Top 50 Most Popular Old Black Actors

Born Shelton Jackson Lee, Spike Lee got his famous nickname from his mother during childhood—a name that's become synonymous with his impactful work in film and culture.

Lee earned a Bachelor's degree in Mass Communication and went on to complete a Master of Fine Arts at NYU’s renowned Tisch School of the Arts, solidifying his foundation in storytelling and cinema.

A versatile talent, Spike Lee is acclaimed as a screenwriter, director, producer, and actor. His films are renowned for tackling themes such as race relations and cultural identity, often sparking important conversations.

Over the years, his groundbreaking work has been nominated for and received numerous accolades, including Academy Awards, BAFTAs, Golden Globes, and NAACP Image Awards, among others.

Some of Lee's most celebrated films include Do The Right Thing, Malcolm X, Mo' Better Blues, Jungle Fever, Crooklyn, Clockers, 25th Hour, Inside Man, Chi-Raq, BlacKkKlansman, Da 5 Bloods, and She's Gotta Have It.

Morgan Freeman was raised in a humble household, with his grandmother as his primary caregiver. Despite facing financial challenges, Freeman's passion for theater and acting never faded.

While studying, he worked various odd jobs to support himself. He paused his college education to serve in the armed forces, returning home in 1959 to resume his studies.

After coming back to the United States, Freeman graduated from Los Angeles City College. He began his acting career with small and supporting roles until his breakthrough in 1987 with the film Street Smart, which earned him his first Academy Award nomination.

Over the years, Morgan Freeman received four Oscar nominations before ultimately winning for his role in Million Dollar Baby. His nominated performances include films such as Street Smart, Driving Miss Daisy, Invictus, The Shawshank Redemption, Se7en, Unforgiven, and Amistad.

Forest Whitaker is a celebrated actor and filmmaker whose distinguished career has earned him major accolades, including an Academy Award, a Golden Globe, a BAFTA, and two Screen Actors Guild Awards.

He is widely recognized for his memorable role in Black Panther and is admired for the intense preparation and research he brings to every character he portrays.

Whitaker's dedication is evident in early television appearances such as Hill Street Blues, Diff’rent Strokes, Trapper John, M.D., and The Fall Guy.

He has delivered powerful performances in films like Good Morning, Vietnam, The Crying Game, Platoon, Ghost Dog: The Way of the Samurai, The Great Debaters, The Butler, Arrival, Respect, Panic Room, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, and The Last King of Scotland among many others.

Denzel Washington is a two-time Oscar-winning actor, with eight additional Oscar nominations recognizing his outstanding talent. Over his celebrated career, he has also earned two Golden Globe Awards, a SAG Award, and a Tony Award, among other prestigious honors.

Washington's accolades go beyond film; he has been nominated for a Grammy, two Primetime Emmys, and seven SAG Awards, reflecting his impact across various entertainment platforms. On stage, he's starred in acclaimed plays such as "Coriolanus," "Wings of the Morning," and "A Soldier’s Play."

Transitioning to the screen, Denzel Washington made memorable appearances in films like "A Soldier’s Story," "Hard Lessons," "Cry Freedom," "The Mighty Quinn," and "Glory." His versatility shines through every performance.

Some of his most iconic roles include "Roman J. Israel, Esq.," "The Tragedy of Macbeth," "Much Ado About Nothing," "Malcolm X," "The Pelican Brief," "Philadelphia," "The Hurricane," "Training Day," and "Fences." His filmography exemplifies both range and excellence.

Jamie Foxx is a multi-talented American actor, singer, comedian, and songwriter who has made a significant mark in the entertainment industry. He is widely acclaimed for his roles in films such as Ray, Django Unchained, and Baby Driver. 

Born Eric Marlon Bishop on December 13, 1967, in Terrell, Texas, Foxx began his career performing stand-up comedy in the early 1990s. He gained early recognition on the popular television series In Living Color.

Foxx's breakout role came when he portrayed Ray Charles in the biographical film Ray, earning him the Academy Award for Best Actor. His powerful performance solidified his place among Hollywood's elite. 

He has also showcased his versatility in films like Ali, Collateral, Dreamgirls, Law Abiding Citizen, The Amazing Spider-Man 2, and Annie. 

Foxx is an award-winning performer, having received an Academy Award, a Golden Globe, and a Grammy. As a respected figure, he inspires many young actors and remains a prominent presence in entertainment today.

