Marlon Wayans Bio
Marlon Lamont Wayans (born July 23, 1972) is an American actor, comedian, writer, and producer. He is best known for his work with his brother Shawn Wayans on The WB sitcom The Wayans Bros. and the comedy films Don’t Be a Menace, Scary Movie, Scary Movie 2, White Chicks, Little Man, and Dance Flick. Wayans has also appeared in several dramatic roles, demonstrating his versatility as an actor.
Early Life and Background
Marlon Wayans was born in New York City, the youngest of ten siblings in a family that practiced Jehovah’s Witnesses. He is the son of Elvira Alethia, a homemaker and social worker, and Howell Stouten Wayans, a supermarket manager. Growing up in the Fulton Houses, a housing project in New York City, he was exposed to the arts early on. Wayans attended Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts, a school renowned for its focus on the performing arts. After high school, he enrolled at Howard University in Washington, D.C., but left after two years to pursue a career in entertainment.
Wayans’ family background played a significant role in his career choice, as many of his siblings are also involved in the entertainment industry. His brothers, including Keenen Ivory Wayans and Shawn Wayans, have all made significant contributions to comedy and film, creating a supportive environment for Marlon’s artistic development.
Path to Hollywood
Marlon Wayans began his career in the late 1980s, making his television debut on the sketch comedy show In Living Color, which featured many of his siblings. This exposure helped him hone his comedic skills and gain recognition in the industry. He co-starred with his brother Shawn in The Wayans Bros., which aired from 1995 to 1999, solidifying his status as a prominent figure in comedy.
Throughout the 1990s, Wayans continued to build his career with notable film roles, including Don’t Be a Menace to South Central While Drinking Your Juice in the Hood and the Scary Movie franchise. His ability to blend humor with various genres has allowed him to transition seamlessly between comedic and dramatic roles.
Marlon Wayans Career
Early Career (1988–1999)
Wayans’ career began in 1988, and he quickly gained fame through his work on In Living Color. His breakout role came with The Wayans Bros., where he showcased his comedic talent alongside his brother Shawn. This sitcom became a staple of 1990s television and helped launch his film career.
During this period, Wayans also appeared in films such as Above the Rim and The 6th Man, further establishing his presence in Hollywood. His work in these films garnered attention and laid the groundwork for his future successes.
Breakthrough (2000–2009)
Wayans achieved significant success with the release of Scary Movie in 2000, which became a cultural phenomenon and grossed over $278 million worldwide. He reprised his role in the sequel, Scary Movie 2, which also performed well at the box office. These films showcased his ability to blend horror and comedy, earning him a dedicated fan base.
In 2004, Wayans starred in White Chicks, a comedy that became a classic in its own right. The film’s success further solidified his status as a leading comedic actor. He continued to explore diverse roles, including dramatic performances in films like Requiem for a Dream, demonstrating his range as an actor.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout his career, Marlon Wayans has been involved in numerous successful projects, including A Haunted House and its sequel, which showcased his comedic prowess. His contributions to the film industry have made him a recognizable figure in Hollywood.
Marlon Wayans Award Nominations
While Marlon Wayans has not received major awards, his work has been recognized in various capacities, particularly for his contributions to comedy and film.
Marlon Wayans Awards Won
Despite not having a significant number of awards, Marlon Wayans has made a lasting impact on the entertainment industry through his performances and creative endeavors.
Marlon Wayans Family
Marlon Wayans was in a long-term relationship with Angela Zackery from 1992 to 2013. They have two children together, one of whom is transgender. Wayans also shares a child with his former girlfriend, Brittany Moreland.
Personal Life
Wayans has expressed support for his transgender son and the LGBTQ community, demonstrating his commitment to family and inclusivity. He maintains close friendships with several prominent figures in the entertainment industry, including rapper Tupac Shakur and actor Omar Epps.
