Many Black actors over 50 have made significant contributions to film, television, and theater and captivated audiences for decades. Their experience, versatility, and enduring appeal make them icons in the world of entertainment.
In this article, we will shine a spotlight on 25 remarkable black actors over 50 who continue to inspire and entertain audiences with their craft. These seasoned veterans have left an indelible mark on the industry and continue to be influential figures for aspiring actors and fans alike.
List of Famous 25 Black Actors Over 50
- Samuel L. Jackson
- Morgan Freeman
- Spike Lee
- Martin Lawrence
- Eddie Murphy
- Chris Rock
- Cuba Gooding Jr.
- Denzel Washington
- Jamie Foxx
- Forest Whitaker
- James Earl Jones
- Laurence Fishburne
- Idris Elba
- Ice Cube
- Don Cheadle
- Terrance Howard
- Terry Crews
- Delroy Lindo
- Danny Glover
- Tyler Perry
- Ice-T
- Morris Chestnut
- Billy Dee Williams
- Wesley Snipes
- Clifton Powell
1. Denzel Washington
- Date of Birth: 28 December 1954
- Age: 69 Years Old
- Nationality: American
American actor, producer, and director Denzel Hayes Washington Jr. was born on December 28, 1954, in Mount Vernon, New York, making him 69 years old as of 2024.
He began his acting career after graduating from Fordham University and made his screen debut in 1981. Over the years, Washington has become one of the most iconic actors of his generation, renowned for his powerful performances and impactful roles in the film industry.
He has won numerous awards and accolades, including two Academy Awards and three Golden Globe Awards. Notably, he received his first Oscar for his role in Glory in 1989 and made history in 2001 as the first African-American actor to win the Academy Award for Best Actor for Training Day.
Additionally, he won a Tony Award for his role in the Broadway revival of Fences. In 2021, he received his 10th Oscar nomination for The Tragedy of Macbeth, making him the most-nominated Black actor in the Academy Awards history.
As one of the most popular black actors over 50, Denzel Washington is a figure to follow for his impactful contributions to the film industry and his philanthropic work. His influence extends beyond his extraordinary acting talent, characterized by his dedication to giving back to the community and making a meaningful impact on society.
Select List of Filmography:
– Cry Freedom (1987)
– Glory
– Malcolm X
– Training Day
– Flight
– Antwone Fisher
– The Great Debaters
– The Tragedy of Macbeth
Awards and Nominations:
– Two Academy Awards: Glory (1989), Training Day (2001)
– Tony Award for his role in the Broadway revival of Fences
– Three Golden Globe Awards
– 10 Oscar Nominations, including The Tragedy of Macbeth (2021).
2. Idris Elba
- Date of Birth: September 6, 1972
- Age: 51 Years Old
- Nationality: American
Idrissa Akuna Elba, known professionally as Idris Elba, was born on September 6, 1972, in the London Borough of Hackney, England. He is a British actor, rapper, singer, and DJ, and as of 2024, he is 51 years old.
Elba gained recognition for his roles in TV shows like The Wire and Luther and has also appeared in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. He is widely acclaimed for his performances in films such as Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom and Beasts of No Nation.
Elba’s influence in the entertainment industry has been substantial, and he has received numerous accolades, including a Golden Globe and a BAFTA nomination. In 2016, he was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for his contributions to drama.
As one of the most popular black actors over 50, Elba has become an influential figure, known for his versatility and fearlessness in portraying diverse characters. His impact extends beyond his acting career, as he is also celebrated for his work as a DJ and musician.
Select List of Filmography:
– Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom
– Beasts of No Nation
– Thor
– The Suicide Squad
– The Harder They Fall
Awards and Nominations:
– Golden Globe nomination for Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom
– BAFTA nomination for Luther
– 2016 Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE)
3. Samuel Leroy Jackson
- Date of Birth: December 21, 1948
- Age: 75 Years Old
- Nationality: American
Samuel Leroy Jackson, possibly the most famous American black actor on this list, was born on December 21, 1948, making him 75 years old as of 2024.
He began his acting career after studying at Morehouse College and became widely recognized for his roles in action blockbusters and collaborations with directors like Quentin Tarantino and Spike Lee.
