WhileDon Cheadlehas become an even more popular star following his participation in Marvel films, his career has long been defined by versatility, charisma, and strong performances — namely on television, where his work tends to be overshadowed by bigger projects.
Whether we’re talking about sharp comedies with social commentary or superhero stories, Cheadle has captivated audiences with his acting range. FromWhat If…?toHouse of Lies, we delve into some of his most memorable projects andlook back at some of the best Don Cheadle shows, ranking them by their impact, critical acclaim, and the quality of his performances.
10’What If…?' (2021)
Created by A. C. Bradley
AlthoughWhat If…?isn’t the most beloved Marvel series so far, it has captured the attention of viewers through its creative and unexpected twists. Theanimated superhero showexplores pivotal moments in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, turning them on their head and leading the audience into uncharted territory.
Cheadle showcases his voice acting skills as he reprises his role as James Rhodes in the series' sixth episode, which illustrates an alternate storyline where Killmonger, played byMichael B. Jordanin theBlack Pantherfilms, saves Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.) in Afghanistan, and Rhodey plays a role in recognizing Killmonger’s hidden agenda. Although this is not the best Cheadle series, especially considering his character’s fate, it is still a worthy mention, particularly considering its production quality.
What If…?
Watch on Disney+
9’The Falcon and the Winter Soldier' (2021)
Created by Malcolm Spellman
The second Marvel show on this list isMalcolm Spellman’sThe Falcon and the Winter Soldier, a pivotal project forAnthony Mackie’s Sam Wilson, who officially takes on the mantle of Captain America and grapples with the legacy of the shield given to him by Steve Rogers (Chris Evans) inEndgame. The series sees Sam team up with Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan) in a global adventure that tests both their abilities and their patience.
Despite his short screen time inThe Falcon and the Winter Soldier,Cheadle delivered a powerful performance as he reprised his role as Rhodey— even though it was roughly 2 minutes long, his efforts earned him anEmmy nomination. His brief cameo reinforces the interrelation within the MCU, which many fans love, and ties Sam’s story to broader themes of heroism and systemic issues.
The Falcon and the Winter Soldier
8’The Simpsons' (1989)
Created by Matt Groening
Some other of Cheadle’s short but impactful appearances include his role as Brother Faith inThe Simpsons, the iconicadult animation seriesfollowing a working-class family in the misfit city of Springfield. In the show’s episodeFaith Off, Cheadle brings to life a faith healer who holds a show named “Brother Faith’s Revival.”
BeforeWhat If…?, Cheadle had already showcased his voice acting skills inThe Simpsons,delivering a short but memorable performance as one of the series' striking characters. Charismatic and persuasive, Brother Faith helped Bart Simpson start his spiritual journey into healing, even though with chaotic results. Overall, Cheadle does a great job at helping make this satirical episode a memorable one, especially in its satirical look at religious revivalism.
The Simpsons
7’ER' (2002)
Created by Michael Crichton and John Wells
Fans of medical dramasshould be sure to giveERa watch. The entertaining, long-runningMichael Crichtonseries follows the team working at the County General Hospital in Chicago as they grapple with the ups and downs in both their personal lives and work while trying to provide medical care to those in need.
Introduced in season 9 in the episodeA Hopeless Woundon his surgical rotation with Dr. Elizabeth Corday (Alex Kingston), Cheadle’s Paul Nathan is a former medical student who suffers from Parkinson’s disease. Although he is not a key character in the series (with some fans arguing that the writers did a disservice to his character),Nathan’s complex portrayal is certainly elevated by Cheadle’s great acting efforts.
Watch on Hulu
6'30 Rock' (2012)
Created by Tina Fey
Cheadle is a fictionalized version of himself in30 Rock, a sitcom satire byTina Feythat follows the head writer of the sketch-comedy show “TGS with Tracy Jordan” as she grapples with her arrogant new boss and a crazy new star while attempting to run a successful TV show without losing her sanity.
The star makes an appearance in the fourth episode of the seventh and final season of thealmost-perfect sitcom seriesas he steps into the shoes of a dramatized version of himself to make a Romney campaign commercial.Cheadle’s involvement further emphasizes the show’s fun commentary on celebrity and fame. While30 Rockis arguably notthebest Don Cheadle series, especially considering his short screen time, it is still a lighthearted and engaging series that has received acclaim for its humor and commentary on the entertainment industry.
