DeRay Davis, a renowned comedian and actor, has made a significant mark in the entertainment industry.
As of 2025, his net worth is estimated to be around $1.5 million.
Let’s delve into the life and career of this talented performer, exploring how he built his wealth and the milestones he achieved along the way.
Early Life and Background
DeRay Davis, born Antwan DeRay Davis on February 26, 1968, in Chicago, Illinois, grew up in a vibrant city known for its rich cultural and comedic history.
Chicago provided the perfect backdrop for Davis to develop his comedic skills. His early life was marked by a love for humor and performance, which he honed in local comedy clubs.
Rise to Fame
Davis’s journey to fame began in the late 1990s when he started performing in comedy clubs around Chicago.
His sharp wit and unique comedic style quickly earned him a reputation as a rising star in the comedy scene.
His big break came when he moved to Los Angeles, where he won the Comedy Central Laugh Riots competition.
This victory opened doors for him to tour with established comedians like Cedric the Entertainer.
Breakthrough in Hollywood
DeRay Davis’s Hollywood breakthrough came with his role in the hit comedy film Barbershop (2002).
The film, set in a barbershop on the South Side of Chicago, showcased Davis’s comedic prowess alongside an ensemble cast that included Ice Cube and Cedric the Entertainer.
This role catapulted him into the spotlight, leading to more film and television opportunities.
Career Highlights
DeRay Davis has an extensive portfolio of work in both film and television. Some of his notable projects include:
- Film Appearances: Davis has appeared in popular films such as Scary Movie 4, 21 Jump Street, and Semi-Pro. These roles have allowed him to display his versatility as an actor and comedian.
- Television Roles: He has also appeared on various television shows, including Wild ‘N Out, Empire, and The Boondocks. His work on these shows has further solidified his status as a talented performer.
- Stand-Up Comedy: In addition to his acting career, Davis performs stand-up comedy, drawing large audiences with his relatable humor and engaging stage presence.
Personal Life
DeRay Davis is known for keeping his personal life relatively private. However, it is known that he has a sibling, Steph Jones, and he stands at an impressive height of 6 ft 2 in (1.88 m). Davis remains grounded and focused on his career and family despite his fame.
Financial Ventures and Lifestyle
While DeRay Davis’s net worth is estimated at $1.5 million, his income comes from various sources:
- Comedy and Acting: His primary income streams are his films and television roles and stand-up comedy performances.
- Endorsements and Appearances: Davis also earns from endorsements and public appearances, leveraging his celebrity status to boost his income.
- Real Estate and Investments: Though specific details about his real estate holdings and investments are not widely publicized, it is common for celebrities to diversify their income through such ventures.
FAQs
1. Who is DeRay Davis?
DeRay Davis, born Antoine DeRay Davis on February 26, 1982, is an American stand-up comedian and actor known for his roles in films like Barbershop and 21 Jump Street, as well as hosting shows like Hip Hop Squares.
2. What is DeRay Davis famous for?
He is best known for his role as Ray-Ray the Hustle Guy in Barbershop and Barbershop 2: Back in Business, his Netflix comedy special How to Act Black, and his comedic skits on Kanye West’s albums The College Dropout and Late Registration.
3. Where was DeRay Davis born and raised?
DeRay Davis was born and raised on the south side of Chicago, Illinois.
4. How did DeRay Davis start his career?
He began performing in comedy clubs in Chicago before moving to Los Angeles, where he won the Comedy Central Laugh Riots Competition, leading to opportunities in film, television, and stand-up tours.
5. What are some of DeRay Davis’s notable TV appearances?
He has appeared on shows like Empire, Snowfall, Wild ‘N Out, Reno 911!, and hosted the game show Mind of a Man.
6. What movies has DeRay Davis appeared in?
His film credits include Barbershop, 21 Jump Street, Semi-Pro, G.I. Joe: Retaliation, and Meet the Blacks.
7. What is DeRay Davis’s relationship status?
DeRay Davis is in a polyamorous relationship with two long-term girlfriends, Coco and Caro, which he has openly discussed in interviews.
8. Has DeRay Davis released any comedy specials?
Yes, his Netflix special How to Act Black was released in 2017 to critical acclaim for its humor and cultural insights.
9. What is DeRay Davis’s net worth?
His estimated net worth is $1.5 million, earned through his work in comedy, acting, and hosting.
10. What challenges has DeRay Davis faced in his life?
Growing up in a rough neighborhood in Chicago, he overcame poverty and personal struggles to build a successful career in entertainment. He has also been open about difficult experiences from his childhood that shaped him.
