Best TV shows with Black actors that provide suspense, thriller, drama, and comedy before bedtime.
Looking for the best TV shows with Black actors to watch in 2026? This regularly updated guide features Black-led dramas, comedies, reality shows, documentaries, thrillers and action series currently streaming or airing on Netflix, Hulu, BET+, OWN, Paramount+, Apple TV, Prime Video and other platforms.
Browse the latest shows by genre, including new releases and returning favorites featuring actors such as Sterling K. Brown, Zendaya, Idris Elba, Kerry Washington, Morris Chestnut, Quinta Brunson and more.
*Last updated September 2026
Streaming
Black Documentaries
The Pivot (TV-MA) New
Netflix
Step into the locker room with three former NFL stars as they host deeply personal conversations with the biggest names in sports, culture, and beyond. Hosted by former NFL players Ryan Clark, Channing Crowder, and Fred Taylor — make sure to check out new episodes and interviews every Tuesday and Friday.
Starring: Ryan Clark
IMDB Rating: Not rated
Beauty and the Bester (TV-MA)
Netflix
This is no simple jailbird: Thabo Bester literally pulled scams while behind bars and had insiders on his payroll. The plot thickens with Dr. Nandipha Magudumana, whose tangled ties to Bester spin a tale of seduction, lies, and betrayal. Did renowned Dr Randipha get embroiled in Thabo Bester’s prison break? Imagine beauty crashing headlong into chaos, where the spotlight blinds and shadows hide secrets. This chilling documentary series examines the enigmatic ties that bound them.
Starring: Dr. Nandipha
IMDB Rating: 6.1/10
Reality Check: Inside America’s Next Top Model (TV-MA)
Netflix
The series examines both the popularity and problematic nature of America’s Next Top Model. Models, judges, and “ANTM” insiders — including Tyra Banks — look back at the reality show’s complicated legacy in this eye-opening documentary series. What started as a glamorous launchpad for aspiring models became a pop-culture juggernaut defined by explosive drama, public meltdowns, and controversies.
Starring: Tyra Banks
IMDB Rating: 6.5/10
Black Action Shows
Paradise (TV-MA)
Hulu
Agent Xavier Collins discovers that one of the world’s most influential individuals has been murdered. With the world shaken up, Agent Collins joins a security service team. With two new partners, their first assignment is safeguarding a former president. Can this team pull it together and prevent another murder of an influential figure?
Starring: Sterling K. Brown
IMDB Rating: 7.9/10
Cross (TV-MA)
Amazon Prime
A crime thriller that follows the investigations of brilliant forensic psychologist and DC Metro Detective Alex Cross. Together with his best friend and partner, Detective John Sampson, Cross delves into the psyches of America’s most insidious killers. Can he also fight to protect his family from the dangers of the criminal world?
Starring: Aldis Hodge
IMDB Rating: 7.2/10
Black Reality Shows
Funny AF with Kevin Hart (TV-MA)
Netflix
Comedians from across the nation compete for a chance at their own Netflix stand-up special, facing rigorous tests that mirror the real-life journey in comedy. Viewers vote in real time during live shows for their favorite stand-up. With Kevin Hart traveling the country, there’s no telling how hilarious things will get.
Starring: Kevin Hart
IMDB Rating: 7.2/10
House of Fire (TV-14)
BET+
The category is Family Realness! This show follows the chosen family of the legendary House of Miyake-Mugler as they juggle their impressive careers, steamy relationships, and heated rivalries. Can they do it all while slaying the fierce world of New York City ballroom? In today’s ballroom era, the heels are higher, the rivalries are more vicious, and the House of Miyake-Mugler takes the crown.
Starring: Chanel Mugler
IMDB Rating: 8.0/10
Black Comedy Shows
The Ms. Pat Show (TV-MA)
BET+
Season 5 continues the journey of Patricia “Ms. Pat” Williams-Lee as she navigates the complexities of modern parenthood, marriage, work, and relationships. Ms. Pat is a woman from Atlanta who finds herself in conservative middle America where she lives her life as a reluctant suburban mom. This season tackles tough topics including scars left by absent parents, scars created by present parents, and the pursuit of dreams while maintaining family unity.
