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30 Most Famous Black Actors of the ‘90s

*Originally published by Gloria N in June 2023 and Updated by Nellian in February 2024.

The 90s decade was one of the excellent times for film. There were many great films produced that decade making several actors popular worldwide. Actors are important people in the field of entertainment. Just try to imagine a boring weekend without a movie how it would have been?

In this article, we have compiled a list of the 30 most famous black actors of the 90s. So, get ready to be taken back in the 1990s and showcase the best and most successful black actors of the time as well as the amazing work they contributed in the field of entertainment.

Here are the 30 most famous black actors of the ‘90s;

1. Chris Tucker

One of the most famous American stand-up comedians and actors in the 1990s is Chris Tucker. He appeared in the Def Comedy Jam series on the Home Box Office (HBO) during the 1990s which made him famous.

He began his career back in 1992 and is active to date. Some of the films Chris acted in in the ’90s and made him popular include The Fifth Element, Money Talks, and Friday among others.

Here are the Funniest Black Comedian Actors.

2. Laurence Fishburne

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Laurence John Fishburne professionally known as Larry Fishburne was born on July 30, 1961, in Augusta, Georgia, U.S. He became popularly known in the 1990s after playing in The Matrix series as Morpheus which was played from 1999 to 2003 and the film Boys n the Hood as Jason in 1991.

3. Eddie Murphy

Eddie Murphy is a famous American comedian, singer, and actor. He has been active from 1976 to date. Though he became popularly known on the sketch comedy show, Saturday Night Live, which he featured from 1980 to 1984, he is as well remembered for his 90s work.

Moreover, Murphy is remembered for his roles in The Boomerang, an American comedy film in 1992, and Eddie acted as Marcus Graham and Another 48 Hrs, a film directed by Walter Hill in 1990 among others.

4. Omar Epps

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He is an American actor, producer, and rapper born in July 1973. Since 1988 to date, he has been active in his career. The 90-decade was successful and made him popular worldwide for the amazing roles he acted in.

Furthermore, Omar Epps appeared in many films in the 90s such as Juice (1992) where he played Q in this American crime thriller. He was also cast in The Program as Darnell Jefferson in 1993, Major League II in 1994 as Willie Mays Hayes, Don’t Be a Menace to South Central While Drinking Your Juice in the Hood in 1996 as Malik, and in First Time Felon as Greg Yance in 1997 among others.

5. Will Smith

Will Smith is a black American actor and rapper. He is one of the remembered actors of the 90s for the records he left behind. He began his acting career on the National Broadcasting Company (NBC) sitcom The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, which started in 1990 and ended in 1996.

Besides, he was recognized as a leading man in films such as Bad Boys in 1995, a commercially successful film, grossing $ 141.4 million, and Men in Black in 1997. Will starred in Independent Day film which was directed by Roland Emmerich back in 1996 and became the second highest-grossing film in history during those days.

Read also the 20 Most Talented Black Actors of All Time.

6. Denzel Washington

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One of the famous black actors of the 90s is Denzel Washington. He has been active since 1975 and he is still active to date. Throughout his career, he has won several accolades such as Golden Globe Awards, Silver Bears, and Tony Award.

He started his acting career in a theatre back in 1979. In the 1990s, Washington established himself as a leading man in different films such as Kenneth Branagh’s Shakespeare adaptation Much Ado About Nothing in 1993, Jonathan Demme’s drama Philadelphia in 1993, and Norman Jewison’s legal drama The Hurricane in 1999 among others.

7. Wesley Snipes

While looking at the most famous black actors, we can’t leave Wesley Snipe behind. He gained popularity mostly in the 1990s after acting in several roles and was a leading man in black cinema during the time.

Some of the films he featured in that made him popular in the 90s include Jungle Fever film directed by Spike Lee in 1991, Passenger 57 in 1992, Demolition Man in 1993, and Rising Sun in 1993 among others.

