Introduction
Nia Long, the American actress and dancer, is renowned for her incredible performances in The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Third Watch, and films such as Are We There Yet?, Soul Food, Love Jones, and Big Momma’s House. As of 2023, Nia Long’s estimated net worth is $10 million.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Nia Long was born on October 30th, 1970, in Brooklyn, New York, to Talita, a teacher, and printmaker, and Doughtry Long, a high school teacher and poet. She spent her childhood in Iowa City, Iowa, with her mother after her parents separated when she was a toddler.
Long attended St. Mary’s Academy in Inglewood, California and graduated from Westchester High School in Los Angeles in 1989. Long was an outstanding student and also studied various extracurricular activities, including ballet, tap, jazz, gymnastics, and guitar, before discovering her passion for acting.
Long began her acting career when she met her acting coach Betty Bridges. Her first role was in the Disney film The B.R.A.T Patrol, alongside some well-known actors, including Sean Austin, Tim Thomerson, and Brian Keith. Additionally, she appeared in commercials and served as a spokesperson for brands such as Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula.
Acting Career
Long’s career began to take off between 1991 and 1994 when she played the regular role of Katherine “Kat” in the popular American TV show opera Guiding Light, which earned her widespread acclaim. She made her film debut in the 1991 movie, Boyz n the Hood as Brandi and later appeared on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air from 1994 to 1995 playing Will Smith’s girlfriend, Beulah “Lisa” Wilkes.
Long also played Andra Solomon in the court-room drama television series Judging Amy from 2001 to 2002. She rose to international fame portraying NYPD Officer Sasha Monroe in the crime drama series Third Watch that aired from 2003 to 2005. Since then, Long has been featured in numerous television shows, including Everwood, Boston Legal, Big Shot, and The Cleveland Show.
Long’s film career began in the 1991 movie Boyz n the Hood and followed in many other films, including Made in America, Friday, Love Jones, Hav Plenty, Soul Food, Stigmata, St Big Momma’s House, Alfie, Big Momma’s House 2, Gospel Hill, and several more.
Net Worth and Salary
As of 2023, Nia Long’s net worth is $10 million, with an annual income of $2 million from her acting career. Her earnings from various sources such as films, TV programs, shows, and brand endorsements have contributed significantly to her overall net worth.
Long’s career earnings are believed to be around $9.5 million. She spent around $1 million on business-related expenses; the remaining $8.5 million was taxed at 45% as she lives in California. Her career earnings after paying taxes are expected to be around $4.67 million.
Personal Life
Long has a large portfolio of luxury homes, including a $2 million, 3-bedroom, 4-bath mansion in Los Angeles, which is over 2800 sq ft and features an open floor plan that opens up to the gardens. She is also known for her love for cars and her investments, which include stocks and property.
Long was previously engaged to Massai Dorsey in 2001, with whom she has a son named Massai Zhivago Dorsey II. Long began dating Nigerian-American former professional basketball player Ime Udoka in 2010. They got engaged in May 2015 and welcomed their son, Kez Sunday Udoka, in 2011. The couple separated in 2022 after being together for over a decade.
Long is a passionate supporter of non-profit organizations that promote the arts and encourage discussion about how women of color are portrayed in the media. She is also the motivating speaker for Sterling Children’s Home and the foremost promoter of PETA in America.
Awards and Recognitions
Long is a decorated actress with many accolades to her name. She has won several awards, including three NAACP Awards (2000, 2004, and 2005), Two Image Awards for Outstanding Actress in a Television Drama and Outstanding Actress in a Motion Picture in 2004 and 2005, respectively. Additionally, she won the Black Reel Awards for Best Actress for the film, The Best Man in 2000.
Conclusion
Nia Long’s net worth of $10 million in 2023 is indicative of her success as an actress, dancer, and producer over the last three decades. Her journey from a chaotic childhood to becoming a recognised figure in Hollywood is a testament to her hard work, perseverance, and passion for her craft.
Through her work, Long has made strides towards promoting diversity and representation in the entertainment industry. Her contributions to various humanitarian causes reflect her commitment to giving back to her community as she continues to inspire women of color worldwide.
