How These Black Actors Transformed Originally ‘White’ Characters
After almost 30 years, a new iteration of “The Thomas Crown Affair” will be making its way to audiences soon, and it’s all thanks to Oscar-winning actor Michael B. Jordan.
As evidenced by a new trailer that debuted on Thursday, Jordan will star in the titular role in a fresh take on the classic, marking the first time the iconic role will be played by a Black man. And from what we’ve seen so far and judging by the reactions online, this upcoming film looks to be just as sexy and fun as the 1999 and the 1968 versions.
Seeing Jordan in this role got our wheels turning and thinking about other Black actors who remade traditionally white films or took over traditionally white roles and absolutely crushed it! So that’s why we decided to round up a handful of folks and projects that fit the bill. Keep reading to see if your faves made the list!
Michael B. Jordan- “The Thomas Crown Affair”
As stated, Jordan will soon join Steve McQueen and Pierce Brosnan as one of the few actors to take on the role. While plot details about the upcoming heist thriller are being kept hush-hush, what we do know is that his additional costars will include his “Black Panther” costar Danai Gurira, Adria Arjona, Kenneth Branagh, Lily Gladstone, and many more.
Related: Oscar-Winner Michael B. Jordan’s Best Movies, By The Box Office
Lupita Nyong’o- “The Odyssey”
As we previously told you, racists were up in arms over the casting of Lupita Nyong’o as Helen of Troy in Christopher Nolan’s “The Odyssey.” And while their anger was unwarranted, it should be noted that the role had been portrayed by Italian actress Rossana Podestà, Diane Kruger, and Sienna Guillory.
Halle Bailey- “The Little Mermaid”
While “The Little Mermaid” was a fictional white mermaid created by Walt Disney, that didn’t stop folks from feeling some type of way when Halle Bailey was announced in the 2023 live-action version. But regardless of what they had to say, Bailey did what she needed to do and made us all want to be part of her world.
Cynthia Erivo- “Wicked”
Cynthia Erivo may not have been the first Black woman to play Elphaba on Broadway, but she was the first one to portray the popular character on the big screen in “Wicked.” For her efforts, she received an Oscar nomination for Best Actress in 2025 and reprised the role in the sequel, “Wicked: For Good.”
Jacob Anderson- “Interview With a Vampire”
What Jacob Anderson does as Louis in “Interview with the Vampire” is undoubtedly impressive. But if you had any doubts, take a look at the chatter his character garners on social media. We may be biased, but he’s lowkey making Brad Pitt’s version pale in comparison.
Naomie Harris- “James Bond”
Miss Moneypenny in the James Bond Franchise has always been portrayed as a white woman, a minimal character, and secretary to “M.” But in Daniel Craig’s Bond universe, her role is taken over by Naomie Harris and evolved into something more pivotal!
Samuel L. Jackson- “Secret Invasion”
In the Marvel Cinematic Universe comic books, former S.H.I.E.L.D. director and the creator of the Avengers, Nick Fury, was a white man. But when it came to bringing him to life, there was only one man who could do it justice: Samuel L. Jackson. And Lord knows he does it right!
Brandy Norwood- “Cinderella”
If we’re honest: Brandy’s “Cinderella” is the only one we really acknowledge. Between her youthful face, braids, and stellar fairy-Godmother Whitney Houston—this movie absolutely puts the other versions to shame. As a matter of fact, we think it’s time for a rewatch.
Quvenzhané Wallis- “Annie”
Despite all the unjust vitriol she experienced, Quvenzhané Wallis absolutely ate up her role in the 2014 film, “Annie.” Her cute coils and sweet voice only made the film that much more endearing. It also served as another positive form of representation for younger Black actresses.
Jaden Smith- “The Karate Kid”
Even as a child actor, Jaden Smith was clearly following in his famous father’s footsteps and showcasing that he had impressive acting chops all his own. The way he brought heart and grit to the role in “The Karate Kid” is something we still haven’t been able to forget. That’s how you do it, Jaden!
Eartha Kitt/Halle Berry- “Catwoman”
Let’s be real here: both Eartha Kitt’s and Halle Berry’s versions of “Catwoman” were iconic in different ways. Yes, Michelle Pfeiffer brought her A-game when she did it. But like most cars, this role was better when done in Black.
Whitney Houston- “The Preacher’s Wife”
We bet you didn’t know that Whitney Houston’s “The Preacher’s Wife” was a play off the 1947 film, “The Bishop’s Wife.” If you did, then you already know that this former version was better than the latter. How else would it become such a cultural staple during the holiday season?
Denzel Washington- “The Equalizer”
Yes, we know “The Equalizer” was a thing before Denzel Washington took it over. But man, oh man, are we happy that he did. Now, it’s nearly impossible to think of someone else portraying the character—he’s just too good!
