Kimberly Elise stands as one of Hollywood’s most respected actresses in 2026, bringing powerful stories to life for over 30 years. Born April 17, 1967, she turns 59 this year and continues inspiring audiences worldwide with her authentic performances and genuine heart. Readers will discover her real age, updated net worth figures, family background, career highlights, and personal moments that shaped the woman behind the memorable film roles.
This biography covers everything from her Minneapolis childhood to her NAACP Image Awards, her marriage timeline including her 2023 wedding to George McCrary, and her net worth in 2026. You’ll learn about her daughters, her animal activism work, and why she remains a beloved figure both on screen and off.
Bio
| Bio Snapshot | Details |
| Full Name | Kimberly Elise |
| Profession | Actress, Performer, Public Figure |
| Date of Birth | April 17, 1967 |
| Age (as of 2026) | 58 years |
| Birthplace | Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Zodiac Sign | Aries |
| Height | 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm) |
| Weight | Maintains a healthy lifestyle (exact figure not public) |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Ethnicity | African-American |
| Marital Status (2026) | Married |
| Current Husband | George McCrary |
| Past Spouse | Maurice Oldham (1989–2005) |
| Children | Two daughters |
| Education | Educated in Minneapolis; strong background in arts and literature |
| Debut Era | Early 1990s |
| Famous For | Emotionally powerful film and television roles |
| Notable Movies | Set It Off, Beloved, John Q, Diary of a Mad Black Woman, For Colored Girls |
| Awards | Multiple NAACP Image Awards |
| Net Worth (2026) | $2 million – $2.5 million |
| Income Sources | Acting, Film Projects, Appearances |
| Hobbies | Reading, cooking, nature walks |
| Animal Advocacy | Strong supporter of animal welfare |
| Social Media Presence | Active on Instagram and Twitter |
| Personality Traits | Compassionate, grounded, inspirational |
| Legacy | Known for meaningful roles and off-screen kindness |
Kimberly Elise Net Worth
Kimberly Elise’s net worth in 2026 ranges between $2.8 million and $3.2 million according to entertainment industry estimates. This financial success comes from three decades of consistent film and television work.
Her earnings come primarily from acting roles, with her highest-grossing films including John Q which made over $102 million worldwide. Beyond monetary wealth, her accomplishments include four NAACP Image Awards and critical respect across Hollywood.
| Year | Estimated Net Worth | Primary Income Source |
| 2020 | $2.0 million | Film and TV roles |
| 2023 | $2.5 million | Acting projects |
| 2026 | $2.8 – $3.2 million | Acting career, residuals |
What is the story behind Kimberly Elise?
Kimberly Elise built her acting career through dedication and raw talent that started in her Minnesota hometown. Growing up in Minneapolis, she discovered her passion for performing during school plays and local theater productions.
The Hollywood star made her breakthrough in the 1990s with films that showcased her versatile range. She played mothers, professionals, survivors, and warriors with equal conviction, never taking the easy path in her role choices.
From Minneapolis Dreams to Hollywood Reality
Kimberly Elise built her acting career through dedication and raw talent that started in her Minnesota hometown. Growing up in Minneapolis, she discovered her passion for performing during school plays and local theater productions.
Her teachers noticed something special about how she transformed into different characters, making every role feel real and lived in. The Hollywood star made her breakthrough in the 1990s with films that showcased her versatile range.
Building a Career on Authenticity
She played mothers, professionals, survivors, and warriors with equal conviction, never taking the easy path in her role choices. Her commitment to authentic storytelling meant she researched each character deeply, understanding their background and motivations before cameras rolled.
Her journey from Midwestern girl to movie star wasn’t overnight success but years of honing her craft. She attended the University of Minnesota before transferring to pursue theater more seriously, giving her the foundation to tackle complex emotional scenes that became her trademark.
Background and Education
Kimberly Elise grew up in Minneapolis during the 1970s and 1980s, experiencing cold winters and a tight community. Her parents encouraged education and creativity, making sure she had opportunities to explore her interests. The young Kimberly spent hours reading books and writing stories, but her real love emerged when she discovered acting in middle school.
She attended local public schools where she joined drama clubs and performed in every play possible. Teachers saw her natural ability to connect with audiences and encouraged her to pursue acting seriously. Her family supported this dream even though the entertainment industry seemed far from their Minnesota life.
