Yahya Abdul-Mateen II

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II (born July 15, 1986, in New Orleans, Louisiana) is an American screen and stage actor whose work spans prestige television, blockbuster franchises, and Broadway. Known for a commanding presence and sharp character work, he has become one of the most in-demand performers of his generation.

He gained global recognition as David Kane / Black Manta in Aquaman and later returned for Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom. His film résumé also includes roles in Us, Baywatch (as Sgt. Ellerbee), The Greatest Showman, The Trial of the Chicago 7 (as Bobby Seale), and The Matrix Resurrections, where he reimagined iconic mythology as Morpheus/Agent Smith.

On television, Abdul-Mateen delivered an award-winning performance as Cal Abar / Doctor Manhattan in HBO’s Watchmen, earning a Primetime Emmy. He has also appeared in standout episodes of The Handmaid’s Tale and Black Mirror, further cementing his range across genres.

Beyond the screen, he made a major Broadway entrance in Suzan-Lori Parks’ Topdog/Underdog, receiving a Tony nomination. He is also set to portray Marvel’s Simon Williams / Wonder Man within the Marvel Cinematic Universe.