25 Black Actors Over 50 Still Getting It Done

Black actors over the age of 50 have overcome discrimination and racism to break down barriers, all starting with the Golden Age of Hollywood. In 1964, iconic actor Syndey Poitier made history as the first black actor to win the Academy Award for Best Actor. The win paved the way for iconic black actors that have dominated Hollywood from the 70s to today. The talented actors on this list don’t let race or age get in their way of becoming the most famous names in the world. These black actors are all over the age of 50 and continue to dominate Hollywood. The list features a wide range of talent, from 50 to 91. They star in critically acclaimed classics, summer blockbusters, and heart-pounding thrillers. Many of the black actors listed have followed in the footsteps of Poitier, overcoming obstacles and winning Oscars, Golden Globes, and more. They often voice support for important causes regarding race, such as Black Lives Matter. Without further ado, here’s a look at 25 black actors over 50 still getting it done.  25 Black Actors Over 50 Still Getting It Done

1. Samuel L. Jackson Tinseltown/Shutterstock Samuel L. Jackson will go down in history as one of the highest-grossing actors in Hollywood. The 73-year-old legend began his career in the early 80s on the stage. He continued his rise in Hollywood with roles in Coming to America, Goodfellas, and True Romance. His career took off with his unforgettable performance as Jules Winnfield in the critically acclaimed flick Pulp Fiction. Jackson became one of Hollywood’s biggest stars with roles in A Time To Kill, Coach Carter, and The Hateful Eight. Jackson cemented his legacy with roles as Mace Windu in the Star Wars prequel series and Nick Fury in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Jackson reprises his role as Fury in the upcoming Disney Plus series Secret Invasion. 
2. Denzel Washington  Photo Works/Shutterstock The two-time Oscar winner Denzel Washington is considered one of the finest actors of his generation. Washington first gained attention in the early 80s. He became a household name when he won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor in 1989 for his role in Glory. From then on, Washington became one the top leading men in Hollywood with critically acclaimed roles in Malcolm X, Philadelphia, and The Hurricane. Redefining the Hollywood superstar, Washington won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his bone-chilling performance as Alonzo Harris in Training Day. The 67-year-old Hollywood icon continues to star in classic movies, such as Flight, Fences, and The Equalizer. 
3. Will Smith Featureflash Photo Agency/Shutterstock In the 80s, Will Smith exploded onto the scene as a member of DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince. They topped the charts with several singles, notably “Parents Just Don’t Understand.” Later, Smith released several Grammy-Award-winning albums. In 1994, Smith turned his attention to acting with his starring role in the NBC sitcom The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. Soon, Smith became one of the highest-grossing leading men in Hollywood. He’s well-known for his roles in the Bad Boys trilogy and the Men In Black franchise. Smith elevated his career with critically acclaimed performances in Ali, The Pursuit of Happyness, and Concussion. Smith is still going strong at 54, winning the Academy Award for Best Actor for his starring role in King Richard. At the same event, Smith made headlines when he slapped comedian Chris Rock after Rock joked about his wife, Jada Pinkett-Smith. Despite this, Smith remains one of Hollywood’s biggest stars. 
4. Chris Rock vipflash/Shutterstock Chris Rock began his career as a stand-up comic in the mid-80s and landed minor movie roles. He had his big career break as a Saturday Night Live cast member at the peak of its 90s popularity. During that time, Rock impressed critics with his supporting role as drug addict Pookie in the 1991 movie New Jack City. In the mid-90s, Rock returned to performing stand-up, elevating his career to new heights. He released several critically acclaimed HBO Comedy specials, including Bring the Pain, Bigger & Blacker, and Never Scared. Plus, he wrote, produced, and narrated the biographical series Everybody Hates Chris. The 57-year-old comedy legend shows no signs of slowing down. In 2018, he released another comedy special, Chris Rock: Tambourine, and starred in the fourth season of Fargo. Rock portrays Civil Rights leader Roy Wilkins in the upcoming film Rustin. 
5. Cuba Gooding Jr.  Denis Makarenko/Shutterstock Debuting in the late 80s, Cuba Gooding Jr. steadily rose to the top of the Hollywood tree. He had his big breakthrough in the 1991 classic Boyz in the Hood. He instantly became the talk of Hollywood and stole the spotlight in the 1996 drama Jerry Maguire. Gooding even won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor for his role as rising NFL superstar Rod Tidwell. As one of Hollywood’s top leading men, Gooding Jr. had the pick of the best roles and starred in Men of Honor, Pearl Harbor, American Gangster, and Selma. After time away he returned to the spotlight in 2016, portraying O.J. Simpson in the critically acclaimed FX series The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story. The 53-year-old actor co-stars with Terrance Howard in the upcoming horror flick Skeletons in the Closet. 

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6. Jamie Foxx Cubankite/Shutterstock Jamie Foxx has a long and illustrious career in comedic and dramatic roles. At 54, Foxx remains one of Hollywood’s most famous faces. He first gained fame for his breakout performance on the hit sketch series In Living Color. His popularity in the show led to him starring in The Jamie Foxx Show. Foxx’s breakout television performances launched his movie career with significant parts in Any Given Sunday, Ali, and Dreamgirls. At the 77th Academy Awards, Foxx won Best Actor for portraying Ray Charles in the biopic Ray. That same night, Foxx was also up for Best Supporting Actor for his role in Collateral, losing to Morgan Freeman. Foxx is now a top-leading man with show-stealing performances in Django Unchained, Baby Driver, and Just Mercy. In addition to his acting career, Foxx is a talented musician, topping the chart with numerous singles such as “Slow Jamz” and “Gold Digger.” Foxx currently hosts Beat Shazam and stars in the upcoming film All-Star Weekend. 
7. Eddie Murphy  Nata Sha/Shutterstock Considered one of the greatest actors and comedians, Eddie Murphy has starred in many classic comedies and action movies over his career. In the early 80s, Murphy became the breakout star of Saturday Night Live. The immense fame led to Murphy’s movie career taking off. Murphy skyrocketed to stardom with his iconic roles in the buddy comedy 48 Hrs and as Axel Foley in the Beverly Hills Cop series. Adding to his career, Murphy released two critically acclaimed stand-up comedy specials, Raw and Delirious. While his career has had many ups and downs, he still impresses audiences with his stellar performances. Murphy starred in numerous iconic comedies, such as Trading Places, Coming To America, Nutty Professor, and Shrek. Murphy won the Golden Globe for Best Actor for his role in Dreamgirls. At times, the 61-year-old icon’s career seems over, but that’s when he comes roaring back. He impressed audiences with his stellar performances in Dolemite and Coming 2 America. Murphy reprises his role as Axel Foley in the upcoming Beverly Hills Cop: Axel Foley. 
8. Morgan Freeman Everett Collection/Shutterstock Iconic actor Morgan Freeman is easily recognizable by his distinctive baritone voice. Freeman had a steady rise to fame, starting his career in the 60s. It wasn’t until the late 80s that he landed his breakout role in Street Smart. His roles in Lean on Me, Shawshank Redemption, and Seven impressed audiences around the globe. In 2004, Freeman won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in Million Dollar Baby. Of course, by that point, Freeman was already a Hollywood legend. Later he portrayed Nelson Mandela in Invictus and Lucious Fox in The Dark Knight trilogy. He’s also famous for his work as a narrator, notably the nature documentary March of the Penguins. At the age of 85, Freeman is still one of the top actors in the industry. 
9. Forest Whitaker Denis Makarenko/Shutterstock At the age of 61, Forest Whitaker continues to be a force in Hollywood. After debuting in Fast Times at Ridgemont High, Whittaker delivered stellar performances throughout the 80s and 90s. In 2006, Whitaker won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Ugandan dictator Idi Amin in The Last King of Scotland. After his Oscar win, he became one of Hollywood’s most in-demand stars, with a significant role in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. Whitaker appeared in the critically acclaimed Marvel Cinematic Universe film Black Panther starring the late Chadwick Boseman. Whitaker currently stars as Bumpy Johnson in the series The Godfather of Harlem. 
10. James Earl Jones Featureflash Photo Agency/Shutterstock 91-year-old actor James Earl Jones has starred in critically acclaimed films and beloved blockbusters. With an extensive background on Broadway, Jones debuted in the 60s with a role in the classic Dr. Strangelove. Jones starred in several memorable movies throughout his career, including Coming to America, Field of Dreams, and The Lion King. Jones is best known for voicing one of Hollywood’s legendary villains, Darth Vader. With his iconic voice, Jones has voiced Vader since the first film in 1977 and recently in the Disney Plus series Obi-Wan Kenobi. He also reprised his role in the 2021 comedy Coming 2 America. Furthermore, Jones joins a select group of people who achieved the EGOT by winning a Primetime Emmy Award, Grammy Award, Oscar, and Tony Award. 