8. Samuel L. Jackson

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Samuel L. Jackson is among the most recognized and known actors worldwide. One of the films he has starred in has grossed over $27 billion worldwide. According to ratings, he is said to be one of the highest-grossing actors of all time.

What’s more, the black actor became popular in the 1990s after taking roles in successful films such as True Romance in 1993, Juice in 1992, Menace II Society in 1993, and Fresh in 1994.

9. Larenz Tate

The Black American actor, Larenz Tate, was born on September 8, 1975, in Chicago, Illinois, U.S. He is among the most famous black actors of the 1990s. One of his breakthrough roles in the decade was O-Dog in Menace II Society in 1993, a film directed by the Hughes Brothers.

Other roles he acted in include Drew Tate in The Inkwell in 1994, Anthony Curtis in Dead Presidents in 1995, Ford Lincoln Mercury in The Postman in 1997, and Frankie Lymon in Why Do Fools Fall in Love in 1998 among others.

10. Martin Lawrence

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American comedian and actor, Lawrence, was born on April 16, 1965. He became famous back in the 1990s and was recognized as a leading actor.

Thus, in the ’90s, he acted in the Martin series, an American television sitcom on Fox Broadcasting Company from 1992 to 1997 which was successful. Other successful Fox television sitcom films he starred in the 90s include House Party, Boomerang, Nothing to Lose, Blue Streak, and Life among others.

Look at the Top 10 Most Famous Ghanaian Actors

11. Morgan Freeman

Morgan Freeman is a well-known black American actor, narrator, and producer. He was born on June 1, 1937, in Memphis, Tennessee, U.S. He has been active in his career since 1964 but the 1990s decade was his breakthrough, he gained popularity worldwide.

Some of his notable films in the decade that made him popular include Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves in 1991, Unforgiven in 1992, and Amistad in 1997 among others.

12. Forest Whitaker

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The American actor, activist, and filmmaker, Forest Whitaker, ranks among the most famous black actors of the 1990s. Today he is still a well-known actor doing well but he gained his recognition back in the 90s.

One of the notable films in 1990 was Phenomenon a drama film in which he played as a good-natured man together with John Travolta and Robert Duvall. The drama earned him a Blockbuster Entertainment Award for Favorite Supporting Actor – Drama and he was also nominated for NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Motion Picture.

13. Chris Tucker

In the 1990s, Chris Tucker became popularly known worldwide due to his unique comedic style and good performance. The American actor was born on August 31, 1971, in Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.

He became active in the field of acting back in 1992 and it did not take long for him to be recognized. His breakthrough role was in a comedy film known as Friday in 1995 which was directed by F. Gary Gray. He has well-secured roles in other successful films making him popular and popular throughout the decade.

14. Ice Cube

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Ice Cube is an American rapper, filmmaker, and actor. Since the early 1990s, Ice had an active film career. It is interesting to note that Cube gained popularity shortly after he started acting. In 1997, he acted in the film known as Spawn, which was based on popular comic book series. He was the title character and he gained popularity all over for his acting skills.

You can also look at the 20 Most Famous Black Male Comedian Actors.

15. Bernie Mac

Bernie Mac was his stage name and his official name is Bernard Jeffrey McCullough. He was born on October 5, 1957, and died on August 9, 2008. When we talk about famous black actors of the 1990s, we can’t deny Bernie, was one of them.

Bernie changed from stand-up comedy to television and film in the 1990s. Some of the television shows and movies that made him popular in the 90s include Moesha and Living Single shows and movies such as Friday in 1995, and Booty Call in 1997 among others.

16. Leon Robinson

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Leon Robinson is known as an American actor and he began his acting career back in the early 1980s. Yet, he gained popularity in the 1990s for his roles as David Ruffin in The Temptations, a TV miniseries in 1998, Derice Bannock in the film Cool Runnings in 1993, and J.T Matthews in The Five Heartbeats film in 1991 among others.

17. John Witherspoon

John Witherspoon was an American actor and comedian. He starred in different television shows and films. His role as Willie Jones in the Friday series, a comedy film directed by F. Gary Gary in 1995 made him popular among many more.