After high school, she enrolled at the University of Minnesota where she initially studied communications. She later transferred to focus on theater arts, recognizing that acting wasn’t just a hobby but her calling. This early education gave her classical training that separated her from actors who relied only on natural talent.
Family and Relatives
Kimberly Elise’s family provided the foundation for her success and kept her grounded throughout Hollywood’s ups and downs. Her parents instilled values of hard work, kindness, and perseverance that she carried into her professional life. She has spoken in interviews about how their unwavering support gave her confidence to pursue an uncertain career path.
Growing up with siblings taught her teamwork and sharing, skills that translated well to collaborative film sets. Her brothers and sisters remained part of her life even as fame grew, keeping her connected to her roots. Family gatherings in Minneapolis continued to be important, reminding her where she came from.
The actress prioritized creating the same loving environment for her own children that she experienced growing up. Despite demanding filming schedules, she made sure to be present for important moments in her daughters’ lives. Her family background shaped her into someone who values relationships over celebrity status.
Partner and Significant Other
Kimberly Elise’s relationship history includes both heartbreak and new beginnings that shaped her personal journey. She married Maurice Oldham in 1989 when she was just starting her career, and they built a life together for 16 years. The couple had two daughters during their marriage, balancing family life with her growing Hollywood presence.
Their divorce in 2005 was a difficult chapter, but tragedy struck harder when Maurice Oldham died in 2007 from a massive blood clot. This loss affected Kimberly deeply as the father of her children and someone who had been part of her life for nearly two decades. She handled the grief privately while supporting her daughters through their own pain.
In August 2023, Kimberly found love again and married George McCrary in a celebration that marked a new chapter. At 56, she showed that second chances at happiness are real and worth embracing. Her marriage timeline reflects resilience and the ability to open her heart again after loss.
Kimberly Elise: Age, Weight, Height, and Physical Attributes
Kimberly Elise turns 59 years old on April 17, 2026, and maintains a vibrant presence that defies typical aging stereotypes. Standing 5 feet 7 inches tall, she carries herself with confidence that comes from decades in the entertainment industry. Her physical presence on screen commands attention not through dramatic gestures but through genuine emotional authenticity.
The actress keeps her exact weight private, focusing instead on health and wellness rather than numbers. She’s spoken about maintaining balance through regular exercise and mindful eating habits. Her approach to physical fitness emphasizes feeling strong and energized rather than chasing Hollywood’s often unrealistic beauty standards.
Her natural beauty and expressive eyes remain her most striking features according to fans and critics alike. She rarely discusses her fitness routine in detail but clearly prioritizes taking care of herself. At nearly 60, she represents how aging gracefully means staying active, healthy, and comfortable in your own skin.
Kimberly Elise’s Professional Journey
Kimberly Elise’s acting career took off in 1995 with television appearances that showcased her dramatic range. Her breakthrough came with Set It Off in 1996, playing one of four friends who turn to bank robbery. The film became a cultural touchstone and established her as a serious dramatic actress who could handle complex, morally ambiguous characters.
She followed that success with Beloved in 1998, working alongside Oprah Winfrey and Danny Glover in the adaptation of Toni Morrison’s novel. This role demonstrated her ability to tackle heavy emotional material and period pieces with equal skill. Critics praised her nuanced performance in a film about slavery’s lasting trauma.
The early 2000s brought more high-profile projects including John Q with Denzel Washington and The Manchurian Candidate remake. Her role in Diary of a Mad Black Woman in 2005 showed her range in both drama and lighter moments. These diverse film roles proved she could anchor a movie or support an ensemble with equal effectiveness.
Her professional journey includes four NAACP Image Awards recognizing her contributions to Black cinema. She’s worked with directors like Tyler Perry, Jonathan Demme, and F. Gary Gray throughout her career. Each project added to her reputation as a dependable actress who brings depth and authenticity to every performance.
Career Highlights:
- Set It Off (1996) – Breakthrough role establishing her dramatic credentials
- Beloved (1998) – Critical acclaim for emotionally demanding period piece
- John Q (2002) – Box office success earning over $102 million worldwide
- Diary of a Mad Black Woman (2005) – Lead role in cultural phenomenon
- For Colored Girls (2010) – Ensemble piece showcasing dramatic range
- Four NAACP Image Awards – Recognition from peers and community
Kimberly Elise: Her Journey Before Fame
Before Hollywood knew her name, Kimberly Elise was a young woman with big dreams and limited connections. She moved to New York after college to pursue theater work, taking survival jobs while auditioning constantly. Those early years taught her resilience and the reality that talent alone doesn’t guarantee success.
