The Greatest Non-White Actors in Hollywood
- 1
Chadwick Boseman was a versatile actor known for his powerful portrayals of iconic Black figures, such as Jackie Robinson in 42 and James Brown in Get on Up. However, his most famous role was playing the superhero T'Challa/Black Panther in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Tragically, Boseman passed away from colon cancer in 2020, leaving behind a legacy of inspiring performances that transcended race and culture.
- Birthplace: Anderson, South Carolina
- 2
With his unmistakable soothing voice, Morgan Freeman is a legendary actor who has appeared in numerous critically acclaimed films like The Shawshank Redemption, Se7en, and Million Dollar Baby. Freeman's diverse filmography spans various genres, and he often plays characters who possess wisdom, authority, and gravitas. He has earned multiple award nominations throughout his career, including an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor in 2005 for Million Dollar Baby.
- Birthplace: Memphis, Tennessee, USA
- 3
Hollywood icon Samuel L. Jackson has a prolific career spanning over several decades, showcasing his incredible range and talent in films such as Pulp Fiction, Jurassic Park, and the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Nick Fury. Known for his intense and charismatic presence onscreen, Jackson has become a beloved figure in popular culture. At the time of writing, he holds the record as the highest-grossing actor of all time due to the combined box-office revenues of his films.
- Birthplace: Washington, D.C., USA
- 4
Two-time Academy Award winner Denzel Washington has captivated audiences for years with his gripping performances in films such as Glory, Training Day, Malcolm X, and Fences. His rich body of work showcases his expertise in portraying complex characters with depth and raw emotion. In recent years, Washington has also ventured into directing, helming critically acclaimed films like Antwone Fisher and Fences.
- Birthplace: Mount Vernon, New York, USA
- 1Training Day1,823 Votes
- 2American Gangster1,373 Votes
- 3Man on Fire1,886 Votes
- 4Remember the Titans1,378 Votes
- 5
Idris Elba, a charismatic British actor, gained widespread recognition with his powerful performance as Stringer Bell in the hit HBO series The Wire. Since then, he has showcased his acting prowess in films like the Thor franchise, Pacific Rim, and the TV series Luther. Recently, Elba has branched out into music and DJing, further highlighting his versatility across different mediums.
- Birthplace: Hackney, England, UK
- 6
Martial arts master Jackie Chan is perhaps best known for his unique blend of action, comedy, and impressive stunts in films like Rush Hour, Drunken Master, and Police Story. His groundbreaking approach to both acting and producing has made him an international superstar, and he continues to be an inspiration for up-and-coming martial artists. Born in Hong Kong, Chan's remarkable career has transcended cultural barriers and cemented his status as a global icon.
- Birthplace: Victoria Peak, Hong Kong
- 7
The legendary James Earl Jones has a deep, resonant voice that is instantly recognizable, whether he’s voicing Darth Vader in the Star Wars franchise or delivering powerful performances on stage and screen. Throughout his six-decade-long career, Jones has appeared in iconic films such as The Lion King, Field of Dreams, and The Great White Hope. Off-camera, he is a revered stage actor and has won multiple Tony Awards for his work on Broadway.
- Birthplace: Arkabutla, Mississippi, USA
- 8
British actor Dev Patel first captured hearts with his breakthrough performance as Jamal Malik in the Oscar-winning film Slumdog Millionaire. Patel's charm and talent have since shone through in roles such as The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel and the critically acclaimed Lion, which earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. With his ability to navigate both drama and comedy effortlessly, Patel continues to be a sought-after talent in the film industry.
- Birthplace: Harrow, London, England, UK
- 9
Characterized by his chameleon-like ability to fully inhabit roles, Don Cheadle has showcased his formidable talent in films such as Hotel Rwanda, Crash, and Iron Man 2 and 3. Throughout his career, Cheadle has received numerous accolades for his standout performances, including an Oscar nomination for Best Actor in Hotel Rwanda. Off-screen, he is known for his philanthropic efforts and commitment to social justice issues.
