-known celebrity is not only an actress but she is also a professional guitarist, singer, and songwriter. Allo made her acting debut in the third installment of the Pitch Perfect series of motion pictures and is best known for playing a role in the comedy-drama series The Game.

She is also known to have played a part in shows such as Upload, Black Lightning, and Chicago Fire, to mention a few.

In addition, the artist has performed live on the talk show Jimmy Kimmel Live!

The eldest sister among the 3mcclaingirls, Sierra and her beloved sisters have tried their hands at both singing and acting. While they have released several hit songs, Sierra, especially, has always been skilled at playing the guitar, bass, and piano.

The performer made her full-length feature debut with The Gospel and went on to star in several critically acclaimed TV shows. Some of McClain's better roles came in projects such as Daddy's Little Girls, A. N. T. Farm, Tyler Perry's House of Payne, Shrink, Empire, Mindhunters, 9-1-1: Love Star, etc.

Goddaughter of the rapper DMX, Paige Hurd has just stepped into her 30s and is perhaps best known for her character projection of Tasha Clarkson in the hit sitcom Everybody Hates Chris.

She even plays the daughter of DMX in the film Cradle 2 the Grave, which also stars Jet Li in a pivotal role. So far, the actress has been seen appearing in hit series such as Hawaii Five-O, Tyler Perry’s The Oval, Power Book II: Ghost, etc.

As a child, she is also known to have marked her presence in projects such as The Suite Life of Zack and Cody, Cat In The Hat, Time Out, The Beauty Shop, Ben 10: Race Against Time, and ER.

This social media personality and actress resides in Los Angeles, California. She made her acting debut on the television show Numbers in 2008.

Even though not much is available on the web about her personal life, including her birth date, it has been speculated online that she must be over 30 years old.

Apart from her debut show, one can find her making her presence felt in projects such as A Fiance For Christmas, Beginners, and The Perfect Host, to mention a few.

Meagan Yvonne Tandy is a former Miss California U.S.A. who was first seen in the 2008 television movie The Bobby Lee Project.

She's had a long-running character to play in television shows such as Jane by Design, Teen Wolf, Survivor's Remorse, and Batwoman.

A member of the Screen Actors Guild, the actress has also appeared in several television commercials for national campaigns.

Her maiden feature film was the 2010 release Unstoppable.