Wood Harris

Biography

Sherwin David "Wood" Harris, widely recognized as Wood Harris, is a celebrated American actor known for his compelling portrayals in film and television. Born on October 17, 1969, in Chicago, Illinois, Harris grew up in a creative and supportive family. His mother, Mattie, worked as a seamstress, and his father, John, was a bus driver. His older brother, Steve Harris, is also a successful actor, making talent a family trait.

Harris graduated from Northern Illinois University with a degree in theater arts and later pursued a Master of Arts in acting from New York University's Tisch School of the Arts. This formal training provided him with a solid foundation to navigate the entertainment industry and establish a prolific acting career.

Career Highlights

Wood Harris’s acting journey spans nearly three decades, marked by a variety of roles that showcase his versatility and depth.

Film Breakthrough

Harris made his film debut in 1994 with the basketball drama Above the Rim, starring alongside Tupac Shakur. His portrayal of Motaw, a volatile street hustler, set the tone for his career as an actor capable of delivering intense and layered performances.

In 2000, Harris gained critical acclaim for his role as Julius Campbell in Remember the Titans. The film, based on a true story, follows the integration of a high school football team during the 1970s. Harris’s portrayal of a determined and principled football player earned him widespread praise and brought him into the spotlight.

Cult Classic

In 2002, Harris took on the role of Ace in Paid in Full, a gritty crime drama about Harlem’s drug scene in the 1980s. His performance as an understated and ambitious drug dealer became a defining moment in his career. The film is now considered a cult classic, particularly within hip-hop culture.

Mainstream Success

Harris achieved mainstream recognition with his work in major franchises:

• Creed Series: He portrays Tony "Little Duke" Burton, a boxing trainer and the son of Apollo Creed’s coach, in Creed (2015), Creed II (2018), and Creed III (2023). His role brings gravitas and mentorship to the story, further solidifying his reputation as a versatile actor.
• Marvel Cinematic Universe: Harris appeared as Gale in Ant-Man (2015) and its sequel, showcasing his adaptability in blockbuster films.
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Television Stardom

Wood Harris became a household name with his role as Avon Barksdale, the ambitious and ruthless drug kingpin in HBO’s critically acclaimed series The Wire (2002–2008). The series is often hailed as one of the greatest in television history, and Harris’s portrayal of Avon remains one of the most memorable performances in the show.

Other notable TV roles include:

• The Breaks (2017): A drama centered around the rise of hip-hop culture in the 1990s.
• Empire (2018): Harris played Damon Cross, a mysterious and powerful figure in the music industry.