Damon Wayans Jr. is another actor from the great family line of Wayans entertainers. The multi-talented actor, who also works as a stand-up comedian and writer, is the oldest son of comedian and actor Damon Wayans whose brothers are also in the business.
Wayans Jr. is best known for his appearances in New Girl and Happy Endings. He, however, made one of his first on-screen appearances in his father’s sitcom, ‘My Wife and Kids’. read on to find out more about his parents, family, and other achievements.
Biography
Damon Jr. was born Damon Kyle Wayans Jr. to Damon Wayans and Lisa Thorner in Huntington, Vermont, on the 18th of November 1982. He is the first child of four children born by his parents. At a very early age, he was influenced by his father and uncles to pursue a career in acting and by the age of 12, he made his acting debut in one of his father’s films, ‘Blankman’ (1994).
Wayans still went to school to brush up on what seemed to be genetical skills in him. He attended Otis College of Art and Design as well as the New York Film Academy. After that, he again appeared on another of his father’s productions, ‘My Wife and Kids’ (2002-2004), playing the role of John, one of Junior’s friends. He went on to become a writer on the show before getting his big break in the Showtime film, ‘The Underground’ (2006).
His next big performance was in the comedy ‘Dance Flick’ (2009) where he played the main character Thomas Uncles. The film, which was directed and produced by members of the Wayans Family, received modest reviews, with one critic saying its existence was only justified by the few laughs it delivers.
Following minor roles in ‘The Other Guys’ (2010) and ‘Marmaduke’ (2010), Damon Wayans Jr. was cast in the ABC comedy series ‘Happy Endings’ as one of the lead characters. He appeared alongside actors like Eliza Coupe and Adam Pally on the show throughout its three-year run before it got canceled. He received two award nominations for his work; NAACP Image Awards and Critic’s Choice Television Awards for Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series.
Damon went on to play the role of Ernie “Coach” Tagliaboo in the television series ‘New Girl’ (2013-2016). Other of his works include ‘Someone Marry Barry’ (2014), ‘Let’s Be Cops’ (2014), ‘Big Hero 6’ (2014), ‘How to Be Single’ (2016), and ‘Super Troopers 2’ (2018).
Who Is Damon Wayans Jr.’s Dad?
Damon Wayans Jr. is the first son and oldest child of Damon Wayans. His father is the second oldest in the long list of members of the Wayans Family entertainment dynasty.
Damon Wayans Sr. was born as the second child of nine children to his parents; Elvira Alethia and Howell Stouten Wayans, on the 4th of September, 1960, in Harlem, New York City. His siblings are Keenen Ivory Wayans Sr. born in 1958, Kim Wayans, born in 1961, Shawn Wayans born in 1971, and Marlon Wayans born in 1972. Others are sisters Nadia Wayans, Elviria Wayans, Diedre Wayans, and Vonnie Wayans.
The older Damon Wayans is an accomplished stand-up comedian, actor, writer and producer in his own respect. He is best known for his works in ‘In Living Color'(1990-1994), ‘My Wife and Kids’ (2001-2005), and most currently ‘Lethal Weapon’ (2006-present).
What Do We Know About His Cousins?
Damon Wayans Jr. is not the only second-generation Wayans to participate and continue in the family entertainment business. His cousins Damien Dante Wayans, Chaunte Wayans and Craig Wayans are all actors, writers, and directors or producers in their own right.
Damien and his sister Chaunte are the children of screenwriter Elvira Wayans, while Craig Wayans is the son of screenwriter and producer Diedre Wayans, Damon Wayans’ siblings.
Who Are Damon Wayans Jr.’s Wife and Children?
Damon Wayans Jr. is reportedly married to the beautiful Samara Saraiva. Not much is known about them as they have managed to keep the inner dealings of their relationship a secret.
It is also unclear if the two have any children, however, Damon Jr. has two daughters with his former girlfriend Aja Metoyer who most recently had a son for basketballer Dwayne Wade.
His Weight, Height, and Other Facts
Birth Name: Damon Kyle Wayans Jr.
Date of Birth: November 18, 1982
Place of Birth: Huntington, Vermont, U.S.
Profession(s): Actor, writer, stand-up comedian
Weight: 85kg
Height: 6 feet 1 inches