Harry Lennix is a renowned actor in film, television, and stage, with a diverse range of credits to his name. Born on November 16, 1964, in Chicago, Illinois, to Lillian C. Vines, a laundress, and Harry Lennix, Jr., a machinist, he is of African-American and Louisiana Creole descent.
Growing up, Lennix was an A student who initially considered pursuing a career in baseball. However, he decided to act in his high school play, which sparked his passion for the craft. He attended Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois, where he majored in Acting and Direction and was recognized in "Who's Who Among American College Students."
After graduating, Lennix taught in Chicago for a brief period before moving to New York and eventually Los Angeles. He made his Broadway debut in August Wilson's Tony-nominated play, Radio Golf, and has since appeared in numerous films and television shows, including ER, Diagnosis Murder, Century City, and House.
Lennix has received critical acclaim for his performances in various projects, including the Golden Globe-nominated ABC show Commander in Chief, the Oscar-winning film Ray, and the Matrix trilogy. He has also appeared in a range of other films, such as Across the Universe, Barbershop 2, and Love and Basketball.
In addition to his film and television work, Lennix has had a successful stage career, starring in productions such as Keep the Faith Baby, Titus, and The Five Heartbeats. He has directed and appeared in various stage productions across the country, including the Northlight Theater Company's production of Permanent Collection.
Lennix has been recognized for his contributions to the arts, including winning a Black Reel Award and being nominated for several NAACP Image Awards and Golden Satellite Awards. He is also a dedicated philanthropist, involved in various civic groups and on the staff of the Goodman Theater Co.
Currently residing in Los Angeles, Lennix is married and has two older brothers and an older sister. He often returns to his hometown of Chicago to visit his remaining family and remains committed to promoting significant works about the African American experience through his company, Legacy Productions.
