Date of Birth: January 25, 1957
Zodiac Sign: Aquarius
Date of Death: * (Jenifer Lewis is alive)
Biography
Jenifer Jeanette Lewis, born January 25, 1957, in Kinloch, Missouri, is an accomplished American actress, singer, and activist. Known for her vibrant personality and commanding presence, Lewis has become a beloved fixture in both film and television over her extensive career. She began her career on Broadway, appearing in several musicals before transitioning to on-screen roles. Lewis’s breakthrough came in the 1990s with her role in the hit TV sitcom “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” where she played Will Smith’s aunt. She continued to gain prominence with memorable roles in films such as “Sister Act,” “The Preacher’s Wife,” and “What’s Love Got to Do with It,” in which she portrayed Tina Turner’s mother. More recently, she has been celebrated for her role as Ruby Johnson in the critically acclaimed ABC sitcom “Black-ish.” Her portrayal of the sharp-tongued, loving grandmother earned her numerous award nominations and solidified her status as one of television’s most dynamic performers. Beyond her acting career, Lewis is an outspoken advocate for mental health awareness, particularly in the African American community. She has openly discussed her own struggles with bipolar disorder, aiming to reduce the stigma around mental health issues. Her autobiography, “The Mother of Black Hollywood,” offers a candid look at her life and career, earning praise for its honesty and humor.
5 Interesting Facts about Jenifer Lewis
1. Jenifer Lewis has earned the nickname “The Mother of Black Hollywood” for her frequent roles as a maternal figure in films and TV shows.
2. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Webster University in St. Louis.
3. Lewis is a passionate advocate for mental health awareness, having been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and openly discussing her journey.
4. She has appeared in over 300 television episodes, 68 movies, and 40 animations, solidifying her as a prolific figure in entertainment.
5. Lewis has been honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, recognizing her significant contributions to the entertainment industry.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Jenifer Lewis
1. “You have to be honest with yourself about what you want in life and take risks to get it.”
2. “I always say, ‘Don’t let anybody steal your joy.’”
3. “Mental health is real. You have to take care of yourself.”
4. “I am a work in progress, and I will be until the day I die.”
5. “The sooner you know who you are, the sooner you can be who you are.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
The highest net worth Jenifer Lewis has achieved is estimated to be around $2 million.
Children
Jenifer Lewis does not have any biological children, but she has been a mother figure to many young actors and actresses in Hollywood, often mentoring and guiding them through their careers.
Relevant Links
1. [Jenifer Lewis IMDb](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0507338/
2. [Jenifer Lewis Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jenifer_Lewis
4. [Jenifer Lewis on Mental Health – Interview](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q9G0-4TWwew
5. [Jenifer Lewis Hollywood Walk of Fame Star](https://walkoffame.com/jenifer-lewis/