Best TV shows with Black actors in May 2026 that provide suspense, thriller, drama, and comedy before bedtime.
This list of best TV shows with Black actors bring laughs, drama, and unforgettable moments that keep viewers coming back for every episode. From returning tv favorites to new streaming series, these shows continue to entertain.
Whether it’s comedy, action, or heartfelt stories, there is always a new series worth adding to the watch list. This guide of the best TV shows with Black actors highlights popular shows and hidden gems for viewers to explore. Start watching today!
*The information in this article is as current as the publication date.
Streaming
Black Documentaries
Soul Power: The Legend of the American Basketball Association (TV-MA)
Amazon Prime
Soul Power is the definitive story—and first docuseries—of the American Basketball Association. The series chronicles the 1967 launch of the enterprising league and explores how a collection of franchises challenged the NBA on and off the court. This series examines the lasting impact of the ABA on the sport of basketball.
Starring: “Dr. J” Julius Erving
IMDB Rating: 7.7/10
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 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
Comics 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: 7.1/10
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: 8.2/10
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: 5.1/10
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: 7.0/10
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: 8.2/10
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: 6.3/10
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: 6.4/10
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) New
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: 5.7/10
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: 6.5/10
All’s Fair (TV-MA)
Hulu
A team of female divorce attorneys leave 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: 3.6/10
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: 7.8/10
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: 8.6/10
The Chi (TV-MA) New
Paramount+
On Chicago’s South Side, an average day finds kids prepping for school, parents off to work, young adults trying to make it, and elders watching. But in this tough neighborhood, real dangers threaten daily to squelch dreams, and the simplest decisions can have life or death consequences. In the final season, everything is coming to an end for this group of residents. New episodes release every Friday.
Starring: Jacob Latimore
IMDB Rating: 7.5/10
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. Check out the new season on Fridays at 8 p.m.
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. Check out the series on Wednesdays at 10 p.m.
Starring: Michael Vick
IMDB Rating: 7.8/10
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 5 on Wednesdays at 8:30 p.m. and on Hulu the next day.
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 court room with a real-life balance. Check out season 3 on Tuesdays at 10 p.m.
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, fiancée Brina, and his former teammate Rusty, and his manager is his ex-wife, Monica. He hires Arthur Tobin, a filmmaker, to produce a documentary about him. Can they make a comeback? Check it out on Mondays at 8 p.m.
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 is answering 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. Check out the new series on Saturdays at 9 p.m.
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. Check out season 7 on Mondays at 11 a.m.
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? Check it out on Fridays at 9 p.m.
Starring: Stormi Steele
IMDB Rating: Not yet rated
Love & Marriage: Huntsville (TV-14)
OWN
The new series centers on the personal and professional lives of five successful, glamourous boss women who are southern belles in Jackson, Mississippi. These dynamic women represent Mississippi’s finest Black female entrepreneurs, determined to break ceilings–glass and otherwise–while shredding long-held stereotypes of the South. They must set aside their differences to redevelop a struggling mid-twentieth century historic district that was once known as the hub for Black-owned businesses. Check out Season 6 on Fridays at 8 p.m.
Starring: Lateshia Pearson
IMDB Rating: 5.6/10
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? Check out season 9 on Wednesdays at 9 p.m.
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. Check out the new season on Mondays at 10 p.m.
Starring: Morris Chestnut
IMDB Rating: 5.6/10
S.W.A.T (TV-14)
CBS
Hondo is an L.A.-born and raised S.W.A.T. Sergeant who leads an elite tactical team in LA law enforcement. Torn between loyalty to his community and his brothers in blue, he works to bridge the divide as he grapples with new parenthood. Rounding out the 20-squad are Deacon, Tan, Powell, and “Miko” Alfaro. Finally, Commander Robert Hicks oversees all of Metro S.W.A.T. With Hondo leading the charge, this team put themselves at risk to save lives. Catch new episodes on Fridays at 10 p.m.
Starring: Shemar Moore
IMDB Rating: 7.2/10
All American (TV-14)
The CW
All American season 7 brings the drama back to where it all began: Beverly Hills High and South Crenshaw High. It’s the same heart, the same NFL dream, the same crosstown rivalry, and more messy hormones ushered in by a new generation of LA teens. A new Beverly coach comes in, and our OG Vortex fam tries to be more responsible. The drama is never-ending. Check out season 7 on Mondays at 9 p.m.
Starring: Daniel Ezra
IMDB Rating: 7.6/10
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. Check it out on Mondays at 2 p.m.
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.