Nia Long

Nia Talita Long, an American actress, is popular for her notable contribution to Black cinema. Her career took off after she starred in 'Boyz n the Hood' in 1991, simultaneously marking her presence in NBC sitcom 'The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air' during 1991–1995. Further, she was seen in 'Friday' (1995), the 1997 films 'Love Jones' and 'Soul Food'. Adding to her celebrity status, Long makes a significant presence in films like 'The Best Man' (1999), and 'The Best Man Holiday' (2013), and 'Big Momma's House' (2000) and its sequel in 2006. Alongside her Hollywood journey, she was seen portraying Sasha Monroe on the crime drama series 'Third Watch' 2003–2005 and made appearances in the Fox drama series 'Empire' in 2017 and the CBS action series NCIS: Los Angeles 2017–2018, earning her several accolades including two NAACP Image Awards and a Black Reel Award.

Her birth in Brooklyn to Talita Long (née Gillman), a teacher and printmaker, and Doughtry Long, a high school teacher, and poet laid the foundation of a strong, artistic background. Nourishing her skills since childhood with academic studies, she also studied ballet, tap, jazz, gymnastics, guitar, and acting, graduating from Westchester High School in Los Angeles in 1989. Her journey was guided by her acting coach Betty Bridges, playing roles in television films like The B.R.A.T. Patrol and forging her way upwards, ultimately becoming a respected figure in the industry.