His breakthrough came in Tarantino’s Pulp Fiction, which earned him an Academy Award nomination. Jackson’s versatility was showcased in various roles, including his portrayal of Nick Fury in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
He has received accolades for his performances in films such as Chi-Raq, The Hateful Eight, and Kong: Skull Island. Jackson is one of the highest-grossing actors at the box office and has won multiple awards throughout his career.
Select List of Filmography:
– Pulp Fiction (1994)
– Shaft (2000)
– The Avengers (2012)
– Chi-Raq (2015)
– The Hateful Eight (2015)
– Kong: Skull Island (2017)
Awards:
– NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Actor in a Motion Picture (2006)
– BAFTA Award for Best Actor in a Supporting Role (1995) – Nominated
– Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor (1995) – Nominated
4. Edward Regan Murphy
- Date of Birth: April 3, 1961
- Age: 63 Years Old
- Nationality: American
Eddie Murphy was born Edward Regan Murphy on April 3, 1961, in Brooklyn, New York, making him an American national. As of 2054, he is 63 years old.
Murphy started his entertainment acting career as a stand-up comedian and later gained fame on the sketch comedy show Saturday Night Live. He then transitioned to film, becoming one of the most successful and influential actors in Hollywood. He is known for his roles in iconic films such as Beverly Hills Cop, Coming to America, and The Nutty Professor.
Eddie Murphy’s impact as one of the most popular black actors over 50 years old is undeniable. He has broken barriers and paved the way for many actors of color in the industry, and his influence continues to inspire new generations.
Select List of Filmography:
– Beverly Hills Cop (1984)
– Coming to America (1988)
– The Nutty Professor (1996)
– Shrek (2001)
– Dreamgirls (2006)
Awards:
– Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actor – Motion Picture for Dreamgirls (2006)
– Critics’ Choice Movie Award for Best Supporting Actor for Dreamgirls (2006)
– Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor for Dreamgirls (2006)
– Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series for Saturday Night Live (2019)
5. Morgan Freeman
- Date of Birth: 1 June 1937
- Age: 86 Years Old
- Nationality: American
An American actor and producer, Morgan Freeman was born on June 1, 1937, in Memphis, Tennessee, making him 86 years old as of 2024.
He started his acting career in the 1960s and has since become a highly respected and influential figure in the entertainment industry. Freeman is renowned for his emotional depth and versatility, with notable roles in films like Driving Miss Daisy, The Shawshank Redemption, Million Dollar Baby, and The Dark Knight trilogy.
He won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his performance in Million Dollar Baby (2004). His influence as one of the most popular black actors over 50 is undeniable, making him a role model for aspiring actors.
Select List of Filmography:
– Driving Miss Daisy
– The Shawshank Redemption
– Million Dollar Baby
– The Dark Knight trilogy
Awards:
– Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for Million Dollar Baby
– Various Oscar nominations and awards
Morgan Freeman’s illustrious career and impact on the entertainment industry continue to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.
6. Spike Lee
- Date of Birth: March 20, 1957
- Age: 67 Years Old
- Nationality: American
Spike Lee, born Shelton Jackson Lee on March 20, 1957, in Atlanta, Georgia, is a 67-year-old American filmmaker.
He is renowned for his provocative approach to controversial subject matter, and he has gained fame for his films, which often address issues of race and racism in the United States, making him a prominent figure in the film industry.
Lee began his career in 1986 with the release of She’s Gotta Have It, which brought him widespread recognition. Throughout his career, he has continued to address Hollywood’s bias and has received critical acclaim for his work, earning an Emmy Award and two Academy Award nominations.
Spike Lee has made a significant impact as one of the most popular black filmmakers and actors over 50. His influence on the industry has been profound, revolutionizing independent cinema and the role of black talent in film.
Select List of Filmography:
– Joe’s Bed-Stuy Barbershop: We Cut Heads
– She’s Gotta Have It
– Malcolm X
– He Got Game
– 25th Hour
– Inside Man
– Miracle at St. Anna
– Red Hook Summer
– Oldboy
– Da Sweet Blood of Jesus
Select Awards and Nominations:
– Emmy Award
– Two Academy Award nominations
7. Jamie Foxx
- Date of Birth: December 13, 1967
- Age: 56 Years Old
- Nationality: American
Jamie Foxx, whose birth name is Eric Marlon Bishop, was born on December 13, 1967, in Terrell, Texas, making him 56 years old as of 2024. He is American by nationality.
