Hollywood has come a long way when it comes to representation of minority groups like the African-American community. In this regard, a lot of young black actresses under 30 have stepped up to the plate to show that talent does not recognize skin color. Some of these actresses like Massai Martin have been on the silver screen since they were little more than children, and have consistently put up performances to wow audiences and convince them of their talent.
This article takes a look at 25 of these black actresses who are under 30 years old you should know, and who continue to show with their starring and awesome performances that they are going to be around for a long time.
List of 25 Black Actresses Under 30 You Should Follow
1. Amandla Stenberg
- Date of Birth: October 23, 1998
- Age: 25 years old
- Nationality: Danish/American
Amandla Stenberg was born on October 23, 1998. and as of 2024, she is 25 years old. She began her acting career at a young age and gained widespread recognition for her role as Rue in the 2012 film, The Hunger Games.
Her portrayal of the character received critical acclaim, contributing to her rise to fame. Stenberg’s talent and dedication to her craft have earned her numerous accolades. She was included in Time magazine’s list of Most Influential Teens in 2015 and 2016.
In addition to her acting career, Stenberg is also a singer. She has released music as part of the folk-rock duo Honeywater. Despite her young age, she has already received several prestigious awards for her performances. Stenberg won a Teen Choice Award and an NAACP Image Award for her outstanding work in the entertainment industry.
Some of her notable filmography includes her roles in The Hate U Give and The Hunger Games, both of which showcased her remarkable talent as an actress. For her heart-wrenching performance in The Hate U Give, Stenberg received an NAACP Image Award nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture. This further solidified her reputation as a versatile and accomplished performer.
Selected Filmography:
- Colombiana (2011)
- Mercy (2013)
- As You Are (2016)
- Where Hands Touch (2018)
- The Darkest Minds (2018)
- Bodies Bodies Bodies (2022)
Awards:
- NAACP Image Award
- Teen Choice Award
- Black Reel Award (Nomination)
- Critics’ Choice Award (Nomination)
2. Yara Shahidi
- Date of Birth: February 10, 2000
- Age: 24 years old
- Nationality: Iranian/American
Yara Shahidi was born on February 10, 2000, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA, making her 24 years old as of 2024. She started acting when she was just six years old and rose to fame for her roles in the television series Black-ish and its spin-off Grown-ish. Shahidi’s talent and dedication to her craft have earned her widespread recognition as one of the most prominent young actresses in Hollywood today.
In 2017, Shahidi received the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series for her role in Black-ish. She has also been recognized for her activism and advocacy work. In 2018, she was named one of Time Magazine’s 100 most influential people in the world. The New York Times named her a “young leader of tomorrow”.
Apart from winning the NAACP Image Award mentioned earlier, she has also been nominated for several other awards, including the
Ultimately, Yara Shahidi is a talented young actress who has already achieved a lot in her career. She is also a passionate advocate for social justice causes and a role model for young people around the world. With her talent and dedication, there is no doubt that she will continue to make a significant impact in the entertainment industry and beyond.
Selected Filmography:
- Imagine That (2009)
- Salt (2010)
- Alex Cross (2012)
- Smallfoot (2018)
- The Sun Is Also a Star (2019)
- Fearless (2020)
- Peter Pan & Wendy (2023)
Awards:
- NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series (2017)
- BET YoungStars Award (Nomination)
- Teen Choice Award (Nomination)
3. Marsai Martin
- Date of Birth: August 14, 2004
- Age: 19 years old
- Nationality: American
Caila Marsai Martin, born on August 14, 2004, is a celebrated American actress and producer who is 19 years old – as of 2024. Marsai rose to fame with her role as Diane Johnson on the popular sitcom Black-ish. At a young age, she started her acting career and quickly gained recognition for her exceptional talent.
In 2019, she made history by becoming the youngest person to produce a studio film with the comedy, Little. Marsai Martin has garnered immense fame and has received numerous awards and nominations for her remarkable acting skills.
Some of her notable accolades include multiple NAACP Image Awards and a Young Artist Award. She has also been recognized by Forbes as one of the 30 Under 30 in the entertainment industry. Marsai Martin is undoubtedly one of the 25 black actresses under 30 that one should know. Her exceptional talent, remarkable achievements, and impact in the entertainment industry set her apart.