Starring: Patricia Williams
IMDB Rating: 8.1/10
Crutch (TV-MA)
Paramount+
Frank “Crutch” Crutchfield is a Harlem widower with empty-nest plans filled with freedom, money, and fun. Those plans soon get disrupted when his millennial son and free-spirited daughter move back in. With two new energies, Crutch is forced to think quickly on his feet. Can he navigate these new family dynamics and redefine his priorities?
Starring: Tracy Morgan
IMDB Rating: 5.0/10
Mo’ Waffles (TV-MA)
Tubi
When a hip-hop legend vanishes before his waffle joint’s opening, his oddball crew must crack the case. While investigating, the crew begins to wonder if one of them could be the culprit in disguise. Can they crack the case and deal with the chaos of running a brand-new restaurant?
Starring: Tina Fears
IMDB Rating: 5.3/10
The Upshaws (TV-MA)
Netflix
Part 7 brings viewers back to Indianapolis for one last chapter with the Upshaw family. Bennie continues to juggle financial pressure, pride, and responsibility, while Regina remains the emotional anchor of the household. Through all the chaos, the Upshaws continue to rise above it all and stick together when it matters most.
Starring: Mike Epps
IMDB Rating: 7.1/10
Roosters (TV-MA)
Netflix
Mike, Ivo, Daan, and Greg, four Dutch forty-somethings who all feel lost in the new world of empowered women. This tight-knit group of friends in the midst of their crisis of masculinity, each desperately trying to salvage what’s left of their relationships and careers. Can they stay true to themselves while growing into their manhood?
Starring: André Dongelmans
IMDB Rating: 6.9/10
Black Drama Shows
Euphoria (TV-MA)
Max
A group of childhood friends wrestle with the virtue of faith, the possibility of redemption, and the problem of evil. Season 3 takes place five years after the events of Season 2, moving the characters from high school into their mid-20s. The group is now exploring adult responsibilities, careers, and complex relationships. Tune in to the new season every Sunday at 9 p.m.
Starring: Zendaya
IMDB Rating: 8.1/10
Imperfect Women (TV-MA)
Apple TV
The series revolves around the murder of Nancy Hennessy, which shatters the lives of her best friends, Eleanor and Mary. Diving into the complex relationships and secrets of the characters, the pair navigates the aftermath of the tragedy. The two will experience friendship, betrayal, and the lengths to which people will go to protect their loved ones.
Starring: Kerry Washington
IMDB Rating: 6.4/10
Man on Fire (TV-MA)
Netflix
Once a high-functioning and skilled Special Forces Mercenary, known for surviving even the most desolate of situations, Creasy is now plagued with intense PTSD. Determined to overcome his personal demons, he sets out on a path to redemption. But, before he can adjust to this new life, he finds himself back in the fire, fighting harder than ever.
Starring: Yahya Abdul-Mateen II
IMDB Rating: 6.7/10
Divorced Sistas (TV-14)
BET+
Five close friends — Rasheda, Geneva, Naomi, Tiffany, and Bridgette — support each other through divorce, marriage, dating, healing, and friendship struggles. Can they handle the heat while their loyalty and sisterhood bonds are tested? Watch these sistas work together and grow beyond the struggles of everyday Black female life in this drama.
Starring: LeToya Luckett
IMDB Rating: 6.3/10
Hijack (TV-MA)
Apple TV
Sam Nelson, a master negotiator, faces a series of life-or-death situations where his skills of persuasion are his only means of survival. In season 2, Sam finds himself in a new hostage situation on a subway train in Berlin, two years later. Can he save himself and his fellow passengers?
Starring: Idris Elba
IMDB Rating: 7.3/10
Boarders (TV-MA)
Tubi
Five black inner-city teenagers are offered scholarships to a prestigious boarding school. When they arrive, they find a world of lush playing fields, cloistered grandeur, and complex social rules which they must quickly decipher. Can they survive the crazy and unfamiliar rules of this upscale school? Check out season three on Tubi today.
Starring: Josh Tedeku
IMDB Rating: 6.7/10
Nemesis (TV-MA)
Netflix
Isaiah Stiles is the son of notorious former gangster Amos “Nightmare” Stiles. Haunted by his brother Josiah’s death and the unresolved murder of his junior officer, Manny Shaw, Isaiah has a strict moral code and a drive for justice. When Coltrane Wilder orchestrates a series of high-profile heists, Isaiah becomes consumed by the pursuit, blurring the line between law enforcement and personal obsession.
