Cress Williams stars as Jefferson Pierce / Black Lightning, with China Anne McClain as Jennifer Pierce / Lightning and Nafessa Williams as Anissa Pierce / Thunder. The series follows a retired superhero who returns to fight crime in…
Main cast
- Jefferson Pierce / Black LightningCress Williams1–4Main
- Jennifer Pierce / LightningChina Anne McClain1–4Main
- Anissa Pierce / ThunderNafessa Williams1–4Main
- Lynn StewartChristine Adams1–4Main
- Peter GambiJames Remar1–4Main
- Tobias WhaleKrondon1–4Main
Supporting cast
- Khalil Payne / PainkillerJordan Calloway1–4Supp
- William HendersonDamon Gupton1–3Supp
- Gambi’s assistant / variousChantal Thuy1–4Supp
- Grace ChoiChantal Thuy1–4Supp
Guest & voice
- Latino / variousKyanna Simone Simpson2–3Guest
No matches — try another name.
About this cast
Black Lightning is a superhero drama on The CW, set in the Arrowverse but with a distinct tone. It centres on Jefferson Pierce, a former vigilante who reclaims his powers to protect his family and community. The show ran for four seasons from 2018 to 2021.
FAQs
Who plays Jefferson Pierce in Black Lightning?
Cress Williams portrays Jefferson Pierce / Black Lightning.
How many seasons of Black Lightning are there?
The series has 4 seasons, aired from 2018 to 2021.
Is Black Lightning set in the Arrowverse?
Yes, but it started as a separate show before crossing over with other CW DC series such as Arrow and The Flash.
Who are the main villains in the series?
Tobias Whale, played by Krondon, is the primary antagonist. Other villains include the ASA and various metahuman criminals.
What is Black Lightning’s real name?
Jefferson Michael Pierce, a school principal and former Olympic athlete.
Sources & where to watch: IMDb · Wikipedia · Where to watch (JustWatch UK) · Updated June 2026