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Jeffrey Wright 1

When you think of Hollywood leading men of color, a few usual suspects come to mind: DenzelWill,  and recently Idris. Unfortunately, Jeffrey Wright’s name isn’t always among the fray.

Quite possibly one of the most exceptional-yet-underrated actors of our generation, Wright’s performances in films such as “Basquiat,” James Bond film ”Quantum of Solace,”  ”Cadillac Records” and his recurring TV role on HBO’s “Boardwalk Empire” as Dr. Valentin Narcise, has solidified his ability to fully disappear into character to embody a role. Wright has the distinguished ability to transform and take on the subject’s mannerisms, speech and personality, bringing the character to life.

This year, the actor has been nominated for  Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series for the 45th annual NAACP Image Awards, which will air February 22 exclusively on TV One. But in the event you aren’t familiar with the Washington D.C. native’s work, or aren’t a believer, take a look at some of Wrights greatest performances and watch the actor disappear before your eyes and give life to his role.

“Basquiat”

Felix  Leiter  ”Quantum Solace”

Muddy Waters ” Cadillac Records”

Dr. Valentine Narcisse “Boardwalk Empire”

Watch the 45th Annual NAACP Awards LIVE, exclusively on TV One, in a in a two hour special Saturday, February 22 at 9:00 p.m. ET (PT tape-delayed). Before the main event, see the nominees and even more stars grace the red carpet in a one-hour pre-show at 8:00 p.m. ET (PT tape-delayed).   

READ MORE: 

The Complete List Of 45TH NAACP Image Awards Nominees 

Guess Who’s Hosting The 45th NAACP Awards!?

And The Award Goes To: Best Dressed 2014 NAACP Nominees

Get Familiar: Why Jeffrey Wright No Longer Needs To Be Deemed ‘Underrated’  was originally published on hellobeautiful.com