Foxx began his career in entertainment with comedy clubs and television roles, later venturing into music, TV, and film. He gained widespread fame through his roles on TV shows like In Living Color and The Jamie Foxx Show and in movies like Any Given Sunday, Ali, and Ray, for which he won an Academy Award for his portrayal of Ray Charles in 2004.
Jamie Foxx’s impact as one of the most popular black actors over 50 years old is evidenced by his versatility and success in the entertainment industry. His ability to seamlessly transition between acting and music has solidified his status as a multi-talented artist.
Select List of Filmography:
– Any Given Sunday (1999)
– Ali (2001)
– Ray (2004)
– Collateral (2004)
– Django Unchained (2012)
Awards:
– Academy Award for Best Actor for Ray (2004)
– BAFTA Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role for Ray (2004)
– Golden Globe Award for Best Actor – Motion Picture Musical or Comedy for Ray (2004)
– Grammy Award for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals for Gold Digger (2006)
– Nominated for Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for Collateral (2004)
– Nominated for Academy Award for Best Actor for Django Unchained (2012)
8. Danny Glover
- Date of Birth: 22 July 1946
- Age: 77 Years Old
- Nationality: American
Danny Lebern Glover is an American actor, producer, and political activist who was born on July 22, 1946, in San Francisco, California, making him 77 years old as of 2024. He gained fame for his lead role as Roger Murtaugh in the Lethal Weapon film series and has had prominent roles in various other films, such as The Color Purple.
Glover has received numerous awards and honors for his work, including NAACP Image Awards and CableACE Awards for his role in the Lethal Weapon series. He has also been involved in various humanitarian causes and was a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Development Program. As one of the most popular black actors over 50 years old, Danny Glover is a figure to follow, known for his impactful performances and activism.
Select List of Filmography:
– Lethal Weapon series
– The Color Purple
– To Sleep with Anger
– Witness
– Predator 2
– The Royal Tenenbaums
– Dreamgirls
Awards:
– NAACP Image Awards for Outstanding Actor in a Motion Picture (The Color Purple)
– CableACE Awards for Actor in a Movie or Miniseries (Lethal Weapon series)
– Nomination for an Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Miniseries or a Movie (Mandela)
9. Terrence Dashon Howard
- Date of Birth: March 11, 1969
- Age: 55 Years Old
- Nationality: American
Terrance Howard was born Terrence Dashon Howard on March 11, 1969, in Chicago, Illinois, making him American by nationality. As of 2054, he is 55 years old.
Howard started acting in the early 1990s and rose to fame with roles in films like The Best Man and Dead Presidents. He gained widespread recognition for his role in Hustle & Flow, for which he received an Academy Award nomination. He also starred in the hit TV series Empire.
As one of the most popular black actors over 50, Howard has made a significant impact on the entertainment industry through his versatile performances and compelling portrayals of complex characters.
Select List of Filmography:
– The Best Man
– Dead Presidents
– Hustle & Flow
– Iron Man
– Empire
Awards and Nominations:
– Academy Award nomination for Best Actor for Hustle & Flow
– NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Motion Picture for Ray
– Screen Actors Guild Award nomination for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture for Crash
– Primetime Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series for Empire
10. Martin Fitzgerald Lawrence
- Date of Birth: April 16, 1965
- Age: 59 Years Old
- Nationality: American
Martin Lawrence was born Martin Fitzgerald Lawrence on April 16, 1965, in Frankfurt, West Germany, making him 59 years old as of 20[afe dob=”20000101″].
He is an African-American actor and comedian. Lawrence began his acting career in the 1990s, gaining fame with the Fox sitcom Martin and the Bad Boys film series. He is known for his leading roles in various films and TV shows.
He has won several awards throughout his career, including the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Actor in a Comedy Series for his role in Martin. Lawrence’s impact as one of the most popular black actors over 50 years old is significant, as he has paved the way for many aspiring actors and comedians.
Select List of Filmography:
– Bad Boys (1995)
– Big Momma’s House (2000)
– Bad Boys II (2003)
– Wild Hogs (2007)
– Death at a Funeral (2010)
– Bad Boys for Life (2020)
Awards:
– NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Actor in a Comedy Series for Martin
– Nominated for MTV Movie Award for Best Comedic Performance for Big Momma’s House
– Nominated for Kids’ Choice Award for Favorite Movie Actor for Wild Hogs
11. Clifton Powell
- Date of Birth: March 16, 1956
- Age: 68 years old
- Nationality: American
Clifton Powell, whose full name is Clifton Enis Powell, was born on March 16, 1956, in Washington, D.C., making him an American actor. As of 2024, he is 68 years old.
