STREAM EXCLUSIVE ORIGINALS

Get Acquainted With Our Favorite Actors From Across the Pond

See why viewers are wild about these Brits.

Entertainment has seen another wave of the British invasion with a slew of Black English actors and actresses making their mark across television and film. They’ve garnered a solid fan base with their unique mix of British charm and sheer acting prowess. Dive into seven of our favorite onscreen stars who have planted their flag on both sides of the Atlantic. 

  • Idris Elba

    This list kicks off with none other than everyone’s fantasy James Bond, Idris Elba. Best known for his gritty role as Stringer Bell in “The Wire” Elba's versatility spans television, film, and even DJing!

  • Daniel Kaluuya

    Daniel Kaluuya’s breakout role in Jordan Peele’s critically acclaimed film Get Out sparked a cultural discussion and earned him an Academy Award nomination. Kaluuya hasn't pumped the brakes since. His 2021 portrayal of Black Panther Party chairman Fred Hampton in Judas and the Black Messiah earned him an Oscar win, solidifying his status as one of the most compelling actors of his generation.

  • Lashana Lynch

    Actress Lashana Lynch made history in 2021 when she became the first Black woman to be a 007 agent in the film “No Time to Die.” Since then, she’s gone on to book several roles in standout projects, including “The Woman King,” “The Marvels,” and most recently, “Bob Marley: One Love.”

  • advertisement
  • Damson Idris

    Proudly born in Peckham, Longdon, British star Damson Idris is one of the freshest faces in Hollywood. He mesmerized audiences with his stellar performance as Franklin Saint, a young drug kingpin, in the late John Singleton’s epic series “Snowfall.”

  • John Boyega

    John Boyega’s charisma and passion for his craft have made him a household name and one of the industry’s most sought-after actors, having starred in films like “Breaking” and the “Star Wars: The Force Awaken.” The South London native’s equal dedication to activism and using his platform to enact change off and on screen is one of many reasons fans adore the star. 

  • Michaela Coel

    East London native Michaela Coel captivated fans with her smash Netflix series, “Chewing Gum.” She would later turn heads and earn an Emmy for creating, writing, and starring in the critically acclaimed hit series, “I May Destroy You.” She’s become a fan favorite for her approach to the complex issues of identity, trauma, and resilience. 

  • advertisement
  • Chiwetel Ejiofor

    No list of Black British talent would be complete without Oscar-nominated actor Chiwetel Ejiofor. The star’s résumé is that of legends, with films including “Doctor Strange,” “The Martian,” and “12 Years a Slave,” which earned him an Oscar nomination.

Latest News

Subscribe for BET Updates

Provide your email address to receive our newsletter.


By clicking Subscribe, you confirm that you have read and agree to our Terms of Use and acknowledge our Privacy Policy. You also agree to receive marketing communications, updates, special offers (including partner offers) and other information from BET and the Paramount family of companies. You understand that you can unsubscribe at any time.