- Birthplace: Kansas City, Missouri, USA
- 10
Rising star Michael B. Jordan has quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with in Hollywood, starring in critically acclaimed movies like Fruitvale Station, Creed, and Black Panther. Jordan's onscreen charisma and emotional intensity have earned him numerous accolades, and he has become a symbol of black excellence in the entertainment industry. As a young actor, he continues to challenge himself with diverse roles that push the boundaries of storytelling.
- Birthplace: Santa Ana, California, USA
- 1Erik Killmonger937 Votes
- 2Klaw763 Votes
- 3Man-Ape647 Votes
- 4Kraven the Hunter225 Votes
- 11
From his start on the popular TV show The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Will Smith has become one of the most successful and bankable actors in Hollywood. With hits like Bad Boys, Independence Day, Men in Black, and Pursuit of Happyness, Smith has proved himself to be a versatile actor, equally adept at action, comedy, and drama. Outside of acting, Smith is a Grammy Award-winning musician and a dedicated philanthropist.
- Birthplace: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- 12
Laurence Fishburne has had an illustrious career, with memorable roles in films like Boyz n the Hood, What's Love Got to Do with It, and The Matrix series. Known for his commanding screen presence, Fishburne has become an icon and respected figure in the entertainment industry. In addition to his film work, he has achieved critical success in theater, earning a Tony Award for his performance in August Wilson's Two Trains Running.
- Birthplace: Augusta, Georgia, USA
- 1The Matrix166 Votes
- 2Boyz n the Hood142 Votes
- 3Apocalypse Now97 Votes
- 4The Matrix Reloaded72 Votes
- 13
Though he gained widespread recognition for his role as Sam Wilson/Falcon in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Anthony Mackie's career boasts a wide range of roles in films like 8 Mile, The Hurt Locker, and Half Nelson. Mackie's powerful performances have earned him critical acclaim, further cementing his status as a dynamic and talented actor. Beyond the big screen, he has showcased his skills on stage, earning an Obie Award for his work in the play Talk.
- Birthplace: New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
- 14
Academy Award winner Forest Whitaker has long been celebrated for his ability to bring depth and nuance to his characters, as seen in films like The Last King of Scotland, Bird, and Lee Daniels' The Butler. With each role, Whitaker showcases his considerable acting range, elevating every project he's a part of through his undeniable talent. On top of his acting career, Whitaker is also an accomplished director, with his debut feature film, Waiting to Exhale, garnering critical praise.
- Birthplace: Longview, Texas, USA
- 15
Daniel Kaluuya, a London-born actor, made waves with his lead role in the groundbreaking horror film Get Out, which earned him an Oscar nomination for Best Actor. He has since continued to impress audiences with his performances in movies like Black Panther and Queen & Slim. Kaluuya's onscreen intensity and commitment to his craft make him an exciting talent to watch in the years to come.
- Birthplace: London, England, UK
- 16
Puerto Rican actor Benicio del Toro has garnered critical acclaim for his transformative performances in films like Traffic, for which he won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, 21 Grams, and Sicario. Del Toro's ability to disappear into his characters, combined with his onscreen intensity, has made him a highly respected figure in the entertainment world. With each new project, he continues to push creative boundaries and surprise audiences with his immense talent.
- Birthplace: San Germán, United States, with Territories
- 17
Giancarlo Esposito has firmly established himself as one of the most skilled character actors working today, thanks to his chilling performance as Gustavo "Gus" Fring in the popular TV series Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul. Esposito's career also includes memorable roles in films such as Do the Right Thing, Malcolm X, and The Usual Suspects. With his ability to bring complexity to even the most sinister characters, Esposito remains a sought-after talent in the entertainment industry.
- Birthplace: Copenhagen, Denmark
- 18
As the first Black actor to win an Academy Award for Best Actor, Sidney Poitier is a groundbreaking figure in both the film industry and the civil rights movement, with notable roles in Lilies of the Field, In the Heat of the Night, and Guess Who's Coming to Dinner. Poitier's dignified and powerful performances paved the way for generations of Black actors, and he remains an enduring symbol of talent and perseverance. In 2009, he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States.
