Lela Rochon Biography: Husband, Net Worth, Age, Movies, Height, Children

Lela Rochon Fuqua, known professionally as Lela Rochon, is an American actress and producer celebrated for her compelling performances in film and television, most notably as Robin Stokes in the 1995 romantic drama Waiting to Exhale.

With a career spanning over three decades, Rochon has showcased her versatility in roles across genres, from romantic comedies like Boomerang (1992) to crime thrillers like Gang Related (1997).

Her charismatic presence and emotional depth have earned her recognition as a talented performer in Hollywood.

Profile

• Full Name: Lela Rochon Staples
• Stage Name: Lela Rochon
• Born: 17 April 1964
• Age: 61 years old
• Birthplace: Los Angeles, California, U.S.
• Nationality: American
• Occupation: Actress, Producer
• Height: 1.75m
• Parents: Samuel Staples and Zelma Staples
• Siblings: Kenneth Staples
• Spouse: Adolfo Quiñones (m. 1982–1987), Antoine Fuqua (m. 1999)
• Children: Asia Rochon Fuqua, Brando Fuqua
• Relationship: Married
• Net Worth: $10 million

Early Life and Education

Lela Rochon Staples was born on April 17, 1964, in Los Angeles, California, to Samuel Staples, a graphic artist and business owner, and Zelma Staples, a nurse practitioner.

She has a half-brother, Kenneth Staples.

Growing up in Cerritos, California, she attended Cerritos High School, where she was active in track, basketball, and theater.

She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Broadcast Journalism from California State University, Dominguez Hills in 1986, with minors in Sociology and Theatre.

Her ethnicity is Haitian-American, and her religious beliefs are not publicly known.

Career

Lela Rochon launched her career as a dancer and model, appearing in music videos for artists like Lionel Richie and Tupac Shakur.

Her early acting roles included small parts in films like Breakin’ (1984) and a role in the television movie A Bunny’s Tale (1985).

She gained early recognition for her performance as Sunshine in Harlem Nights (1989) alongside Eddie Murphy, which opened doors to more significant roles and established her as a promising talent in Hollywood.

Her breakout role came in 1995 as Robin Stokes in Waiting to Exhale, a film that resonated widely for its authentic portrayal of African-American women’s friendships and struggles.

This success led to prominent roles in The Chamber (1996), Gang Related (1997), and Any Given Sunday (1999), as well as television appearances on The Wayans Bros. and The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.

Her ability to excel in both comedic and dramatic roles earned her respect from critics and audiences alike, cementing her status as a versatile actress.

Rochon has maintained a steady presence in the industry with roles in series like The Division (2001–2004) and Training Day (2017).

She also took on producing, contributing to projects like Fatal Secrets (2009) and The Charlotte Austin Story (1999).

Her recent work includes a role in The Family Business: New Orleans (2025), reflecting her continued relevance.

Her advocacy for diversity in media and her contributions to film and television have made her a respected figure in entertainment.

Social Media

• Instagram Handle: @iamlelarochon
• Facebook Handle: Lela Rochon
• Twitter Handle: @LelaRochon

Personal Life

Lela Rochon married dancer and choreographer Adolfo Quiñones, known as Shabba Doo, in 1982; they divorced in 1987.

In 1999, she married director Antoine Fuqua, and they have two children, Asia Rochon Fuqua and Brando Fuqua.

Rochon leads a private life, balancing her career with family responsibilities.

Filmography

• Breakin’ (1984)
• Harlem Nights (1989)
• Boomerang (1992)
• Waiting to Exhale (1995)
• The Chamber (1996)
• Gang Related (1997)
• Why Do Fools Fall in Love (1998)
• Any Given Sunday (1999)
• Brooklyn’s Finest (2009)
• Supremacy (2014)

Net Worth

Lela Rochon has an estimated net worth of $10 million.

Her wealth comes primarily from her acting career in major films like Waiting to Exhale and Any Given Sunday, as well as her work as a producer.

Other sources include her appearances in music videos, television roles, and residuals from syndicated shows.