MomSkoop
Hollywood is experiencing an incredible wave of young African American talent that’s reshaping the entertainment industry.
These rising stars are landing major roles in blockbuster films, hit TV series, and streaming sensations that millions of viewers watch every day.
From superhero franchises to award-winning dramas, these actors are proving their versatility and star power across every genre.
Get ready to learn about twenty remarkable performers who are already making history and will dominate screens for years to come.
1. Jharrel Jerome
Winning an Emmy at just 21 years old isn’t something most actors can claim, but Jharrel Jerome did exactly that for his powerful portrayal in When They See Us.
His performance as Korey Wise brought audiences to tears and earned him recognition as one of the most talented young actors working today.
Born in the Bronx to Dominican and African American parents, Jerome brings authenticity and emotional depth to every role he takes on.
He’s appeared in critically acclaimed projects like Moonlight and continues to choose characters that challenge him as an artist.
His dedication to telling important stories sets him apart from many performers his age.
Watching Jerome work feels like witnessing someone who was born to act, with natural charisma that lights up every scene he’s in.
2. Caleb McLaughlin
From riding bikes in Hawkins, Indiana to walking red carpets worldwide, Caleb McLaughlin has grown up right before our eyes on Stranger Things.
Playing Lucas Sinclair since 2016 gave him a platform that most young actors only dream about, and he’s used it wisely to build an impressive career.
Beyond the Upside Down, McLaughlin has shown his range in films like Concrete Cowboy, where he portrayed a Philadelphia teen discovering urban horseback riding culture.
His ability to switch between sci-fi adventure and grounded drama proves he’s not just a one-genre wonder.
He’s also become an advocate for anti-bullying campaigns, using his fame for positive change.
McLaughlin’s journey from Broadway’s The Lion King to Netflix stardom inspires young performers everywhere.
3. Asante Blackk
Critics took notice when Asante Blackk delivered a heart-wrenching performance in When They See Us at just 17 years old.
His portrayal of teenage Kevin Richardson earned him an Emmy nomination, making him one of the youngest actors ever recognized in his category.
That breakout role opened doors to projects like This Is Us and other prestigious productions.
Blackk doesn’t just act—he fully embodies the characters he plays with maturity beyond his years.
Directors praise his work ethic and emotional intelligence on set, qualities that usually take decades to develop.
He’s particularly drawn to roles that highlight social issues and give voice to underrepresented communities.
With each new project, Blackk proves that age doesn’t determine talent or the ability to create meaningful art.
4. RJ Cyler
Playing the Blue Ranger in Power Rangers might sound like just another superhero gig, but RJ Cyler brought unexpected depth to the role that surprised audiences.
His character dealt with being on the autism spectrum, and Cyler handled the representation with care and respect that earned praise from advocacy groups.
Before donning the blue suit, Cyler made waves in the indie drama Me and Earl and the Dying Girl, showcasing his dramatic chops.
He’s since appeared in shows like The Harder They Fall and I’m Dying Up Here, proving his versatility across comedy and drama.
Cyler picks projects that interest him rather than chasing the biggest paycheck, which keeps his work fresh and exciting.
His infectious energy and genuine personality make him someone audiences root for both on and off screen.
5. Storm Reid
Storm Reid has been acting since she was three years old, but her role in A Wrinkle in Time catapulted her into the spotlight as a leading lady.
Playing Meg Murry opposite Oprah Winfrey and Reese Witherspoon would intimidate most teenagers, but Reid held her own with remarkable poise and talent.
Her recent work in HBO’s The Last of Us showcased her ability to handle complex, emotionally demanding material in a post-apocalyptic setting.
She’s also appeared in The Suicide Squad, Euphoria, and other major productions that demonstrate her range.
Reid balances blockbusters with smaller indie films, showing she’s serious about her craft rather than just chasing fame.
At such a young age, she’s already working with some of Hollywood’s biggest directors and building a resume that rivals actors twice her age.
6. Halle Bailey
Casting announcements rarely break the internet, but when Disney revealed Halle Bailey as their live-action Ariel, social media exploded with excitement.
Her stunning voice and acting ability made her the perfect choice to bring the beloved mermaid to life for a new generation of fans.
Before swimming under the sea, Bailey was already famous as one half of the musical duo Chloe x Halle, earning Grammy nominations for their R&B albums.
She’s also starred in The Color Purple musical film, proving she can handle both contemporary and classic material.
Her performances combine powerful vocals with genuine emotional connection that moves audiences to tears.
Bailey represents the new wave of triple-threat performers who can sing, act, and captivate audiences with seemingly effortless grace and authenticity.
7. Whitney Peak
Stepping into the world of Gossip Girl is no small feat, especially when you’re rebooting one of the most beloved teen dramas of all time.