- Birthplace: Miami, Florida, USA
- 19
Internationally renowned Spanish actor Antonio Banderas has charmed audiences across the globe with his magnetic performances in films like The Mask of Zorro, Evita, and Philadelphia. Banderas first gained widespread recognition as the muse of legendary filmmaker Pedro Almodóvar, starring in acclaimed films like Tie Me Up! Tie Me Down! and Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown. In addition to his live-action roles, Banderas is known for voicing the beloved character Puss in Boots in the animated Shrek franchise.
- Birthplace: Málaga, Spain
- 1Desperado153 Votes
- 2The Mask of Zorro127 Votes
- 3The 13th Warrior100 Votes
- 4The Legend of Zorro104 Votes
- 20
Bruce Lee, the iconic martial artist, actor, and philosopher, remains one of the most influential figures in popular culture, even decades after his untimely death in 1973. As the star of groundbreaking films like Enter the Dragon, Fists of Fury, and The Way of the Dragon, Lee's incredible athleticism and charisma forever changed the way martial arts were depicted onscreen. His philosophy of self-expression and personal growth continues to inspire countless individuals worldwide.
- Birthplace: San Francisco, California, USA
- 21
Comedy legend Eddie Murphy has been entertaining audiences for decades with his unique brand of humor, showcased in films like Beverly Hills Cop, Coming to America, and The Nutty Professor. Starting as a stand-up comic and a cast member on Saturday Night Live, Murphy has since become one of the most successful comedic actors in Hollywood. His uncanny ability to make people laugh has secured his place as a pop culture icon.
- Birthplace: Brooklyn, New York, USA
- 22
Sir Ben Kingsley, a gifted and versatile actor, has appeared in a wide range of films, from the critically acclaimed Gandhi, which earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor, to blockbusters like Iron Man 3 and Ender's Game. Throughout his decades-long career, Kingsley has consistently impressed audiences with his ability to inhabit and bring depth to diverse characters. In recognition of his contributions to the arts, he was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2002.
- Birthplace: Scarborough, Yorkshire, England, UK
- 23
Though Michael Clarke Duncan sadly passed away in 2012, he left an unforgettable mark on film history through his heartfelt performances in movies like The Green Mile, which earned him an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actor. Duncan, who was known for his imposing stature and warm personality, also appeared in films such as Armageddon and The Whole Nine Yards. His acting legacy endures, and he remains a beloved figure in Hollywood.
- Birthplace: Chicago, Illinois, USA
- 24
Oscar-winning actor and Grammy-winning musician Jamie Foxx has dazzled audiences with his extraordinary talent in various entertainment mediums. Foxx's portrayal of Ray Charles in the biopic Ray earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor, while his other notable film roles include Collateral, Django Unchained, and Baby Driver. Beyond his work in film and music, Foxx's exceptional range and versatility make him an iconic figure in the entertainment industry.
- Birthplace: Terrell, Texas, USA
- 25
With his distinctive onscreen presence and intimidating demeanor, Danny Trejo has become a beloved cult figure in film, thanks to roles such as Machete in Robert Rodriguez's Machete series and Tortuga in Breaking Bad. The versatile actor has appeared in over 300 films, including Desperado, Heat, and From Dusk Till Dawn. Beyond his acting career, Trejo is also known for his charity work and involvement in various community projects.
- Birthplace: Los Angeles, California, USA
- 26
John Boyega burst onto the international scene with his role as Finn in the recent Star Wars trilogy, showcasing his talent and charisma to a massive audience. The British actor has since taken on challenging roles in films like Detroit and Attack the Block, displaying his dedication to his craft and versatility as an actor. As Boyega continues to ascend the Hollywood ranks, his charm and undeniable talent make him an exciting figure to watch.
- Birthplace: Peckham, South London, England, UK
- 27
Nigerian-British actor Chiwetel Ejiofor has delivered powerful performances in films such as 12 Years a Slave, for which he received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor, Dirty Pretty Things, and Doctor Strange. Throughout his career, Ejiofor has captivated audiences with his ability to portray a wide range of characters with depth and emotional honesty. In addition to his work in film, he is an accomplished stage actor, earning critical acclaim for his performances in numerous theater productions.
