Jenifer Lewis Biography: Husband, Age, Children, Height, Net Worth, Parents, Movies & TV Shows, Broadway

Jenifer Jeanette Lewis, known professionally as Jenifer Lewis, is an American actress, singer, comedian, and activist celebrated for her commanding presence and versatile performances in film, television, and theater.

Often referred to as the “Mother of Black Hollywood,” she is best known for iconic roles in films like What’s Love Got to Do with It (1993), The Preacher’s Wife (1996), and as the voice of Mama Odie in Disney’s The Princess and the Frog (2009).

Profile

• Full Name: Jenifer Jeanette Lewis
• Stage Name: Jenifer Lewis
• Born: 25, January 1957
• Age: 68 years old
• Birthplace: Kinloch, Missouri, USA
• Nationality: American
• Occupation: Actress, Singer, Comedian, Activist
• Height: 1.66m
• Parents: Edward James Lewis and Dorothy Lewis
• Siblings: Lawrence Lewis, Jackie Davis, Vertella Lewis, Wilatrel Rice
• Spouse: Arnold Byrd (m. 2012–?)
• Children: Charmaine Lewis
• Relationship: Divorced
• Net Worth: $2 million

Early Life and Education

Jenifer Jeanette Lewis came into the world on January 25, 1957, in Kinloch, Missouri, to Edward James Lewis, a factory worker, and Dorothy Lewis, a nurse’s aide.

She grew up alongside four siblings: Lawrence Lewis, Jackie Davis, Vertella Lewis, and Wilatrel Rice.

Lewis attended Kinloch High School, where her passion for performing arts took root.

She graduated from Webster University in St. Louis with a degree in theater arts, later receiving an honorary doctorate from the institution in 2015.

Her African American heritage shaped her perspective, and while she has not publicly detailed her religious beliefs, her activism reflects a deep commitment to community and social issues.

Career

Jenifer Lewis launched her career on Broadway, making her debut in Eubie! (1979) and later starring in Comin’ Uptown (1980).

Her powerhouse vocals and stage presence earned her early recognition, leading to a national tour with Dreamgirls and performances in Las Vegas.

She transitioned to film and television in the early 1990s, landing a breakout role as Tina Turner’s mother in What’s Love Got to Do with It (1993).

Her scene-stealing performances in films like Sister Act (1992) and Poetic Justice (1993) established her as a go-to actress for vibrant, maternal roles.

Lewis’s career flourished with roles in major films like The Preacher’s Wife (1996), The Brothers (2001), and Think Like a Man (2012), showcasing her ability to blend comedy and drama.

Her voice work as Mama Odie in The Princess and the Frog (2009) and Flo in the Cars franchise brought her to younger audiences.

On television, she became a fan favorite as Lana Hawkins on Strong Medicine (2000–2006) and Ruby Johnson on Black-ish (2014–2022), earning critical acclaim for her comedic timing and emotional depth.

Her stage work continued with one-woman shows like Bipolar, Bath & Beyond, where she openly discussed her mental health journey.

Lewis remains a prominent figure in entertainment, with recent roles in projects like The Wedding Ringer (2015) and Hairspray Live! (2016).

Her advocacy for mental health awareness, detailed in her memoir The Mother of Black Hollywood (2017), resonates widely, as does her work with organizations supporting BIPOC communities.

Her performances continue to inspire, blending humor, heart, and authenticity, while her influence as a trailblazer for Black actresses endures in Hollywood and beyond.

Social Media

• Instagram Handle: @jeniferlewis
• Twitter Handle: @JeniferLewis

Personal Life

Jenifer Lewis married Arnold Byrd in 2012, but the couple later divorced, and she has been engaged four times previously, though she keeps details of those relationships private.

She adopted her daughter, Charmaine Lewis, at age 12, who is now in her mid-30s.

Lewis resides in Los Angeles, where she balances her career with activism, openly sharing her experiences with bipolar disorder to destigmatize mental health issues.

Filmography

• Sister Act (1992)
• What’s Love Got to Do with It (1993)
• Poetic Justice (1993)
• The Preacher’s Wife (1996)
• The Brothers (2001)
• Cars (2006)
• The Princess and the Frog (2009)
• Think Like a Man (2012)
• The Wedding Ringer (2015)
• Hairspray Live! (2016)

Net Worth

Jenifer Lewis holds an estimated net worth of $2 million.

Her wealth stems from her extensive career in film, television, and theater, with significant earnings from roles in Black-ish, The Princess and the Frog, and other high-profile projects.

Additional income comes from her memoir, speaking engagements, and stage performances, reflecting her multifaceted contributions to entertainment.