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11. Martin Lawrence  Kathy Hutchins/Shutterstock Martin Lawerence first caught everyone’s attention with his groundbreaking career as a stand-up comedian. Lawrence is one of the most influential comedians of all time. His career took off after impressing executives with a stellar performance on Star Search. Making his acting debut in What’s Happening Now, Lawerence landed roles in several movies, such as Do The Right Thing and House Party. Later, he hosted the critically acclaimed Def Comedy Jam, introducing the world to a batch of comedy legends. Lawerence became a household name with his groundbreaking sitcom Martin. The series was a massive success elevating his career to the next level. He also starred in several popular movies, including The Bad Boys series, Blue Streak, and Big Momma’s House. He stars in the upcoming thriller Mindcage.
12. Lawrence Fishburne s_bukley/Shutterstock At the age of 61, Lawerence Fishburne is still a major Hollywood star. Starting his career in the early 70s, Fishburne made a name for himself with stage, television, and film roles. He appeared in a string of popular movies, including Apocalypse Now, The Color Purple, and The King of New York. Fishburne received widespread praise as Jason Styles in the critically acclaimed Boyz in the Hood. Plus, critics and fans lauded his role in What’s Love Got To Do With It. However, he cemented his Hollywood legacy as Morpheus in the groundbreaking franchise The Matrix. Fishburne often lands notable film and television roles. He’s appeared in the John Wick franchise, the DC Extended Universe, and Marvel Cinematic Universe. Additionally, Fishburn’s a prominent TV actor starring in CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, Hannibal, and Black-ish. Fishburne appears in the upcoming Francis Ford Coppola film Megalopolis. 
13. Idris Elba Denis Makarenko/Shutterstock 50-year-old Idris Elba is one of the youngest actors on this list. He’s had an incredible career already and will likely continue to dominate the industry. Elba first gained fame as drug kingpin Stringer Bell in the critically acclaimed HBO series The Wire. After his breakout performance, Elba became one of the most recognizable stars in the world. He gained further recognition for his starring role in the BBC series Luther. Later, Elba landed significant roles in American Gangster, Molly’s Game, and Star Trek Beyond. Elba also starred in several blockbuster franchises, playing Heimdall in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and Bloodsport in the DC Extended Universe. Elba has also had immense success as a DJ and musician. He appears in several popular singles, notably “Boasty” with Sean Paul.
14. Ice Cube Jamie Lamor Thompson/Shutterstock Ice Cube’s rise in Hollywood is unlike any other actor on this list. Cube first appeared on everyone’s radar in the mid-80s as a member of the iconic rap group NWA along with Dr. Dre and Eazy E. The group revolutionized the music industry with their groundbreaking 1988 album Straight Outta Compton. They elevated West Coast hip-hop to a whole new level. After a falling out with Eazy E and manager Jerry Heller, Cube left the group to forge a massively successful solo career. Building off the momentum of his music career, Cube soon became a breakout star in Hollywood. Inspired by Cube’s single of the same name, he impressed audiences with his performance in Boyz in the Hood. Later, Cube proved he was a box office star with his role in the beloved stoner comedy Friday. Cube went on to star in the Barbershop franchise, Ride Along, and 21 Jump Street. Based on his life, Cube produced the biopic Straight Outta Compton in 2015. At the age of 53, Cube shows no signs of slowing down. 
15. Don Cheadle DFree/Shutterstock With years of experience, Don Cheadle has carved out a legacy in Hollywood. Starting his career in the mid-80s, Cheadle rose to the top of Hollywood with stellar performances. He thrived during the 90s with memorable roles in The Devil in a Blue Dress, Boogie Nights, and Out of Sight. Cheadle came into his own during the 2000s as a leading man. In 2004, he received a nomination for Best Actor at the Academy Award for his portrayal of Paul Rusesabagina in Hotel Rwanda. Later, he won a Golden Globe Award for his role in House of Lies. The 57-year-old actor continues to star in the most popular franchises and movies. For instance, he starred in the Ocean’s trilogy and currently portrays War Machine in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. He reprises the role in the upcoming Disney Plus series Armor Wars. 

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16. Terrance Howard Kathy Hutchins/Shutterstock 53-year-old actor Terrance Howard continues to star in critically acclaimed movies and television series. With his unparalleled skills, he has impressed audiences around the globe. Howard began acting in the early 90s with roles in The Jacksons: An American Dream, All My Children, and Living Single. In 1995, Howard stole the spotlight in Dead Presidents and Mr. Holland’s Opus, elevating his career. Later, he became a leading man with his critically acclaimed performance in Hustle & Flow. Howard’s career quickly took off as he starred in numerous popular movies, such as Crash, Four Brothers, and Iron Man. Furthermore, Howard received universal praise for his role as Lucious Lyon in the popular series Empire. 
17. Spike Lee Featureflash Photo Agency/Shutterstock Often considered one of the greatest filmmakers, Spike Lee directed, wrote, and produced several groundbreaking flicks. While not an actor per se, he does appear in many of his own movies, making him worth a mention. Currently 61, Lee rose to fame directing She’s Gotta Have It, Jungle Fever, Do The Right Thing, Crooklyn, and Malcolm X. Lee quickly established himself as one of the top directors. However, Lee is known for taking on minor roles in many of his films. Lee continues to create critically acclaimed classics such as Inside Man, BlacKkKlansman, and Da 5 Bloods. 
18. Terry Crews DFree/Shutterstock Terry Crews first rose to fame in the NFL playing for the Washington Redskins, San Diego Chargers, and Los Angeles Rams. Eventually, Crews embarked on an acting career, becoming one of the top stars in the industry. He appeared in several popular movies, such as The Longest Yard, The Expendables, and Deadpool 2. He excelled as a television star with roles in Everybody Hates Chris and Brooklyn Nine-Nine. He also appeared in Space Force and Tales from The Walking Dead. At 54, Crews remains a highly visible star as the host of America’s Got Talent.
19. Delroy Lindo Tinseltown/Shutterstock Delroy Lindo is one of those actors that everyone knows. The 70-year-old legend started his career in the late 70s. He first gained attention by appearing in Spike Lee’s films Malcolm X, Crooklyn, and Clockers. He soon became a permanent fixture in Hollywood, showcasing his talent in Get Shorty, Gone in 60 Seconds, and Romeo Must Die. He continued his steady rise in Hollywood, landing roles in Believe and The Good Fight. In 2020, Lindo reunited with Lee to star in Da 5 Blood, receiving universal praise for his performance. 
20. Danny Glover Vinicius Tupinamba/Shutterstock With decades of experience, Danny Glover is one of the most recognizable stars in the industry. He quickly made an impression with his roles in Witness, Silverado, and The Color Purple in the 80s. However, Glover’s best known for portraying Sergeant Roger Murtaugh in the beloved Lethal Weapon franchise. Despite being 76, Glover isn’t too old for this stuff. He continues to star in critically acclaimed classics and blockbusters. He appeared in Dreamgirls, Shooter, and Jumanji: The Next Level. Throughout his career, Glover delivered critically acclaimed performances and set box office records. Critics and fans consider Glover one of the greatest actors never to win an Oscar. 

