Let’s discuss the new faces revolutionizing Hollywood—the young Black stars who are delivering fresh energy and redefining what it means to shine. If you haven’t heard of these stars yet, you’re in for a treat. From powerful performances to breaking new ground, these artists are delivering unforgettable work on both the big and small screens. Here’s a countdown of 10 rising Black stars you’ll want to keep on your radar.
10. Miles Brown
Miles Brown came up before our very eyes on Black-ish, and now he’s proving he’s so much more than a child actor. He dances, raps, and acts with incredible ability, so it’s no surprise to see him named a triple threat. His youthful energy and increased range lead us to believe he’s just beginning—and we can’t wait to see what he does next.
9. Marsai Martin
Marsai isn’t only a talent on screen—she’s breaking barriers behind the camera, too. She became one of the youngest executive producers in history, demonstrating that she has the drive and vision to tell her own stories. With quick wit and entrepreneurial ambition, she’s a role model for young creators who aspire to do it all.
8. Asante Blackk
If When They See Us lingered with you, it’s because of Asante Blackk’s haunting rendition of Kevin Richardson. His acting captured the unadulterated innocence and pain of the narrative and left a lasting impression. He’s also wowed on This Is Us, showing he’s got the stuff to do a range of roles and keep viewers engaged.
7. Hailey Kilgore
Hailey Kilgore is making heads turn as Jukebox on Power Book III: Raising Kanan. She plays a character who goes from aspiring to merciless with ease, and her performance is both captivating and memorable. Theater fans are well aware of her talent; now, audiences on TV are discovering what makes her unique.
6. Ayo Edebiri
You can’t go anywhere without seeing Ayo Edebiri nowadays—she’s everywhere and crushing it. From the cutthroat environment of The Bear to providing laughs in Big Mouth and Bottoms, she aced both comedy and drama. She even proved capable of horror with aplomb, making her one of the hottest and most versatile artists around.
5. Kelvin Harrison Jr.
Kelvin Harrison Jr. is the epitome of range. He’s just as strong whether he’s playing intense drama, historical leaders, or even villains in larger franchises. His performances in Waves are memorable, particularly in scenes filled with emotion and tension. Kelvin’s performances always seem real and deserved, and he gets all the praise he deserves.
4. Storm Reid
Storm Reid’s subtle strength on Euphoria says it all. Playing Gia, she embodies the tragedy of addiction from a sibling’s point of view with such subtlety and depth. She’s also cut quite a figure in movies like A Wrinkle in Time and The Invisible Man. Her talent for expressing layered emotions with few words makes her one of today’s most interesting young actresses.
3. Dominique Thorne
Dominique Thorne is injecting new life as the tech-whiz Riri Williams in the world of Marvel. From her dramatic entrance in If Beale Street Could Talk to now headlining her superhero tale, she is strength and brains personified. Her work continues to sweep up fans from all sides.
2. Taylor Russell
Taylor Russell gives devastating performances that remain long after the credits. She demonstrated her skill at portraying grief and strength with authenticity in Waves. She has also demonstrated her range in horror and thriller ventures. With rumors circulating regarding future big-name projects, it is obvious her star continues to shine.
1. Halle Bailey
Halle Bailey’s being cast as Ariel in the live-action Little Mermaid was a historical milestone. Watching a Black woman play such a legendary character is so important for representation and to be an inspiration. Her presence and voice have already made her a role model for the new generation, proving that Hollywood’s future is bountiful, inclusive, and filled with hope.
Representation matters-it is not just a matter of visibility but stories that resonate and inspire. These young stars are not only producing movies or shows; they are making history by opening up doors and changing the face of entertainment for good and ever. Hollywood is watching-and so are we.