Other 90s films that he acted in and became successful in making him popular include Boomerang in 1992, Vampire in Brooklyn in 1995, and The Five Heartbeats in 1991 among others.

18. Jeffrey Wright

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Jeffrey Wright is among the most famous black actors who gained popularity in the 1990s. He first appeared in his major film in 1990 as an attorney in Presumed Innocent film which made him popular, later in 1991, he joined The Acting Company in productions of Athol Fugard’s Blood Knot and A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

19. Mekhi Phifer

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Mekhi Phifer is an American actor born on December 29, 1974. He is among the actors who became famous back in the 1990s and are remembered for their amazing roles.

Some of his 1990s notable films include The Tuskegee Airmen in 1995, and HBO’s Subway Stories: Tales from the Underground in 1997. The films were successful and made Phifer famously known globally to date.

Read also the 20 Talented Black British Actors.

20. Taya Diggs

Taya Diggs gained fame in the 1990s, he featured in successful films such as How Stella Got Her Groove Back in 1998, The Wood, The Best Man, Go, and House on Haunted Hill all in 1999, and television drama including New York Undercover in 1996, and Guiding Light in 1997 among others.

He was married to a fellow actor, Idina Menzel, but the couple divorced back in 2013 after being married for 10 years. They have a kid together known as Walker Nathaniel Diggs.

21. Regina King

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While Regina King has become a household name in recent years, her journey to stardom began in the ’90s. With roles in movies like Boyz n the Hood and Jerry Maguire, King showcased her exceptional acting prowess.

Furthermore, in Boyz n the Hood, she gives a powerful performance as Shalika, the girlfriend of Doughboy who urges him to take accountability for his actions. Though her role was small, King brought life to the character that left a lasting impression.

Besides, her scene-stealing performance in Jerry Maguire as Marcee Tidwell highlighted her immense talent. King imbued Marcee with a subtle tenacity and quiet strength that added depth. Her work in the 90s set the stage for future success.

22. Nia Long

A staple of ’90s cinema, Nia Long charmed audiences with her magnetic presence and undeniable talent. In the film Friday (1995), she gave an endearing performance as the girl-next-door Debbie, bringing heart and humanity.

Additionally, her role as the creative and sophisticated Nina in Love Jones (1997) showcased versatility. Nina was intelligent, soulful, and complex and Long portrayed her in a great way that resonated. Her grace, intelligence, and resilience made her a beloved Hollywood figure.

23. Vivica A. Fox

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With her unparalleled charisma and screen presence, Vivica A. Fox became a trailblazer in the ’90s film industry. From action-packed blockbusters like Independence Day (1996) to heartfelt dramas like Soul Food (1997), Fox showcased her versatility as an actress.

Better still, in the sci-fi hit Independence Day, Fox took on the role of Jasmine Dubrow with gusto, portraying the exotic dancer-turned-wife with tenacity, humor, and heart. Though a supporting part, Fox’s performance stood out as one of the most memorable parts of the movie.

Afterward, in the next year, she took on a very different role in Soul Food, giving a moving performance as Teri Joseph, a loving mother and wife. Fox dug deep to capture the character’s resilience and inner strength as she holds her family together in tough times. Her dynamic performances and boundless energy endeared her to audiences worldwide, solidifying her status as a cultural icon.

24. Blair Underwood

As one of the most distinguished actors of his generation, Blair Underwood left a mark on ’90s cinema with commanding performances. In the female-led heist movie Set It Off (1996), Underwood played attorney Kenneth with charisma, confidence, and grounded humanity.

Over and above that, in Just Cause (1995), he tackled the complex role of death row inmate Bobby Earl Ferguson with unmatched intensity, conveying anguish and desperation. His ability to embody characters excellently made him a standout.

25. Jada Pinkett Smith

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Long before she became a Hollywood powerhouse, Jada Pinkett Smith made waves in the ’90s with her compelling performances. From her breakout role in Menace II Society (1993) to her memorable turn in The Nutty Professor (1996), Pinkett Smith captivated audiences with her raw emotional intensity and undeniable charm.