- Birthplace: London, England, UK
- 28
Japanese actor Ken Watanabe has captivated international audiences with his memorable performances in films like The Last Samurai, which earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor, Inception, and Godzilla. Watanabe brings a sense of depth and authenticity to his roles, making him a sought-after talent for both Hollywood and Japanese productions. In addition to his film career, he has also found success on stage, starring in the Broadway production of The King and I.
- Birthplace: Koide, Niigata, Japan
- 29
Mexican actor Diego Luna has made a name for himself with his compelling performances in movies like Y Tu Mamá También, Milk, and Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. Luna's acting prowess and undeniable onscreen charisma have endeared him to audiences worldwide, showcasing the depth of talent that Mexican cinema has to offer. Besides acting, Luna is also a talented director and co-founder of the Ambulante Documentary Film Festival in Mexico.
- Birthplace: Toluca, México
- 30
Veteran actor Danny Glover has graced screen and stage alike with his commanding presence and impressive range, most notably as Detective Roger Murtaugh in the Lethal Weapon film series. Glover's expansive filmography includes standout performances in movies like The Color Purple, Beloved, and Saw. In addition to his acting work, Glover is also an outspoken activist, dedicated to social justice and humanitarian causes.
- Birthplace: San Francisco, California, USA
- 31
Hailing from Benin, Djimon Hounsou has become one of the most respected African actors in Hollywood, earning critical acclaim for standout performances in films such as Amistad, Gladiator, and Blood Diamond, the latter of which earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. Hounsou's incredible acting range and commitment to diverse roles have made him a favorite among directors and audiences alike. In recent years, he has ventured into the world of comic book adaptations, appearing in both the Marvel and DC cinematic universes.
- Birthplace: Cotonou, Benin
- 32
With his deep voice and commanding presence, Keith David has become a respected figure in both live-action and voice acting roles, lending his talents to films such as Platoon, The Thing, and the animated classic The Princess and the Frog. David's extensive body of work showcases his ability to breathe life into characters across various genres and mediums. In addition to his acting career, he is an accomplished singer and stage actor.
- Birthplace: Harlem, New York, USA
- 33
Cuban-American actor Andy García has delivered powerful performances in both English and Spanish-language productions, most notably as Vincent Mancini in The Godfather Part III, which earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. García's illustrious career includes roles in films such as Ocean's Eleven, When a Man Loves a Woman, and Desperate Measures. Off-screen, he is an accomplished musician and a passionate advocate for Cuban culture and heritage.
- Birthplace: La Havana, Cuba
- 34
Mexican actor and director Gael García Bernal rose to international fame with his performances in Amores Perros and Y Tu Mamá También, quickly becoming one of Latin America's most celebrated talents. Bernal's ability to portray complex, multifaceted characters has led to roles in films like The Motorcycle Diaries, Babel, and the animated film Coco. His passion for storytelling extends to directing, with his debut feature, Deficit, earning critical acclaim at the Cannes Film Festival.
Having spent a great deal of his adolescence starring in various Mexican telenovelas, actor Gael Garcia Bernal became an international film star with a breakout performance in Alejandro González Iñárritu's gritty thriller, "Amores Perros" (2000). Hot on the heels of that film's critical and box office success, Bernal cemented his status as an international star with "Y Tu Mama Tambien" (2001), opposite life-long friend Diego Luna, and "The Crime of Father Amaro" (2002), which allowed him one of his first romantic leading roles. Though he could have gone Hollywood and become a big celebrity, Bernal chose instead to star in films he was passionate about. Always with his finger on the pulse of social and political issues, he delivered an exquisite performance as a young Che Guevara, who undergoes a transformation while on a road trip, in "The Motorcycle Diaries" (2004). He continued making interesting choices, taking such off-the-wall roles as a drag queen in "Bad Education" (2004) and a shy daydreamer in "The Science of Sleep" (2006). After reuniting with Iñárritu for the critically-acclaimed "Babel" (2006), Bernal remained one of the more interesting and talented performers operating just below Hollywood's radar.- Birthplace: Guadalajara, Mexico
- 35
With his deep voice and imposing presence, Ving Rhames has made a lasting impression on audiences through his memorable roles in films like Pulp Fiction, Mission: Impossible series, and Con Air. Rhames' ability to bring intensity and depth to his characters has made him a go-to actor for Hollywood's most prominent filmmakers. Beyond the big screen, Rhames has also lent his voice to various animated projects and video games.
