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Kenn Whitaker, born Kenneth Dwayne Whitaker on June 8, 1963, in Longview, Texas, is a former actor known for his roles in late 1990s films and television. Though he may not have pursued as extensive a career in Hollywood as his older brother Forest Whitaker, Kenn made notable appearances in movies like Most Wanted (1997), Bulworth (1998), and Life (1999), before stepping away from acting for a more private life.
Early Life and Family Background
Kenn Whitaker grew up in a family deeply rooted in education and community service. His mother, Laura Francis Smith, worked as a special education teacher, while his father, Forest Steven Jr., was an insurance salesman. The family moved from Texas to Carson, California, when Kenn and Forest were just toddlers. Growing up in a close-knit household, the Whitaker siblings—Kenn, Forest, Damon, and Deborah—shared a passion for the arts and later became known for their respective contributions to the entertainment industry.
Although Kenn and Forest are frequently mistaken for twins due to their strong resemblance, Kenn was born nearly two years after his older brother—just one month before Forest’s second birthday. Both brothers shared an early fascination with the creative arts, with Forest originally focusing on music before shifting to acting. Kenn eventually followed a similar route, exploring his own talents within Hollywood.
Kenn Whitaker’s Acting Career
Kenn Whitaker’s first significant involvement in the entertainment industry came in 1993 when he performed a self-written song, “I Ain’t Goin’ Nowhere,” for the soundtrack of the HBO film Strapped, directed by his brother Forest. This marked the beginning of Kenn’s brief but memorable career in Hollywood.
In 1997, Kenn made his first appearance on the big screen in the action thriller film Most Wanted, playing a small role as Bus Guard 2. The following year, Kenn appeared in Bulworth (1998), a political satire directed by Warren Beatty, where he demonstrated his versatility as an actor. Though his roles were often minor, he displayed a natural presence that resonated with audiences.
Kenn’s most significant role came in the 1999 comedy-drama Life, where he acted alongside Hollywood heavyweights Eddie Murphy and Martin Lawrence. In the film, Kenn portrayed Isaac, a character that allowed him to showcase his acting skills and interact with some of the era’s biggest stars. Life would go on to be one of his most recognized performances, solidifying his place as a notable figure in the industry.
Kenn’s acting career continued into the early 2000s, with a role in the film The Theory of the Leisure Class (2001) and an appearance in Last Days (2001), which would ultimately be his last on-screen role before stepping away from the industry.
Stepping Away from the Spotlight
After Last Days in 2001, Kenn Whitaker chose to retire from acting. Unlike his older brother Forest, who went on to achieve immense success as an actor, director, and producer, Kenn decided to keep a low profile. Since his departure from Hollywood, he has remained out of the public eye, opting for a quieter life away from the limelight. Unlike many celebrities, Kenn is not active on social media and prefers to maintain his privacy, making him a somewhat mysterious figure in Hollywood circles today.
A Family of Talent
Kenn Whitaker is part of a highly talented family with strong ties to Hollywood. His brother Forest Whitaker, an award-winning actor, director, and producer, remains one of the most respected figures in the film industry. Their younger brother, Damon Whitaker, and their sister, Deborah Whitaker, have also pursued careers in acting, continuing the family’s legacy in entertainment.
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Age
Kenn Whitaker is 61 years old and will be celebrating his 62nd birthday on June 8, 2024.
Height
5′ 11″ (180 cm)
Conclusion
While Kenn Whitaker may not have achieved the same level of fame as his older brother, his contributions to the film industry are noteworthy. His performances in films such as Life and Bulworth remain beloved by fans, and his decision to step away from acting has only added to his quiet mystique. The Whitaker family, with Kenn as an important part of its legacy, continues to be a significant force in Hollywood, with each member contributing their talents to the world of entertainment in their own way.
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