Hollywood is on the move, and at the front of this shift are young Black stars under 40. They are not just stars. They change what it means to be one. Not only do they get roles, but they make the tales we watch & drive the scenes on. You may know them if you love films or like to binge-watch a lot. You have seen them shine on the screen. Here are 10 Black stars under 40 who are big in Hollywood.
10. LaKeith Stanfield (Age: 32)
LaKeith Stanfield is the type of actor that leaves you wondering—and that’s what makes him so thrilling to see. From his early work in Short Term 12 to iconic performances in Get Out and Atlanta, he’s never afraid to venture out. There’s something hypnotic about how he disappears into a role, making even the smallest moment feel big. Whether he’s playing someone grounded or someone completely off-the-wall, Stanfield brings a raw intensity that’s impossible to ignore. He’s one of those rare talents who doesn’t just act—he transforms.
9. Winston Duke (Age: 36)
With his dominant 6’5″ presence and contagious energy, Winston Duke burst onto the scene as M’Baku in Black Panther and immediately left a mark. He walked the line of humor, heart, and authority in a manner that made a secondary role become a fan favorite. But Duke is more than a single iconic performance. He’s proving audiences want to see bold new takes on heroism—and his growing body of work proves he’s here to stay. Whether flexing dramatic chops or showing off comedic timing, Duke is a powerful screen presence with a bright future ahead.
8. John David Washington (Age: 39)
Having Denzel Washington as a father may include pressure, but John David Washington has shown he’s capable of holding his own. He played pro football for a short time and then knocked heads in BlackkKlansman, then brought cool, confident swagger to spearheading Christopher Nolan’s brain-twister Tenet. Washington has a natural charm and a keen sense of screen presence that compels attention. Each time he arrives, it’s like seeing someone fully capable of his art—and still just beginning.
7. Daniel Kaluuya (Age: 34)
Daniel Kaluuya doesn’t merely act—he creates a mark. Since Get Out, his name has been linked to projects that count. With an Oscar victory for Judas and the Black Messiah already in his pocket, Kaluuya keeps assuming roles that touch on race, power, identity, and resistance. But even aside from the dense themes, something is compelling about the way he carries a scene. He’s not performing characters—he’s delivering statements. Every time he appears, you’re sure you’re going to feel something authentic.
6. John Boyega (Age: 31)
From the streets of London to the galaxy of Star Wars, John Boyega’s career has been nothing less than extraordinary. As Finn, he presented fans with a new type of hero—imperfect, courageous, and human. But Boyega did not just rest on being a box office sensation. He’s also used his voice to call out injustice, both in Hollywood and the world. He’s the type of actor who supports his words with actions, illustrating that talent and morality go hand in hand. Boyega’s not acting his part—he’s leading by example.
5. Donald Glover (Age: 40)
Okay, so he just turned 40, but Donald Glover cannot be left off this list. Whether he’s acting, writing, directing, or rapping as Childish Gambino, Glover is always finding new ways to reinvent himself. He’s gone from Community to Atlanta and continued to break boundaries and challenge the status quo. His work combines comedy, commentary, and art in a way that’s his alone. Glover doesn’t just embody Black excellence—he embodies creative freedom itself.
4. Michael B. Jordan (Age: 36)
Michael B. Jordan has been on our screens for years, but it’s his capacity to change that keeps him on top. Whether he plays a real-life tragedy in Fruitvale Station, trains like a champ in Creed, or reigns over Wakanda as Killmonger, he’s got raw emotion and magnetic self-assurance. Aside from acting, Jordan’s ventures into producing and directing ensure he gets to influence which stories are told. He’s not pursuing roles—any roles—he’s crafting a legacy.
3. Zendaya (Age: 28)
Zendaya’s ascension has been one of the most remarkable in recent history. What began on Disney has grown into a full-fledged powerhouse career. Her stint as Rue on Euphoria proved she’s got some real acting ability, and her performances in Spider-Man and Dune solidified her as a real leading lady. But it’s not just talent—Zendaya’s voice, style, and activism make her a role model for an entire generation. She’s changing the game on what it means to be young, beautiful, and in charge of your image.
2. Lupita Nyong’o (Age: 42—but let’s be real, she’s ageless)
Technically more than 40, yes—but when it comes to impact, Lupita Nyong’o can’t be excluded. Her Oscar-winning performance in 12 Years a Slave propelled her to fame, but she’s kept fans mesmerized since. From Black Panther to Us, she brings class, force, and depth to each role. And outside the movies, Lupita espouses African culture, natural beauty, and diversity in media. She’s not only an actor—she’s an icon.
1. Halle Bailey (Age: 25)
Disney’s casting of Halle Bailey as Ariel created headlines, controversy, and an emotional tidal wave. But when the movie opened, Bailey put critics in their place with a performance that was magical, heartfelt, and profoundly necessary. For many children, watching a Black Disney princess live and breathe meant everything. Bailey infused the character with grace, strength, and authenticity—and made history along the way. Her star is just rising, and she’s already demonstrated that representation is not only about inclusion—it’s about inspiration.
These performers aren’t merely acting roles—they’re breaking down doors, changing narratives, and demonstrating what actual representation feels like. They’re altering what it means to be a Hollywood celebrity, not only for themselves, but for the future generation. And as they proceed to take center stage, one thing is certain: Hollywood’s finally catching up with the talent that’s been present all this time.