- Birthplace: New York, New York, USA
- 36
Highly skilled martial artist and actor Wesley Snipes has dazzled audiences with his athleticism and charm in films like Blade, White Men Can't Jump, and Demolition Man. Snipes' diverse filmography showcases his formidable talent, ranging from action-packed blockbusters to thought-provoking dramas. His onscreen intensity and magnetic presence have made him an enduring figure in the world of entertainment.
- Birthplace: Orlando, Florida, USA
- 37
Best known for hosting the beloved children's television show Reading Rainbow and starring as Geordi La Forge in Star Trek: The Next Generation, LeVar Burton has enjoyed a diverse career as an actor, director, and producer. His work in film and television spans various genres, showcasing his versatility as an artist. In addition to his roles in front of the camera, Burton has found success behind the scenes, directing episodes of Star Trek: Voyager and Deep Space Nine.
- Birthplace: Landstuhl, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany
- 38
Smooth and charismatic, Billy Dee Williams has been a beloved figure in Hollywood for decades, thanks in part to his iconic portrayal of Lando Calrissian in the Star Wars franchise. Williams' other notable roles include appearances in classic films like Lady Sings the Blues, Mahogany, and Brian's Song. His effortless charm and enduring appeal have cemented his status as a true Hollywood legend.
- Birthplace: New York City, USA, New York
- 39
Comedian and actor Chris Rock has been entertaining audiences with his sharp wit and biting humor since his days on Saturday Night Live. Rock's unique comedic voice has led to a successful acting career, with roles in films like New Jack City, Madagascar, and Top Five, which he also directed. Beyond acting, Rock has released multiple critically acclaimed comedy specials and has hosted the Academy Awards ceremony on multiple occasions.
- Birthplace: Andrews, South Carolina, USA
- 1Madagascar139 Votes
- 2The Longest Yard155 Votes
- 3Down to Earth103 Votes
- 4Grown Ups66 Votes
- 40
Widely considered one of the greatest comedians of all time, Richard Pryor infused humor into his film roles in movies like Silver Streak, Stir Crazy, and Superman III. Pryor's incredible comedic timing and ability to connect with audiences helped pave the way for Black comedians in Hollywood. Beyond his onscreen work, Pryor remains an enduring figure in stand-up comedy, with his groundbreaking routines continuing to influence countless performers today.
- Birthplace: Peoria, Illinois, USA
- 41
The late Ossie Davis was an influential actor, director, and writer whose body of work spanned theater, film, and television. His most iconic roles include appearances in films like Do the Right Thing, Grumpy Old Men, and Cotton Comes to Harlem. Alongside his wife, actress Ruby Dee, Davis was an active participant in the civil rights movement, using his art to challenge racial stereotypes and promote social change.
- Birthplace: Cogdell, Georgia, USA
- 42
Acclaimed actor Louis Gossett Jr. has enjoyed a prolific career spanning over six decades, earning numerous accolades for his work in film, television, and theater. His standout performance in An Officer and a Gentleman won him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, making him the first African American male to win in that category. Gossett's powerful acting abilities have made him an enduring figure in the world of film and stage.
- Birthplace: Brooklyn, New York, USA
- 43
Best known for his powerful portrayal of Omar Little in the critically acclaimed HBO series The Wire, Michael K. Williams left an indelible mark on audiences with his intense onscreen presence. Williams' distinctive performances have earned him critical acclaim and numerous award nominations throughout his career. Tragically, Williams passed away in 2021, leaving behind an unforgettable legacy as one of the most talented actors of his generation.
- Birthplace: Flatbush, New York, USA
- 44
Academy Award-winning actor Cuba Gooding Jr. has moved audiences with his powerful performances in films like Jerry Maguire, Men of Honor, and Radio. Gooding's immense talent for bringing emotional depth to his characters has earned him numerous accolades throughout his career. Alongside his work in film, Gooding has appeared on television in the critically acclaimed series The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story.
