5 Karon Riley movies and TV shows you can't miss

When considering performers who infuse each part with a magnetic mix of charm, sincerity, and adaptability, Karon Riley is due more recognition than he tends to receive. A retired pro footballer who crossed over to acting, Riley has built a distinctive career path in Hollywood under the radar, embracing roles that span comedic and romantic to dark and emotionally complex. Whether he's illuminating the screen in a Christmas classic or going deep into family secrets, Riley continually demonstrates his skill at reaching people in accessible, emotional ways.

While not always at the forefront of blockbuster news, Riley's television and film work has established him as a familiar face on many popular Black-led productions. From holiday season favorites on cable networks such as TV One and UPtv to drama-filled series on OWN and Bounce TV, his body of work reflects the power of steady, effective storytelling. Here, we highlight seven performances that reflect the best of who Karon Riley is as an actor. Each entry reveals a different shade of his talent, reminding viewers why he’s one of those quietly brilliant actors you absolutely shouldn’t overlook.

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5 Karon Riley movies and TV shows you can't miss

1. Merry Christmas, Baby! (2016)

Karon Riley reprises the role of Blair in Merry Christmas, Baby!, the fourth of UPtv's holiday franchise that started with Marry Me for Christmas. This entry has Blair and his wife Marci managing the whirlwind of the holidays, parenthood, and work stress. Riley infuses Blair with warmth and gravitas, capturing the difficulties of juggling ambition and family values. His chemistry with Malinda Williams remains bright, and their on-screen romance feels warm and honest. The movie is a holiday classic, and Riley's earthy performance provides heart to the festive mayhem of Christmas rituals and new love.

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2. Little (2019)

In the fantasy comedy Little, Karon Riley has a supporting but vivid role that he shares with Regina Hall, Issa Rae, and Marsai Martin. Despite minimal screen time, his character contributes to the office mayhem when a stern boss awakens in her 13-year-old body. Riley's role as a chic and assertive colleague provides a counterpoint to the wacky premise and injects contemporary zest into the movie. What is interesting is that Little was one of the earliest Hollywood comedies written and executive-produced by a teenager, Marsai Martin, making it a history-making venture that Riley was fortunate to be a part of.

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3. Chandler Christmas Getaway (2018)

Karon Riley gives a homey and easy-going turn in Chandler Christmas Getaway, a TV One holiday movie that gathers the endearing Chandler family for a crazy and absurd cabin Christmas. Riley shares the screen with Malinda Williams and DeEtta West, mixing humor, family stress, and holiday warmth. His performance as a supportive but a bit frazzled family member brings lightness and warmth to the ensemble-based film. Viewers like how Riley never overwhelms the narrative but enhances it, so his own character never feels forced. The movie has become a streaming holiday classic, with Riley's scenes highlighted for their conversational humor and natural appeal.

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4. Ma’s House (2022)

In Ma's House, Karon Riley makes a dramatic turn in a legacy, loss, and family togetherness story. Set during a family reunion following the matriarch's death, the movie involves buried secrets and unresolved issues surfacing. Riley plays one of the key family members, giving a raw, emotional, and layered performance. His performance captures a maturity and vulnerability that demonstrate his range beyond romantic comedies or Christmas movies. Ma's House has been well-received within indie circles for its storytelling and real performances, and Riley's part is one of its subtle but impactful highlights.

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5. The Black Hamptons (2022)

In The Black Hamptons, Karon Riley plays Anthony Johnson in this BET+ limited series that combines luxury, legacy, and generational competition. Based in the upscale Sag Harbor community, the series explores the lives of two influential Black families that are competing for power and status. Riley's contribution brings a critical edge to the class and power dynamics of the show, presenting an intense yet dignified performance. Developed by Carl Weber, the series is characterized by its snappy dialogue and high-gloss production. Riley's addition strengthens the ensemble cast, demonstrating his ability in prestige television high-stakes storytelling.

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Karon Riley isn't always the loudest name in Hollywood, but his performances speak volumes. From fun, feel-good holiday films to telenovela-style dramas and light-hearted sitcoms, he adds depth, relatability, and charm to each character. His talent for effortlessly jumping between genres makes him a real hidden gem within the business. With streaming platforms favoring more diverse content, Riley's filmography is notable for being genuine and real in its storytelling. If you haven't checked out his work so far, these are ideal films to watch to enjoy an actor who simply becomes better with each film he does.