Sterling K. Brown's Most Iconic TV and Movie Roles

Sterling K. Brown has built an impressive filmography over the past two decades, seamlessly moving between television and movies, earning a copious amount of accolades along the way. From gripping dramas to blockbuster hits, Brown’s ability to bring depth and nuance to every role has cemented him as one of Hollywood’s most versatile actors. Now, with his latest role in Hulu’s Paradise, the internet cannot get enough. Since its release on January 26, the sci-fi thriller has hooked viewers, with Brown leading the charge as Secret Service agent Xavier Collins.

With Paradise dominating internet conversations, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the three-time Emmy Award winner and the roles that have defined him. His journey to stardom started long before his Hollywood breakthrough—he honed his craft at Stanford University, earning a degree in acting, before continuing his studies at NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts, where he received a Master of Fine Arts. His early career in regional theater saw him performing alongside future stars, paving the way for his rise to fame.

From critically acclaimed performances in This Is Us and The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story to blockbuster hits like Black Panther, read on for a list of Sterling K. Brown’s best movies and TV shows—one unforgettable role at a time.

Supernatural (2006-2007)

Brown played Gordon Walker in the TV series Supernatural, a vampire hunter introduced in Season 2. Initially an ally to Sam and Dean Winchester, Gordon's extreme methods and obsession with eradicating supernatural creatures—regardless of morality—quickly make him an antagonist. His relentless pursuit of Sam, whom he believes is destined for evil, leads to his eventual transformation into the very thing he despises: a vampire. Brown's intense performance made Gordon one of the show's most memorable and formidable human adversaries.

Army Wives (2007-2013)

On Army Wives, Brown plays one of the few male main characters in the series, Roland Burton. As a psychiatrist and the husband of Colonel Joan Burton, Roland navigates the challenges of military life from a unique perspective—supporting his wife’s demanding career while balancing fatherhood and his own professional struggles. His character highlighted issues of gender roles, mental health, and the sacrifices made by military families. 

The People V. O. J. Simpson: American Crime Story (2016)

Sterling K. Brown delivered a performance to remember as prosecutor Christopher Darden in The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story. As part of the legal team trying to convict O.J. Simpson, Darden struggles with the pressures of the racially charged trial, his complicated dynamic with lead prosecutor Marcia Clark, and the scrutiny he faces as a Black man on the case. Brown’s portrayal earned him critical acclaim and an Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited Series.

This Is Us (2016-2022)

Easily one of Brown's most iconic roles is none other than Randall Pearson in This Is Us. The long-running TV series cemented Brown as one of Hollywood's favorite actors. Delivering an Emmy-winning performance as the successful yet deeply introspective adopted son of the Pearson family, Randall navigates complex themes of identity, perfectionism, fatherhood, and mental health throughout the beloved series. 

The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel (2019)

Brown appeared in The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel Season 3 as Reggie, the no-nonsense manager of musician Shy Baldwin. As Shy’s right-hand man, Reggie is fiercely protective of his client, ensuring that every detail of his career and personal life is carefully managed. His dynamic with Midge Maisel evolves from initial skepticism to a reluctant understanding as she joins Shy’s tour. Brown’s charismatic yet intense performance added depth to the show, earning him an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series.

Black Panther (2018)

In Black Panther (2018), Sterling K. Brown played N'Jobu, the brother of King T'Chaka and father of Erik Killmonger. A former Wakandan spy stationed in Oakland, N'Jobu becomes disillusioned with Wakanda’s isolationist policies and secretly aids in arming oppressed communities. His actions lead to a tragic confrontation with his brother, shaping the film’s central conflict. Though his screen time is brief, Brown’s emotional performance still left a lasting impression on viewers.

American Fiction (2023)

In American Fiction (2023), Sterling K. Brown plays Clifford “Cliff” Ellison, the free-spirited and openly gay brother of the film’s protagonist, Thelonious “Monk” Ellison. As Monk navigates his frustrations with the publishing industry and societal expectations, Cliff provides a grounding presence, adding a layer of family dynamics to the film’s satirical narrative. Brown’s nuanced performance earned him critical praise, further showcasing his versatility as an actor. 

Paradise (2025)

In Hulu's newest show that the whole internet is buzzing about, Sterling K. Brown's acting chops have been proven to be just as sharp as they were during This is Us. ​In Paradise, Brown stars as Xavier Collins, a dedicated Secret Service agent assigned to protect President Cal Bradford, portrayed by James Marsden. Set within a vast underground bunker housing survivors of a global catastrophe, the series begins with a shocking murder. As his character delves deeper, Collins confronts complex political conspiracies and personal dilemmas, all while navigating the challenges of their confined society. Brown's compelling performance anchors the series and is sure to be a big contender for next year's awards season.