Aside from her groundbreaking role on Black-ish and her record-breaking achievement as a producer, Marsai’s commitment to promoting diversity and advocating for important causes makes her a true role model.
She actively supports the natural hair movement, raises awareness about vision care for children, and promotes positive representation of Black people in media. With her ambitious goals and impressive accomplishments, Marsai Martin continues to inspire and empower young Black girls around the world.
Selected Filmography:
- Black-ish (2014–2022) – Diane Johnson
- Little (2019) – Executive Producer, Jordan Sanders
- An American Girl Story: Melody 1963 – Love Has to Win (2016) – Melody Ellison
- The Backyardigans (2004–2013) – Singing Voice of Tyrone
Notable Awards:
- NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture
- NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Breakthrough Performance in a Motion Picture
- Young Artist Award for Best Performance in a TV Series – Supporting Young Actress.
4. Layla Crawford
- Date of Birth: October 12, 2004
- Age: 19 years old
- Nationality: American
Layla Crawford, a rising star in Hollywood, was born on November 29, 1997 which means, she is 26 years old in 2024. Layla began her career at a young age, starting with dancing and performing in plays at only 3 or 4 years old, and taking up professional acting by 6.
She gained recognition for her work on the popular crime drama series, The Closer. While specific major awards she has won are not mentioned in the search results, Layla’s talent, versatility, and dedication to her craft have marked her as one of the 25 black actresses under 30 that one should know.
Some notable entries in her filmography include her roles in The Closer and other television shows like King Richard and Fresh off the Boat.
Selected Filmography:
- True Blood (2008)
- NCIS: Los Angeles (2009)
- The First Family (2012)
- Note to Self (2012)
- Black Knight Decoded (2015)
- King Richard (2021)
Awards:
- Young Artist Award –
- Young Artist Award –
- Young Artist Award –
5. China Anne McClain
- Date of Birth: August 25, 1998
- Age: 25 years old
- Nationality: American
China Anne McClain was born on August 25, 1998, making her 25 years old as of 2024. She started her acting career at the tender age of seven with a small role in the 2006 film The Gospel.
She rose to fame with her role in Tyler Perry’s House of Payne and later gained more popularity as the lead in the Disney sitcom A.N.T. Farm, where she also sang the show’s theme song. China is a highly acclaimed actress, singer, and songwriter, and has won several awards for her performances.
She won a Young Artist Award for Best Performance in a TV Series – Supporting Young Actress in 2010 for her role in Tyler Perry’s House of Payne, and an NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Performance by a Youth (Series, Special, Television Movie or Limited-series) in 2014 for her role in A.N.T. Farm.
China Anne McClain is one of the 25 black actresses under 30 that one should know because of her immense talent and popularity. She has acted in various movies and television shows, and her skills as a singer and songwriter have also earned her a massive fan base. China’s contributions to the entertainment industry have been widely recognized, and she is regarded as a role model for young black women.
Some of the movies that the talented actress has acted in include:
- The Gospel (2005)
- Daddy’s Little Girls (2007)
- Hurricane Season (2009)
- Grown Ups 2 (2013)
- Descendants 2 (2017)
- Hannah Montana (2007-2008)
- Wizards of Waverly Place (2010)
- Black Lightning (2018-2019)
Apart from her awards for House of Payne and A.N.T. Farm, McClain also won a Young Artist Award for Best Performance in a TV Movie, Miniseries, Special, or Pilot – Leading Young Actress in 2013 for her role in How to Build a Better Boy.
6. Willow Smith
- Date of Birth: October 31, 2000
- Age: 23 years old
- Nationality: American
Willow Smith, born on October 31, 2000, in Los Angeles, California, is currently 23 years old as of 2024.
She started her acting career at a young age, growing up in the public eye as the daughter of Hollywood stars Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith. However, she later took a step away from performing due to the pressures of fame.
While Willow Smith is primarily known for her music career, including her hit single Whip My Hair, she has also ventured into acting. She has appeared in films such as I Am Legend (2007) and Kit Kittredge: An American Girl (2008).