Samuel L. Jackson has brought to life numerous iconic characters throughout his illustrious career. He is best known for standout roles in films such as Pulp Fiction, the Star Wars prequel trilogy, Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, and the Avengers franchise.

Jackson has also appeared in major film series including the XXX franchise, Jurassic Park, and The Incredibles. He frequently collaborated with acclaimed director Quentin Tarantino on projects like Pulp Fiction, The Hateful Eight, Django Unchained, Inglourious Basterds, and Kill Bill Vol. 2.

His diverse filmography features titles such as Shaft, Snakes on a Plane, Coach Carter, Chi-Raq, and Kong: Skull Island. More recently, he has starred in The Hitman's Bodyguard, The Hitman's Wife's Bodyguard, and Paws of Fury: The Legend of Hank.

Jackson received an Oscar nomination for his performance in Pulp Fiction, and in 2022, he was honored with an honorary Academy Award recognizing his remarkable contribution to film.

Eddie Murphy is renowned as a trailblazing comedian, actor, and filmmaker who has left an indelible mark on the world of comedy and Hollywood. Rising to fame as a stand-up comic, Murphy quickly became a leading figure in the Black community, celebrated for his sharp wit and energetic performances.

Childhood challenges, including his mother’s illness, shaped Murphy’s perspective and fueled his comedy. Drawing from his life experiences, he crafted material that resonated with audiences and contributed to his unique comedic voice.

Inspired by Richard Pryor, Murphy explored themes of race relations and the struggles of Black youth in his routines. His comedic style combined raw honesty with humor, forging a deep connection with his fans.

He established a strong fan base with standout work in sketch comedy and early film roles in classics like 48 Hrs., Coming to America, Dr. Dolittle, The Nutty Professor series, and Bowfinger.

Murphy further solidified his legacy with hits such as the Beverly Hills Cop franchise, Dolemite Is My Name, Mulan, and the beloved Shrek series.

Throughout his storied career, Eddie Murphy has earned numerous accolades, including the prestigious Mark Twain Prize for American Humor, underscoring his significant contributions to entertainment.

Don Cheadle is a renowned actor and producer, widely recognized for his impactful presence in Hollywood. Throughout his distinguished career, he has garnered numerous awards and critical acclaim for his versatile performances.

Cheadle has received honors such as Grammy Awards, Golden Globe Awards, and Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards. He has also earned nominations for prestigious accolades including the Academy Awards, BAFTAs, and Primetime Emmy Awards.

Some of his most notable roles include performances in "The Rat Pack," "Hotel Rwanda," "Crash," "Out of Sight," and "Traffic." He also starred in the "Ocean's" trilogy, "Devil in a Blue Dress," and appeared in both the "Iron Man" and "Avengers" franchises.

In addition to his film work, Don Cheadle has made memorable appearances on television series such as "Night Court," "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air," "Picket Fences," "The Bernie Mac Show," "ER," and "House of Lies."

James Earl Jones is an iconic actor known for his unforgettable, resonant basso profundo voice. His remarkable vocal talent brought legendary characters like Darth Vader in Star Wars and Mufasa in The Lion King to life, captivating generations of audiences.

Jones began his film journey with Stanley Kubrick’s classic, Dr. Strangelove. His impressive career includes roles in Claudine, the Star Wars franchise, The Lion King, Conan the Barbarian, Matewan, Coming to America and its sequel, Field of Dreams, and The Hunt for Red October.

In addition to film, Jones is a celebrated theater actor, earning Tony Awards for standout performances in plays such as The Great White Hope, Fences, Driving Miss Daisy, The Best Man, The Gin Game, and You Can’t Take It With You.

Sidney Poitier made history as the first Black actor to win the Academy Award for Best Actor, inspiring generations of actors who followed in his footsteps.

He received two more Oscar nominations along with an impressive tally of ten Golden Globe nominations and six BAFTAs. Determined to challenge stereotypes, Poitier refused roles that perpetuated negative or comedic portrayals of Black people.

To further his mission, Poitier began directing films that reflected the stories and messages he valued. In addition to his film career, he was an active civil rights advocate and received the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his contributions.

His filmography includes acclaimed titles such as "Porgy and Bess," "The Defiant Ones," "To Sir, with Love," "Lilies of the Field," "A Raisin in the Sun," "In the Heat of the Night," "A Patch of Blue," and "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner."