Powell began his acting career in the 1980s and has since become a prominent figure in the entertainment industry. He is best known for his supporting roles in films and has appeared in over 100 movies.
Powell gained widespread recognition for his role in the film Ray (2004) for which he received an NAACP Image Award nomination. His impactful presence in the industry has made him one of the most popular black actors over 50 years old to follow.
Select List of Filmography:
– Ray (2004)
– Menace II Society (1993)
– Rush Hour (1998)
– Dead Presidents (1995)
– Norbit (2007)
Awards and Nominations:
– NAACP Image Award nomination for Ray (2004)
12. Wesley Snipes
- Date of Birth: July 31, 1962
- Age: 61 Years Old
- Nationality: American
Wesley Trent Snipes was born on July 31, 1962, in Orlando, Florida, making him an American actor. As of 2024, he is 61 years old.
Snipes began his acting career in 1986 and gained fame for his roles in action films and martial arts movies. He is best known for his performances in Blade, New Jack City, and White Men Can’t Jump. Snipes has been recognized for his contributions to the film industry and has achieved significant success over the years.
Wesley Snipes’ impact as one of the most popular black actors over 50 years old is undeniable. He has been a trailblazer in the industry, inspiring many with his versatile performances and charismatic on-screen presence.
Select List of Filmography:
– Blade (1998)
– New Jack City (1991)
– White Men Can’t Jump (1992)
– Passenger 57 (1992)
– Demolition Man (1993)
– Coming 2 America (2022)
Awards and Nominations:
– Nominated for a Saturn Award for Best Actor for his role in Blade
– Nominated for an MTV Movie Award for Best Villain for his role in Demolition Man
– Nominated for an Image Award for Outstanding Actor in a Motion Picture for New Jack City
13. Cuba Mark Gooding Jr.
- Date of Birth: January 2, 1968
- Age: 56 Years Old
- Nationality: American
Cuba Gooding Jr., whose full name is Cuba M. Gooding Jr., was born on January 2, 1968, in The Bronx, New York, making him an American national. He is 56 years old as of 2024.
Gooding started his acting career with roles in TV shows and a breakdancing job before transitioning to acting. He is known for his exceptional talent and has gained fame through notable roles in films like Boyz n the Hood, Jerry Maguire, Pearl Harbor, and Men of Honor.
His most acclaimed performance in Jerry Maguire earned him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. Gooding has also received a Screen Actors Guild Award and an Emmy nomination for his outstanding contributions to the industry.
As one of the most popular black actors over 50 years old, Gooding Jr. is a significant figure to follow.
Select List of Filmography:
– Boyz n the Hood
– Jerry Maguire
– Pearl Harbor
– Men of Honor
– The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story
– American Horror Story
– As Good as It Gets
– What Dreams May Come
– Radio
Awards and Nominations:
– Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for Jerry Maguire
– Screen Actors Guild Award
– Emmy nomination
– Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
14. Forest Steven Whitaker
- Date of Birth: July 15, 1961
- Age: 62 Years Old
- Nationality: American
Forest Steven Whitaker was born on July 15, 1961, in Longview, Texas, making him an American national. As of 2024, he is 62 years old.
He began his acting career early and has become one of the most renowned and versatile actors in the industry. Forest Whitaker gained fame through his exceptional performances in films like The Color of Money, Platoon, and Good Morning, Vietnam.
He received widespread acclaim and major awards for his roles in The Last King of Scotland, Bird, and The Butler. Notably, he won an Academy Award for his portrayal of Idi Amin in The Last King of Scotland and received the Best Actor award at the Cannes Film Festival for his role as Charlie Parker in Bird.
Whitaker’s impact as one of the most popular black actors over 50 years old is undeniable, inspiring many with his talent and achievements.
Select List of Filmography:
– The Color of Money
– Platoon
– Good Morning, Vietnam
– Bird
– The Crying Game
– Ghost Dog: The Way of the Samurai
– The Butler
– Rogue One: A Star Wars Story
– Waiting to Exhale
– Hope Floats
– First Daughter
– Godfather of Harlem
– Respect
Awards:
– Academy Award for Best Actor: The Last King of Scotland
– Cannes Film Festival Best Actor Award: Bird
15. Tyler Perry
- Date of Birth: December 13, 1967
- Age: 56 Years Old
- Nationality: American
Tyler Perry was born Emmitt Perry Jr. on September 13, 1969, in New Orleans, Louisiana, making him 54 years old as of 2024. He is an American playwright, actor, screenwriter, producer, and director known for his iconic character Mabel “Madea” Simmons.