As for major awards, Willow Smith has not received any notable accolades in acting. However, her music career has garnered attention, with her debut single, Whip My Hair earning Platinum certification.
Willow Smith is recognized as one of the 25 black actresses under 30 that one should know. Her unique style and artistic approach to music and fashion have made her a prominent figure in pop culture.
Selected Filmography:
- I Am Legend (2007)
- Kit Kittredge: An American Girl (2008)
7. Halle Bailey
- Date of Birth: March 27, 2000
- Age: 24 years old
- Nationality: American
Halle Bailey, born on March 27, 2000, in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, is an American singer and actress who gained prominence as one half of the musical duo Chloe x Halle with her sister, Chloe Bailey.
As of 2024, she is 24 years old and she began her career in acting and music at a young age. At just 11 and 13, she and her sister launched a YouTube channel with a cover of Beyoncé’s Best Thing I Never Had.
Halle Bailey rose to fame through her acting roles in the TV sitcom, Grown-ish and with her role as Ariel in Disney’s The Little Mermaid. She has also achieved musical success with the duo Chloe x Halle, releasing two albums and earning five Grammy nominations. In terms of awards, Halle has not won any major individual awards yet, but she has opened for Beyoncé and Jay-Z on tour, showcasing her talent to a wide audience.
Halle Bailey is recognized as one of the 25 black actresses under 30 that one should know due to her impressive talent, versatility, and contributions to the entertainment industry. Her role as Ariel in The Little Mermaid was highly anticipated and marked a significant milestone in her career.
Selected Filmography:
- The Little Mermaid (2023)
- Let It Shine (2012)
- Why the Sun and the Moon Live in the Sky (2018)
- Last Holiday (2006)
8. Chloe Bailey
- Date of Birth: July 1, 1998
- Age: 25 years old
- Nationality: American
Chloe Bailey, born on July 1, 1998, in Atlanta, Georgia, is a talented singer, songwriter, producer, and actress. As of 2024, she is 25 years old.
Chloe began her acting career at a young age and gained recognition for her roles in films like Last Holiday and A Wrinkle in Time. She is also known for her TV appearances in shows like Grown-ish and Austin & Ally.
Chloe rose to fame as one half of the sister duo Chloe x Halle. They gained popularity and critical acclaim for their music, earning Grammy nominations and performing as opening acts for Beyoncé’s tours. Chloe’s notable albums include Sugar Symphony, The Kids Are Alright, and Two of Us.
While Chloe has not won major awards as an actress, her musical contributions have garnered significant acclaim. Chloe x Halle’s album Ungodly Hour was nominated for three Grammy Awards in 2021.
Chloe Bailey is recognized as one of the 25 black actresses under 30 that one should know due to her versatile talent as both a singer and actress. Her ability to captivate audiences through her performances, powerful vocals, and dedication to her craft makes her a standout figure in the entertainment industry.
Filmography:
- The Fighting Temptations (2003)
- Last Holiday (2006)
- Gospel Hill (2009)
- Austin & Ally (2013)
- A Wrinkle in Time (2018)
- Grown-ish (2018)
Notable Awards:
- Grammy nominations for Ungodly Hour album.
- MTV Europe Music Awards for Best R&B (2022)
- ASCAP Rhythm & Soul Music Awards for Most Performed R&B/Hip-Hop and Rap Song (2022)
- Girls Make Beats Gala for Powerhouse Producer Award (2023)
- 2023 – Hollywood Unlock Impact Awards (Fearlessness Award)
- 2023 – Innovators & Leaders Awards (Innovater Honoree)
9. Storm Reid
- Date of Birth: July 1, 2003
- Age: 20 years old
- Nationality: American
Storm Reid, an American actress, was born in Atlanta on July 1, 2003, and is 20 years old as of 2024. She began her acting career at a young age, starting with a television commercial when she was just three years old.
Storm gained widespread recognition for her role in Disney’s A Wrinkle in Time and has also appeared in films like 12 Years a Slave. Her talent and passion for inspiring others have made her a well-known figure in the industry.
Storm Reid’s success and contributions have marked her as one of the 25 black actresses under 30 that one should know. Her remarkable performances and dedication to her craft have earned her accolades and critical acclaim.