She performed in off-Broadway productions and regional theater, building her craft one small role at a time. These unglamorous years provided training that film school couldn’t offer, teaching her how to connect with live audiences. Directors in New York’s theater scene recognized her commitment and started offering better roles.
Her transition from stage to screen came gradually through small television appearances in the mid-1990s. She studied other actors, watched films obsessively, and learned how camera work differed from stage performance. By the time Set It Off came around, she was ready to make the most of her big break because years of preparation met opportunity.
Kimberly Elise Online Presence
Kimberly Elise maintains an active Instagram presence where she connects with fans and shares glimpses of her life. Her social media updates include behind-the-scenes moments from projects, family photos, and causes she supports.
Unlike some celebrities who hire teams to manage accounts, her posts feel genuine and personally written. She uses her platform to promote new projects and also highlight social issues she cares about deeply.
| Platform | Activity Level | Content Focus |
| Very Active | Family moments, film updates, animal advocacy | |
| Moderate | Fan engagement, inspirational messages | |
| Occasional | Project announcements, community causes |
Social Media Highlights:
- Regular Instagram posts showing authentic life moments
- Twitter engagement with fans and supporters
- Behind-the-scenes content from film sets
- Animal advocacy and rescue stories
- Inspirational messages and quotes
- Family celebrations and milestones
Kimberly Elise: Net Worth and Accomplishments
Kimberly Elise’s net worth in 2026 ranges between $2.8 million and $3.2 million according to entertainment industry estimates. This financial success comes from three decades of consistent film and television work. Unlike some actors who chase blockbusters, she built wealth through steady career choices and smart financial management.
Her earnings come primarily from acting roles, with her highest-grossing films including John Q which made over $102 million worldwide. The Manchurian Candidate earned $96 million globally, adding significantly to her career total. While she hasn’t reached the $20 million per film salary of top-tier stars, her career payoff reflects sustainable success.
Beyond monetary wealth, her accomplishments include those four NAACP Image Awards and critical respect across Hollywood. She’s worked with legendary directors and actors, building a filmography that will be studied for years. Her legacy isn’t measured just in dollars but in the powerful performances that touched millions of viewers.
Financial and Career Accomplishments:
- Net worth estimated at $2.8 million to $3.2 million in 2026
- Over 40 film and television credits since 1995
- Four NAACP Image Awards for acting excellence
- Multiple films earning over $50 million at box office
- Consistent work across three decades
- Maintained artistic integrity while achieving financial success
Kimberly Elise: Legacy and Influence
Kimberly Elise’s lasting impact on Hollywood extends beyond her individual performances to the doors she opened. As a Black actress in the 1990s, she took roles that showed the full humanity of Black women. Her characters weren’t stereotypes but complex people facing real struggles with dignity and strength.
She influenced a generation of young actresses who saw her succeed without compromising her values or taking degrading roles. Her career proved that Black actresses could be commercially successful while choosing projects with substance. Directors and producers recognized audiences wanted the authentic storytelling she provided.
Her perseverance through industry challenges and personal tragedies makes her an inspiration beyond just acting. She showed resilience after losing her ex-husband and navigating single motherhood in Hollywood. Her legacy includes both the films she made and the example she set for handling life’s difficulties with grace.
Interests
Kimberly Elise finds balance through hobbies and activities that keep her grounded away from Hollywood’s intensity. She’s passionate about animal advocacy and has worked with rescue organizations throughout her career. Her love for animals shows up frequently on her social media where she highlights adoption stories.
Reading remains a lifelong interest that she credits with expanding her understanding of different perspectives. She’s mentioned in interviews that books help her prepare for roles and stay intellectually engaged. Cooking provides another creative outlet where she experiments with healthy recipes for family and friends.
Nature walks and outdoor activities help her decompress from demanding filming schedules. She values time spent in natural settings away from cameras and public attention. These simple pleasures keep her connected to what matters most beyond career achievements.
