Hollywood‘s being rewritten—and at the top of this cultural shift is a bold, brilliant new crop of Black actors and actresses under 40. These stars aren’t just lighting up our screens—they’re breaking down barriers, owning their narratives, and redefining the industry in the moment. From Oscar-caliber performances to shake-up maneuvering behind the scenes, these are the talents redefining entertainment. Let’s count down the 10 Black stars under the age of 40 who are making Hollywood more diverse, stronger, and more fascinating than ever.
10. Marsai Martin
Only 20 years old, Marsai Martin is a force to be dealt with. With her lead role as Diane Johnson on Black-ish, she became Hollywood’s youngest executive producer with the film Little. Her creative vision, entrepreneurial determination, and in-front-of-the-camera presence are rewriting the book on what young Black actors can accomplish. HOT100.9 reports that Marsai is only just getting started—and already breaking the rules.
9. Lonnie Chavis
Best known for teen Randall on This Is Us, Lonnie Chavis has earned critical acclaim for his deeply emotional acting—albeit all before his 20th birthday. His early accomplishment represents a new generation of Black artists who aren’t waiting their turn—they’re leading the charge now, with courage and clarity.
8. Miles Brown
Another Black-ish breakout, Miles Brown is a real multi-hyphenate. Whether he’s rapping, acting, or dancing, he’s bringing a new vibe that can’t be ignored. Brown’s generation doesn’t want just one lane—they’re taking over the whole road.
7. John Boyega
John Boyega leads globally in Star Wars as Finn, but his reach goes far beyond the realm of science fiction. From Attack the Block to They Cloned Tyrone, Boyega keeps taking solid, significant roles. He’s also a voice to be reckoned with when it comes to industry equity, using his voice to advocate for true representation. Ranker ranks Boyega among the most influential actors of his generation—and it’s easy to see why.
6. Halle Bailey
Halle Bailey paved the way as the first Black Ariel in Disney’s The Little Mermaid. Her casting raised eyebrows—and smiles—around representation in fantasy roles. As media critic Sherri Hope Culver noted, seeing “a live-action, real flesh and blood [princess] that kids can be inspired by is significant.” Bailey’s performance proved that inclusive storytelling isn’t symbolic—it’s transformative.
5. Daniel Kaluuya
With an Oscar win for Judas and the Black Messiah, Daniel Kaluuya cemented his status as one of Hollywood’s most compelling actors. His work in Get Out, Queen & Slim, and Black Panther shows not just talent, but intention—choosing roles that challenge, inspire, and honor real Black lives.
4. Michael B. Jordan
From Fruitvale Station to Creed to Black Panther, Michael B. Jordan has built a career full of solid, meaningful acting. As a director (Creed III) and producer, he’s also making decisions about what gets made—and who does it. Along with his charm and dependability, as ranked by Ranker, he has made him one of the leading figures of modern film.
3. Zendaya
Zendaya has evolved from Disney sweetheart to Emmy-winning icon. Her complex performance as Rue in Euphoria earned her critical acclaim, and her appearances in Dune and the Spider-Man franchise prove that she is capable of headlining blockbusters and prestige drama in equal measure. Fashion influence, activism, and genre-hopping skill set Zendaya apart as a generation talent in every way.
2. Keke Palmer
There is nothing Keke Palmer can’t do. From Akeelah and the Bee to Nope to hosting and producing, she’s a real entertainment force to be reckoned with. Palmer also spearheads mental health conversations as well as representation, utilizing her platform with clarity and intention. She’s not only a star—she’s a movement.
1. Letitia Wright
Letitia Wright exploded into the stratosphere as Shuri in Black Panther, but her contributions go far beyond the Marvel Cinematic Universe. With ferocious performances in Small Axe and Death on the Nile, Wright is building a storied filmography that’s all about depth and purpose. She’s the essence of what it looks like when talent meets truth—and Hollywood is better for it.
These 10 stars aren’t just making jobs—they’re making a new, wide-open Hollywood. A report from McKinsey thinks that filling race gaps can bring $10 billion more each year to the field. Plans like the xoTO Screen Industry Pathways in Toronto are aiding by backing storytellers who don’t get much of a shot. As these growing stars get known, so does a true, bold way to see and show fun. This isn’t just a list—it’s a peek at a future that’s strong, bright, and Black.