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21. Tyler Perry Featureflash Photo Agency/Shutterstock There isn’t a person in the world that doesn’t know Tyler Perry. The 53-year-old actor is one of the most influential celebrities today. Perry is best known for writing, directing, and producing his own stage plays and films. For instance, Perry’s the creator and performer of the stern old lady Madea. Furthermore, Perry is the mastermind behind several popular movies and series, including Diary of a Mad Black Woman, Meet The Browns, and Tyler Perry’s House of Payne. Perry struck a historic deal with Oprah Winfrey to produce scripted programs for OWN. That led to the uber-successful drama The Haves and the Have Nots. With a successful career as a filmmaker, Perry has become one of the most in-demand actors in Hollywood. He landed roles in numerous flicks such as Star Trek, Vice, and Don’t Look Up. 
22. Ice-T Ron Adar/Shutterstock In the early 80s, Ice-T had a buzz around him as he dominated the underground rap scene. He soon became one of the top-selling rappers during the 80s with a string of hits. He stirred up a great deal of controversy with his hit single “Cop Killa.” Regardless, he remained at the top of the charts throughout the 90s. Ice-T proved the doubters wrong when he took Hollywood by storm. After some minor roles, Ice-T became a household name portraying Detective Scotty Appleton in the crime thriller New Jack City. He continued to appear in popular films and series throughout the 90s. Despite being 64, Ice-T is still one of the industry’s most dominant actors. Ice-T began portraying Detective Fin Tutuola on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit in 2000, with additional appearances on Law & Order, Chicago P.D., and Law & Order: Organized Crime. He also starred in the reality series Ice Loves Coco with his wife Coco.
23. Morris Chestnut Kathy Hutchins/Shutterstock Morris Chestnut is one of the most recognizable stars in the world. Chestnut made his debut in a 1990 episode of the anthology series Freddy’s Nightmares. He was still unknown until his breakthrough performance as Ricky Baker in the critically acclaimed Boyz in the Hood. Chestnut’s career took off as he became a top-leading man. Chestnut landed significant roles in The Best Man, The Brothers, Think Like A Man, and Girls Trip. At the age of 53, Chestnut is still at the top of his game with roles in Rosewood, The Enemy Within, and Nurse Jackie. Chestnut will star in the upcoming limited series The Best Man: The Final Chapters. 
24. Billy Dee Williams DFree/Shutterstock Billy Dee Williams is one of the most famous stars in the industry. The 85-year-old icon started his career in the late 50s. Also a talented painter, he took on acting jobs to support his passion. Willaims had his big breakthrough in 1971 with his starring role in Brian’s Song. His heartbreaking and inspiring performance earned him an Emmy nomination. Williams cemented his place in movie history as Lando Calrissian in the Star Wars franchise. Later, Williams took on the role of Harvey Dent in the cultural phenomenon Tim Burton’s Batman. He reprised the role in the 2017 movie The Lego Batman Movie. 
25. George Harris Iremaestro, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons In the late 60s, black actors landed more prominent roles but faced several obstacles. One of the actors that helped break down barriers is 73-year-old actor George Harris. With an extensive acting background, he landed minor roles in The Sweeney, The Gladiators, and Flash Gordon. Harris continued his steady rise in Hollywood with roles in Indiana Jones and The Raiders of the Lost Ark, The Emperor’s New Clothes, and Black Hawk Down. However, Harris is best known for portraying Kingsley Shacklbotl in the Harry Potter franchise, notably in Harry Potter and The Order of the Phoenix and Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows Part I and Part II. 

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Black actors over the age of 50 have overcome discrimination and racism to break down barriers, all starting with the Golden Age of Hollywood. In 1964, iconic actor Syndey Poitier made history as the first black actor to win the Academy Award for Best Actor. The win paved the way for iconic black actors that have dominated Hollywood from the 70s to today. The talented actors on this list don’t let race or age get in their way of becoming the most famous names in the world. These black actors are all over the age of 50 and continue to dominate Hollywood. The list features a wide range of talent, from 50 to 91. They star in critically acclaimed classics, summer blockbusters, and heart-pounding thrillers. Many of the black actors listed have followed in the footsteps of Poitier, overcoming obstacles and winning Oscars, Golden Globes, and more. They often voice support for important causes regarding race, such as Black Lives Matter. Without further ado, here’s a look at 25 black actors over 50 still getting it done.  25 Black Actors Over 50 Still Getting It Done