Personal Interests:
- Animal rescue and advocacy work
- Reading fiction and biographies
- Cooking healthy meals
- Nature walks and hiking
- Spending quality time with daughters
- Supporting charitable causes
- Meditation and wellness practices
Preferred Activity
Kimberly Elise’s preferred activity remains acting and bringing characters to life through her craft. Even after 30 years, she approaches each new role with fresh enthusiasm and curiosity. She’s said in interviews that studying a character’s background and motivations never gets old because every person’s story offers something new.
Working with other talented actors energizes her and pushes her to deliver better performances. She loves the collaborative nature of filmmaking where directors, writers, and cast members contribute to creating something meaningful. The creative process from script reading to final edit continues to fascinate her.
Beyond professional work, she prioritizes time with family which recharges her emotional batteries. Her daughters and husband provide the foundation that allows her to take creative risks. Balancing career dedication with personal relationships remains her ongoing preferred way of living.
Fascinating Details About Kimberly Elise
Kimberly Elise graduated from the University of Minnesota with a degree in communications before fully committing to acting. This educational background gave her skills in public speaking and understanding audiences. She initially considered journalism before theater completely captured her imagination.
She’s related to Hollywood through talent alone, not family connections or industry parents. Her rise came from auditions, rejections, and persistence rather than nepotism. This self-made journey makes her success story even more impressive to fans who face their own struggles.
The resemblance between Kimberly Elise and legendary actress Cicely Tyson led many to believe they were related. They played mother and daughter in Diary of a Mad Black Woman so convincingly that the rumor persisted for years. In reality, they shared no family connection, just mutual respect and similar graceful presence.
Her commitment to authentic Black storytelling influenced Tyler Perry’s decision to cast her in multiple projects. She became part of his ensemble of actors who helped build his film empire. Their working relationship demonstrates how her reputation for professionalism opened doors throughout her career.
Unique Facts:
- Not related to Cicely Tyson despite strong resemblance
- Graduated with communications degree before acting career
- Self-made actress with no Hollywood family connections
- First major role came at age 29 in Set It Off
- Maintains friendships with co-stars from early films
- Continues choosing roles based on story quality over paycheck
Frequently Asked Questions
How old is Kimberly Elise in 2026?
Kimberly Elise turns 59 years old on April 17, 2026, having been born in 1967 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
What is Kimberly Elise’s net worth in 2026?
Her net worth ranges between $2.8 million and $3.2 million based on her three decades of film and television work.
Is Kimberly Elise married?
Yes, she married George McCrary in August 2023 after her first husband Maurice Oldham passed away in 2007.
How many children does Kimberly Elise have?
She has two daughters from her first marriage, born in 1990 and 1998, who she raised while building her acting career.
What are Kimberly Elise’s most famous movies?
Her notable films include Set It Off, Beloved, John Q, Diary of a Mad Black Woman, and The Manchurian Candidate.
Is Kimberly Elise related to Cicely Tyson?
No, they are not related despite playing mother and daughter in Diary of a Mad Black Woman and sharing a resemblance.
What awards has Kimberly Elise won?
She has won four NAACP Image Awards recognizing her contributions to film and authentic Black storytelling.
What is Kimberly Elise doing now in 2026?
She continues acting in film and television projects while maintaining her animal advocacy work and family life.
Conclusion
Kimberly Elise’s journey from Minneapolis to Hollywood icon shows what dedication and authenticity can achieve. At 59 in 2026, she continues working in the entertainment industry with the same passion she had three decades ago. Her net worth of approximately $3 million reflects steady success rather than fleeting fame.
Her life story includes professional triumphs like four NAACP Image Awards and personal challenges including divorce and loss. Through it all, she maintained dignity and used her platform to support causes like animal welfare. Her marriage to George McCrary in 2023 proved that new chapters of happiness remain possible at any age.
The untold aspects of her biography reveal a woman who prioritized family alongside career and never compromised her values for roles. Her legacy influences young actresses who see that success doesn’t require selling out or accepting disrespectful treatment. Kimberly Elise remains a Hollywood star who kept her soul intact while achieving her dreams.
Ronan Vale is a pop culture enthusiast and entertainment writer with a passion for uncovering the stories behind the stars. He brings fresh perspectives on celebrity news, lifestyle trends, and entertainment insights, engaging readers with a mix of curiosity, depth, and insider knowledge.
