Biography
Who is Mekhi Phifer?
Early life in New York
Mekhi Phifer was born in Harlem, New York City, on December 29, 1974. He was raised by his mother, Rhoda Phifer, who worked as an elementary school teacher. He grew up in a single-parent household and never met his father.
While studying electrical engineering at Columbia University in 1994, he decided to attend an open-casting call. He competed against over one thousand other hopefuls to secure the lead role in the film Clockers, which was directed by Spike Lee. This opportunity launched his professional acting career.
Television and film career
Following his debut, he appeared in films such as Soul Food, High School High, and the horror sequel I Still Know What You Did Last Summer. In 2002, he starred alongside Eminem in the feature film 8 Mile. He also appeared in the music video for Lose Yourself, which is a song from that film.
His most prominent television role was Dr. Greg Pratt on the NBC drama ER. He joined the cast in 2002 and remained with the medical show until his character was written off in 2008. During his six years on that series, he received two NAACP Image Award nominations.
Other activities and business
Outside of acting, he has pursued various business ventures and charity work. He is an owner of several Athlete's Foot athletic shoe-store franchises located in California. In 2011, he launched a production company called Third Reel Films to help filmmakers show their work.
He is also involved in philanthropic efforts. He serves as the chairman of the board of trustees for The Vine Group USA, a non-profit organization that provides educational resources to universities in Africa. Also, he has participated in the World Poker Tour for the Love Our Children USA charity.
Personal life and relationships
Mekhi Phifer was previously married to actress Malinda Williams, and they have one son together. He has a second son who was born in Los Angeles in 2007. In March 2013, he married Reshelet Barnes in Beverly Hills, California.
In his personal time, he has engaged in celebrity poker tournaments, including winning the fourth Celebrity Poker Showdown. He has also been involved in public support for various causes, such as signing an open letter in support of Israel in 2023.
Birthday and age
Mekhi Phifer was born on December 29, 1974, which makes Mekhi 51 years old today. That birthday falls under the Capricorn sign. Mekhi shares the date with 30 other famous people.
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