Beyond Barriers: The Impacts and Exploits of Blacks in the U.S. Entertainment Industry

By Kehinde Balogun

The American entertainment industry began in the late 19th century with vaudeville, theater, and early cinema. By the 1910s and 1920s, Hollywood became the center of film production, with stars like Charlie Chaplin shaping global cinema. The rise of television and radio in the mid-20th century expanded mass entertainment, with shows like I Love Lucy and American Bandstand. Modeling gained prominence in the 1960s, with figures like Jean Shrimpton and Twiggy leading the way. In the 1980s and 1990s, cable TV and the internet further expanded entertainment, solidifying modeling’s role in the global industry.

Black individuals began making waves in the American entertainment industry in the early 20th century, with the Harlem Renaissance elevating jazz and blues artists like Louis Armstrong. In the 1940s, Hattie McDaniel became the first Black actress to win an Oscar, despite racial barriers. The 1960s and 1970s saw Black musicians like James Brown and Aretha Franklin use their music to challenge injustice, while Blaxploitation films like Shaft highlighted Black stories in cinema. By the 1980s and 1990s, icons like Michael Jackson and Oprah Winfrey broke barriers across music, TV, and film. Today, Black entertainers continue to shape the industry, influencing global culture and advocating for social justice.

Currently, Kevin Hart has significantly shaped the U.S. movie industry through resilience, creativity, and versatility. Rising from humble beginnings, he turned personal insecurities into comedic gold with stand-up specials like Laugh at My Pain and What Now?. He became a major star with films like Ride Along, Central Intelligence, and the Jumanji series, showcasing his comedic brilliance and versatility. Hart also demonstrated dramatic range in The Upside and Fatherhood. Furthermore, through his production company, HartBeat Productions, and partnerships with studios like Universal and Netflix, Hart has amplified Black representation, fostered diverse narratives, and broken stereotypes, cementing his legacy in Hollywood.

Similarly, Kendrick Lamar is a powerful Black artist known for blending social commentary with genre-defying hip-hop. From his breakout album good kid, m.A.A.d city (2012) to the Pulitzer Prize-winning DAMN. (2017), Lamar has tackled themes of race, identity, and societal struggles. His 2022 double album Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers explored mental health and self-reflection, while his 2024 album GNX, named after a vintage car, features collaborations with SZA, Kamasi Washington, and Jack Antonoff. The album’s single “Not Like Us” earned Grammy nominations, and his role in brokering a Bloods/Crips truce highlights his cultural influence. Consequently, Lamar continues to reshape hip-hop and inspire social change.

Phoebe Kemi, a rising star in the fashion world, has quickly become a force to be reckoned with in the industry. As a model, she has graced the runways of Milan, Paris, and New York, working with iconic designers such as Alexander Wang, Michael Cinco, and Anthony Rubio. Her presence has also illuminated the covers and pages of prestigious magazines, including Elle, Harper’s Bazaar, Vogue, and Grazia, with her 2024 Grazia cover marking a pivotal moment in her career. Beyond her modeling, Phoebe has used her platform to empower others, penning her debut book, Model Essential: A Beginner’s Handbook, offering invaluable insights to aspiring models. Her remarkable career exemplifies the resilience and strength of Black women, demonstrating that diversity in the U.S. fashion industry is steadily expanding.

Moreover, Lauren Anderson, a beacon of excellence in the U.S. entertainment industry, rose from the heart of Houston, Texas, to redefine the boundaries of ballet. Beginning her training at the tender age of seven at the Houston Ballet’s Ben Stevenson Academy, she defied early critiques of her physique, embodying grace and resilience. In 1990, she etched her name in history as the first African American principal dancer at the Houston Ballet, a monumental achievement in the elite world of classical ballet. With unforgettable performances, such as her spellbinding portrayal in Cleopatra, she captivated audiences and critics alike, earning accolades like the Special Jury Award at the International Ballet Competition. Today, her legacy endures not just through her artistry but also as a mentor and trailblazer, inspiring generations to dream and excel in the arts, proving that artistry knows no bounds of color.

In conclusion, the remarkable contributions of Black individuals like Kevin Hart, Kendrick Lamar, Phoebe Kemi, and Lauren Anderson underscore the transformative power of talent, perseverance, and representation in the U.S. entertainment industry. These trailblazers have not only excelled in their respective fields but have also paved the way for future generations. Through their work, they challenge stereotypes, amplify Black voices, and inspire cultural shifts, proving that the entertainment industry thrives when diversity and inclusivity are celebrated. Their exploits remind us that the barriers of yesterday can be broken, allowing limitless possibilities for tomorrow.