1. Samuel L. Jackson Tinseltown/Shutterstock Samuel L. Jackson will go down in history as one of the highest-grossing actors in Hollywood. The 73-year-old legend began his career in the early 80s on the stage. He continued his rise in Hollywood with roles in Coming to America, Goodfellas, and True Romance. His career took off with his unforgettable performance as Jules Winnfield in the critically acclaimed flick Pulp Fiction. Jackson became one of Hollywood’s biggest stars with roles in A Time To Kill, Coach Carter, and The Hateful Eight. Jackson cemented his legacy with roles as Mace Windu in the Star Wars prequel series and Nick Fury in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Jackson reprises his role as Fury in the upcoming Disney Plus series Secret Invasion. 
2. Denzel Washington  Photo Works/Shutterstock The two-time Oscar winner Denzel Washington is considered one of the finest actors of his generation. Washington first gained attention in the early 80s. He became a household name when he won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor in 1989 for his role in Glory. From then on, Washington became one the top leading men in Hollywood with critically acclaimed roles in Malcolm X, Philadelphia, and The Hurricane. Redefining the Hollywood superstar, Washington won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his bone-chilling performance as Alonzo Harris in Training Day. The 67-year-old Hollywood icon continues to star in classic movies, such as Flight, Fences, and The Equalizer. 
3. Will Smith Featureflash Photo Agency/Shutterstock In the 80s, Will Smith exploded onto the scene as a member of DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince. They topped the charts with several singles, notably “Parents Just Don’t Understand.” Later, Smith released several Grammy-Award-winning albums. In 1994, Smith turned his attention to acting with his starring role in the NBC sitcom The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. Soon, Smith became one of the highest-grossing leading men in Hollywood. He’s well-known for his roles in the Bad Boys trilogy and the Men In Black franchise. Smith elevated his career with critically acclaimed performances in Ali, The Pursuit of Happyness, and Concussion. Smith is still going strong at 54, winning the Academy Award for Best Actor for his starring role in King Richard. At the same event, Smith made headlines when he slapped comedian Chris Rock after Rock joked about his wife, Jada Pinkett-Smith. Despite this, Smith remains one of Hollywood’s biggest stars. 
4. Chris Rock vipflash/Shutterstock Chris Rock began his career as a stand-up comic in the mid-80s and landed minor movie roles. He had his big career break as a Saturday Night Live cast member at the peak of its 90s popularity. During that time, Rock impressed critics with his supporting role as drug addict Pookie in the 1991 movie New Jack City. In the mid-90s, Rock returned to performing stand-up, elevating his career to new heights. He released several critically acclaimed HBO Comedy specials, including Bring the Pain, Bigger & Blacker, and Never Scared. Plus, he wrote, produced, and narrated the biographical series Everybody Hates Chris. The 57-year-old comedy legend shows no signs of slowing down. In 2018, he released another comedy special, Chris Rock: Tambourine, and starred in the fourth season of Fargo. Rock portrays Civil Rights leader Roy Wilkins in the upcoming film Rustin. 
5. Cuba Gooding Jr.  Denis Makarenko/Shutterstock Debuting in the late 80s, Cuba Gooding Jr. steadily rose to the top of the Hollywood tree. He had his big breakthrough in the 1991 classic Boyz in the Hood. He instantly became the talk of Hollywood and stole the spotlight in the 1996 drama Jerry Maguire. Gooding even won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor for his role as rising NFL superstar Rod Tidwell. As one of Hollywood’s top leading men, Gooding Jr. had the pick of the best roles and starred in Men of Honor, Pearl Harbor, American Gangster, and Selma. After time away he returned to the spotlight in 2016, portraying O.J. Simpson in the critically acclaimed FX series The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story. The 53-year-old actor co-stars with Terrance Howard in the upcoming horror flick Skeletons in the Closet. 

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6. Jamie Foxx Cubankite/Shutterstock Jamie Foxx has a long and illustrious career in comedic and dramatic roles. At 54, Foxx remains one of Hollywood’s most famous faces. He first gained fame for his breakout performance on the hit sketch series In Living Color. His popularity in the show led to him starring in The Jamie Foxx Show. Foxx’s breakout television performances launched his movie career with significant parts in Any Given Sunday, Ali, and Dreamgirls. At the 77th Academy Awards, Foxx won Best Actor for portraying Ray Charles in the biopic Ray. That same night, Foxx was also up for Best Supporting Actor for his role in Collateral, losing to Morgan Freeman. Foxx is now a top-leading man with show-stealing performances in Django Unchained, Baby Driver, and Just Mercy. In addition to his acting career, Foxx is a talented musician, topping the chart with numerous singles such as “Slow Jamz” and “Gold Digger.” Foxx currently hosts Beat Shazam and stars in the upcoming film All-Star Weekend. 
7. Eddie Murphy  Nata Sha/Shutterstock Considered one of the greatest actors and comedians, Eddie Murphy has starred in many classic comedies and action movies over his career. In the early 80s, Murphy became the breakout star of Saturday Night Live. The immense fame led to Murphy’s movie career taking off. Murphy skyrocketed to stardom with his iconic roles in the buddy comedy 48 Hrs and as Axel Foley in the Beverly Hills Cop series. Adding to his career, Murphy released two critically acclaimed stand-up comedy specials, Raw and Delirious. While his career has had many ups and downs, he still impresses audiences with his stellar performances. Murphy starred in numerous iconic comedies, such as Trading Places, Coming To America, Nutty Professor, and Shrek. Murphy won the Golden Globe for Best Actor for his role in Dreamgirls. At times, the 61-year-old icon’s career seems over, but that’s when he comes roaring back. He impressed audiences with his stellar performances in Dolemite and Coming 2 America. Murphy reprises his role as Axel Foley in the upcoming Beverly Hills Cop: Axel Foley. 
8. Morgan Freeman Everett Collection/Shutterstock Iconic actor Morgan Freeman is easily recognizable by his distinctive baritone voice. Freeman had a steady rise to fame, starting his career in the 60s. It wasn’t until the late 80s that he landed his breakout role in Street Smart. His roles in Lean on Me, Shawshank Redemption, and Seven impressed audiences around the globe. In 2004, Freeman won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in Million Dollar Baby. Of course, by that point, Freeman was already a Hollywood legend. Later he portrayed Nelson Mandela in Invictus and Lucious Fox in The Dark Knight trilogy. He’s also famous for his work as a narrator, notably the nature documentary March of the Penguins. At the age of 85, Freeman is still one of the top actors in the industry. 
9. Forest Whitaker Denis Makarenko/Shutterstock At the age of 61, Forest Whitaker continues to be a force in Hollywood. After debuting in Fast Times at Ridgemont High, Whittaker delivered stellar performances throughout the 80s and 90s. In 2006, Whitaker won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Ugandan dictator Idi Amin in The Last King of Scotland. After his Oscar win, he became one of Hollywood’s most in-demand stars, with a significant role in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. Whitaker appeared in the critically acclaimed Marvel Cinematic Universe film Black Panther starring the late Chadwick Boseman. Whitaker currently stars as Bumpy Johnson in the series The Godfather of Harlem. 
10. James Earl Jones Featureflash Photo Agency/Shutterstock 91-year-old actor James Earl Jones has starred in critically acclaimed films and beloved blockbusters. With an extensive background on Broadway, Jones debuted in the 60s with a role in the classic Dr. Strangelove. Jones starred in several memorable movies throughout his career, including Coming to America, Field of Dreams, and The Lion King. Jones is best known for voicing one of Hollywood’s legendary villains, Darth Vader. With his iconic voice, Jones has voiced Vader since the first film in 1977 and recently in the Disney Plus series Obi-Wan Kenobi. He also reprised his role in the 2021 comedy Coming 2 America. Furthermore, Jones joins a select group of people who achieved the EGOT by winning a Primetime Emmy Award, Grammy Award, Oscar, and Tony Award. 