Starring: Matthew Law
IMDB Rating: 6.1/10
Bandi (TV-MA)
Netflix
The Lafleur family’s lives are upended after the sudden death of their beloved and protective mother, Marilyn. The siblings — aged from 7 to 23 — are left to navigate a harsh reality on the streets of Martinique. Initially united by family loyalty, the siblings’ paths diverge. Some try to stay on the “straight” path, while others are pushed toward criminal activity, including petty theft and, for one brother, full‑scale drug smuggling.
Starring: Djody Grimeau
IMDB Rating: 6.6/10
All’s Fair (TV-MA)
Hulu
A team of female divorce attorneys leaves a male-dominated firm to open their own powerhouse practice. Fierce, brilliant, and emotionally complicated, they navigate high-stakes breakups, scandalous secrets, and shifting allegiances—both in the courtroom and within their own ranks. In a world where money talks and love is a battleground, these women don’t just play the game—they change it.
Starring: Niecy Nash-Betts
IMDB Rating: 3.7/10
From (TV-MA)
MGM+
This series unravels the mystery of a nightmarish town that traps all those who enter forever. As the unwilling and terrified residents search for a way out, they must also survive the threats of the forest, including the terrifying nighttime creatures. Check out Season 4 on Sundays at 9 p.m.
Starring: Harold Perrineau
IMDB Rating: 7.7/10
Jupiter Jones (TV-MA)
ALLBLK
A sharp-witted lawyer and “fixer,” as she navigates high-profile scandals and conspiracies while dealing with her own past. Jupiter Jones is hired by America’s pop princess, Spring Harper, to deal with Baby Blaze, an aging rapper who is blackmailing her. Meanwhile, across the city, Jupiter’s former client, Brodie, escapes from prison.
Starring: Taja V Simpson
IMDB Rating: 6.8/10
Neagley (TV-MA) New
Prime Video
From the world of REACHER, a new chapter begins. Frances Neagley (Maria Sten) is a private investigator in Chicago and a former military colleague of Jack Reacher (Alan Ritchson) in the Army’s 110th Special Investigations Unit. When she learns that a beloved friend from her past has been killed in a suspicious accident, she becomes hell-bent on justice.
Starring: Maria Sten
IMDB Rating: 7.8/10
Related Article to Best TV shows with Black Actors: Latest Black Netflix movie releases
Airing
Black Documentaries
Ready to Love (TV-14)
OWN
This dating series explores the real-life dating interactions of sexy, successful, and grown Black men and women in their 30s and 40s. Everyone on the series is looking for lasting love and an authentic relationship. With a unique twist on a typical dating show, this series highlights the men’s observations and experiences in the search for true love. Check out Season 11 on Fridays at 9 p.m.
Starring: Thomas “Nephew Tommy” Miles
IMDB Rating: 6.6/10
The Braxtons (TV-14)
WE TV
Two years after Traci’s passing, the Braxtons reunite to fulfill her wish for the sisters to stay close. Toni, Tamar, Towanda, Trina, and Miss E navigate careers, health challenges, and personal lives, supporting each other and honoring Traci’s legacy. The sisters will also navigate new successes, heartbreaks, and ongoing family dynamics.
Starring: Toni Braxton
IMDB Rating: 7.2/10
The Coach Vick Experience (Not Rated)
BET
Michael Vick is stepping in as a first-time head coach tasked with reigniting Norfolk State’s struggling football program. With the community and the season on the line, Coach Vick must learn the job in real time while building a team hungry for greatness. At its core, this is more than football.
Starring: Michael Vick
IMDB Rating: 7.0/10
Black Comedy Shows
Abbott Elementary (TV-PG)
ABC
A group of dedicated teachers – and an oblivious principal – work hard in a Philadelphia public school. Despite the odds stacked against them, they are determined to help their students succeed in life. Though these incredible educators may be outnumbered and underfunded, they love what they do — even if they don’t love the school district’s less-than-stellar attitude. Check out Season 6 on October 7 at 8:30 p.m.
Starring: Quinta Brunson
IMDB Rating: 8.2/10
Ms. Pat Settles It (TV-14)
BET
Ms. Pat brings her brutally honest brand of comedy to the courtroom — along with a jury of family, friends, and fellow comedians. Watch her preside over real-life cases and deliver just verdicts with humor and heart. Enjoy a comedic courtroom with a real-life balance.