Liz Lemon, head writer of the sketch-comedy show “TGS with Tracy Jordan”, must deal with an arrogant new boss and a crazy new star while trying to run a successful television show without losing her mind.
5’Picket Fences' (1992 - 1996)
Created by David E. Kelley
AlthoughPicket Fencesis arguably not as popular now as it was back in the day, the critically acclaimed 1992 series is among Cheadle’s most important, asit brought him wider exposure. The crime drama follows an aging Sheriff (Tom Skerritt) who attempts to keep the peace in Rome, Wisconsin, a small town plagued by bizarre and violent crimes.
Picket Fencesis an intriguing meditation about small-town life and moral dilemmas, featuring an enthralling narrative that delves into controversial and relevant issues such as religious faith, racism, and social justice. The strong performances are definitely one of its highlights, with Cheadle’s efforts in his significant — albeit not primary — role as D.A. John Littleton stands out whenever his character is on-screen.
Picket Fences
Buy on Apple TV
4’Hill Street Blues' (1981 - 1987)
Created by Steven Bochco and Michael Kozoll
Created bySteven BohcoandMichael Kozoll,Hill Street Bluesis a groundbreaking television series thanks to its storytelling that pushed boundaries and realistic portrayal of police work. The plot centers around the lives and work of the staff of an inner city police precinct.
Often tackling social issues like corruption and poverty, thisEmmy-winning, critically acclaimed showhas entertained many throughout its years-long run, setting the stage for other acclaimed dramas such asThe WireandNYPD Blue. Although it features many strong aspects,Hill Street Bluesis anchored by great acting performances, and Cheadle’s is one of them. Despite his brief screen time,the star made his role as Darius Milton in the episodeDays of Swine and Rosesasignificant one, especially considering that it was one of his first TV appearances.
Hill Street Blues
3’Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist' (2024 -)
Created by Shaye Ogbonna
Available to stream on Peacockand starringKevin Hart,Taraji P. Henson, Cheadle,Samuel L. Jackson, andTerrenceHoward(who had previously played Rhodey in the MCU) among other talents,Shaye Ogbonnaperiod drama tells the infamous story of how an army robbery on the night ofMuhammad Ali’s historic 1970 comeback fight transformed Atlanta into the “Black Mecca.”
Not only isFight Nightan entertaining watch that certainly keeps boredom at bay, but it also deals with relevant themes such as social injustice and racial inequalities. The performances are great, as likely expected from such a talented cast, andCheadle stands out and does a wonderful job bringing to life his character J.D. Hudson, a pioneering Black detective who navigates a racially charged police force. While still a relatively new show,First Nightis a promising project that has earned great reviews from critics.
Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist
Watch on Peacock
2’Black Monday' (2019 - 2021)
Created by Jordan Cahan and David Caspe
Another relatively new Don Cheadle series (though this one has already reached an end),Black Mondayis a dark comedy following a group of outsiders take on the 1980s old-boys club of Wall Street. In addition to Cheadle, it starsAndrew Rannells,Paul Scheer,Regina Hall, andCasey Wilsonamong others.
Blending sharp satire with humorand providing viewers with an intriguing social commentary on the greed of the financial industry, particularly during its heyday,Black Mondayis surely an entertaining series worth watching if you’re on the lookout for more exciting Don Cheadle projects.The star puts his talents on display as he portrays Maurice “Mo” Monroe, a charismatic but morally dubious Wall Street trader who is the head of The Jammer Group.
Black Monday
1’House of Lies' (2012 - 2016)
Created by Matthew Carnahan
Image via Showtime
Starring Cheadle in the lead role, the story centers around the fast-talking and charismatic Marty Kaan and his team of management consultants as they use every dirty trick in the book to woo powerful CEOS and close deals. Much likeBlack Monday, theMatthew Carnahanshow provides sharp commentary on the financial world.
Despite his solid performances in the previously mentioned series,House of Liesis possibly the very best Don Cheadle TV series to this day, mainly because of his widely acclaimed performance winning him a Golden Globe in 2013. Despite the show’s overall mixed reviews, Cheadle’s portrayal elevates the show to a higher level, adding depth to its satirical exploration of corporate culture and making the viewing experience all the more nuanced and enjoyable.
