The A-list stars of Hollywood glitter with talent and diversity, but for far too long, it failed to reflect in the paychecks of black actors of hollywood. Today, there are more than ever black actors working and they have risen to be some of the most well paid actors in hollywood. So, let’s see who these Black actors are giving hope to people who want to pursue the same career path as them. It is necessary to acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of these hardworking black American stars producing some of the biggest movies out there.
If you are wondering who the richest black actor is and the other top paid African American actors, then we’ve got you covered! Not only do you get to know the names of the highest paid African American Actors, but we’ll also reveal to you how much they get paid. Here’s a list of the 10 highest paid black actors in Hollywood.
List of 10 highest paid Black Actors in Hollywood
1. Tyler Perry
Tyler Perry has been in the business for a few decades now, and has been able to accumulate a wealth just as towering as his height. The very successful actor, director and producer has maintained an impressive self-made billionaire status since 2005. Currently Perry’s net worth is estimated to be at $1.4 Billion, making him one of the richest and highest paid black actors. Throughout the years, Perry has worked and made over 1200 television episodes, 24 stage plays, and 22 movies, and he owns every percent of these contents. His most famous movie series, Madea, which produces and stars in, has earned over $660 million. So no wonder he sits easily at the top!
2. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson
The Rock has been able to build a solid foundation in Hollywood by appearing in over 60 movies! Starting as a professional wrestler, Johnson quickly shifted to Hollywood in 2001 with “The Mummy Returns” and became one of the most famous stars of Hollywood. Over the years, The Rock success has only increased resulting in an estimated net worth of $800 million as of 2024. Not surprisingly, he gets paid over $20 million per movie. Along with his acting career, Johnson from his producing, various investment and business ventures earns over 100$ per year, making him one of the highest paid black actors in Hollywood on his way to be a Billionaire.
3. Kevin Hart
What Kevin Hart lacks in height, he makes up for it with his talent and the big check that comes with it. As one of the highest paid black actors, the 45-year-old Hart is reported to own over $450 million net worth. He has appeared in some of the biggest Hollywood movies including, “Jumanji: Welcome to the jungle” (2017), “Jumanji: The Next Level” (2019), “Ride Along” (2014), “The Upside” (2014) among many. Per year Kevin Hart makes over $50 to $60 million from his films and other sources of income.
4. Bill Cosby
Even after the sexual harassment and assault cases against his name, Bill Cosby is still one of the highest paid black actors in Hollywood. Cosby has been in the entertainment industry since the 1960s with numerous credits and awards in his name. He is most notably known for his long running sitcom “The Cosby Show” (1984-1992). In 2023, Bill Cosby’s net worth is estimated to be a whopping $400 million.
5. Will Smith
Known for hit movies like “Man In Black” (1997-2012), “Bad Boys” (1995-2024), “Independence Day” (1996) among many, Will Smith is one of most famous movie stars of Hollywood. For the most part of his career he has been taking his deserved place as one of highest paid black actors in the industry. Currently his net worth is over $350 million. For each movie that Smith does, he is paid somewhere around at least $40 Million to $80 Million.
6. Denzel Washington
One of the acclaimed actors of Hollywood, Denzel Washinton has been acting for more than 40 years and his popularity never seems to waver. His popularity and the significant time he has spent in Hollywood clearly reflects in his $300 Million net worth of wealth. He was also named in the list of top 10 highest paid Hollywood actors published by Forbes. Earning around $60 to $80 Million per year, Washington was one of the only highest paid Black actors in the Forbes list.
7. Samuel L Jackson
With an undeniable influence and talent, Samuel L. Jackson is one of the richest black actors out there. Appearing in over 150 movies throughout his impressive career in Hollywood, Jackson’s net worth is estimated to be $250 Million in 2023. His yearly earning is about $10 to $20 Million with his movies grossing on average $89.9 Million, per movie. For his most recurring role as Nick Fury in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Samuel L. Jackson is reported to bag about $4 to $6 Million for every film.
8. Morgan Freeman
Morgan Freeman with a career spanning over five decades, it is no wonder that he should be one of the highest paid Black actors in Hollywood. Recognised for his powerful performances in every role that he portrays, Freeman has proved to be one of the most sought-after actors for decades. In 2023, Morgan Freeman’s net worth was determined to be about $250 Million.
9. Eddie Murphy
Eddie Murphy is one of most famous comedy actors, who started his career as a cast member of “Saturday Night Live”. Murphy is well known for his movies “Beverly Hills Cop” (1984), “Coming to America” (1988), “Shrek” (2004) among many others. Murphy is paid approximately $20 Million per movie, making his net worth over $200 Million. With his films making $7 Billion worldwide, Murphy has proved to be one of the highest paid Black actors of his time.
10. Jamie Foxx
Over the last couple decades, Jamie Foxx has established himself to be a talented actor, comedian and musician along with being one of the highest paid black actors of Hollywood. With an estimated net worth of $170 Million and several accolades on his name, Foxx has captivated audiences and earned his place among the best in the industry. Some of his memorable performances are in movies such as “Django Unchained” (2012), “The Amazing Spiderman 2” (2014), “Baby Driver” (2017).
Conclusion
From action hero Will Smith, Dwayne Johnson to comedy actors Like Kevin Hart, Eddie Murphy and actors like Jamie Foxx, Denzel Washington- the top paid black actors are a blend of versatility. This just proves that there is no need for Black actors in Hollywood to get stuck following any stereotype other than honing their craft.
As inspiring as these wealthiest black actors are, one cannot help but notice that there are no female black actors among them. It makes us wonder why there no women amongst the highest paid actors list despite there being countless amazing black actresses working in the industry.