While there is no specific information about the major awards she has won, Storm’s talent and impact on the industry have undoubtedly garnered attention and admiration. Some notable films in Storm Reid’s filmography include A Wrinkle in Time and 12 Years a Slave.
Although she has yet to win any specific major awards, Storm’s talent and rise to prominence in the industry speak for themselves. She continues to make strides in her career and inspire others with her performances and dedication to her craft.
Selected Filmography:
- 12 Years a Slave (2013)
- Lea to the Rescue (2016)
- A Wrinkle in Time (2018)
- The Invisible Man (2020)
- Missing (2023)
- The Nun II (2023)
Award Nominations:
- Teen Choice Awards for Choice Fantasy Movie Actress (2018)
- NAACP Image Awards for Outstanding Breakthrough Role in a Motion Picture (2019)
- 2020 – BET Awards (YoungStars Award)
10. Shahadi Wright Joseph
- Date of Birth: April 29, 2005
- Age: 18 years old
- Nationality: American
Shahadi Wright Joseph is a talented young actress, singer, and dancer who was born on April 29, 2005, in Brooklyn, New York. making her 18 years old in 2024.
She started acting at a very young age and made her Broadway debut in 2016 in the musical The Lion King. She gained popularity for her role as Zora Wilson in Jordan Peele’s horror film Us in 2019.
Shahadi Wright Joseph is widely recognized for her talent and potential in the industry, which is why she is listed as one of the 25 black actresses under 30 one should know. Her incredible range of skills as an actress, singer, and dancer makes her stand out from others. She is a versatile performer who can take on a variety of roles, from musicals to dramas.
Wright Joseph’s filmography includes several notable roles, including a starring role as Madison in the movie Black Box in 2020. She also played the role of Young Nala in the live-action remake of The Lion King in 2019. In addition, she has appeared in several television shows, including Law & Order: Special Victims Unit and Daredevil.
Despite her young age, she has already won several awards, including a Young Artist Award for Best Performance in a Voice-Over Role – Young Actress for her role as Young Nala in The Lion King. Overall, Shahadi Wright Joseph is a talented and accomplished young actress with a bright future ahead of her.
Award:
2020 – Hollywood Critics Association (Next Generation of Hollywood)
11. Skai Jackson
- Date of Birth: April 8, 2002
- Age: 22 years old
- Nationality: American
Skai Jackson was born on April 8, 2002, making her 22 years old as of 2024. She started acting at a very young age, beginning her career in 2006 on Sesame Street. Skai rose to fame for her role as Zuri Ross in the Disney Channel sitcom Jessie.
She has since become a highly influential actress, known for her sassy characters and advocacy for racial equality. Skai has appeared in numerous films and television shows, showcasing her diverse range of talents. In 2016, she was listed as one of the most influential teens by Time magazine.
Skai Jackson is recognized as one of the 25 black actresses under 30 that audiences should know. Her talent, versatility, and advocacy for important causes have garnered attention and praise in the industry. Skai’s ability to handle criticism and negativity on social media while promoting positivity has also made her a role model for many.
Some notable projects in Skai Jackson’s filmography include Jessie, Bunk’d, and The Watsons Go To Birmingham. She has also appeared in Lil Nas X’s music video for Panini. While it would appear that the actress has not won any major awards, her influence and achievements speak for themselves, making her a rising star in the entertainment industry.
Selected Filmography:
- Rescue Me (2008)
- Arthur (2011)
- Boardwalk Empire (2011)
- Austin & Ally (2012)
- G.I. Joe: Retaliation (2013)
- My Dad’s a Soccer Mom (2014)
- K.C. Undercover (2015)
- Muppets Haunted Mansion (2020)
Award:
- Young Entertainer Awards for Best Young Ensemble in a Television Series (2018)
12. Eris Baker
- Date of Birth: August 4, 2005
- Age: 18 years old
- Nationality: American
Eris Baker, born on August 4, 2005, is a talented actress known for her roles in popular TV shows such as This Is Us, Dispel, and K.C. Undercover. As of 2024, she is 18 years old. Eris started her acting career at a young age and has gained considerable fame for her exceptional performances.
