He’s an actor best known for his standout performances in a number of memorable roles over the years. Name made a strong impression in Luke Cage in 2018, brought charm and depth to The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel in 2017, and showcased his early talent in several notable projects back in 1996 — including Set It Off, The Nutty Professor, and the popular TV series 7th Heaven. Before all the fame and spotlight, Name attended Evelyn Graves Christian Academy, where he laid the foundation for his future career. His mother, Cheryl Shepherd, played a pivotal role in his journey — a talented dancer and choreographer who made the big decision to step away from her position in the Philadelphia public school system to fully support and manage Name’s growing acting career. Family means a lot to him, and that’s clear when you look at his Instagram, where he often shares sweet moments with his daughter, Harlem, giving fans a heartfelt glimpse into his personal life. Over the years, Name has built a reputation not just as a skilled performer, but as someone deeply connected to his roots and loved ones.
He’s not just a screen presence—Name has also made his mark on stage, showcasing his talent in major Broadway productions. Back in 2005, Name took part in the powerful revival of The Color Purple, bringing depth and emotion to the role. Then, in 2018, Name stepped into the spotlight once again with a performance in the long-running hit Chicago. These roles really highlighted Name’s versatility as a performer, proving that Name can truly command any stage.