Perry began his career by writing down personal experiences, which led to his first play, I Know I’ve Been Changed. He gained success with his second stage production and created the trademark character Madea. He moved to feature films in 2005 with Diary of a Mad Black Woman and continued to write, produce, and direct films based on his plays. Perry’s notable works include For Colored Girls, A Fall from Grace, and Don’t Make a Black Woman Take Off Her Earrings.
Tyler Perry is a successful African-American filmmaker known for his character, Madea. His film Diary of a Mad Black Woman was a hit, and he ventured into publishing with a best-selling book.
Perry’s work has received mixed critical reception, with some praising his portrayal of African-American characters and others criticizing it for perpetuating stereotypes. Despite the controversy, Perry remains one of the few filmmakers making movies about African-American characters.
Select List of Filmography:
– Diary of a Mad Black Woman
– For Colored Girls
– A Fall from Grace
– Don’t Make a Black Woman Take Off Her Earrings
Awards and Nominations:
– NAACP Image Awards for Outstanding Directing in a Motion Picture for For Colored Girls
– BET Comedy Awards for Outstanding Writing for a Theatrical Film for Madea’s Family Reunion
– Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series or Movie for The Oval
– Critics’ Choice Television Award for Best Actor in a Drama Series for The Haves and the Have Nots
16. Terry Crews
- Date of Birth: July 30, 1968
- Age: 55 Years Old
- Nationality: American
Terry Crews is known for his work as an American actor, comedian, and former professional football player. His full name is Terrence Alan Crews, and he was born on July 30, 1968, in Flint, Michigan, making him 55 years old as of 2024.
Crews started his acting career in the late 1990s, gaining fame for his role in the TV series Everybody Hates Chris and later in movies like White Chicks and The Expendables franchise. He has also gained recognition for his comedic performances and activism in the #MeToo movement.
Terry Crews has received several awards and nominations throughout his career, including a Golden Globe Award nomination for his role in the TV series Brooklyn Nine-Nine. As one of the most popular black actors over 50, Terry Crews continues to impact the entertainment industry with his versatile performances and advocacy for social issues.
Select List of Filmography:
– White Chicks (2004)
– The Expendables (2010)
– The Expendables 2 (2012)
– The Expendables 3 (2014)
– Deadpool 2 (2018)
Awards and Nominations:
– Golden Globe Award nomination for Best Actor in a Television Series – Musical or Comedy for Brooklyn Nine-Nine
17. Laurence Fishburne
- Date of Birth: July 30, 1961
- Age: 62 Years Old
- Nationality: American
Laurence John Fishburne III, the American actor, writer, director, and producer, was born in Augusta, Georgia on July 30, 1961. As of 2024, he is 62 years old.
Fishburne started acting as a child and has since become a celebrated figure in the entertainment industry, known for his intense performances and iconic roles. He has won three Emmy Awards and a Tony Award for his exceptional work on stage and screen.
Fishburne gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of Morpheus in The Matrix film trilogy and has made history as the first African American to play Othello in a major film. He is considered one of the most popular black actors over 50 years old to follow, owing to his impactful and enduring career.
Select List of Filmography:
– The Matrix series
– Apocalypse Now
– The Color Purple
– Boyz ‘n the Hood
– What’s Love Got to Do with It
– CSI: Crime Scene Investigation
– Hannibal
– Black-ish
– American Buffalo
Select Awards and Nominations:
– Emmy Awards for various roles
– Tony Award for an outstanding performance
– Academy Award nomination for What’s Love Got to Do with It
18. Chris Rock
- Date of Birth: February 7, 1965
- Age: 59 Years Old
- Nationality: American
Christopher Julius Rock was born on February 7, 1965, in Andrews, South Carolina, making him an American national and 59 years old as of 2024.
He gained prominence as a stand-up comedian, and his raw humor and controversial subjects have revolved around race relations, family dynamics, and wealth disparity. Rock’s impact as one of the most popular black actors over 50 years old is substantial, and he has been a trailblazer in the entertainment industry.