In 2018, Eris and the cast of This Is Us received the Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series. This recognition highlights her immense talent and contribution to the show’s success.
Eris Baker is marked as one of the 25 black actresses under 30 that one should know due to her exceptional acting skills, versatility, and impact in the industry. Her ability to portray complex emotions and deliver powerful performances has garnered her a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim.
A few notable entries in Eris Baker’s filmography include This Is Us, Dispel, and K.C. Undercover. Her outstanding work in This Is Us has earned her the prestigious Screen Actors Guild Award. These achievements highlight her dedication and talent in the acting world, making her a rising star to watch out for.
Selected Filmography:
- This Is Us (2016–2022)
- K.C. Undercover (2017–2018)
- Drunk History (2019)
- Bite Size Halloween (2022)
Awards:
- Screen Actors Guild Awards for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series (2018)
- Screen Actors Guild Awards for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series (2019)
13. Lyric Ross
- Date of Birth: September 30, 2003
- Age: 20 years old
- Nationality: American
Lyric Ross, born on September 30, 2003, in Evergreen Park, Cook County, Illinois, is a 20-year-old American actress as of 2024.
She garnered significant fame for her portrayal of Déjà Pearson in the hit NBC drama series This Is Us. Ross embarked on her acting journey at the young age of five, appearing in commercials and making guest appearances on various TV shows.
However, it was her recurring role on This Is Us in 2017 that catapulted her to prominence. She was later promoted to a series regular in 2018 after winning a Screen Actors Guild Award with the show’s cast.
Ross has also been cast in the upcoming Marvel television series Ironheart. Despite her relatively young age, Ross has already received critical acclaim and nominations for her performances.
As one of the 25 black actresses under 30 to watch, Ross has proven her talent and potential in the entertainment industry. Her filmography includes notable appearances in This Is Us and the film Canal Street.
Selected Filmography:
- Rogers Park (2017)
- Chicago Fire (2015)
- Canal Street (2018)
- The Class (2022)
- This Is Us (2017–2022)
Award:
Screen Actors Guild Awards for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series (2019)
14. Priah Ferguson
- Date of Birth: October 1, 2006
- Age: 17 years old
- Nationality: American
Priah Ferguson, born in Atlanta, Georgia, on October 1, 2006, is a young and talented actress who gained fame for her breakout role as Erica Sinclair in the hit Netflix series Stranger Things. As of 2024, she is 17 years old.
Priah started her acting career at a young age and has quickly become a rising star in Hollywood. Her portrayal of Erica Sinclair in Stranger Things has won her widespread acclaim and recognition.
Priah Ferguson is considered one of the rising young Black actresses in Hollywood. She is recognized for her exceptional talent and ability to captivate audiences with her performances. Her inclusion in this list of 25 Black actresses under 30 to know is a testament to her impressive skills and potential.
Ferguson’s filmography includes notable projects such as Stranger Things, where she gained popularity, and she has also appeared in films like The Little Mermaid and The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part.
Although she hasn’t won any major awards yet, her talent and promising career trajectory suggest that she has the potential to achieve great success in the future.
Selected Filmography:
- Suga Water (2015)
- Atlanta (2016)
- The Oath (2018)
- Bluff City Law (2019)
- The Curse of Bridge Hollow (2022)
15. Lexi Underwood
- Date of Birth: August 28, 2003
- Age: 20 years old
- Nationality: American
Lexi Underwood, born on August 28, 2003, is a renowned American actress and singer and as of 2024, she is 20 years old.
Underwood started her acting career at a young age and rose to fame through notable roles in movies and series like Code Black, Henry Danger, and Walk the Prank. Her exceptional talent and performances have garnered her immense popularity in the entertainment industry.
Underwood’s success is further reflected in her achievements. She has been nominated for a NAACP Image Award for her remarkable portrayal in Little Fires Everywhere This recognition speaks to her talent and the impact she has made in her career.
Lexi Underwood is recognized as one of the 25 black actresses under 30 that one should know. Her dedication to fighting for racial justice has been featured in Vogue magazine, highlighting her commitment to making a difference.
Some select works from Underwood’s filmography include Code Black, Henry Danger, and Walk the Prank. Additionally, she appeared in the movie adaptation of I Wish You All the Best. While she has not received any major awards yet, her talent and potential indicate that she may continue to achieve great success in the future.
