Regina King, born on January 15, 1971, in Los Angeles, California, is a distinguished American actress and director renowned for her versatility in both film and television. She first gained prominence portraying Brenda Jenkins on the NBC sitcom “227” (1985–1990). Throughout her career, King has delivered compelling performances in films such as “Jerry Maguire” (1996) and “If Beale Street Could Talk” (2018), the latter earning her the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress.
In television, she has garnered multiple Primetime Emmy Awards for her roles in series like “American Crime” and “Watchmen.” Transitioning behind the camera, King made her directorial debut with “One Night in Miami…” (2020), receiving critical acclaim. As of 2025, her net worth is estimated at $16 million, accumulated through her extensive work in acting, directing, and production.
Personal Details
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Regina Rene King |
| Date of Birth | January 15, 1971 |
| Place of Birth | Los Angeles, California, U.S. |
| Occupation | Actress, Director, Producer |
| Years Active | 1985–present |
| Children | 1 |
| Awards | Academy Award, Golden Globe Award, Four Primetime Emmy Awards, among others |
Early Life and Education
Regina Rene King was born on January 15, 1971, in Los Angeles County, California. She is the elder daughter of Gloria Jean, a special education teacher, and Thomas Henry King Jr., an electrician. King’s parents divorced in 1979. She has a younger sister, Reina King, who co-starred with her in the 2024 Netflix film “Shirley.” King attended Westchester High School, graduating in 1988. She later studied communications at the University of Southern California for two years before pursuing her passion for acting.
Career Highlights
Breakthrough and Early Success
Regina King first gained attention for her role in the television sitcom “227” (1985–1990). She subsequently appeared in films such as “Friday” (1995) and “Boyz n the Hood” (1991), establishing herself as a talented actress in both television and cinema.
Critical Acclaim and Awards
Her performances in projects like “American Crime” (2015–2017) and “Seven Seconds” (2018) earned her multiple Primetime Emmy Awards. In 2019, she won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in “If Beale Street Could Talk” (2018).
Directorial Ventures
Expanding her repertoire, Regina King made her feature film directorial debut with “One Night in Miami…” (2020), which received critical acclaim and showcased her versatility in the industry.
Recent Projects
In 2024, Regina King portrayed Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman elected to the U.S. Congress, in the Netflix biographical film “Shirley.” King also served as a producer on the project, collaborating with her sister, Reina King, through their company, Royal Ties Productions. The film, directed by John Ridley, focuses on Chisholm’s groundbreaking 1972 presidential campaign, highlighting her role as the first Black candidate to seek a major party’s nomination for President of the United States. “Shirley” received critical acclaim for its compelling storytelling and Regina King’s powerful performance, underscoring her dedication to impactful narratives and representation in media.
Conclusion
Regina King’s net worth, estimated at $16 million, reflects her dynamic and successful career in the entertainment industry. She began as a child actress on the sitcom “227” in the 1980s before transitioning into adult roles. Over the years, King has showcased her versatility in both comedic and dramatic roles, earning critical acclaim and numerous accolades. Her dedication to her craft, both in front of and behind the camera, continues to inspire audiences and aspiring artists alike. Notably, she won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in “If Beale Street Could Talk” and has received multiple Primetime Emmy Awards for her television performances.