Starring: Ms. Pat
IMDB Rating: 7.9/10
The Fall and Rise of Reggie Dinkins (TV-14)
NBC
Reggie Dinkins is a former star football player who was disgraced and banned after a gambling scandal. He lives with his son, Carmelo; his fiancée, Brina; his former teammate, Rusty; and his manager who is his ex-wife, Monica. He hires Arthur Tobin, a filmmaker, to produce a documentary about him. Can they make a comeback?
Starring: Tracy Morgan
IMDB Rating: 6.9/10
Black Reality Shows
Maxxed Out (Not Rated)
OWN
Money troubles ripple through the lives of close-knit families and friends, testing bonds and forcing difficult choices as they navigate their changing relationships. Financial expert and coach Leah Collins answers the call of a concerned nominator who has friends or family on the brink of financial collapse. In each emotionally charged episode, Leah confronts the guilty party and helps them fix their bad habits.
Starring: Leah Collins
IMDB Rating: 7.8/10
Tamron Hall Show (TV-PG)
WLWT TV
Check out one of television’s highest-rated daytime shows, consistently delivering standout moments that become central to the cultural conversation. Hosted by Emmy Award winner Tamron Hall, the daily talk show brings a refreshing and relatable voice to the community, enlightening and entertaining the “Tam Fam.” As a seasoned journalist, Hall connects through engaging, topical, and newsmaking interviews, ranging from deeply personal to purely fun. The show is a destination for viewers to connect with stories and people who are shaping our world.
Starring: Tamron Hall
IMDB Rating: 4.4/10
Belle Collective: Birmingham (Not Rated)
OWN
OWN’S new series follows serial entrepreneur Stormi Steele as she storms the city to join a group of female entrepreneurs building brands, friendships, and legacies. Power plays, real stakes, and sisterhood unfold on and off the clock. Can these boss ladies handle the heat?
Starring: Stormi Steele
IMDB Rating: 6.2/10
Love & Marriage: Huntsville (TV-14)
OWN
Centers on the lives of three high-powered African-American couples who come together to revitalize the thriving city of Huntsville, Alabama. The couples are longtime friends and avid socialites with strong personalities and points of view, each facing the realities of dealing with love and marriage. Along the way, there will be laughter, tears, heated arguments, and more!
Starring: Martell Holt
IMDB Rating: 5.5/10
Black Drama Shows
Sistas (TV-14)
BET
Four beautiful African American girlfriends in their 30s navigate the zany dating world in a present-day society. Andi, Karen, Danni, Sabrina, and Fatima navigate the ups and downs of their love lives, careers, and friendships in Atlanta. Can these sistas stick together and make it through life?
Starring: KJ Smith
IMDB Rating: 5.7/10
Watson (TV-14)
CBS
Six months after Sherlock Holmes’ death at the hands of Moriarty, Dr. John Watson is back to practicing medicine and running a clinic. Studying rare disorders, Dr. Watson has found a new calling. But Watson’s past isn’t done with him yet—he and Moriarty are about to dive into the story’s next chapter.
Starring: Morris Chestnut
IMDB Rating: 5.7/10
The Drop: A Snowfall Saga (TV-MA) New
FX
Follows “Snowfall” characters Wanda Bell and Leon Simmons as they fight to reinvent themselves in 90s Los Angeles and the rise of West Coast rap. Wanda is driven by the clear belief that West Coast rap has the power to reshape American culture. She will work to put together a ragtag group of geniuses and lead them to the realization of all their dreams. To do it, she must navigate the dangerous overlap of music and street politics, pulling in those closest to her and a local rapper, Artillery.
Starring: Fatimah Hassan
IMDB Rating: 7.3/10
Beyond the Gates (TV-14)
CBS
Set in one of the most affluent African American counties in the United States, a posh gated community is filled with luxurious mansions. At the center of this community are the Duprees, a powerful and prestigious multi-generational family that is the very definition of Black royalty. But behind these pristine walls and lush, manicured gardens are juicy secrets and scandals waiting to be uncovered.
Starring: Maurice Johnson
IMDB Rating: 7.2/10
Related Article to Best TV shows with Black Actors: New Black-Led Movies in 2026
The best TV shows with Black actors bring laughter, drama, and powerful stories for viewers to enjoy. With a full guide, there is plenty of content for viewers to explore.
There is always another great show waiting to be added to the watch list. Start streaming something new or revisit an old favorite and have fun with some of the best TV shows with Black actors!
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South Side streaming on HBOMAX.