Chris Rock started acting after achieving success on Saturday Night Live and has since starred in several successful films. He is widely regarded as one of the best stand-up comedians of all time, having won awards for his comedy specials and albums.
Notably, he created the sitcom Everybody Hates Chris and has hosted the Academy Awards twice, further solidifying his status as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.
Select List of Filmography:
– Lethal Weapon 4 (1998)
– Nurse Betty (2000)
– Down to Earth (2001)
– Head of State (2003)
– The Longest Yard (2005)
– Madagascar (2005)
– I Think I Love My Wife (2007)
– Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa (2008)
– Grown Ups (2010)
– Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted (2012)
– Top Five (2014)
– The Week Of (2018)
Awards:
– Grammy Awards for his comedy specials and albums
– Hosted the Academy Awards twice
Nominations:
– Nominated for various roles in films and series
Chris Rock’s contributions to the entertainment industry have solidified his position as a celebrated actor and comedian, and his work continues to inspire and entertain audiences worldwide.
19. Ice Cube
- Date of Birth: June 15, 1969
- Age: 54 Years Old
- Nationality: American
Ice Cube, whose full name is O’Shea Jackson Sr., was born on June 15, 1969, in Los Angeles, California, making him an American citizen. As of 2024, he is 54 years old.
Ice Cube began his acting career after leaving the rap group N.W.A and has become a renowned figure in both music and film. He is famous for his controversial and sociopolitical approach to urban and black culture.
Ice Cube has won several awards for his work, including a BET Award for Best Actor for his role in Barbershop and an Image Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Motion Picture for Three Kings. He has also received nominations for various awards, showcasing his impact as a multifaceted entertainer.
As one of the most popular black actors over 50, Ice Cube is a significant figure in the entertainment industry, admired for his contributions to music, film, and social commentary.
Select List of Filmography:
– Friday
– Boyz n the Hood
– Barbershop
– 21 Jump Street
– 22 Jump Street
Awards and Nominations:
– BET Award for Best Actor for Barbershop
– Image Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Motion Picture for Three Kings
20. Morris Chestnut
- Date of Birth: January 1, 1969
- Age: 55 Years Old
- Nationality: American
Morris Lamont Chestnut, Jr., an American actor, was born on January 1, 1969, in Cerritos, California, making him 55 years old as of 2024. He gained early prominence for his role as Ricky in the 1991 film Boyz n the Hood. Chestnut’s illustrious career includes roles in films such as The Best Man and The Brothers and TV series like Nurse Jackie and Rosewood.
He has been recognized for his performances with accolades, including NAACP Image Award nominations. Morris Chestnut has become one of the most popular black actors over 50 years old, significantly impacting the industry.
Select List of Filmography:
– Boyz n the Hood
– The Best Man
– The Brothers
– Nurse Jackie
– Rosewood
Awards and Nominations:
– NAACP Image Award nominations for his performances in various roles
Morris Chestnut’s contributions to the entertainment industry have solidified his status as a celebrated actor, with his compelling performances earning him critical acclaim and a dedicated following.
21. Ice T
- Date of birth: February 16, 1958
- Age: 66 Years Old
- Nationality: American
Ice-T, whose full name is Tracy Lauren Marrow, was born on February 16, 1958, in Newark, New Jersey, making him an American national. As of 2024, he is 66 years old.
Ice-T started his acting career in the early 1990s and has become a household name, particularly for his role as Detective Fin Tutuola on the long-running TV series Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. He has received critical acclaim for his portrayal of this character and has become a prominent figure in the entertainment industry. Ice-T has won several major awards, including the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series for his role in Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.
Select List of Filmography:
– New Jack City (1991)
– Ricochet (1991)
– Johnny Mnemonic (1995)
– Leprechaun in the Hood (2000)
Awards and Nominations:
– NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series for Law & Order: Special Victims Unit
– Nominated for several other awards for his role in Law & Order: Special Victims Unit
22. Don Cheadle
- Date of birth: November 29, 1964
- Age: 59 Years Old
- Nationality: American
Don Cheadle’s full name is Donald Frank Cheadle Jr. He was born on November 29, 1964, in Kansas City, Missouri, making him an American national. As of 2024, he is 59 years old.