Whitney Peak took on that challenge as Zoya Lott, bringing fresh energy to the Upper East Side saga while making the character entirely her own.
Peak got her start in shows like Home Before Dark and Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, where she proved she could handle both family-friendly content and darker supernatural storylines.
Her natural charisma translates beautifully on screen, making viewers instantly connect with her characters.
She’s also become a fashion icon among young people, regularly appearing in style magazines and at major industry events.
Peak’s rising star shows that talent and authenticity will always find an audience, even in competitive entertainment markets.
8. Yara Shahidi
Few young actors balance Hollywood success with academic achievement quite like Yara Shahidi, who studied at Harvard while starring in Grown-ish.
Her character Zoey Johnson first appeared on Black-ish before getting her own spinoff, and Shahidi has grown the role into a cultural phenomenon that resonates with college students everywhere.
Beyond acting, Shahidi founded Eighteen x 18, an organization encouraging young people to vote and engage with civic issues.
She’s interviewed presidents, spoken at major conferences, and become a voice for her generation on topics ranging from education to social justice.
Her intelligence and activism complement her acting career rather than overshadowing it.
Shahidi proves that young performers can be multifaceted individuals who use their platforms to create positive change while entertaining millions.
9. Lexi Underwood
Playing the daughter of Kerry Washington’s character in Little Fires Everywhere put Lexi Underwood in scenes with one of Hollywood’s most respected actresses.
The young performer held her own beautifully, delivering a nuanced portrayal of a teenager navigating complex family dynamics and racial identity in 1990s Ohio.
Underwood’s been performing since childhood, appearing in shows like Family Reunion and various Disney Channel productions.
Her musical theater background gives her an edge in emotional expression that translates powerfully to dramatic television.
She recently appeared in Cruel Summer, continuing to take on roles that challenge her and showcase different aspects of her talent.
Each project Underwood chooses demonstrates her commitment to meaningful storytelling that reflects diverse experiences and perspectives.
10. Riele Downs
Nickelodeon fans know Riele Downs as Charlotte from Henry Danger, the superhero sidekick comedy that ran for five seasons and spawned multiple spinoffs.
Her comedic timing and chemistry with co-stars made her a fan favorite, and she reprised the role in Danger Force, introducing her character to a whole new audience.
Born in Toronto, Downs started acting when she was just four years old, appearing in Canadian productions before landing her breakout American role.
She’s also ventured into film work and continues to build her career beyond the Nickelodeon universe.
Her social media presence shows a down-to-earth personality that resonates with young fans who grew up watching her shows.
Downs represents the generation of child stars who successfully transition into adult roles while maintaining the joy that made them famous.
11. Amandla Stenberg
“The Hunger Games” introduced the world to Amandla Stenberg as Rue, the tribute whose death sparked a revolution in both the story and real-world conversations about race in Hollywood.
Though the role was relatively small, Stenberg’s impact was enormous, and they’ve since built an impressive career choosing diverse, challenging projects.
Stenberg starred in Everything, Everything and The Hate U Give, the latter based on the acclaimed young adult novel about police brutality and activism.
They’ve also become an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and racial justice, using their platform to educate and inspire.
Their recent work in Bodies Bodies Bodies showed their range in dark comedy.
Stenberg’s career reflects a commitment to authentic representation and stories that matter to marginalized communities.
12. Miles Caton
Breaking out with a major role in Sinners (2025) is the kind of opportunity most actors spend years working toward.
Miles Caton seized that chance and delivered a performance that has critics buzzing about his natural screen presence and ability to command attention in every scene.
Though relatively new to mainstream audiences, Caton has been honing his craft through smaller roles and theater work that prepared him for this breakthrough moment.
Directors who’ve worked with him praise his professionalism and willingness to take direction while bringing his own ideas to characters.
His work ethic and talent suggest a long, successful career ahead.
Caton represents the exciting new generation of actors who are just beginning to show what they’re capable of on major platforms.
13. Jahi Di’Allo Winston
Remember the kid who could actually act in those Netflix family movies?
Jahi Di’Allo Winston has been that standout performer in projects like We Can Be Heroes and The Upshaws, consistently delivering performances that feel genuine rather than forced or overly theatrical.
Winston got his start in the critically acclaimed film The Deadwood, which premiered at Sundance and showcased his dramatic abilities.
He’s since balanced indie credibility with mainstream appeal, appearing in both prestige projects and entertaining family content.
His versatility allows him to move between genres without getting typecast, a rare skill for young actors.
Industry insiders recognize Winston as someone who takes his craft seriously while maintaining the enthusiasm and joy that makes acting fun to watch.