Danny Glover is an acclaimed actor, director, and committed civil rights activist. Deeply invested in his community, he previously contributed to city administration, working on projects focused on community development.

While engaged in public service, Glover began taking acting classes at the American Conservatory Theater, which marked the start of his celebrated transition into acting. He became widely recognized for his iconic role in the Lethal Weapon franchise.

Over the years, Glover has delivered powerful performances in films such as The Color Purple, Witness, Silverado, Hill Street Blues, Mandela, and A Raisin in The Sun, among others.

His other notable works include Predator 2, Angels in the Outfield, Operation Dumbo Drop, A Rage in Harlem, Dreamgirls, Death at a Funeral, Sorry to Bother You, The Dead Don't Die, Lonesome Dove, and Jumanji: The Next Level.

Laurence Fishburne is a legendary actor celebrated for his unforgettable performances in films such as Morpheus in the Matrix trilogy, Furious in Boyz n the Hood, and Tyrone Miller in Apocalypse Now. He also shines as Bowery King in the John Wick series, and his repertoire features a wide range of commanding roles.

Fishburne's talent extends beyond the screen; he has made a lasting impact through numerous acclaimed stage performances. His remarkable career has earned him three Primetime Emmy Awards, a Tony Award, an Academy Award nomination, and five SAG nominations, among other accolades.

Other standout works in his filmography include What's Love Got to Do With It, Deep Cover, The Color Purple, Mystic River, Contagion, Last Flag Flying, Man of Steel, Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, and Ant-Man and the Wasp. Fishburne continues to impress audiences with his versatility and powerful presence.

Delroy Lindo is a renowned British actor and producer whose career has spanned stage, television, and film with remarkable success. He has received prestigious honors such as the NAACP Image Award and Satellite Award, and has garnered nominations for the Drama Desk Award, Tony Award, Critics' Choice Television Awards, and multiple SAG Awards.

Lindo is widely recognized for his roles in Spike Lee’s Da 5 Bloods, Malcolm X, Crooklyn, and Clockers. His versatile performances extend to notable projects like Get Shorty, Believe, The Cider House Rules, Gone in 60 Seconds, The Chicago Code, The Good Fight, The Core, The Harder They Fall, and the series Anansi Boys.

Louis Gossett Jr. is a highly acclaimed actor known for his impressive work across film, stage, and television. Over the years, he has built a remarkable reputation for his versatile performances and enduring presence in the entertainment industry.

Initially, Gossett chose to forgo a basketball scholarship at NYU, opting instead to pursue his passion for theater. His dedication paid off when he auditioned for and landed a role in the Broadway play "Take a Giant Step."

His stage career thrived with appearances in acclaimed productions such as "A Raisin in the Sun," "The Blacks," and "The Zulu and the Zeyda." On film and television, Gossett delivered memorable roles in titles like "A Raisin in the Sun," "The Landlord," "Skin Game," "Travels with My Aunt," "The Laughing Policeman," and blockbuster movies including "The Deep," "Jaws 3-D," "Enemy Mine," and the popular "Iron Eagle" series.

Throughout his distinguished career, Louis Gossett Jr. has received numerous prestigious honors, including an Academy Award for his role in "An Officer and a Gentleman" and a Primetime Emmy Award for "Roots," among many others.

Chris Rock is a renowned comedian, actor, writer, and producer who has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry with his exceptional talent and versatility.

Rising to prominence in the stand-up comedy world, Rock captivated audiences with his incisive wit and bold social commentary, quickly earning widespread recognition.

He achieved mainstream success during his tenure on "Saturday Night Live," which paved the way for his acclaimed HBO special "Bring the Pain." This, along with numerous stand-up specials, comedy albums, and sold-out tours, solidified his reputation.

Beyond stand-up, Rock has flourished in film, starring in hits such as "The Longest Yard" and "Grown Ups," showcasing his range as a performer.

Known for his insightful humor and fearless approach to challenging topics, Chris Rock continues to be a respected and influential force in entertainment.

Giancarlo Esposito has built a diverse and remarkable career in the entertainment industry, showcasing his considerable talent across film, television, and stage.

He rose to widespread fame for his unforgettable role as Gustavo "Gus" Fring in the critically acclaimed series "Breaking Bad," earning significant praise and multiple award nominations.

Expanding his legacy, Esposito displayed his versatility as Moff Gideon in the hit series "The Mandalorian," captivating a new generation of fans.

