8 African-Americans We've Seen Play The Same Role Too Many Times | The Odyssey Online
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8 African-Americans We've Seen Play The Same Role Too Many Times

Any of them look familiar to you?

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8 African-Americans We've Seen Play The Same Role Too Many Times

Have you ever seen a film and then saw another and thought: Hmmm, I’m pretty sure that actor/actress was just in that other movie. Well, I’m here to reassure you that you’ve probably had this happen to you because I know I've definitely experienced this scenario.

Here’s a list of black actors/actresses who are almost always playing the same exact character in every film:

1. Loretta Devine:

Most of us can already hear her voice as we look at her picture. She always seems to take on the mother roles in films and is known for her signature sass, which we experience in movies like "This Christmas." Devine is undisputedly a classic figure in Black films.


2. Jennifer Lewis:

A very similar actress to Loretta Devine, is Ms. Jennifer Lewis. She is also known for playing very motherly roles and being sassy and strong-willed. You’ve probably most recently seen her in Blackish, where she is never shy to hold her tongue.


3. Cecily Tyson:

If you’ve seen the average black film, then you’ve probably seen Cecily Tyson. She is usually playing the role of a grandmother or older aunt who is responsible for keeping the family in tact and keeping things in order. She does a remarkable job at exhibiting poise.


4. Clifton Powell:

Most well-known for his role in the film Friday, Clifton Powell always plays sleazy yet comedic roles. For example, in the film "Preacher’s Kid," he acts as the tour director and he is embodying this typical role.


5. Angela Bassett:

Most of us know her from movies like "What’s Love Got to Do With It" and "Waiting to Exhale." Her roles usually include her getting over some love interest or possibly her acting as a ‘strong black woman’. Yet, she has recently stepped out of those types of roles with her characters in the hit series, "American Horror Story." Bassett has recently admitted that she loves being able to switch up her roles, and take on characters that seem to be relatable.


6. Samuel Jackson:

Why so angry Mr. Jackson? It's hard to imagine a film when he isn’t angry or playing a hard-ass. His characters in films always hold the position of great vengeance and furious anger. From "Kingsman: The Secret Service to Lakeview Terrace," we see Jackson has no problem playing the person who is perceived as brutally honest.


7. Kevin Hart:

Hart is well-known for his stand up comedy and over the top personality. Yet, he is consistently playing these types of roles, which is becoming a little redundant. He is usually the funny sidekick or main character who steals the show with his outrageous personality. Don’t get me wrong, he’s pretty funny. But where is the diversity?


8. Morgan Freeman:

Now how could I possibly leave out Mr. Freeman? He is always lending out wisdom in a movie or the go to guy. Freeman also does some of the best voice-overs such as narration work in "A Raisin in the Sun" and "Bruce Almighty." His roles remain full of guidance and grace for his less experienced co-stars.

This was just a short compilation of some of the black actors and actresses I’ve acknowledged playing the same roles repeatedly. All of these individuals are very talented and have taken Hollywood by storm with their potent performances. Think I forgot anyone? Feel free to comment those people you frequently noticed as the same characters.


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This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
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