- Birthplace: New York City, New York
- 45
Omar Epps has been a consistent presence in film and television since the 1990s, thanks to his versatile acting skills showcased in projects like Juice, Higher Learning, and the long-running medical drama House. Epps' ability to bring depth and humanity to his characters has earned him critical praise and a loyal fan following. Throughout his career, he has tackled roles across various genres, showcasing his incredible range as an actor.
- Birthplace: Brooklyn, New York, USA
- 1Love & Basketball95 Votes
- 2Juice74 Votes
- 3Higher Learning56 Votes
- 4The Wood59 Votes
- 46
Throughout his illustrious career, Jeffrey Wright has captivated moviegoers with his compelling performances in films such as Basquiat, Casino Royale, and the Hunger Games franchise. His rich body of work showcases his unique ability to disappear into each role, elevating every project with his undeniable talent. In addition to his work in film, Wright is an accomplished stage actor, having won a Tony Award for his Broadway performance in Angels in America.
- Birthplace: Washington, D.C., USA
- 47
Comedian and actor Kevin Hart has become one of the most successful figures in the entertainment industry, thanks to his energetic comedy routines and memorable roles in films like Ride Along, Central Intelligence, and Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle. Hart's infectious charisma and quick wit have endeared him to audiences around the world, solidifying his status as a modern-day comedic icon. In addition to his acting and stand-up comedy, Hart has dabbled in producing and writing.
- Birthplace: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- 48
Shazad Latif
Our Lad, We Are Monster, The Second Best Exotic Marigold HotelBritish actor Shazad Latif first gained widespread attention for his role as science officer Ash Tyler in the sci-fi series Star Trek: Discovery. With his brooding intensity and striking good looks, Latif has made a strong impression on audiences since his television debut. His recent roles in projects like Penny Dreadful and The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel showcase his versatility and skill as an actor, making him a rising star to watch in the world of film and television.
- Birthplace: London, England, UK
- 49
With his intense onscreen presence and undeniable acting talent, Terrence Howard has established himself as a powerhouse performer in films like Crash, Hustle & Flow, and Iron Man. Howard's Academy Award-nominated work in Hustle & Flow marked a major turning point in his career, leading to roles in numerous high-profile projects. In recent years, he has gained further recognition for his portrayal of Lucious Lyon on the hit TV series Empire.
- Birthplace: Chicago, Illinois, USA
- 50
With his incredible acting range and commitment to each role, British-Nigerian actor David Oyelowo has made a strong impact on both stage and screen. His powerful portrayal of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in the acclaimed film Selma earned him numerous award nominations, while his other notable roles include A United Kingdom, The Butler, and Nightingale. As a classically trained actor, Oyelowo continues to challenge himself with diverse roles and different mediums, solidifying his status as a true artistic force.
- Birthplace: Oxford, Oxfordshire, England, UK
- 51Paul Leroy Robeson ( ROHB-sən; April 9, 1898 – January 23, 1976) was an American bass baritone concert artist and stage and film actor who became famous both for his cultural accomplishments and for his political activism. Educated at Rutgers College and Columbia University, he was also a star athlete in his youth. He also studied Swahili and linguistics at the School of Oriental and African Studies, London in 1934. His political activities began with his involvement with unemployed workers and anti-imperialist students whom he met in Britain and continued with support for the Loyalist cause in the Spanish Civil War and his opposition to fascism. In the United States he also became active in the Civil Rights Movement and other social justice campaigns. His sympathies for the Soviet Union and for communism, and his criticism of the United States government and its foreign policies, caused him to be blacklisted during the McCarthy era. In 1915, Robeson won an academic scholarship to Rutgers College, where he was twice named a consensus All-American and was the class valedictorian. Almost 80 years later, he was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame. He received his LL.B. from Columbia Law School, while playing in the National Football League (NFL). At Columbia, he sang and acted in off-campus productions. After graduating, he became a figure