With a career spanning over forty years, Esposito has delivered memorable performances in landmark films such as "Do the Right Thing" and "Malcolm X."

Renowned for his powerful on-screen presence, Giancarlo Esposito continues to make a significant impact and is regarded as one of the most respected actors in the industry.

Cuba Gooding Jr. is a celebrated American actor best known for portraying Rod Tidwell in the 1996 film "Jerry Maguire," a role that earned him the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. His dynamic performance made him an unforgettable figure in film history.

Born on January 30, 1968, in The Bronx, New York City, Gooding Jr. began acting in high school, participating in various stage productions. He made his film debut in 1988 with a minor role in "Coming to America."

His major breakthrough came in 1991 with "Boyz n the Hood." He went on to star in a string of successful movies, including "A Few Good Men," "Outbreak," "As Good as It Gets," "What Dreams May Come," "Men of Honor," "The Butler," and "Selma," among others.

In addition to his work in film, Gooding Jr. has appeared in numerous television shows such as "Amen," "Hill Street Blues," "MacGyver," "Murphy Brown," "NYPD Blue," and notably starred in "American Crime Story" as O.J. Simpson in "The People v. O.J. Simpson."

Djimon Hounsou is a Beninese-American actor and model, born in what was then the French colony of Benin. He relocated to France at the age of 12, where his journey into the world of fashion and entertainment began.

During his time in France, Hounsou met a fashion photographer and designer who inspired him to pursue modeling. He soon established himself as a prominent French model in 1987 before moving to the United States to expand his career.

Transitioning from modeling, Hounsou appeared in several music videos, which paved the way for his acclaimed acting career. He starred in notable films such as "Without You I'm Nothing," "Amistad," "Gladiator," "In America," and "Blood Diamond."

Hounsou received Oscar nominations for his performances in "In America" and "Blood Diamond." His more recent roles include appearances in blockbuster movies like "Guardians of the Galaxy," "Captain Marvel," "Shazam!," "Constantine," "Aquaman," and "Shazam! Fury of the Gods."

Harry Belafonte, who passed away in 2023, was celebrated as one of the most distinguished Black actors of his era. Beyond his acting career, he was an accomplished singer, musician, and a passionate civil rights activist.

Belafonte was a close friend and collaborator of Martin Luther King Jr., playing an active role in the civil rights and Anti-Apartheid movements.

He made history as the first solo artist to sell over a million records with his debut album, "Calypso," which introduced the vibrant West Indian musical style from Trinidad and Tobago to audiences across the United States.

Among his most iconic songs are "The Banana Boat Song" and "Jamaica Farewell." Some of his most memorable films include "Carmen Jones," "Islands in the Sun," "Odds Against Tomorrow," "BlacKkKlansman," "Bobby," and "Kansas City."

Bernard Jeffrey McCullough, widely known as Bernie Mac, was a celebrated American comedian and actor. He gained immense respect for his unique comedic style and delivered standout performances in hit films such as Ocean’s Eleven, as well as his own acclaimed TV series, The Bernie Mac Show.

Bernie Mac launched his comedy career in Chicago as a stand-up performer. He collaborated with influential comedians like Steve Harvey, Cedric the Entertainer, and DL Hughley to produce iconic comedy specials, expanding his impact in the entertainment world.

Over the years, Bernie Mac delivered memorable roles in a wide array of movies, including Mo’ Money, Booty Call, Friday, B*A*P*S, Life, The Players Club, Head of State, Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle, Bad Santa, Guess Who, Pride, Soul Men, Transformers, Old Dogs, and Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa.

Wesley Snipes is an actor, producer and martial artist. Snipes practiced Shotokan Karate from an early age and earned his fifth dan black belt in it and a second dan black belt in Hapkido.

Accordingly, he acted in many action thrillers and crime movies that suit his skill set. Wesley Snipes has worked in major blockbusters like the Blade film series,  New Jack City, White Men Can't Jump, The Waterdance, Passenger 57, Rising Sun, Demolition Man, To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar, The One Night Stand, U. S. Marshals, The Expendables 3, Coming 2 America, etc.

Dennis Haysbert is an American actor. He has a staggering height of 6 ft 4 inches, which made him a good candidate for an athletic scholarship to university.

