As much as we love Idris Elba, Denzel Washington and Will Smith, there’s no denying that Father Time definitely has his sights set on them, It appears the The Hollywood Reporter feels the same about Keanu Reeves and Mark Wahlberg, as it recently published a list of actors who they believe can be the “Next Action Hero.” However, there weren’t nearly enough Black names on their list, so here’s some suggestions of actors who could be the Next Black Action Hero.
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Jade Cargill
WWE superstar Jade Cargill has made no secret of her desire to appear in a big superhero movie. One look at her on screen and you have to wonder what’s taking Marvel so long to call her. Also, her pump kick is a thing of beauty that should be on the big screen.
Damson Idris
Damson Idris has received unanimous acclaim for his performance in Snowfall. His unforgettable talent is tailor made for an epic mob story or a heartbreaking revenge thriller.
Caleb McLaughlin
Hollywood may be focused on Stranger Things’ Millie Bobby Brown and Finn Wolfhard, but producers should not sleep on Caleb McLaughlin. He has the kind of undeniable star presence and likability that carries franchises and keeps audiences coming back.
Lashana Lynch
After No Time to Die, why are we still trying to figure out who should be the next 007? Lashana Lynch is right there!
Trevante Rhodes
Trevante Rhodes is the rare actor who makes even the smallest role infinitely more interesting. He’d be badass as a villain you kind of want to root for.
Swerve Strickland
AEW wrestler Swerve Strickland is an unmatched athlete with a presence that can’t be taught. He plays an unpredictable villain who you cannot wait to see on screen. He’s does menacingly charming extremely well.
Brian Tyree Henry
His work in Widows, Eternals and Bullet Train have already put Oscar nominee Brian Tyree Henry on the action hero path, but it’s time for him to take the lead. He commands the screen and steals every scene he’s in. That’s leading man stuff.
Nicole Beharie
Why isn’t Nicole Beharie a superstar? Her ability to instantly establish an emotional connection with the audience is rare. Seriously, Marvel she’s perfect for any of the X-Men or the Fantastic Four’s Sue Storm.
Regé-Jean Page
Once again I ask why we are still pretending like we don’t know who the next James Bond should be? Have you seen Bridgerton Season 1? What more do you need to know?
Jordan Calloway
As Black Lightning’s Khalil, Jordan Calloway delivered an effortless portrayal of a tortured soul. He hates the violence he has to use, but also accepts that it’s a necessary evil. That sounds like a John Wick style revenge pic.
Amandla Stenberg
Amandla Stenberg is an actor who can be a either a hero or a villain you can’t help rooting for. The way they embody a character instantly makes them the most interesting person on screen. That’s the No. 1 job of an action star.
Shamier Anderson and Stephan James
Shamier Anderson has the skill, look and captivating presence to be a memorable action star. For a unique twist, maybe he and his brother, Stephan James, can co-star in a buddy movie or a partner vs partner showdown.
Sinqua Walls
Sometimes the best action heroes are the unexpected ones. Sinqua Walls would be amazing as the guy no one sees coming.
Storm Reid
With a name like Storm you’re destined to be a movie star or a superhero. There’s even a world where she can be both.
KiKi Layne
Kiki Layne was a stand out in The Old Guard. She followed that up by being the best part of the mess that was Don’t Worry Darling. I’d like to live in a world where she’s routinely saving the day with her wit and ass-kicking.
Aldis Hodge
From Leverage to Black Adam, there is literally nothing Aldis Hodge can’t do. Honestly, DC should’ve locked him down the minute they saw him as Carter Hall/Hawkman. Don’t make the same mistake Marvel. He’d be perfect as the Fantastic Four’s Reed Richards.
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