BET Awards 2024: Jeffrey Wright’s Best Roles: Celebrating His First BET Awards Nomination for Best Actor
Nominations for the BET Awards 2024 are in, and the legendary Jeffrey Wright stands among the elite contenders vying for the coveted “Best Actor” title. Wright, renowned for his standout performance in "Cadillac Records," faces stiff competition from an impressive lineup that includes Damson Idris, Lakeith Stanfield, Donald Glover, Idris Elba, Anthony Mackie, Colman Domingo, and the Academy Award-winning Denzel Washington.
This marks Wright’s first nomination at the BET Awards. The veteran actor boasts a decorated career, with accolades spanning film and theater, including a Primetime Emmy Award, a Tony Award, and an Academy Award nomination for his role in the 2023 comedy-drama. At 58, Wright has also garnered acclaim for his portrayal of Bernard Lowe in HBO’s critically acclaimed series Westworld, a role that has further solidified his status as a powerhouse in the industry.
As we gear up for Culture’s biggest night honoring Black entertainers and other minorities in music, film, sports, and philanthropy and the return of the BET Experience 2024, Presented by Walmart, we’re highlighting some of Wright’s most memorable movie roles. Check them out below, and don’t forget to tune into the BET Awards 2024 when it airs on Sunday, June 30th, at 8 PM ET/PT. For BET Experience, Presented by Walmart tickets, click here.
Jean-Michel Basquiat in "Basquiat"
In his debut starring role in the 1996 biographical drama film, Wright delivered a mesmerizing portrayal of the legendary artist Jean-Michel Basquiat. Directed, written, and co-composed by Julian Schnabel in his feature directorial debut. The film is an exploration of the life of the American postmodernist artist.
Beetee in "The Hunger Games" Series
In 2013, Wright joined the "Hunger Games" franchise with its sequel, "The Hunger Games: Catching Fire.” The actor portrayed Beetee Latier, the ingenious inventor and tribute from District 3. Beetee is known for his exceptional intelligence and proficiency with electrical and technological devices.
Muddy Waters in “Cadillac Records”
In 2008, Wright delivered a compelling portrayal of the legendary blues musician McKinley Morganfield, better known as Muddy Waters, in the movie “Cadillac Records.”
Martin Luther King Jr. in “Boycott”
In the 2001 television movie "Boycott," Jeffrey Wright portrayed the iconic Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. His depiction of the civil rights leader captured the essence of the late activist with remarkable authenticity and depth.
Peoples Hernandez in "Shaft"
Wright's portrayal of the charismatic drug lord Peoples Hernandez in the 2000 remake of Shaft added tension and depth to the crime thriller.
Tune in to the BET Awards 2024 on Sunday, June 30 at 8 p.m. ET/PT on BET.