Selected Filmography:
- Forgotten Happiness (2014)
- Girl Minus (2017)
- If Not Now, When (2018)
- Sneakerella (2022)
- The Crooked Man (2016)
- Family Reunion (2019)
- Just Beyond (2021)
16. Faithe Herman
- Date of Birth: December 27, 2007
- Age: 16 years old
- Nationality: American
Faithe C. Herman, an American actress, was born in San Diego on December 27, 2007. As of 2024, she is 16 years old. Faithe started her acting career at the age of five, showcasing her talent alongside her sisters.
She gained widespread recognition for her breakout role as Annie Pearson in the popular TV show, This Is Us. Faithe’s performances in This Is Us and the movie Shazam! and its sequel, Shazam! Fury of the Gods has contributed to her rising fame.
In recognition of her exceptional acting skills, Faithe has won two Screen Actors Guild Awards for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series for her work on This Is Us.
Faithe Herman is recognized as one of the 25 black actresses under 30 that people should know. Her notable roles and talent have made her a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, representing the diversity and excellence of black actresses.
Here are a few highlights from Faithe Herman’s filmography:
- This Is Us (2016)
- Shazam! (2019)
- Shazam! Fury of the Gods (2023)
In addition to her impressive filmography, Faithe has won two Screen Actors Guild Awards for her outstanding contributions to the TV show, This Is Us. Her talent, dedication, and achievements make her a rising star in Hollywood.
17. Sofia Christine Wylie
- Date of Birth: January 7, 2004
- Age: 20 years old
- Nationality: American
Sofia Christine Wylie, born on January 7, 2004, is an incredibly talented American actress, singer, and dancer. She gained recognition for her role as Buffy on the Disney Channel show Andi Mack and as of 2024, she is 20 years old.
Sofia Wylie started acting at a young age and quickly rose to fame in the entertainment industry. Her remarkable talent and captivating performances have made her a household name, especially among fans of Disney films and television shows.
While there is no specific mention of major awards she has won, the actress’ immense popularity and accomplishments have undoubtedly marked her as one of the 25 black actresses under 30 that one should know.
Her notable presence in various TV shows and movies, including Andi Mack and High School Musical: The Musical: The Series, showcases her versatility and exceptional acting skills. Sofia’s charismatic personality and dedication to her craft have earned her a significant following on social media platforms.
Here are a select few entries from Sofia Wylie’s filmography:
- Andi Mack (2017-2019)
- High School Musical: The Musical: The Series (2019 – present)
While she has yet to win any specific major awards, Sofia Wylie’s talent and accomplishments are no doubt recognized and celebrated within the industry.
18. Saniyya Sidney
- Date of Birth: October 30, 2006
- Age: 17 years old
- Nationality: American
Saniyya Sidney, born on October 30, 2006, is a talented black American actress. As of 2024, she is 17 years old. She began her acting career at the young age of six and has since garnered recognition for her exceptional talent.
Saniyya gained widespread fame for her role in the film Fences (2016) and has appeared in other notable projects such as Fast Color (2018), King Richard (2021), and the TV series The Passage (2019).
Saniyya Sidney has been recognized for her outstanding performances and has received nominations for several major awards. Her accolades include nominations for three Black Reel Awards, two Critics’ Choice Awards, an NAACP Image Award, and Screen Actors Guild Awards. These nominations highlight her remarkable acting abilities and her ability to captivate audiences with her performances.
Saniyya Sidney’s talent and achievements have rightfully earned her a place among the 25 black actresses under 30 that one should know. Her ability to portray complex characters and deliver powerful performances at such a young age sets her apart in the industry.
With her remarkable talent and promising career, Saniyya Sidney continues to make a name for herself in the entertainment world.
Selected Filmography:
- Fences (2016)
- Fast Color (2018)
- King Richard (2021)
- The Passage (2019)
Major Awards:
- Nominations for three Black Reel Awards
- Nominations for two Critics’ Choice Awards
- Nomination for an NAACP Image Award
- Nomination for a Screen Actors Guild Award.