However, Haysbert turned down the scholarship and opted to study acting at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. After graduation, Haysbert worked in TV series like Lou Grant, Growing Pains, Laverne & Shirley, The A-Team, Night Court, Dallas, The Incredible Hulk, Magnum, P. I. etc. But the role that gained him fame was that of a baseball player in the Major League film franchise.

Dennis Haysbert starred in other notable shows like Absolute Power, 24, The Unit, Lucifer, Love Field, Heat, Waiting to Exhale, Far from Heaven, Incorporated,.etc,

Ossie Davis was born Raiford Chatman Davis; the registration clerk misunderstood his name (R. C. Davis) as Ossie Davis, and it stuck with him.

Davis experienced racism and discrimination at the hands of the KKK all through his childhood. This made him a staunch crusader of civil rights.

After serving in World War II, Ossie Davis began his film career in Sidney Poitier's film No Way Out.

As he refused to be cast in stereotypical roles as a butler or house help, Ossie Davis decided to write, direct and star in his movies.

The most memorable movies that he made include Gordon's War, Black Girl, Cotton Comes to Harlem, The Hill, The Cardinal,  Do The Right Thing, Jungle Fever, She Hates Me, Get on the Bus, Malcolm X, Dr. Dolittle, etc.

Andre Braugher is an accomplished actor whose career has been marked by success and critical acclaim. He has established himself as a versatile and powerful performer.

Braugher rose to prominence with his Emmy-winning portrayal of Detective Frank Pembleton in the television series "Homicide: Life on the Street."

He continued to impress audiences with his commanding presence in shows like "Brooklyn Nine-Nine," where he plays the role of Captain Raymond Holt.

Braugher's talent has also shone on the big screen, with notable performances in films like "Glory" and "The Mist."

Throughout his career, Andre Braugher has earned numerous accolades, including multiple Emmy nominations, and remains a respected figure in the industry for his remarkable acting skills.

Carles S. Dutton is an actor and an amateur boxer. He dropped out of middle school to pursue boxing but was embroiled in a case of manslaughter and sentenced to jail.

In jail, he was introduced to drama, and he earned his degree in fine arts. Dutton starred in the Broadway play Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom and earned a Tony nomination.

He also worked in The Piano Lesson before moving to films like Crocodile Dundee II, The Murder of Mary Phagan, Rudy, Aliens 3, etc.

His other film roles include the TV series Roc, Oz, Blind Faith, films, The Piano Lesson,  Menace II Society, A Time to Kill, Cookie's Fortune, Gothika, Legion, and more.

Bill Duke is an imposing actor with a towering height of 6ft 4ins. He is a film actor and director who generally appears in roles that involve law enforcement.

He was always interested in theatre, but with his brilliant academic records, the Dean of Dutchess Community College offered him a personal check to study medicine at Boston University.

The love for acting prevailed in the end, and Bill Duke did his BA in English. The most recognizable roles of Bill Duke have been in Commando, Predator, Exit Wounds, American Gigolo, No Man's Land, Bird on a Wire, Menace II Society, Payback, Mandy, Black Lightning, Hill Street Blues, Miami Vice, etc.

Keith David is well known for his deep and resonant voice. He is an actor and a producer with over 300 performances on stage, television, and in movies.

He is a highly respected name in the black film fraternity. Some of the notable roles of Keith David include The Thing, Platoon, They Live, Dead Presidents, Armageddon, There's Something About Mary, Requiem for a Dream, Pitch Black, Barbershop, Crash, The Chronicles of Riddick, Cloud Atlas, etc.

David’s iconic voice was lent to animated characters like Halo, Gargoyles, Planescape: Torment, Todd McFarlane's Spawn, Mass Effect, The Princess and The Frog, Dissidia Final Fantasy, Catwoman, etc.

Ving Rhames was born as Irving Rameses Rhames, but while at the State University of New York, Stanley Tucci shortened Irving to Ving Rhames, and the name stuck with him.

Later, Rhames transferred to Juilliard School and graduated in 1983. The most famous roles of Ving Rhames have been in Pulp Fiction, Mission Impossible film franchise,  Jacob's Ladder, Dave, Striptease, Con Air, Only in America, Out of Sight, Entrapment, Bringing Out the Dead, Dawn of the Dead, etc.

Rhames also did voice work for animated films like Lilo & Stitch, Stitch: The Movie, Leroy and Stitch, etc.

Billy Dee Williams is an actor and an artist. He graduated from the High School of Music & Art and earned a scholarship to the National Academy of Fine Arts & Designs.