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11. Martin Lawrence  Kathy Hutchins/Shutterstock Martin Lawerence first caught everyone’s attention with his groundbreaking career as a stand-up comedian. Lawrence is one of the most influential comedians of all time. His career took off after impressing executives with a stellar performance on Star Search. Making his acting debut in What’s Happening Now, Lawerence landed roles in several movies, such as Do The Right Thing and House Party. Later, he hosted the critically acclaimed Def Comedy Jam, introducing the world to a batch of comedy legends. Lawerence became a household name with his groundbreaking sitcom Martin. The series was a massive success elevating his career to the next level. He also starred in several popular movies, including The Bad Boys series, Blue Streak, and Big Momma’s House. He stars in the upcoming thriller Mindcage.
12. Lawrence Fishburne s_bukley/Shutterstock At the age of 61, Lawerence Fishburne is still a major Hollywood star. Starting his career in the early 70s, Fishburne made a name for himself with stage, television, and film roles. He appeared in a string of popular movies, including Apocalypse Now, The Color Purple, and The King of New York. Fishburne received widespread praise as Jason Styles in the critically acclaimed Boyz in the Hood. Plus, critics and fans lauded his role in What’s Love Got To Do With It. However, he cemented his Hollywood legacy as Morpheus in the groundbreaking franchise The Matrix. Fishburne often lands notable film and television roles. He’s appeared in the John Wick franchise, the DC Extended Universe, and Marvel Cinematic Universe. Additionally, Fishburn’s a prominent TV actor starring in CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, Hannibal, and Black-ish. Fishburne appears in the upcoming Francis Ford Coppola film Megalopolis. 
13. Idris Elba Denis Makarenko/Shutterstock 50-year-old Idris Elba is one of the youngest actors on this list. He’s had an incredible career already and will likely continue to dominate the industry. Elba first gained fame as drug kingpin Stringer Bell in the critically acclaimed HBO series The Wire. After his breakout performance, Elba became one of the most recognizable stars in the world. He gained further recognition for his starring role in the BBC series Luther. Later, Elba landed significant roles in American Gangster, Molly’s Game, and Star Trek Beyond. Elba also starred in several blockbuster franchises, playing Heimdall in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and Bloodsport in the DC Extended Universe. Elba has also had immense success as a DJ and musician. He appears in several popular singles, notably “Boasty” with Sean Paul.
14. Ice Cube Jamie Lamor Thompson/Shutterstock Ice Cube’s rise in Hollywood is unlike any other actor on this list. Cube first appeared on everyone’s radar in the mid-80s as a member of the iconic rap group NWA along with Dr. Dre and Eazy E. The group revolutionized the music industry with their groundbreaking 1988 album Straight Outta Compton. They elevated West Coast hip-hop to a whole new level. After a falling out with Eazy E and manager Jerry Heller, Cube left the group to forge a massively successful solo career. Building off the momentum of his music career, Cube soon became a breakout star in Hollywood. Inspired by Cube’s single of the same name, he impressed audiences with his performance in Boyz in the Hood. Later, Cube proved he was a box office star with his role in the beloved stoner comedy Friday. Cube went on to star in the Barbershop franchise, Ride Along, and 21 Jump Street. Based on his life, Cube produced the biopic Straight Outta Compton in 2015. At the age of 53, Cube shows no signs of slowing down. 
15. Don Cheadle DFree/Shutterstock With years of experience, Don Cheadle has carved out a legacy in Hollywood. Starting his career in the mid-80s, Cheadle rose to the top of Hollywood with stellar performances. He thrived during the 90s with memorable roles in The Devil in a Blue Dress, Boogie Nights, and Out of Sight. Cheadle came into his own during the 2000s as a leading man. In 2004, he received a nomination for Best Actor at the Academy Award for his portrayal of Paul Rusesabagina in Hotel Rwanda. Later, he won a Golden Globe Award for his role in House of Lies. The 57-year-old actor continues to star in the most popular franchises and movies. For instance, he starred in the Ocean’s trilogy and currently portrays War Machine in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. He reprises the role in the upcoming Disney Plus series Armor Wars. 

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16. Terrance Howard Kathy Hutchins/Shutterstock 53-year-old actor Terrance Howard continues to star in critically acclaimed movies and television series. With his unparalleled skills, he has impressed audiences around the globe. Howard began acting in the early 90s with roles in The Jacksons: An American Dream, All My Children, and Living Single. In 1995, Howard stole the spotlight in Dead Presidents and Mr. Holland’s Opus, elevating his career. Later, he became a leading man with his critically acclaimed performance in Hustle & Flow. Howard’s career quickly took off as he starred in numerous popular movies, such as Crash, Four Brothers, and Iron Man. Furthermore, Howard received universal praise for his role as Lucious Lyon in the popular series Empire. 
17. Spike Lee Featureflash Photo Agency/Shutterstock Often considered one of the greatest filmmakers, Spike Lee directed, wrote, and produced several groundbreaking flicks. While not an actor per se, he does appear in many of his own movies, making him worth a mention. Currently 61, Lee rose to fame directing She’s Gotta Have It, Jungle Fever, Do The Right Thing, Crooklyn, and Malcolm X. Lee quickly established himself as one of the top directors. However, Lee is known for taking on minor roles in many of his films. Lee continues to create critically acclaimed classics such as Inside Man, BlacKkKlansman, and Da 5 Bloods. 
18. Terry Crews DFree/Shutterstock Terry Crews first rose to fame in the NFL playing for the Washington Redskins, San Diego Chargers, and Los Angeles Rams. Eventually, Crews embarked on an acting career, becoming one of the top stars in the industry. He appeared in several popular movies, such as The Longest Yard, The Expendables, and Deadpool 2. He excelled as a television star with roles in Everybody Hates Chris and Brooklyn Nine-Nine. He also appeared in Space Force and Tales from The Walking Dead. At 54, Crews remains a highly visible star as the host of America’s Got Talent.
19. Delroy Lindo Tinseltown/Shutterstock Delroy Lindo is one of those actors that everyone knows. The 70-year-old legend started his career in the late 70s. He first gained attention by appearing in Spike Lee’s films Malcolm X, Crooklyn, and Clockers. He soon became a permanent fixture in Hollywood, showcasing his talent in Get Shorty, Gone in 60 Seconds, and Romeo Must Die. He continued his steady rise in Hollywood, landing roles in Believe and The Good Fight. In 2020, Lindo reunited with Lee to star in Da 5 Blood, receiving universal praise for his performance. 
20. Danny Glover Vinicius Tupinamba/Shutterstock With decades of experience, Danny Glover is one of the most recognizable stars in the industry. He quickly made an impression with his roles in Witness, Silverado, and The Color Purple in the 80s. However, Glover’s best known for portraying Sergeant Roger Murtaugh in the beloved Lethal Weapon franchise. Despite being 76, Glover isn’t too old for this stuff. He continues to star in critically acclaimed classics and blockbusters. He appeared in Dreamgirls, Shooter, and Jumanji: The Next Level. Throughout his career, Glover delivered critically acclaimed performances and set box office records. Critics and fans consider Glover one of the greatest actors never to win an Oscar. 

