From Sidney Poitier, the first Black man to win an Academy Award for Best Actor, to Oprah Winfrey, whose media empire has amplified Black voices for decades, Black artists have long fought to break down barriers and expand representation on our screens.
This legacy continues today with creators like Shonda Rhimes, the powerhouse behind hit series like “Grey’s Anatomy,” and Ava DuVernay, the visionary director of “Queen Sugar,” who are redefining storytelling and elevating diverse voices. Yet, despite these strides, more work remains to be done.
Why it matters: Representation goes beyond visibility—it shifts perspectives, challenges stereotypes, and opens doors for future generations. Audiences are responding, as films with diverse casts perform better at the box office, reflecting a growing demand for inclusive storytelling.
Black History Month is an opportunity to honor the artists shaping the media landscape today. Here are three rising stars making waves in the industry—both in front of and behind the camera.
Ayo Edebiri: A Rising Star Redefining Entertainment
Ayo Edebiri is a dynamic force in television, known for her sharp wit, compelling performances, and creative versatility. From her breakout role in “The Bear” to her work behind the scenes as a writer, director, and voice actor, she is shaping the future of entertainment.
- Captivated audiences as Sydney Adamu in “The Bear,” earning critical acclaim and multiple awards, including a Golden Globe and Emmy.
- Demonstrates her range across acting, directing, writing, and voice work in acclaimed projects like “What We Do in the Shadows” and “Inside Out 2.”
The big picture: By excelling in children’s films, comedies, and adult animation, Edebiri is redefining representation in Hollywood and inspiring the next generation of storytellers.
Barry Jenkins: A Master Storyteller Embracing New Creative Frontiers
Barry Jenkins continues to redefine filmmaking, seamlessly blending artistry with emotional depth. Now, with the premiere of “Mufasa: The Lion King,” he steps into blockbuster filmmaking, embracing a new era of creative playfulness while staying true to his storytelling roots.
- “Mufasa: The Lion King” marks his unexpected yet exciting move into large-scale studio films.
- Through his production company, Pastel, he continues supporting emerging filmmakers and elevating diverse voices in the industry.
The big picture: Jenkins has evolved from an indie filmmaker into a director who excels in both intimate dramas and big-budget productions. His creativity and bold choices will continue shaping the future of film and TV.
Quinta Brunson: A Comedy Trailblazer Reshaping Television
Quinta Brunson is redefining comedy and storytelling, breaking barriers as a writer, producer, and actress. From her viral internet sketches to creating the hit series “Abbott Elementary,” she is a driving force in modern television.
- Made history as the second Black woman to win an Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series and the first Black woman to win solo in the Outstanding Writing category.
- Signed a multi-year deal with Warner Bros. Television, allowing her to develop new projects that prioritize authentic, diverse storytelling.
The big picture: Brunson’s meteoric rise signals a shift in television, proving that diverse, socially conscious comedy can thrive in mainstream media.
Shaping the Future of Entertainment
As Hollywood continues to evolve, these rising stars and trailblazers prove that diverse perspectives enrich storytelling, creating content that resonates with audiences worldwide.
By supporting and amplifying these voices, we move closer to a more inclusive and representative entertainment landscape.
Click here to learn more about how film and TV support our goal of greater diversity, equity, and inclusion.