Williams also won the Hallgarten Prize for painting. To fund his painting hobby, Williams took up acting jobs. Billy Dee Williams starred in the Star Wars franchise as Lando Calrissian.

He also starred in The Last Angry Man, Brian’s Song, Lady Sings The Blues, Mahogany, Nighthawks, The Lego Batman Movie, etc.

His television roles were in Gideon's Crossing; Dynasty, General Hospital: Night Shift; General Hospital, The Jeffersons, 227, The Hughleys, etc.

Mario Van Peebles is the son of Melvin Van Peebles and Maria Marx. Van Peebles got his artistic inspiration and early learning from them.

He is a film director and actor like his father. Mario Van Peebles graduated from Colombia University with a degree in economics.

Van Peebles appeared as a child actor in a few films and music videos in 1968 and 1971. However, he made his full-time debut in 1981 with the Tv series, The Sophisticated Gents.

Van Peebles is well-remembered for his role in the New Jack City and USS Indianapolis: Men of Courage. Both of them were directed and starred in by Van Peebles.

He also directed 21 Jump Street between 1980 to 90, Roots, Empire, Sons of Anarchy, NCIS, etc.

Tracy Lauren Marrow is the birth name of Ice-T. He is an American rapper, songwriter, actor and producer. In high school, Marrow enjoyed reading Iceberg Slim novels and described them to his friends.

Later, they gave him the name Ice-T. After school, Marrow served in the armed forces for two years before he joined Hollywood.

Returning from service, Ice-T became a rapper and a musician, releasing records and forming record labels. While his music career was successful, Ice-T began acting and starred in New Jack City, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, Tank Girl, Surviving The Game, Ice Loves Coco, Breakin’, Breakin' 2: Electric Boogaloo, Rappin', etc.

Clarke Peters was born Peter Clarke, and he was interested in acting on stage since he was 12. After completing high school, he went to Paris and later England to work on stage.

He appeared in West End plays like  Blues in the Night, Porgy and Bess, The Witches of Eastwick, Chicago, Chess, etc.

While in the UK, he changed his name to Clarke Peters for his Equity card. In the US, however, he faced legal troubles for not drafting for the Vietnam War.

He vehemently opposed fighting against Vietnam as they did nothing to harm America. Later in his career, Peters starred in films Endgame, John Wick, Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri, Harriet, Da 5 Bloods, etc.

He also worked in the TV series, The Wire, Treme, etc.

Joe Morton is an accomplished actor who has worked extensively on stage, television and in movies. He trained in drama at Hofstra University before he started his career.

Morton debuted with Broadway shows Hair and appeared in Salvation, Raisin, etc. He even received a Tony Award nomination for the last play.

The most memorable works of Joe Morton have been Terminator 2: Judgment Day, Of Mice and Men, Speed, Apt Pupil, What Lies Beneath, Ali, Paycheck, Stealth, American Gangster, Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, Justice League, etc.

Morton was nominated for a Tony Award, and won the Primetime Emmy Award for Scandal. He also performed in the TV series Eureka.

Reginald VelJohnson is a comedy actor known for mostly playing cops. His most famous characters were in the TV series Family Matters, as Carl Winslow, and in Die Hard and Die Hard 2, as Detective Al Powell.

Originally, Reginald VelJohnson’s last name was Johnson. He changed Reginald Vel Johnson to the current spelling to add uniqueness to the name.

He earned his Bachelors in Fine Arts from New York University and joined the Black/Hispanic Shakespeare Company. He learned a lot there with fellow actors like Morgan Freeman, CCH Pounder, etc.

His recent appearances have been in Turner & Hooch (TV Series), Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Pride & Prejudice: Atlanta. Hitting The Breaks, Ray Donovan, It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, etc.

Michael Clarke Duncan was an American actor who earned an Academy Award nomination for his role in The Green Mile and appeared in many more hit movies.

He had a difficult childhood where he worked odd jobs to support his Hollywood dreams. He got his breakthrough with The Green Mile, which earned an Oscar nomination.

Michael Clarke Duncan also starred in Daredevil,  Spider-Man: The New Animated Series, Armageddon, The Whole Nine Yards, Planet of the Apes, The Scorpion King, Sin City, Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby, etc.

He also starred in the TV series Bones,  the animated series Kung Fu Panda, Brother Bear!, Green Lantern, etc.