14. Marsai Martin
Becoming the youngest person ever to produce a studio film is just one of Marsai Martin’s impressive achievements.
At 14, she executive produced Little, a body-swap comedy she also starred in, proving that young people can handle major responsibilities behind the camera as well as in front of it.
Martin has played Diane Johnson on Black-ish since 2014, growing up on the show and winning multiple NAACP Image Awards for her hilarious performance.
She’s launched her own production company, Genius Entertainment, which develops content specifically for young audiences.
Her business savvy and creative vision set her apart from typical child actors.
Martin’s career trajectory shows that age doesn’t limit ambition, and young people can be successful entrepreneurs while still perfecting their craft.
15. India Amarteifio
Portraying young Queen Charlotte in the Bridgerton prequel series required an actress who could embody royalty, vulnerability, and strength all at once.
India Amarteifio accomplished exactly that, bringing depth and nuance to the beloved character’s origin story that captivated audiences worldwide.
The British actress trained at the Arts Educational Schools in London, giving her a classical foundation that serves her well in period dramas.
Her performance earned praise from critics who noted her ability to carry an entire series on her shoulders at such a young age.
She’s since become a sought-after talent for historical and contemporary projects alike.
Amarteifio’s work demonstrates that proper training combined with natural talent creates performances that resonate across cultures and continents.
16. Sofia Wylie
Dancing her way into hearts on Disney Channel’s Andi Mack was just the beginning for Sofia Wylie.
Her background as a competitive dancer gives her an edge in physically demanding roles, and she’s used those skills in projects like High School Musical: The Musical: The Series, where she plays Gina Porter.
Wylie’s also appeared in Shook and other thriller projects that show her dramatic range beyond musical theater.
Her social media following of millions demonstrates her connection with young audiences who appreciate her positive messages and genuine personality.
She’s become a role model for kids interested in pursuing performing arts careers.
Wylie proves that dedication to multiple artistic disciplines creates well-rounded performers who can handle whatever challenges come their way.
17. Dara Renee
Musical theater fans recognize Dara Renee from her scene-stealing performances in High School Musical: The Musical: The Series.
Playing Kourtney, the best friend character, Renee brings humor, heart, and impressive vocal abilities that make her musical numbers stand out as series highlights.
Before her Disney+ success, Renee performed in regional theater and built a strong foundation in live performance.
Her stage experience translates beautifully to screen work, giving her a presence that commands attention without overshadowing her scene partners.
She’s also appeared in other family-friendly projects that showcase her versatility.
Renee represents the Broadway-to-screen pipeline that’s creating a new generation of performers who excel in both mediums with equal skill.
18. Chandler Kinney
Transitioning from Disney Channel shows to more mature roles is a challenge many young actors face, but Chandler Kinney has navigated that shift with impressive grace.
Her work in Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin showed audiences she could handle darker, more complex material beyond the family-friendly content that made her famous.
Kinney appeared in Zombies 2 and Zombies 3, where her dancing and acting skills shined in the popular Disney Channel movie franchise.
She’s also a competitive equestrian, bringing that athletic discipline to her acting career.
Her dedication to physical fitness and stunt work allows her to take on action-oriented roles that require both acting chops and physical prowess.
Kinney’s career evolution demonstrates smart choices and willingness to push beyond comfort zones into new creative territories.
19. Lee Rodriguez
Playing Fabiola Torres in Netflix’s Never Have I Ever, Lee Rodriguez brought authenticity to a character navigating both her identity as a young lesbian and her passion for robotics.
Her performance resonated with LGBTQ+ youth who rarely see themselves represented in mainstream teen comedies.
Rodriguez’s natural comedic timing and ability to deliver emotional moments with sincerity made Fabiola a fan favorite throughout the series’ run.
She’s spoken openly about the importance of representation and how playing this role affected her personally.
Her advocacy work for LGBTQ+ youth extends beyond her acting career into real-world activism.
Rodriguez exemplifies how young actors can use their platforms to create visibility for underrepresented communities while building successful entertainment careers.
20. Ayo Edebiri
Winning an Emmy, a Golden Globe, and a SAG Award for her role as Sydney Adamu in The Bear puts Ayo Edebiri in rarified air among young performers.
Her portrayal of the talented but anxious chef earned universal acclaim for its emotional depth and authentic representation of kitchen culture.
Before The Bear, Edebiri was known for her stand-up comedy and voice work on Big Mouth, where she took over the role of Missy.
Her comedy background informs her dramatic work, allowing her to find moments of levity even in tense scenes.
She’s also written for various comedy shows, proving her talents extend beyond performing into creating content.
Edebiri’s rapid ascent demonstrates that genuine talent combined with hard work and versatility can lead to unprecedented success in remarkably short timeframes.