19. Madison Pettis
- Date of Birth: July 22, 1998
- Age: 25 years old
- Nationality: American
Madison Pettis, born on July 22, 1998, is an American actress who has gained recognition for her versatile roles in various TV shows and movies. As of 2024, she is 25 years old. Pettis began her acting career by appearing on Barney & Friends and achieved her breakthrough role in 2006 in the Disney movie The Game Plan.
Pettis is widely known for her portrayal of Sophie Martinez on the Disney Channel’s Cory in the House, Peyton Kelly in the film The Game Plan, and Allie Brooks in the Canadian comedy series Life with Boys. She has also lent her voice to popular animated shows like Jake and the Never Land Pirates, Special Agent Oso, and The Lion Guard.
While she has not won any major awards, Madison Pettis has been nominated for the Young Artist Award and the Image Award for Outstanding Performance in a Youth/Children’s Program.
Madison Pettis stands out as one of the 25 black actresses under 30 to watch due to her immense talent and versatile acting skills. Her ability to seamlessly transition between comedy and drama roles has garnered her praise and recognition in the entertainment industry.
Selected Filmography:
- Cory in the House (TV series, 2007-2008)
- The Game Plan (2007)
- Life with Boys (TV series, 2011-2013)
- Jake and the Never Land Pirates (TV series, 2011-2016)
- The Lion Guard (TV series, 2016-2019)
20. Courtney “Coco” Jones
- Date of Birth: January 4, 1998
- Age: 26 years old
- Nationality: American
Courtney “Coco” Jones, born on January 8, 1998, is currently 26 years old as of 2024. She began her acting career at a young age, gaining recognition with her role in the Disney Channel film Let It Shine in 2012.
Her talent and charisma have contributed to her fame, making her a notable figure in the entertainment industry. While she hasn’t received major industry awards, her work has resonated with audiences.
Coco Jones is recognized as one of the 25 black actresses under 30 to watch due to her captivating performances and her advocacy for diversity and representation in the media.
Here are a few select entries from her filmography:
- Let It Shine (2012)
- Flock of Four (2017)
- Grown-ish (TV series, 2018-2019)
- Vampires Are Real (2020)
Although Coco Jones may not have won major awards, her impact on the industry and commitment to promoting inclusivity make her a significant presence among young black actresses.
21. Trinitee Stokes
- Date of Birth: April 12, 2006
- Age: 18 years old
- Nationality: American
Trinitee Stokes, born on April 12, 2006, in Jackson, Mississippi, is a multi-talented American actress, singer, and fashion designer. As of 2024, she is 18 years old.
Trinitee began her acting career at a young age and gained recognition for her role as Judy Cooper in the Disney TV series, K.C. Undercover. She has also appeared in commercials for renowned brands like McDonald’s and AT&T.
Trinitee’s immense talent and dedication have made her a rising star in the entertainment industry. She has showcased her versatility by lending her voice to a Disney Princess doll, releasing her own singles, and even designing her own fashion line.
Her career achievements include appearances in movies such as Daddy and Me, That One Smile, and Red Phone. Trinitee has been praised for her performances and has earned a significant fan following.
Although she has yet to win any major awards, Trinitee’s talent and accomplishments have undoubtedly marked her as one of the 25 black actresses under 30 one should know. Her impressive filmography includes notable roles and projects, and her dedication to her craft and philanthropy make her a commendable role model for aspiring young actors and actresses.
Selected Filmography:
- Red Phone (2013)
- Tempting Fate (2015)
- That One Smile (2015)
- Teachers (2017)
- Snowfall (2017)
22. Lovie Simone Oppong
- Date of Birth: November 29, 1998
- Age: 25 years old
- Nationality: Ghanaian/American
Lovie Simone Oppong, known professionally as Lovie Simone, was born on November 29, 1998. As of 2024, she is 25 years old.
Lovie Simone began her acting career at a young age, making her debut in the television series Orange Is the New Black in 2015. She gained recognition for her role as Selah in the 2019 film Selah and the Spades, which marked her breakthrough performance. Since then, she has continued to impress audiences and critics alike with her versatile acting skills.