Cheadle started acting in the 1980s, and his breakthrough came with roles in Devil in a Blue Dress (1995) and Boogie Nights (1997). He gained widespread fame for his role as Marty Kaan in the TV series House of Lies and as James “Rhodey” Rhodes/War Machine in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Cheadle has been recognized with several prestigious awards, including a Golden Globe for his role in Hotel Rwanda and multiple Primetime Emmy nominations for House of Lies. As one of the most popular black actors over 50, Cheadle continues to have a significant impact on the entertainment industry, inspiring and influencing many aspiring actors.
Select List of Filmography:
– Hotel Rwanda (2004)
– Crash (2004)
– Iron Man (2008)
– Iron Man 2 (2010)
– Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)
– Avengers: Infinity War (2018)
– Avengers: Endgame (2019)
Awards:
– Golden Globe Award for Best Actor – Motion Picture Drama for Hotel Rwanda (2004)
– Primetime Emmy Award nominations for House of Lies
23. Delroy Lindo
- Date of Birth: November 18, 1952
- Age: 71 Years Old
- Nationality: English, American, Jamaican
Delroy George Lindo was born on November 18, 1952, in London to Jamaican parents. He holds English-American nationality and has Jamaican ancestry through his parents. He is 71 years old as of 2024.
Lindo began his acting career in the 1970s, transitioning from theater to film, and is best known for his roles in Spike Lee films. He has received critical acclaim for his performances and has been nominated for the Tony and Screen Actors Guild awards. He is widely recognized and celebrated for his impactful contributions to the entertainment industry.
Select List of Filmography:
– Malcolm X (1992)
– Crooklyn (1994)
– Clockers (1995)
– Ransom (1996)
– The Cider House Rules (1999)
– Gone in 60 Seconds (2000)
– The Core (2003)
– The Good Fight (2017-2021)
Awards and Nominations:
– NAACP Image Award for Get Shorty (2018)
– Satellite Award for The Cider House Rules (1999)
– Screen Actors Guild Award nomination for The Cider House Rules (1999)
– Tony Award nomination for Joe Turner’s Come and Gone (1988)
24. Billy Dee Williams
- Date of birth: April 6, 1937
- Age: 87 Years Old
- Nationality: American
Billy Dee Williams was born William December Williams Jr. on April 6, 1937, in New York City, making him an American national and 87 years old as of 2024. He started acting at a young age and has become a well-known figure in the entertainment industry, particularly for his iconic portrayal of Lando Calrissian in the Star Wars franchise.
His impressive career spans over 50 years and includes appearances in more than 70 films, such as Brian’s Song and the Star Wars trilogy, as well as notable television work and voice acting. Williams is a recipient of several prestigious awards, including three NAACP Image Awards and the NAACP Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing his significant contributions to the industry.
As one of the most popular black actors over 50 years old, Williams has had a profound impact on the entertainment world, inspiring and influencing many through his remarkable performances and cultural significance.
Select List of Filmography:
– Brian’s Song
– Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back
– Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi
Awards and Nominations:
– Three NAACP Image Awards for Outstanding Actor in a Motion Picture and Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Motion Picture
– NAACP Lifetime Achievement Award
– Nominated for Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series or a Movie for his role in Brian’s Song.
25. James Earl Jones
- Date of birth: January 17, 1931
- Age: 93 Years Old
- Nationality: American
James Earl Jones, born on January 17, 1931, in Mississippi, USA, is an American actor, making him 93 years old as of 2024. He began his acting career in the 1950s and has become one of America’s most distinguished and versatile actors, best known for his iconic voice of Darth Vader in the Star Wars franchise.
Jones won a Tony Award for his role in The Great White Hope and had notable performances in Fences and Cat on a Hot Tin Roof on Broadway. He also received an honorary Academy Award in 2011 and a Tony Award for lifetime achievement in 2017.
James Earl Jones is a legendary figure in the entertainment industry and has been a prominent black actor for over 50 years, setting a standard for excellence and professionalism. His impact is profound, as he has not only achieved remarkable success in his career but has also paved the way for aspiring black actors to follow in his footsteps.
Select List of Filmography:
– Dr. Strangelove
– Conan the Barbarian
– Star Wars (as the voice of Darth Vader)
– The Lion King (as the voice of Mufasa)
Select Awards and Nominations:
– Tony Award for The Great White Hope and Lifetime Achievement
– Honorary Academy Award in 2011
– Emmy Awards for Gabriel’s Fire and Heat Wave