in the Harlem Renaissance with performances in The Emperor Jones and All God's Chillun Got Wings. Between 1925 and 1961, Robeson recorded and released some 276 distinct songs, many of which were recorded several times. The first of these were the spirituals "Steal Away" backed with "Were You There" in 1925. Robeson's recorded repertoire spanned many styles, including Americana, popular standards, classical music, European folk songs, political songs, poetry and spoken excerpts from plays.Robeson performed in Britain in a touring melodrama, Voodoo, in 1922, and in Emperor Jones in 1925, and scored a major success in the London premiere of Show Boat in 1928, settling in London for several years with his wife Eslanda. While continuing to establish himself as a concert artist, Robeson also starred in a London production of Othello, the first of three productions of the play over the course of his career. He also gained attention in the film production of Show Boat (1936) and other films such as Sanders of the River (1935) and The Proud Valley (1940). During this period, Robeson became increasingly attuned to the sufferings of people of other cultures, notably the British working class and the colonized peoples of the British Empire. He advocated for Republican forces during the Spanish Civil War and became active in the Council on African Affairs (CAA). Returning to the United States in 1939, during World War II Robeson supported the American and Allied war efforts. However, his history of supporting civil rights causes and pro-Soviet policies brought scrutiny from the FBI. After the war ended, the CAA was placed on the Attorney General's List of Subversive Organizations and Robeson was investigated during the age of McCarthyism. Due to his decision not to recant his public advocacy, he was denied a passport by the U.S. State Department, and his income, consequently, plummeted. He moved to Harlem and from 1950 to 1955 published a periodical called Freedom which was critical of United States policies. His right to travel was eventually restored as a result of the 1958 United States Supreme Court decision, Kent v. Dulles. In the early 1960s he retired and lived the remaining years of his life privately in Philadelphia.
- Birthplace: USA, New Jersey, Princeton
- 52An intense character actor who specialized in playing cranky or seamy types, Miguel Ferrer first gained notice in films as the greedy businessman who played an instrumental role in the creation of "Robocop" (1987). He was also remembered as Albert Rosenfield, the foul-tempered FBI forensics expert, on David Lynch's cult soap, "Twin Peaks" (ABC, 1990-91) and in the feature "Twin Peaks: Fire Walk With Me" (1992). The eldest son of actor Jose Ferrer and singer Rosemary Clooney, Ferrer was drawn to the drums as a child after seeing Little Ricky play them on "I Love Lucy" and Ringo Starr perform with The Beatles on "The Ed Sullivan Show." A professional musician by his late teens, Ferrer was chosen as one of three drummers -- including Ringo Starr -- to perform on Keith Moon's 1975 solo album Two Sides of the Moon. Fittingly, he made his acting debut playing a drummer in an episode of "Sunshine" (NBC, 1975), a sitcom co-starring his friend and fellow musician Bill Mumy (best remembered for playing Will Robinson on "Lost in Space"), who snared him the gig. Apart from music, Ferrer became a busy character actor in films and TV beginning in the 1980s. In 1990 alone his output included recurring roles on "Twin Peaks" and "Shannon's Deal" (NBC 1990-91), a starring role in the "Drug Wars: The Camarena Story" (NBC 1990) miniseries, a starring role as a Blue Bayou cop in his own series "Broken Badges" (CBS 1990-91) and supporting roles in two features, "Revenge" and "The Guardian." Ferrer achieved leading man status in the little-seen thriller "The Harvest" (1993) but continued working primarily as a character actor for the rest of his career, appearing in films ranging from the knockabout comedy sequel "Hot Shots! Part Deux" (1993) to Steven Soderbergh's drug-trafficking drama "Traffic" (2000). While continuing to appear in films such as Jonathan Demme's remake of "The Manchurian Candidate" (2004) and Shane Black's "Iron Man 3" (2013), Ferrer also lent his distinctive voice to animated films ranging from Disney hit "Mulan" (1998) to singing-birds sequel "Rio 2" (2014). Miguel Ferrer died of esophageal cancer on January 19, 2017 at his home in Los Angeles. He was 61.
- Birthplace: Santa Monica, California, USA
- 53Broadway actor-director-producer whose noteworthy stage performances include Iago to Paul Robeson's "Othello" (1942), a Tony-winning "Cyrano de Bergerac" (1946) and the prince in the Noel Coward musical, "The Girl Who Came to Supper" (1964).