Lovie Simone has garnered attention for her talent and dedication to her craft, establishing herself as one of the rising stars in Hollywood. She has been praised for her ability to bring depth and authenticity to her characters, showcasing her versatility in both dramatic and comedic roles.
While she may not have won major awards yet, Lovie Simone has been recognized for her outstanding performances. Her portrayal in Selah and the Spades earned her a nomination for the Gotham Independent Film Award for Breakthrough Actor in 2020.
Lovie Simone is regarded as one of the 25 black actresses under 30 that people should know due to her talent, potential, and contributions to the industry.
Her ability to captivate audiences with her performances and her dedication to portraying complex and dynamic characters make her a standout talent. With her growing body of work and promising career, Lovie Simone is an actress to watch.
Selected Filmography:
- Orange Is the New Black (2015-2016)
- Greenleaf (2016-2020)
- Selah and the Spades (2019)
- The Craft: Legacy (2020)
Award:
- Gotham Independent Film Award for Breakthrough Actor (2020)
23. Eden Duncan-Smith
- Date of Birth: October 28, 1999
- Age: 24 years old
- Nationality: American
Eden Duncan-Smith, a Brooklyn native, activist, and actor, was born on January 29, 2001, which makes her 23 years old as of 2024.
She started acting at a young age and has gained considerable fame and recognition for her talent and dedication. Duncan-Smith has been scoring major roles for several years and has impressed audiences with her tough-talking and near-perfect performances.
Duncan-Smith’s remarkable acting skills and contributions to the industry have undoubtedly earned her accolades and critical acclaim. She has been recognized as one of the 25 black actresses under 30 that people should know, a testament to her talent, versatility, and potential.
Some notable films in Eden Duncan-Smith’s filmography include her lead role in the Netflix film, See You Yesterday, where she portrayed a Brooklyn-born teen with a passion for science. Other notable projects include her appearances in major productions and her contributions to the long-running Broadway musical.
While she has yet to win any major awards, it is evident that Duncan-Smith has made a significant impact in the acting industry at a young age.
Selected Filmography:
- Pieces of Us (2021)
- Steps (2020)
- See You Yesterday (2017-2019)
- Roxanne Roxanne (2017)
- Meadowland (2015)
- Annie (2014)
24. Rachel Crow
- Date of Birth: January 23, 1998
- Age: 26 years old
- Nationality: American
As of 2024, Rachel Crow, born on January 23, 1998, was 26 years old. She is an American singer and actress who gained fame after her participation in the first season of The X Factor in 2011.
Crow started acting at a young age and has made notable appearances in television shows like Big Time Rush and Fred: The Show. Her talent also extends to voice acting, having lent her voice to characters in films such as Rio 2.
In addition to her acting career, Crow is known for her musical pursuits, releasing her first EP in June 2012. While there is no information about the major awards she has won, Crow’s talent and rising popularity mark her as one of the 25 black actresses under 30 that one should know.
Her diverse filmography showcases her versatility as an artist and her potential for even greater achievements in the future.
Selected Filmography:
- In from the Night (2006)
- Invisible Sister (2015)
- Bumblebee (2018)
- The Goldbergs (2018)
- Timeline (2019)
25. Sanai Victoria
- Date of Birth: January 15, 2007
- Age: 17 years old
- Nationality: American
Sanai Victoria, born on January 15, 2007, is currently 17 years old as of 2024. She started her acting career at a young age and quickly gained recognition for her talent and dedication.
Victoria began contesting in talent and beauty contests from a young age, and in 2015, she won the National American Miss and Miss California Jr. Pre-Teen. While she may not be as widely known as some established actresses, she has already made a name for herself in the industry. As one of the 25 black actresses under 30 one should know, Victoria stands out for her versatility and ability to bring complex characters to life.
Victoria’s filmography includes notable roles in both movies and television. Some of her notable works include:
- Black-ish (2014)
- Lab Rats: Elite Force (2016)
- Madagascar: A Little Wild (2020)
- Diary of a Future President (2020)
- Summering (2022)
- Tyler Perry’s The Paynes (2023)
While she hasn’t received any major awards yet, her talent and potential have been recognized by critics and audiences alike. With her impressive body of work and rising popularity, it won’t be surprising to see Victoria receive recognition and accolades in the future.