Bre-Z, born Calesha Murray on July 22, 1987, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a multifaceted American actress and rapper. She gained prominence through her roles as Freda Gatz on Fox’s “Empire” and Tamia “Coop” Cooper on The CW’s “All American.” Her journey from a barber to a celebrated artist in the entertainment industry is both inspiring and noteworthy.
Personal Details
| Full Name | Calesha Murray |
|---|---|
| Stage Name | Bre-Z |
| Date of Birth | July 22, 1987 |
| Place of Birth | Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA |
| Profession | Actress, Rapper |
| Years Active | 2015–present |
| Known For | “Empire,” “All American” |
Early Life & Career Beginnings
Bre-Z was raised in Wilmington, Delaware, where her grandmother affectionately nicknamed her “Bre-Z” after noticing she would only stop crying when a window was closed, making the room breezy. Coming from a family of barbers, she began cutting hair at the age of 10, a skill that later connected her with notable artists like Akon and Ludacris.
Her passion for music ignited in sixth grade, influenced by her mother’s involvement in the entertainment industry. After high school, she attended Full Sail University in Florida and eventually moved to Atlanta in 2008, followed by a pivotal move to Los Angeles in 2014 to pursue her dreams in music and acting.
Breakthrough Roles
Freda Gatz in “Empire”
Bre-Z’s acting debut came in 2015 when she was cast as Freda Gatz in the hit series “Empire.” This role showcased her rapping skills and acting prowess, earning her significant recognition in the entertainment industry.
Tamia “Coop” Cooper in “All American”
In 2018, she took on the role of Tamia “Coop” Cooper in The CW’s drama series “All American.” Bre-Z has mentioned that “Coop is literally Bre-Z in high school,” highlighting the personal connection she feels with the character. Her portrayal has been praised for breaking barriers for the LGBTQ+ community.
Musical Endeavors
Beyond acting, Bre-Z has a robust music career. She began performing at 14 and has collaborated with industry giants like Dr. Dre, Jennifer Lopez, and The Game. In 2015, she released an EP titled “The Grl” on her independent label, followed by her album “Full Circle” in 2020, further establishing her presence in the music scene.
Bre-z Net Worth
Estimates of Bre-Z’s net worth vary across sources. As of 2023, some reports suggest her net worth is between $1 million and $5 million. Other sources estimate it to be around $2 million. However, a recent report from 2023 estimates her net worth to be approximately $15 million, reflecting her successful career in both acting and music.
Personal Life
Bre-Z is known for maintaining her privacy regarding her personal life. In March 2021, she proposed to her girlfriend, Chris Amor, a makeup artist and social media influencer, during Chris’s 35th birthday celebration.
Final Thought
Bre-Z’s evolution from a young girl in Philadelphia to a prominent figure in the entertainment industry exemplifies her talent, determination, and versatility. Her contributions to music and television continue to inspire many, and her career trajectory suggests a promising future ahead.