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21. Tyler Perry Featureflash Photo Agency/Shutterstock There isn’t a person in the world that doesn’t know Tyler Perry. The 53-year-old actor is one of the most influential celebrities today. Perry is best known for writing, directing, and producing his own stage plays and films. For instance, Perry’s the creator and performer of the stern old lady Madea. Furthermore, Perry is the mastermind behind several popular movies and series, including Diary of a Mad Black Woman, Meet The Browns, and Tyler Perry’s House of Payne. Perry struck a historic deal with Oprah Winfrey to produce scripted programs for OWN. That led to the uber-successful drama The Haves and the Have Nots. With a successful career as a filmmaker, Perry has become one of the most in-demand actors in Hollywood. He landed roles in numerous flicks such as Star Trek, Vice, and Don’t Look Up. 
22. Ice-T Ron Adar/Shutterstock In the early 80s, Ice-T had a buzz around him as he dominated the underground rap scene. He soon became one of the top-selling rappers during the 80s with a string of hits. He stirred up a great deal of controversy with his hit single “Cop Killa.” Regardless, he remained at the top of the charts throughout the 90s. Ice-T proved the doubters wrong when he took Hollywood by storm. After some minor roles, Ice-T became a household name portraying Detective Scotty Appleton in the crime thriller New Jack City. He continued to appear in popular films and series throughout the 90s. Despite being 64, Ice-T is still one of the industry’s most dominant actors. Ice-T began portraying Detective Fin Tutuola on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit in 2000, with additional appearances on Law & Order, Chicago P.D., and Law & Order: Organized Crime. He also starred in the reality series Ice Loves Coco with his wife Coco.
23. Morris Chestnut Kathy Hutchins/Shutterstock Morris Chestnut is one of the most recognizable stars in the world. Chestnut made his debut in a 1990 episode of the anthology series Freddy’s Nightmares. He was still unknown until his breakthrough performance as Ricky Baker in the critically acclaimed Boyz in the Hood. Chestnut’s career took off as he became a top-leading man. Chestnut landed significant roles in The Best Man, The Brothers, Think Like A Man, and Girls Trip. At the age of 53, Chestnut is still at the top of his game with roles in Rosewood, The Enemy Within, and Nurse Jackie. Chestnut will star in the upcoming limited series The Best Man: The Final Chapters. 
24. Billy Dee Williams DFree/Shutterstock Billy Dee Williams is one of the most famous stars in the industry. The 85-year-old icon started his career in the late 50s. Also a talented painter, he took on acting jobs to support his passion. Willaims had his big breakthrough in 1971 with his starring role in Brian’s Song. His heartbreaking and inspiring performance earned him an Emmy nomination. Williams cemented his place in movie history as Lando Calrissian in the Star Wars franchise. Later, Williams took on the role of Harvey Dent in the cultural phenomenon Tim Burton’s Batman. He reprised the role in the 2017 movie The Lego Batman Movie. 
25. George Harris Iremaestro, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons In the late 60s, black actors landed more prominent roles but faced several obstacles. One of the actors that helped break down barriers is 73-year-old actor George Harris. With an extensive acting background, he landed minor roles in The Sweeney, The Gladiators, and Flash Gordon. Harris continued his steady rise in Hollywood with roles in Indiana Jones and The Raiders of the Lost Ark, The Emperor’s New Clothes, and Black Hawk Down. However, Harris is best known for portraying Kingsley Shacklbotl in the Harry Potter franchise, notably in Harry Potter and The Order of the Phoenix and Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows Part I and Part II. 

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Black actors over the age of 50 have overcome discrimination and racism to break down barriers, all starting with the Golden Age of Hollywood. In 1964, iconic actor Syndey Poitier made history as the first black actor to win the Academy Award for Best Actor. The win paved the way for iconic black actors that have dominated Hollywood from the 70s to today.

The talented actors on this list don’t let race or age get in their way of becoming the most famous names in the world. These black actors are all over the age of 50 and continue to dominate Hollywood. The list features a wide range of talent, from 50 to 91. They star in critically acclaimed classics, summer blockbusters, and heart-pounding thrillers.

Many of the black actors listed have followed in the footsteps of Poitier, overcoming obstacles and winning Oscars, Golden Globes, and more. They often voice support for important causes regarding race, such as Black Lives Matter. Without further ado, here’s a look at 25 black actors over 50 still getting it done. 

25 Black Actors Over 50 Still Getting It Done

1. Samuel L. Jackson

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Samuel L. Jackson will go down in history as one of the highest-grossing actors in Hollywood. The 73-year-old legend began his career in the early 80s on the stage. He continued his rise in Hollywood with roles in Coming to America, Goodfellas, and True Romance. His career took off with his unforgettable performance as Jules Winnfield in the critically acclaimed flick Pulp Fiction.

Jackson became one of Hollywood’s biggest stars with roles in A Time To Kill, Coach Carter, and The Hateful Eight. Jackson cemented his legacy with roles as Mace Windu in the Star Wars prequel series and Nick Fury in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Jackson reprises his role as Fury in the upcoming Disney Plus series Secret Invasion. 

2. Denzel Washington 

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The two-time Oscar winner Denzel Washington is considered one of the finest actors of his generation. Washington first gained attention in the early 80s. He became a household name when he won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor in 1989 for his role in Glory. From then on, Washington became one the top leading men in Hollywood with critically acclaimed roles in Malcolm X, Philadelphia, and The Hurricane.

Redefining the Hollywood superstar, Washington won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his bone-chilling performance as Alonzo Harris in Training Day. The 67-year-old Hollywood icon continues to star in classic movies, such as Flight, Fences, and The Equalizer. 

3. Will Smith

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In the 80s, Will Smith exploded onto the scene as a member of DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince. They topped the charts with several singles, notably “Parents Just Don’t Understand.” Later, Smith released several Grammy-Award-winning albums. In 1994, Smith turned his attention to acting with his starring role in the NBC sitcom The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. Soon, Smith became one of the highest-grossing leading men in Hollywood.

He’s well-known for his roles in the Bad Boys trilogy and the Men In Black franchise. Smith elevated his career with critically acclaimed performances in Ali, The Pursuit of Happyness, and Concussion. Smith is still going strong at 54, winning the Academy Award for Best Actor for his starring role in King Richard. At the same event, Smith made headlines when he slapped comedian Chris Rock after Rock joked about his wife, Jada Pinkett-Smith. Despite this, Smith remains one of Hollywood’s biggest stars. 

4. Chris Rock

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Chris Rock began his career as a stand-up comic in the mid-80s and landed minor movie roles. He had his big career break as a Saturday Night Live cast member at the peak of its 90s popularity. During that time, Rock impressed critics with his supporting role as drug addict Pookie in the 1991 movie New Jack City. In the mid-90s, Rock returned to performing stand-up, elevating his career to new heights.

He released several critically acclaimed HBO Comedy specials, including Bring the Pain, Bigger & Blacker, and Never Scared. Plus, he wrote, produced, and narrated the biographical series Everybody Hates Chris. The 57-year-old comedy legend shows no signs of slowing down. In 2018, he released another comedy special, Chris Rock: Tambourine, and starred in the fourth season of Fargo. Rock portrays Civil Rights leader Roy Wilkins in the upcoming film Rustin. 

5. Cuba Gooding Jr. 

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Debuting in the late 80s, Cuba Gooding Jr. steadily rose to the top of the Hollywood tree. He had his big breakthrough in the 1991 classic Boyz in the Hood. He instantly became the talk of Hollywood and stole the spotlight in the 1996 drama Jerry Maguire. Gooding even won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor for his role as rising NFL superstar Rod Tidwell.

As one of Hollywood’s top leading men, Gooding Jr. had the pick of the best roles and starred in Men of Honor, Pearl Harbor, American Gangster, and Selma. After time away he returned to the spotlight in 2016, portraying O.J. Simpson in the critically acclaimed FX series The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story. The 53-year-old actor co-stars with Terrance Howard in the upcoming horror flick Skeletons in the Closet. 

