Michael Rainey Jr., who was born on September 22, 2000, in Louisville, Kentucky, has made a name for himself as a talented actor, particularly known for his compelling performance as Tariq St. Patrick in the popular series Power (Starz, 2014–2020) and its well-received spin-off Power Book II: Ghost (Starz, 2020–present). From a young age, Michael Rainey Jr. showed promise in the entertainment industry, earning early praise for his role in the Italian film Un Altro Mondo (2010), a project that even required him to become fluent in Italian.
As Michael Rainey Jr. continued to grow as an actor, he landed notable roles in films such as LUV (2012), starring alongside Common, and The Butler (2013), directed by Lee Daniels. He also brought charm and humor to the screen as Jalen in the family comedy Barbershop: The Next Cut (2016). However, it was his role as Tariq St. Patrick that truly solidified Michael Rainey Jr.’s status as a rising star, showcasing his ability to portray a young man caught between family loyalty, personal ambition, and the dangerous world of crime.
In addition to his acting career, Michael Rainey Jr. is actively involved in charitable causes, particularly those that support youth development and mental health awareness. As Power Book II: Ghost continues to draw in audiences, and with Michael Rainey Jr. expanding his presence into new film and television ventures, he continues to build a strong and promising future in Hollywood.
Michael Rainey Jr. has appeared in several films throughout his career, but his highest-rated movie to date remains Barbershop: The Next Cut from 2016. On the other hand, one of his lower-rated performances can be seen in the 2018 film 211. While Michael Rainey Jr. has built a solid presence in the industry, these two films represent the extremes in terms of critical reception. It’s interesting to see how different roles have contributed to Michael Rainey Jr.’s overall filmography, showcasing both his strengths and challenges as an actor.