Mahershala Ali Movies and TV Shows have showcased his exceptional talent and ability to bring deep emotional resonance to every role. Known for his intense performances and versatility, Ali has made a significant impact in both film and television.
His breakout role came in The 4400, but it was his portrayal of Cornell “Cottonmouth” Stokes in Luke Cage that gained him widespread recognition. His powerful performances continued with roles in films like Moonlight, where he won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his portrayal of Juan, a caring and transformative figure in the life of a troubled young boy.
Ali’s ability to navigate between dramatic and subtle roles has earned him further acclaim in projects such as Green Book, where he played Dr. Don Shirley with grace and complexity. In television, his role as the enigmatic vampire hunter in True Detective and his portrayal of a conflicted FBI agent in Ramy highlight his range and ability to bring authenticity to every character.
Mahershala Ali’s impressive body of work consistently demonstrates his mastery of storytelling through captivating performances.
Mahershala Ali Biography/Wiki
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Mahershalalhashbaz Ali |
| Date of Birth | February 16, 1974 |
| Birthplace | Oakland, California, U.S. |
| Age | 51 years old (as of 2025) |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African-American |
| Occupation | Actor |
| Years Active | 2001–present |
| Notable Works | House of Cards, Moonlight, Green Book, Luke Cage, True Detective |
| Awards | Academy Award, Golden Globe Award, Primetime Emmy Award |
| Height | 6 feet 2 inches |
| Weight | 175 lbs |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
| Education | Schottland Junior High School, St. Mary’s College of California |
| Religion | Islam |
| Marital Status | Married to Amatus Sami-Karim |
| Children | 1 daughter |
| Social Media | |
| Net Worth | $8 million |
| Philanthropy | Involved in various humanitarian efforts, supporting education and social justice. |
Who is Mahershala Ali?
Mahershala Ali is a highly acclaimed American actor, known for his powerful performances and versatility in both film and television. Born on February 16, 1974, in Oakland, California, he initially pursued a career in education before transitioning to acting.
His breakthrough came in the mid-2000s with roles in shows like The 4400 and House of Cards. However, it was his role in Barry Jenkins’ Moonlight (2016) that truly established his prominence, earning him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.
Ali’s ability to bring depth and authenticity to his characters has led to further success in films like Green Book, Blade Runner 2049, and the upcoming Blade reboot for Marvel. With his distinctive presence and dedication to social justice, Mahershala Ali has become a celebrated figure in the entertainment industry, admired not only for his talent but also for his activism and philanthropy.
Mahershala Ali Early Life and Family
Mahershala Ali, was raised in a Muslim household with his mother, who worked as a social worker, and his father, who served as a preacher. Ali developed a passion for acting at a young age and pursued his dreams while attending Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia.
After earning a degree in mass communication, he continued his education at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts, where he refined his craft. Throughout his early years, Ali was deeply influenced by his cultural background and the diversity of experiences that Oakland provided, shaping his commitment to storytelling that reflects the complexities of the human condition.
Mahershala Ali Amazing Career
Mahershala Ali’s career took off in the mid-2000s with roles in television shows such as The 4400, Crossing Jordan, and House of Cards. However, his breakthrough came with Barry Jenkins’ Moonlight in 2016, where he won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his portrayal of Juan, a compassionate drug dealer.
This role solidified his reputation as a transformative actor capable of embodying complex characters with nuance. Following his success, Ali appeared in films like Green Book, where he won his second Oscar for Best Supporting Actor, and Blade Runner 2049.
His dedication to meaningful storytelling, combined with his powerful performances, has cemented Mahershala Ali as one of the most respected actors of his generation.
Mahershala Ali Movies And Tv Shows:
Movies
- Moonlight (2016) – Mahershala Ali won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role as Juan, a compassionate drug dealer who becomes a mentor to a young boy struggling with his identity.
- Green Book (2018) – Ali played Dr. Don Shirley, a talented pianist embarking on a tour through the segregated American South, earning him his second Oscar for Best Supporting Actor.
- The Place Beyond the Pines (2012) – In this crime drama, Ali portrays a troubled mentor to Ryan Gosling’s character, delivering a powerful and nuanced performance.
- Moonlight Sonata: Deafness in Three Movements (2019) – Ali stars as a renowned musician navigating life challenges while coming to terms with his identity as a deaf individual.
- Swan Song (2021) – In this sci-fi drama, Ali plays a man given the chance to recreate his life by transferring his consciousness into a clone.
TV Shows
- House of Cards (2013-2016) – Ali portrays Remy Danton, a shrewd lobbyist who becomes embroiled in the political intrigue of Washington D.C.
- True Detective (Season 3, 2019) – In this anthology crime series, Ali takes on the role of Detective Wayne Hays, unraveling a complex mystery across decades.
- Ramy (2020) – Ali guest stars in a poignant episode of this Hulu series, offering insight into the struggles of a Muslim-American millennial.
- What’s Eating Gilbert Grape (2009) – Though a limited role, Ali provides a memorable performance as a friendly neighbor.
