Top 10 black actors who reshaped Hollywood’s narrative

Hollywood has long struggled with diversity and inclusion. Many Black actors have broken barriers and reshaped the industry. They have delivered unforgettable performances and paved the way for future generations.

Here are some top Black actors who changed the game.

**1. Sidney Poitier**

Sidney Poitier was more than an actor; he was a movement. In 1964, he became the first Black man to win an Academy Award for Best Actor for *Lilies of the Field*. This victory opened doors for Black talent in leading roles. His performances in *Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner* and *In the Heat of the Night* challenged racial stereotypes. He forced Hollywood to rethink its portrayal of Black men.

**2. Denzel Washington**

Denzel Washington redefined Black masculinity on screen. He won Oscars for his roles in *Glory* and *Training Day*. His performances in *Malcolm X* and *Fences* set a high standard for acting. Beyond acting, he mentors young Black actors and advocates for strong characters.

**3. Whoopi Goldberg**

Whoopi Goldberg showcases her range from comedy to drama. In *The Color Purple*, she earned an Oscar nomination for her heartbreaking performance. She became the first Black woman to win an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress in *Ghost*. As one of the few EGOT winners, Goldberg proves that Black women can thrive across all areas of entertainment.

**4. Morgan Freeman**

Morgan Freeman is known for his deep voice and wise presence. His roles in *The Shawshank Redemption*, *Driving Miss Daisy*, and *Million Dollar Baby* showed that Black actors can play complex characters beyond stereotypes. He also influences narration and film production, ensuring authentic storytelling.

**5. Viola Davis**

Viola Davis has redefined what it means to be a powerful Black actress. She is the first Black woman to win an Oscar, Emmy, and Tony for acting. Her performances in *Fences*, *The Help*, and *How to Get Away with Murder* showcase her emotional depth. She continues advocating for better roles for Black women.

**6. Chadwick Boseman**

Chadwick Boseman’s legacy is significant and inspiring. His role as T’Challa in *Black Panther* made history as Marvel's first Black superhero lead. He portrayed Jackie Robinson (*42*), James Brown (*Get On Up*), and Thurgood Marshall (*Marshall*) with dedication to powerful stories about Black lives. Though his life was cut short, his impact will last generations.

**7. Samuel L. Jackson**

Samuel L. Jackson is one of Hollywood’s highest-grossing actors with a decades-long career. His roles in *Pulp Fiction*, *Django Unchained*, and as Nick Fury in the Marvel Cinematic Universe solidified his status as a cultural icon. He commands attention in every scene, making him a legendary figure.

**8. Lupita Nyong’o**

Lupita Nyong’o won an Academy Award for her breakout role in *12 Years a Slave*. She became the first Kenyan actress to achieve this honor, promoting diversity in film since then through films like *Black Panther*, *Us*, and *Star Wars*. Beyond acting, she advocates representation and self-love within the Black community.

**9. Eddie Murphy**

Eddie Murphy transformed comedy through his work on Saturday Night Live before dominating box offices with films like *Beverly Hills Cop*, *Coming to America*, and *The Nutty Professor*. His influence on stand-up comedy paved paths for comedians like Kevin Hart and Chris Rock.

**10. Mahershala Ali**

Mahershala Ali is a two-time Oscar winner who excels at dramatic roles. His performances in *Moonlight* and *Green Book* received critical acclaim while challenging industry norms with nuanced portrayals.
As Blade in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Ali inspires new generations of actors.