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6. Jamie Foxx

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Jamie Foxx has a long and illustrious career in comedic and dramatic roles. At 54, Foxx remains one of Hollywood’s most famous faces. He first gained fame for his breakout performance on the hit sketch series In Living Color. His popularity in the show led to him starring in The Jamie Foxx Show. Foxx’s breakout television performances launched his movie career with significant parts in Any Given Sunday, Ali, and Dreamgirls.

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At the 77th Academy Awards, Foxx won Best Actor for portraying Ray Charles in the biopic Ray. That same night, Foxx was also up for Best Supporting Actor for his role in Collateral, losing to Morgan Freeman. Foxx is now a top-leading man with show-stealing performances in Django Unchained, Baby Driver, and Just Mercy.

In addition to his acting career, Foxx is a talented musician, topping the chart with numerous singles such as “Slow Jamz” and “Gold Digger.” Foxx currently hosts Beat Shazam and stars in the upcoming film All-Star Weekend. 

7. Eddie Murphy 

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Considered one of the greatest actors and comedians, Eddie Murphy has starred in many classic comedies and action movies over his career. In the early 80s, Murphy became the breakout star of Saturday Night Live. The immense fame led to Murphy’s movie career taking off. Murphy skyrocketed to stardom with his iconic roles in the buddy comedy 48 Hrs and as Axel Foley in the Beverly Hills Cop series. Adding to his career, Murphy released two critically acclaimed stand-up comedy specials, Raw and Delirious. While his career has had many ups and downs, he still impresses audiences with his stellar performances.

Murphy starred in numerous iconic comedies, such as Trading Places, Coming To America, Nutty Professor, and Shrek. Murphy won the Golden Globe for Best Actor for his role in Dreamgirls. At times, the 61-year-old icon’s career seems over, but that’s when he comes roaring back. He impressed audiences with his stellar performances in Dolemite and Coming 2 America. Murphy reprises his role as Axel Foley in the upcoming Beverly Hills Cop: Axel Foley. 

8. Morgan Freeman

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Iconic actor Morgan Freeman is easily recognizable by his distinctive baritone voice. Freeman had a steady rise to fame, starting his career in the 60s. It wasn’t until the late 80s that he landed his breakout role in Street Smart. His roles in Lean on Me, Shawshank Redemption, and Seven impressed audiences around the globe.

In 2004, Freeman won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in Million Dollar Baby. Of course, by that point, Freeman was already a Hollywood legend. Later he portrayed Nelson Mandela in Invictus and Lucious Fox in The Dark Knight trilogy. He’s also famous for his work as a narrator, notably the nature documentary March of the Penguins. At the age of 85, Freeman is still one of the top actors in the industry. 

9. Forest Whitaker

At the age of 61, Forest Whitaker continues to be a force in Hollywood. After debuting in Fast Times at Ridgemont High, Whittaker delivered stellar performances throughout the 80s and 90s. In 2006, Whitaker won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Ugandan dictator Idi Amin in The Last King of Scotland.

After his Oscar win, he became one of Hollywood’s most in-demand stars, with a significant role in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. Whitaker appeared in the critically acclaimed Marvel Cinematic Universe film Black Panther starring the late Chadwick Boseman. Whitaker currently stars as Bumpy Johnson in the series The Godfather of Harlem. 

10. James Earl Jones

91-year-old actor James Earl Jones has starred in critically acclaimed films and beloved blockbusters. With an extensive background on Broadway, Jones debuted in the 60s with a role in the classic Dr. Strangelove. Jones starred in several memorable movies throughout his career, including Coming to America, Field of Dreams, and The Lion King.

Jones is best known for voicing one of Hollywood’s legendary villains, Darth Vader. With his iconic voice, Jones has voiced Vader since the first film in 1977 and recently in the Disney Plus series Obi-Wan Kenobi. He also reprised his role in the 2021 comedy Coming 2 America. Furthermore, Jones joins a select group of people who achieved the EGOT by winning a Primetime Emmy Award, Grammy Award, Oscar, and Tony Award. 

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11. Martin Lawrence 

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Martin Lawerence first caught everyone’s attention with his groundbreaking career as a stand-up comedian. Lawrence is one of the most influential comedians of all time. His career took off after impressing executives with a stellar performance on Star Search. Making his acting debut in What’s Happening Now, Lawerence landed roles in several movies, such as Do The Right Thing and House Party. Later, he hosted the critically acclaimed Def Comedy Jam, introducing the world to a batch of comedy legends.

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Lawerence became a household name with his groundbreaking sitcom Martin. The series was a massive success elevating his career to the next level. He also starred in several popular movies, including The Bad Boys series, Blue Streak, and Big Momma’s House. He stars in the upcoming thriller Mindcage.

12. Lawrence Fishburne

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At the age of 61, Lawerence Fishburne is still a major Hollywood star. Starting his career in the early 70s, Fishburne made a name for himself with stage, television, and film roles. He appeared in a string of popular movies, including Apocalypse Now, The Color Purple, and The King of New York. Fishburne received widespread praise as Jason Styles in the critically acclaimed Boyz in the Hood. Plus, critics and fans lauded his role in What’s Love Got To Do With It. However, he cemented his Hollywood legacy as Morpheus in the groundbreaking franchise The Matrix.

Fishburne often lands notable film and television roles. He’s appeared in the John Wick franchise, the DC Extended Universe, and Marvel Cinematic Universe. Additionally, Fishburn’s a prominent TV actor starring in CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, Hannibal, and Black-ish. Fishburne appears in the upcoming Francis Ford Coppola film Megalopolis. 

13. Idris Elba

50-year-old Idris Elba is one of the youngest actors on this list. He’s had an incredible career already and will likely continue to dominate the industry. Elba first gained fame as drug kingpin Stringer Bell in the critically acclaimed HBO series The Wire. After his breakout performance, Elba became one of the most recognizable stars in the world.

He gained further recognition for his starring role in the BBC series Luther. Later, Elba landed significant roles in American Gangster, Molly’s Game, and Star Trek Beyond. Elba also starred in several blockbuster franchises, playing Heimdall in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and Bloodsport in the DC Extended Universe. Elba has also had immense success as a DJ and musician. He appears in several popular singles, notably “Boasty” with Sean Paul.

14. Ice Cube

Jamie Lamor Thompson/Shutterstock

Ice Cube’s rise in Hollywood is unlike any other actor on this list. Cube first appeared on everyone’s radar in the mid-80s as a member of the iconic rap group NWA along with Dr. Dre and Eazy E. The group revolutionized the music industry with their groundbreaking 1988 album Straight Outta Compton. They elevated West Coast hip-hop to a whole new level. After a falling out with Eazy E and manager Jerry Heller, Cube left the group to forge a massively successful solo career.

Building off the momentum of his music career, Cube soon became a breakout star in Hollywood. Inspired by Cube’s single of the same name, he impressed audiences with his performance in Boyz in the Hood. Later, Cube proved he was a box office star with his role in the beloved stoner comedy Friday. Cube went on to star in the Barbershop franchise, Ride Along, and 21 Jump Street. Based on his life, Cube produced the biopic Straight Outta Compton in 2015. At the age of 53, Cube shows no signs of slowing down. 