- Birthplace: Santurce, Puerto Rico
- 54Wood Harris landed his most well-known role playing drug kingpin Avon Barksdale in the critically acclaimed crime series "The Wire" (HBO, 2002-08). It was hardly his first major performance, however. In 1994 Harris made his feature film debut playing Motaw in "Above the Rim," starring Tupac Shakur. He subsequently picked up small parts in several television programs such as the cop show "NYPD Blue" (ABC, 1993-2005) and the prison drama "Oz" (HBO, 1997-2003). He also starred as groundbreaking guitarist Jimi Hendrix in the Showtime movie "Hendrix" (2000) and appeared in a dramatically meaty role opposite Denzel Washington in the football drama "Remember the Titans" (2000). Both performances brought him considerable attention, leading to his major part on "The Wire." Although none of Harris' post-"Wire" work managed to capitalize on that breakthrough performance in terms of visibility, he nevertheless continued to star in small features like "Dough Boys" (2009), "Next Day Air" (2009) and "Just Another Day" (2009), and popped up in several high-profile television series.
- Birthplace: Chicago, Illinois, USA
- 55The Italian Job, Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby, The Hitchhiker's Guide to the GalaxyBorn as Dante Terrell Smith on December 11, 1973, Mos Def is a versatile figure in the world of entertainment. This Brooklyn native has made his mark not just as a rapper but also an actor, comedian, and political activist. His success story is one that resonates with many from humble beginnings, as he was born and raised in a socially unstable environment. His parents separated when he was young, and he was introduced to theater by his mother, who worked as a part-time actress. This early exposure to the arts sparked a lifelong passion for creativity and performance. Mos Def's music career took flight in the late 1990s when he formed the rap group Black Star with Talib Kweli. Their debut album Mos Def & Talib Kweli Are Black Star made waves in the hip-hop scene, highlighting both his lyrical prowess and his commitment to addressing social issues through his music. His solo album Black on Both Sides, released in 1999, further catapulted him into fame. The album received critical acclaim and is considered a classic in the hip-hop genre. Alongside his music career, Mos Def pursued acting, appearing in several notable films and television series. He made his silver screen debut in God Bless the Child, and over the years has graced both big and small screens, starring in films such as The Italian Job, 16 Blocks, and The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy. His acting talent has not gone unrecognized. He received Emmy and Golden Globe nominations for his role in the HBO film Something the Lord Made. Away from the limelight, Mos Def is known for his activism, particularly concerning social and political issues affecting the African American community. His multifaceted career exemplifies a seamless blend of art and activism, setting him apart as a unique voice in the entertainment industry.
- Birthplace: Brooklyn, New York, USA
- 56A prolific and acclaimed actor in his native Mexico, Demián Bichir delivered award-winning performances as men of conviction, including Emiliano Zapata and Fidel Castro in Steven Soderbergh's two-part biopic "Che" (2008) before making a major splash in America with the moving drama "A Better Life" (2011). The son and brother of actors, Bichir began in Mexican television dramas, or telenovelas before gaining prominence in the late 1980s and 1990s with turns in "Rojo Amanecer" ("Red Dawn") (1989) and "Hasta morir" ('Til Death") (1994), which earned him the Mexican equivalent of an Oscar. He dabbled in American films and television throughout the 1990s and early millennium, gaining recognition for the Soderbergh films and "Weeds" (Showtime, 2005-12) as a corrupt border politician. However, his powerful turn as a simple man faced with seemingly insurmountable odds in the feature "Better Life" drew international attention and acclaim, as well as the potential for stardom in Hollywood - a rarity for Mexican actors, even those with Bichir's seemingly limitless talents. Bechir fulfilled that promise with roles in films ranging from Paul Feig's action comedy "The Heat" (2013) to Quentin Tarantino's violent western "The Hateful Eight" (2015), as well as a starring role opposite Diane Kruger on cable drama "The Bridge" (FX 2013-14).
- Birthplace: Mexico City, Distrito Federal, Mexico