To boot, while playing Ronnie in the gritty urban drama Menace II Society, she stood out with her portrayal of a troubled single mother trying to make ends meet. Jada’s performance was impactful, garnering critical acclaim.

Also, in the hit comedy The Nutty Professor, she displayed her comedic chops as the no-nonsense girlfriend of Sherman Klump. Jada’s confidence, charisma, and down-to-earth appeal shone through, making her a scene-stealer. Her contributions to ’90s cinema continue to be celebrated to this day.

26. Lisa Nicole Carson

With unforgettable performances in Devil in a Blue Dress (1995) and Love Jones (1997) Lisa Nicole Carson established herself as a force in the ’90s film industry. In Devil in a Blue Dress, she brought grace to the vulnerable single mother Coretta James, earning rave reviews.

Further, in the film,  Love Jones, she gave an equally strong showing as the uncompromising photographer Josie. Carson embodied those qualities beautifully. Her natural talent left an indelible impression.

27. Isaiah Washington

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Known for his powerful performances and intense on-screen presence, Isaiah Washington made a significant impact on ’90s cinema. From his role as a troubled soldier in Clockers (1995) to his portrayal of a charismatic gang leader in Bulworth (1998), Washington showcased his versatility as an actor.

Subsequently, in the crime drama Clockers, he gave a subdued yet impactful performance as unhinged drug dealer Rodney Little. Washington channeled Rodney’s barely contained rage and emotional turmoil with brilliance.

Further, in the satirical comedy Bulworth, he displayed tremendous range as the bold and controversial rapper Darnell. Washington’s energy and charisma added a captivating spark to the film. His ability to inhabit diverse roles with conviction made him a standout performer of his generation.

28. Angela Bassett

A powerhouse of talent, Angela Bassett‘s contributions to ’90s cinema are nothing short of iconic. From her portrayal of Tina Turner in What’s Love Got to Do with It (1993) to her role as a no-nonsense mother in Boyz n the Hood (1991), Bassett brought strength, grace, and authenticity to every character she portrayed.

To boot, as Tina Turner in the biopic What’s Love Got to Do with It, Bassett embodied the legendary singer’s fiery passion and resilience with such realism and depth that she earned an Academy Award nomination. Her fierce performance anchored the film and still stands as one of her most memorable roles.

Moreover, in John Singleton’s seminal Boyz n the Hood, Bassett took on the role of the tough yet caring mother, Reva Devereaux. She imbued Reva with a quiet dignity and inner fortitude that made the character deeply impactful. Her indomitable spirit and unparalleled talent solidified her status as one of the most celebrated actors of her time.

29. Lela Rochon

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With striking beauty and talent, Lela Rochon captivated ’90s audiences. In Waiting to Exhale (1995), she gave a moving performance as Robin Stokes, hurt by her husband’s infidelity. In The Chamber (1996), she took on the principled reporter role with grit and tenacity. Rochon’s spectacular ability to convey emotions left an impression.

30. Mario Van Peebles 

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As a director, actor, and producer, Mario Van Peebles made a significant ‘90s cinema impact with groundbreaking work. With New Jack City (1991), he became the first African American director to helm a major motion picture with an all-black cast. As drug kingpin Nino Brown, he gave an electrifying performance.

Moreover, in Panther (1995), he portrayed Black Panther leader Stokely Carmichael with passion and charisma. His bold storytelling continues to inspire filmmakers.

The ’90s were a golden age for Black actors, with diverse talent shining brightly on the silver screen. While some names may be more recognizable than others, each actor mentioned above made invaluable contributions to the landscape of ’90s cinema. Their performances not only entertained audiences but also challenged stereotypes and reshaped the way Black characters were portrayed in film. As we reflect on the achievements of these remarkable actors, let us continue to celebrate their legacies and ensure that their voices and stories are never forgotten.