Ernest Lee Hudson is an American actor with a Masters in Fine Arts from Yale School of Drama. He enrolled at Wayne State University to learn acting and writing skills.

Hudson worked temporarily at the Concept East Theater Company and later set up the Actors’ Ensemble Theater. Ernie Hudson is famous for his role in the Ghostbuster series of films, where he played Winston Zeddemore.

He also starred in The Crow,  Leviathan, Airheads, The Basketball Diaries, Congo, Miss Congeniality, etc. On TV, Hudson appeared in Oz,  St. Elsewhere, The Last Precinct, 10-8: Officers on Duty, Desperate Housewives, Law & Order, Transformers: Prime, Franklin & Bash, Grace and Frankie, L.A.'s Finest, etc.

Nathaniel Adams Coles was better known by his stage name Nat King Cole. He was a singer, songwriter, jazz pianist, and actor par excellence.

He gained nationwide fame and recognition for his jazz music. He also performed in musicals, TV and films. He was the first African American artist to host American TV shows, and made over 100 chart-topping songs with his jazz ensemble.

The notable films of Nat King Cole include Citizen Kane, Grumpy Old Men, Cat Ballou, Watchmen, Night of the Quarter-Moon, St. Louis Blues, etc.

Nat King Cole was inducted into the Alabama Hall of Fame, Rock and Roll of Fame and the Late Songwriters Hall of Fame. He was awarded the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1990.

James Pickens Jr. is an actor who is best known for his role as Dr. Richard Webber in Grey’s Anatomy, Deputy Director Alvin Kersh in the sci-fi series X-Files, and Chuck Mitchell in Roseanne.

James Pickens Jr. earned a Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts from Bowling Green State University, where he participated in theater plays.

Later, he also worked in plays like A Raisin in the Sun, A Soldier’s Play, etc., with Denzel Washington and Samuel L. Jackson. The most memorable roles of Pickens have been in Station 19, Beverly Hills 90210, Ghosts of Mississippi, Dangerous Minds, Bulworth, The Practice, NYPD Blue, Seattle Grace: Message of Hope, 42, etc.

Frankie Faison is an actor who worked in films, TV, and stage play with great proficiency. Faison did his Masters in Fine Arts from NYU’s Tisch School of Acting.

Later, he went on to act on stage in Fences, King Lear, etc. and even earned a Tony Award nomination.

The most memorable performances of Frankie Faison have been in the Hannibal Lecter franchise, Banshee, The Wire, Coming to America, True Colors, One Life to Live, The Good Wife, The Thomas Crown Affair, Do The Right Thing, White Chick, Adam, etc.

Damon Wayans is one of the Wayans brothers and from the infamous Wayans family of entertainers. He is an actor, director, producer, and writer.

He did stand-up comedy, sketch comedy, and scriptwriting for some of the best TV shows and movies. Wayans starred in a small role in Beverly Hills Cops and was hired by Saturday Night Live as a cast member.

Carl Weathers is an actor, TV director, and former American footballer. He was a very athletic boy in high school and participated in boxing, football, gymnastics, wrestling, etc.

After high school, he played college football as a linebacker and later got drafted into the NFL. Weathers made his film debut with Magnum Force and starred in the first four Rocky films in the franchise.

He appeared in Happy Gilmore, Little Nicky, Predator, Action Jackson, the Toy Story franchise, Street Justice, etc. He also worked in many television series like Arrested Development,  Star vs. the Forces of Evil, The Mandalorian, etc.

Clifton Powell is an American actor known for his supporting roles in films. He has appeared in supporting roles in Ray, Menace II Society, Dead Presidents, Why Do Fools Fall in Love, Rush Hour, Next Friday, Friday After Next, Woman Thou Art Loosed, etc.

Clifton Powell was nominated for the NAACP Image Award for his supporting role in Ray. He also acted in Tv series like Roc, The Sinbad Show, South Central,  Simon, Ryan Caulfield: Year One, Army Wives, Saints & Sinners, The Family Business, American Soul, etc.

Fred Williamson was a professional football player before he became an actor. Williamson was an athlete since his high school days and participated in track and field.

He for a football scholarship to attend Northwestern University and his football career took off from there. However, his turn as an actor got him more fame than his sporting career.

He worked in crime thriller and blaxploitation films that were a hit during the 60s and 70s. The memorable performances of Fred Williamson are in Black Caesar, Hell Up in Harlem, The Hammer, Three The Hard Way, That Man Bolt, Star Trek: The Original Series, Soul Train, M*A*S*H*, etc.