- The 4400 (2004) – Ali plays Tom Baldwin, an agent investigating mysterious disappearances and the reappearance of individuals after years.
Mahershala Ali Height, Weight, and Physical Appearance
| Attribute | Measurement |
| Height | 6 feet 2 inches (188 cm) |
| Weight | 85 kilograms (187 pounds) |
| Body Type | Athletic, Well-Built |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
| Hair Color | Dark Brown |
| Skin Tone | Medium Brown |
| Facial Features | Well-Groomed, Distinct Cheekbones, Deep Set Eyes |
| Distinctive Traits | Charismatic, Sophisticated, Reflective of Cultural Heritage |
| Fitness | Regular Exercise & Healthy Lifestyle |
Mahershala Ali Wife/Girlfriend and Relationship status
Mahershala Ali is married to Amatus Sami-Karim, a singer, songwriter, and filmmaker. The couple tied the knot in 2013 and share a close bond. Amatus Sami-Karim is known for her work in the music industry, particularly her collaboration with Mahershala Ali on projects such as the score for his film Moonlight.
Despite maintaining a relatively private relationship, Mahershala often expresses his admiration and respect for his wife through interviews and social media. Together, they support each other’s creative pursuits and family life, often seen attending events and enjoying time with their daughter, Bari Najma, born in 2017. Their relationship reflects a strong partnership rooted in mutual respect and shared values.
Mahershala Ali Net Worth
| Year | Estimated Net Worth | Source of Income |
| 2025 | $8 million | Acting, Film Productions, Endorsements, Public Speaking |
| 2024 | $7 million | Movies, TV Shows, Endorsements, Public Appearances |
| 2023 | $6 million | Awards, Film Roles, Producing |
| 2022 | $5 million | Film and TV Roles, Brand Endorsements |
| 2021 | $4.5 million | Acting Career, Small Investments, Personal Ventures |
Mahershala Ali Future Plans and Goals
Mahershala Ali has consistently been focused on selecting roles that challenge him both as an actor and a creative individual. In the future, he aims to expand his influence beyond acting by producing films that explore socially relevant and thought-provoking narratives.
Additionally, Ali has expressed interest in continuing his work in humanitarian efforts and activism, supporting underrepresented communities. With a desire to contribute to meaningful storytelling, he envisions building a legacy not just as an actor, but as a catalyst for change through his creative work.
Mahershala Ali Social Media
| Platform | Followers | Following | Posts | Engagement | Description | Link |
| 842K | 818 | 49 | Likes: N/A, Comments: N/A | Sharing professional insights, behind-the-scenes moments, and personal experiences. | Visit Instagram | |
| TikTok | 7666 | N/A | 28.5M posts | 7666 Likes, 70 Comments | Features short clips, fan interactions, and occasional updates. | Visit TikTok |
Fun Facts about Mahershala Ali
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Unique Name:
Mahershala Ali’s full name is Mahershalalhashbaz Gilmore, inspired by the Biblical figure. His stage name pays homage to this tradition.
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First Muslim Oscar Winner:
Mahershala Ali became the first Muslim actor to win an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor for his role in Moonlight (2016).
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Early Career:
Before acting, Ali was a teacher and a social worker. He discovered his passion for acting later in life.
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Marvel Debut:
Ali will star as Blade in the upcoming Marvel reboot, making him the first Muslim superhero in the MCU.
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Oscar Winner:
He won his second Oscar for Best Supporting Actor for his role in Green Book (2018), solidifying his status as a versatile and talented actor.
Mahershala Ali Videos and Images
Frequently Asked Questions about Mahershala Ali
Who is Mahershala Ali?
Mahershala Ali is an acclaimed American actor known for his roles in films like Moonlight, Green Book, and House of Cards. He has won multiple awards, including two Oscars.
What is Mahershala Ali’s most famous role?
His most famous role is likely his portrayal of Juan in Moonlight (2016), which earned him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.
Is Mahershala Ali involved in any upcoming projects?
Yes, Mahershala Ali is set to star in the Marvel reboot of Blade and a film called Solitary, based on the life of Albert Woodfox.
What are some of Mahershala Ali’s philanthropic efforts?
Mahershala Ali is actively involved in philanthropy, including supporting education initiatives and social justice causes, such as the advancement of healthcare and minority rights.
Conclusion about Mahershala Ali
Mahershala Ali is a highly talented and versatile actor known for his captivating performances in both film and television. With an impressive career spanning decades, he has garnered widespread acclaim for his roles in films like Moonlight, Green Book, and House of Cards.
His dedication to his craft has earned him numerous accolades, including two Academy Awards and a Golden Globe. Beyond his acting career, Mahershala is actively involved in philanthropic efforts, supporting causes such as education, social justice, and healthcare.
His commitment to making a positive impact on society, combined with his passion for storytelling, has cemented his status as one of the most respected figures in the entertainment industry. With upcoming projects like the Marvel reboot of Blade, Mahershala Ali continues to push boundaries and inspire audiences worldwide.