15. Don Cheadle

DFree/Shutterstock

With years of experience, Don Cheadle has carved out a legacy in Hollywood. Starting his career in the mid-80s, Cheadle rose to the top of Hollywood with stellar performances. He thrived during the 90s with memorable roles in The Devil in a Blue Dress, Boogie Nights, and Out of Sight. Cheadle came into his own during the 2000s as a leading man.

In 2004, he received a nomination for Best Actor at the Academy Award for his portrayal of Paul Rusesabagina in Hotel Rwanda. Later, he won a Golden Globe Award for his role in House of Lies. The 57-year-old actor continues to star in the most popular franchises and movies. For instance, he starred in the Ocean’s trilogy and currently portrays War Machine in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. He reprises the role in the upcoming Disney Plus series Armor Wars. 

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16. Terrance Howard

53-year-old actor Terrance Howard continues to star in critically acclaimed movies and television series. With his unparalleled skills, he has impressed audiences around the globe. Howard began acting in the early 90s with roles in The Jacksons: An American Dream, All My Children, and Living Single.

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In 1995, Howard stole the spotlight in Dead Presidents and Mr. Holland’s Opus, elevating his career. Later, he became a leading man with his critically acclaimed performance in Hustle & Flow. Howard’s career quickly took off as he starred in numerous popular movies, such as Crash, Four Brothers, and Iron Man. Furthermore, Howard received universal praise for his role as Lucious Lyon in the popular series Empire. 

17. Spike Lee

Often considered one of the greatest filmmakers, Spike Lee directed, wrote, and produced several groundbreaking flicks. While not an actor per se, he does appear in many of his own movies, making him worth a mention. Currently 61, Lee rose to fame directing She’s Gotta Have It, Jungle Fever, Do The Right Thing, Crooklyn, and Malcolm X.

Lee quickly established himself as one of the top directors. However, Lee is known for taking on minor roles in many of his films. Lee continues to create critically acclaimed classics such as Inside Man, BlacKkKlansman, and Da 5 Bloods. 

18. Terry Crews

Terry Crews first rose to fame in the NFL playing for the Washington Redskins, San Diego Chargers, and Los Angeles Rams. Eventually, Crews embarked on an acting career, becoming one of the top stars in the industry. He appeared in several popular movies, such as The Longest Yard, The Expendables, and Deadpool 2.

He excelled as a television star with roles in Everybody Hates Chris and Brooklyn Nine-Nine. He also appeared in Space Force and Tales from The Walking Dead. At 54, Crews remains a highly visible star as the host of America’s Got Talent.

19. Delroy Lindo

Delroy Lindo is one of those actors that everyone knows. The 70-year-old legend started his career in the late 70s. He first gained attention by appearing in Spike Lee’s films Malcolm X, Crooklyn, and Clockers. He soon became a permanent fixture in Hollywood, showcasing his talent in Get Shorty, Gone in 60 Seconds, and Romeo Must Die.

He continued his steady rise in Hollywood, landing roles in Believe and The Good Fight. In 2020, Lindo reunited with Lee to star in Da 5 Blood, receiving universal praise for his performance. 

20. Danny Glover

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With decades of experience, Danny Glover is one of the most recognizable stars in the industry. He quickly made an impression with his roles in Witness, Silverado, and The Color Purple in the 80s. However, Glover’s best known for portraying Sergeant Roger Murtaugh in the beloved Lethal Weapon franchise.

Despite being 76, Glover isn’t too old for this stuff. He continues to star in critically acclaimed classics and blockbusters. He appeared in Dreamgirls, Shooter, and Jumanji: The Next Level. Throughout his career, Glover delivered critically acclaimed performances and set box office records. Critics and fans consider Glover one of the greatest actors never to win an Oscar. 

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21. Tyler Perry

There isn’t a person in the world that doesn’t know Tyler Perry. The 53-year-old actor is one of the most influential celebrities today. Perry is best known for writing, directing, and producing his own stage plays and films. For instance, Perry’s the creator and performer of the stern old lady Madea. Furthermore, Perry is the mastermind behind several popular movies and series, including Diary of a Mad Black Woman, Meet The Browns, and Tyler Perry’s House of Payne.

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Perry struck a historic deal with Oprah Winfrey to produce scripted programs for OWN. That led to the uber-successful drama The Haves and the Have Nots. With a successful career as a filmmaker, Perry has become one of the most in-demand actors in Hollywood. He landed roles in numerous flicks such as Star Trek, Vice, and Don’t Look Up. 

22. Ice-T

Ron Adar/Shutterstock

In the early 80s, Ice-T had a buzz around him as he dominated the underground rap scene. He soon became one of the top-selling rappers during the 80s with a string of hits. He stirred up a great deal of controversy with his hit single “Cop Killa.” Regardless, he remained at the top of the charts throughout the 90s. Ice-T proved the doubters wrong when he took Hollywood by storm.

After some minor roles, Ice-T became a household name portraying Detective Scotty Appleton in the crime thriller New Jack City. He continued to appear in popular films and series throughout the 90s. Despite being 64, Ice-T is still one of the industry’s most dominant actors. Ice-T began portraying Detective Fin Tutuola on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit in 2000, with additional appearances on Law & Order, Chicago P.D., and Law & Order: Organized Crime. He also starred in the reality series Ice Loves Coco with his wife Coco.

23. Morris Chestnut

Morris Chestnut is one of the most recognizable stars in the world. Chestnut made his debut in a 1990 episode of the anthology series Freddy’s Nightmares. He was still unknown until his breakthrough performance as Ricky Baker in the critically acclaimed Boyz in the Hood.

Chestnut’s career took off as he became a top-leading man. Chestnut landed significant roles in The Best Man, The Brothers, Think Like A Man, and Girls Trip. At the age of 53, Chestnut is still at the top of his game with roles in Rosewood, The Enemy Within, and Nurse Jackie. Chestnut will star in the upcoming limited series The Best Man: The Final Chapters. 

24. Billy Dee Williams

Billy Dee Williams is one of the most famous stars in the industry. The 85-year-old icon started his career in the late 50s. Also a talented painter, he took on acting jobs to support his passion. Willaims had his big breakthrough in 1971 with his starring role in Brian’s Song. His heartbreaking and inspiring performance earned him an Emmy nomination.

Williams cemented his place in movie history as Lando Calrissian in the Star Wars franchise. Later, Williams took on the role of Harvey Dent in the cultural phenomenon Tim Burton’s Batman. He reprised the role in the 2017 movie The Lego Batman Movie. 

25. George Harris

Iremaestro, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

In the late 60s, black actors landed more prominent roles but faced several obstacles. One of the actors that helped break down barriers is 73-year-old actor George Harris. With an extensive acting background, he landed minor roles in The Sweeney, The Gladiators, and Flash Gordon.

Harris continued his steady rise in Hollywood with roles in Indiana Jones and The Raiders of the Lost Ark, The Emperor’s New Clothes, and Black Hawk Down. However, Harris is best known for portraying Kingsley Shacklbotl in the Harry Potter franchise, notably in Harry Potter and The Order of the Phoenix and Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows Part I and Part II. 

See more about - 12 Famous Cowboys In Movies And The Actors Who Played Them

See more about - 12 Famous Cowboys In Movies And The Actors Who Played Them