Jaden Piner, known for his standout performances at such a young age, first captured attention as the child actor who portrayed Little—the youngest version of Chiron—in the critically acclaimed, Academy Award-winning film Moonlight. It was a role that truly put Jaden Piner on the map. Before that big break, Jaden Piner was just a student attending a drama program in school, where his teacher encouraged all the boys in class to audition for what would become a historic film. That opportunity changed everything for Jaden Piner.
Born in New York City, Jaden Piner spent much of his early life living in Queens before relocating to Miami, Florida in 2011. His family has always been an important part of his journey—his mother, Donna Wellington, has been a strong support, and he shares a close bond with his sister Robin, who is from his father’s side.
Following the success of Moonlight, Jaden Piner continued to build his acting career, landing the role of Kevin in the Showtime drama series The Chi in 2018. Once again, Jaden Piner proved his talent and versatility on screen, further establishing himself as a rising young star. With each new role, Jaden Piner continues to grow his presence in the entertainment industry, all while staying grounded by the values and support instilled by his family.
From a young age, he always had a strong sense of purpose—driven by the chance Moonlight gave him, he was determined to make a difference. He wanted to support his mother and give back in meaningful ways, so he started putting some of his earnings toward cancer research. His heart was in the right place early on, and that motivation only grew stronger over time. Even as a kid, he saw Moonlight not just as an opportunity for himself, but as a platform to help others. That kind of mindset shaped the path he followed, and it became clear that his goals went far beyond personal success.