In Hollywood’s ever-changing landscape, from childhood fame to a lasting legacy is not always a certainty. Still, there are many young Black actors who shot on the scene, making us fall in love with their talent and energy. They have navigated various paths, continuing their early success. While some stayed and excelled in the entertainment industry, others stepped away from the lights to pursue other dreams. Let’s catch up with 5 Black child actors still winning who made a stamp on the industry early and dominated America’s screens.
1. Keke Palmer
From Nickelodeon to Multi-Hyphenate Powerhouse
Keke Palmer first captured the hearts of America in 2006 as the main character in Akeelah and the Bee. Immediately, her talent was recognized as she shone amongst co-star legends like Angela Bassett and Laurence Fishburne. As a driven spelling bee contestant, Keke gave a performance that was equally heartwarming and powerful. Her performance quickly caught the eye of producers at Nickelodeon, leading to her show “True Jackson, VP,” where she played a teenage fashion executive.
These days, Palmer has continued her success and has transitioned into adult roles while also showing off her many other talents. She has released music, written books, hosted talk shows and podcasts, and played a lead character in Jordan Peele’s film Nope. Her journey represents one of the last few decades’ most successful child-to-actor star transitions. When she’s all done, childhood fame into a lasting legacy may be an understatement.
2. Tyler James Williams
From “Everybody Hates Chris” to Golden Globe Winner
The sitcom “Everybody Hates Chris,” based on Chris Rock’s childhood experiences, was the first time Tyler James Williams showed off his unique talent and skills to audiences of all ages. He perfectly portrayed the awkward charm and determination of a young boy navigating family life in 1980s Brooklyn. His unteachable comedic timing and expressiveness made the show an undeniable hit from 2005 to 2009.
During his run on the hit TV show, his roles gradually increased, landing roles on “The Walking Dead” and “Criminal Minds: Beyond Borders.” Now an adult coming into his own in the industry, you can catch Williams in his new role as elementary school teacher Gregory Eddie in the mockumentary sitcom “Abbott Elementary.” His outstanding performance has earned him a Golden Globe Award and has shown off his evolution as an actor.
3. Raven-Symoné
From “Cosby Show” Cutie to Disney Channel Icon
Raven-Symoné first charmed viewers at the young age of 4 years as the intelligent Olivia on “The Cosby Show.” She later became arguably the biggest star on Disney Channel with her series, “That’s So Raven,” which showcased her developed comedic talents as a psychic teenager constantly finding herself in difficult situations due to her visions.
After her Disney days, Raven remained in the entertainment industry while being selective about the projects she took part in. She became a co-host on “The View” in 2015 and later revived her Disney character in a spin-off series, “Raven’s Home.” In 2020, she married Miranda Maday and has been open about her personal journey and identity. Beyond acting, she’s pursued music, voice work, and entrepreneurial ventures, demonstrating that former child stars can build multifaceted careers on their terms.
4. Jaden Smith
From “The Pursuit of Happyness” to Environmental Entrepreneur
The acting career of Jaden Smith began in the tear-jerking drama, The Pursuit of Happyness, in which he starred alongside his father, Will Smith. His performance as a young boy facing homelessness with his father was natural and showcased an impressive depth for a child actor. He later starred in the 2010 remake of The Karate Kid and After Earth.
While Jaden continues to act occasionally, his focus has shifted to music and environmental activism. Just Water, an eco-conscious water company he co-founded, uses plant-based packaging, and the I Love You food truck initiative he created provides free vegan meals to people experiencing homelessness. His MSFTSrep fashion line challenges gender norms and promotes sustainability through the materials used to create each piece. Smith’s evolution from child actor to activist entrepreneur demonstrates how early exposure to the entertainment industry can be leveraged for broader social impact.
5. Skai Jackson
From Disney Channel to Digital Influencer
Skai Jackson became known to a generation of viewers as the sassy and confident Zuri Ross on Disney Channel’s “Jessie” and its spin-off “Bunk’d.” Her expressive performances and perfect comedic timing made her a standout even among a talented ensemble cast.
Since her Disney days, Jackson has expanded her reach as an author, with her book “Reach for the Skai: How to Inspire, Empower, and Clapback.” She competed on “Dancing with the Stars” in 2020 and has built a significant social media presence with millions of followers. As a fashion influencer and an advocate against bullying, Jackson has leveraged her early fame into a platform for positive change. In 2020, Time Magazine named her one of the most influential teens in America.
Childhood fame to a lasting legacy, as these five talented individuals have proven through their determination and creativity. Whether staying in entertainment or branching into new ventures, they’ve demonstrated that early success can be just the beginning of multifaceted and impactful careers. Their stories remind us that child actors are not just cute faces on our screens, but developing professionals with the potential for lasting cultural contributions beyond their early roles.