Michael Dorn will forever be remembered for his role as Lt. Commander Worf on the USS Starship Enterprise. Dorn has appeared in the most number of Star Trek: Next Generation episodes and movies and also starred in Star Trek Deep Space Nine.

Michale Dorn graduated from Pasadena City College with a degree in Radio and television production. He worked in a few TV series like CHiPs, Rocky, Ali, Jagged Edges, Santa Clause 2, Shade, Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause, Ted 2, etc.

Apart from the Star Trek film and TV franchises, Michael Dorn is an aviation enthusiast. He has a pilot's license and has substantial flight experience.

He owned several jet aircraft like a Lockheed T-33 Shooting Star, a North American F-86 Sabre, and currently owns a North American Sabreliner.

BrocK Peters was born as George Fisher to Senegalese parents. From the age of 10, Peters was interested in show business and learned to sing and play the violin.

He was more talented with his voice and took up musicals in the theater. The most remembered roles played by Brock Peters have been in To Kill a Mockingbird, Porgy and Bess, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Star Wars, Soylent Green, Carmen Jones, The Pawnbroker, Major Dundee, Lost In The Stars, The Wild Thornberrys, The Importance of Being Earnest, etc.

Peters also did voice acting in animated films like DC Animated, Batman: The Animated Series, Galtar and the Golden Lance, SWAT Kats: The Radical Squadron, etc.

Avery Brooks is an actor, director, singer, etc. He was the son of Eva Lydia Crawford and Samuel Brooks, both of whom were musicians.

In fact, Eva Lydia was the first African American woman to earn a Master's degree in music from Northwestern University.

Avery Brooks himself was the first Black man to earn a Master's degree in fine arts from Rutgers University.

Later, Brooks starred in iconic roles like Captain Benjamin Sisko on Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Hawk on Spenser: For Hire and A Man Called Hawk, Dr. Bob Sweeney in American History X, etc.

Brooks earned a nomination at the Saturn Awards, three NAACP Image Awards, etc. He was inducted into the  College of Fellows of the American Theater and awarded the William Shakespeare Award.

Yaphet Kotto was born Frederick Samuel Kotto, and he changed it to reflect his father’s name. Yaphet Kotto was interested in acting from the age of 15 years.

He worked in the Actors Mobile Theater Studio and performed Shakespearean plays. Later, he joined the Actors Studio in New York.

The Tv and film roles of Kotto are Homicide: Life on The Streets, Alien, The Running Man, Live and Let Die, Midnight Run, The Thomas Crown Affair, Raid on Entebbe, Hawaii Five-O, Brubaker, For Love and Honor, Desperado, Eye of the Tiger, etc.

Clarence Williams III was born into an artistic family. His grandparents were Clarence Williams (jazz composer) and Eva Taylor (singer-actress), and his father was Clarence Williams Jr, a musician and composer.

Clarence Williams III also started performing on Broadway after finishing his two-year service as the paratrooper of the 506th Infantry of the 101st Airborne Division.

He worked on stage in The Long Dream, Walk in Darkness, Slow Dance on the Killing Ground, King John, etc.

His film and TV credits include The Mod Squad, Half Baked, The General’s Daughter, Reindeer Games, Lee Daniels: The Butler, Purple Rain, 52 Pick-Up, Tales from the Hood, Hoodlum,  Life, American Gangster, etc.

William Goldwyn Nunn III was famous as Bill Nunn. He worked on stage, in films and TV shows with great success.

His stage performances include the August Wilson play, Fences. Bill Nunn appeared in TV series like  The Job, Randy and The Mob, A raisin in THe Sun, etc.

His memorable film roles were in Do The Right Thing, Regarding Henry, Things To Do In Denver, Spider-Man franchise by Sam Raimi, etc.

Robert Ray Wisdom is an American actor. His parents were Jamaican immigrants, and Wisdom was a track and field star in high school.

He graduated from Columbia University before following his dream to act. Robert Wisdom starred in the  HBO series, The Wire as  Howard "Bunny" Colvin.

Later, he also worked in Prison Break as Norman ’Lechero’ St James and as Harold Conway in Vacation Friends.

The film and TV credits of Wisdom include Hellraiser: Bloodline, Face/Off, Poltergeist: Legacy, Cracker: Mind Over Murder, Barbershop 2: Back in Business, etc.