5 Best Black Vampires from the 2000s and Onwards

Throughout horror history, vampires have always been some of the most influential beings. The allure and sex appeal of many depictions of vampires is mostly recognized in the horror world. But there hasn't always been diverse depictions of vampires. Typically, vampires are seen as white and usually thin to accommodate to beauty standards. Of course there's nothing wrong with loving those vampires, but diversity is important in every horror subgenre.

Thus enters the discussion on Black vampires and Black horror. Horror has a rich history and in terms of Black horror, some of the best horror films are part of the subgenre. There might not be as many notable Black vampires in comparison to non-Black vampires in horror, but there are still some to make note of. Especially where the 2000s and beyond go. And with the current wave of spectacular vampire horror (AMC's Interview with the Vampire and the critically acclaimed Sinners, in which I have yet to see), there's no better time to discuss this.

If you keep reading, you might find some of your favorite Black vampires or merely discover some you've never heard of. Either way, you're in for buckets of blood and gothic splendor.

Akasha

Film: Queen of the Damned (2002)

Queen of the Damned is by no means a good horror film, nor a worthy book adaptation. But if there’s one thing to take away from it, it’s Akasha (Aaliyah). She happens to be the best part about the film, and people often remember her performance as a positive aspect of it. Even though she's only in Queen of the Damned for a brief time. Her introduction owns the screen, and she carries herself as effortlessly as possible.

Having a Black female vampire own her sexuality, just as much as their white counterparts do, is so incredibly important. And while Akasha might not be deeply depicted in the adaptation, she's still rightfully considered one of the best. People still love to talk about her, even after all these years have gone by. If not for the film itself, but for her commitment to the performance and how she commands the screen when she appears.

Marcel Gerard

Show: The Originals (2013-2018)

It's not often when a spinoff series is more compelling, better than, or just as good as the series it spawned from. When it comes to The Originals, it far surpasses The Vampire Diaries. One example is that the show's Black characters, while not always treated perfectly, are allowed more range and in-depth storylines. Marcel Gerard (Charles Michael Davis) being one of those characters. His unapologetic bravado, strength as a vampire, and

trajectory as a character makes Marcel standout.

Spoiling what his character goes through does a disservice to first time viewers. Though, what can be said is that Marcel's link to the Mikaelson family as an adoptive family member and on/off antagonistic force against them, contributes to his intrigue as a character. Throughout the series' run, Marcel proves time and time again that he's powerful and not to be trifled with. Not to mention that he's not a stereotypical Black man who refuses to show emotions. He's a memorable character in what is a rollercoaster of a series.

Tara Thornton

Show: True Blood

While True Blood was never a perfect series, it did take some bold swings as far as character journeys go. Tara (Rutina Wesley)'s journey as a character is a tumultuous one, especially when she's turned into a vampire in season 5 of the series. After suffering and dealing with immense amounts of trauma at the hands of enemies and loved ones, Tara is given some power for once in her life. And she takes that by the horns then runs with it, eventually falling in love with her maker, Pam (Kristin Bauer).

One might say that Tara becoming a vampire was the best thing that could have happened to her character. Instead of being stuck in the same cycle and storylines, she gets to be something different. And she also becomes a bit more likable as a vampire. It's unfortunate that she gets a piss poor ending, but her time as a vampire still makes her worthy of being mentioned.

Louis de Pointe du Lac

TV: Interview with the Vampire (2022- )

There's no arguing that Interview with the Vampire is a tremendous adaptation of the Vampire Chronicles. It's intense, incredibly queer, and there are added layers because of the certain changes. One change in particular being Louis (Jacob Anderson) is a gay Black man in the show, whereas he's not in Anne Rice's book series. Louis being Black and gay adds layers of intersectionality to the character, and it's explored quite a bit in the show.

The representation Louis' character provides is important, and he's by far one of the most complex Black vampires in horror canon. Allowing Black characters to have several layers to them and be flawed, but not lazily stereotypical, is something that should be more commonplace. But thankfully, Louis in Interview with the Vampire is a noteworthy character and is well-loved, especially by those of who feel represented.

Claudia de Pointe du Lac de Lioncourt

Show: Interview with the Vampire (2022 - )

In the world of the Vampire Chronicles, Claudia has always been a notable character. But the way she's brought to life in the TV adaptation by both Bailey Bass (in season 1) and Delainey Hayles (in season 2), is breathtaking. In the first season of Interview with the Vampire, Claudia is rambunctious and helps execute Lestat's temporary demise. Meanwhile, in season 2 of the show, Claudia is dealing with everything that transpired after that night.

The way she's been failed by both Louis and Lestat is on full display. And she perfectly encompasses the reality of living as a Black girl in the world and struggling to fit in. But instead of her identity being entirely revolved around her dads, she finds love and unconditional companionship with her lover Madeleine (Roxane Duran). It's gut-wrenching when she dies (even though fans knew it was coming), but her character made a lasting impression.

You can find out where to watch the film and shows by visiting JustWatch.