Jamal Woolard is an accomplished American actor and rapper who gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of legendary hip-hop artist The Notorious B.I.G. in the 2009 biographical film “Notorious.” His uncanny resemblance and powerful performance earned him critical acclaim and established him as a notable figure in both the music and film industries.
| Full Name | Jamal Woolard |
|---|---|
| Profession | Actor, Rapper |
| Birth Date | July 8, 1975 |
| Age | 49 (as of 2025) |
| Birth Sign | Cancer |
| Birthplace | Brooklyn, New York |
| Net Worth | $2 Million (estimated as of 2025) |
| Relationship Status | Private |
| Height | 6’3" (estimated) |
Early Life & Background
Jamal Woolard was born on July 8, 1975, in Brooklyn, New York. Growing up in the same borough that produced hip-hop legend The Notorious B.I.G. (whom he would later portray), Woolard was immersed in the rich culture and musical heritage of Brooklyn. His early life in this vibrant environment shaped his understanding of hip-hop culture and likely contributed to his ability to authentically portray one of its most iconic figures later in his career.
Music Career
Before achieving fame as an actor, Woolard established himself in the music industry as a rapper under the stage name “Gravy.” His musical portfolio includes several notable rap recordings, including “Mayor Goonberg Visits Africa” and “N.Y. Target.” While his music career provided him with valuable insights into the hip-hop industry, it was his transition to acting that would ultimately bring him widespread recognition.
Acting Breakthrough
Woolard’s life changed dramatically when he was cast to play Christopher Wallace, better known as The Notorious B.I.G., in the 2009 biopic “Notorious.” His dedication to the role was remarkable—he gained over fifty pounds to accurately portray the physical appearance of the legendary rapper. This commitment to authenticity, combined with his natural talent, resulted in a performance that earned him both BET and Black Reel Awards, establishing him as a serious actor with considerable range.
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Film Career Development
Following his breakthrough role in “Notorious,” Woolard continued to build his acting résumé with various roles that showcased his versatility. He later reprised his role as The Notorious B.I.G. in the Tupac Shakur biopic “All Eyez on Me” (2017), demonstrating the lasting impact of his portrayal. Throughout his career, he has balanced his love for music with his acting pursuits, bringing authenticity to roles connected to the hip-hop community.
Personal Life
Woolard has maintained a relatively private personal life despite his public career. At one point, he temporarily stepped back from his film acting career to dedicate time to his daughter, highlighting the importance he places on family relationships. This decision reflects his priorities beyond the spotlight and his commitment to fatherhood. Specific details about his marital status and family structure remain largely private.
Net Worth & Financial Success
As of 2025, Jamal Woolard’s net worth is estimated at approximately $2 million. This financial portfolio has been built through his dual careers in acting and music. His breakthrough role in “Notorious” significantly elevated his earning potential, while his continued work in both industries has helped maintain his financial stability over the years.
Notable Facts & Trivia
- Gained over fifty pounds to authentically portray The Notorious B.I.G.
- Won both BET and Black Reel Awards for his performance in “Notorious”
- Performed as a rapper under the stage name “Gravy” before his acting breakthrough
- Contributed to a track on Tupac Shakur’s posthumously released album “Pac’s Life”
- Temporarily suspended his acting career to focus on fatherhood
Cultural Impact
Woolard’s portrayal of The Notorious B.I.G. has cemented his place in hip-hop cultural history. By bringing to life one of rap music’s most influential figures, he helped preserve the legacy of Biggie Smalls for both longtime fans and new generations discovering the artist’s work. His contribution to hip-hop culture extends beyond his own music to include this significant historical preservation.
Acting Technique
What sets Woolard apart as an actor is his commitment to physical transformation and authentic portrayal. His willingness to substantially alter his appearance for the role of Biggie demonstrated a level of dedication that impressed critics and audiences alike. This thoroughness in character development has become a hallmark of his approach to acting roles.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old is Jamal Woolard in 2025? Jamal Woolard is 49 years old in 2025, having been born on July 8, 1975.
What is Jamal Woolard’s stage name as a rapper? As a rapper, Jamal Woolard performs under the stage name “Gravy.”
What major awards has Jamal Woolard won? He won both BET and Black Reel Awards for his portrayal of The Notorious B.I.G. in the 2009 film “Notorious.”
How much weight did Jamal Woolard gain for his role in “Notorious”? Jamal Woolard gained over fifty pounds to accurately portray The Notorious B.I.G.
What is Jamal Woolard’s connection to Tupac Shakur? Woolard contributed to a track on Tupac Shakur’s posthumously released album “Pac’s Life,” and later appeared in the Tupac biopic “All Eyez on Me,” reprising his role as The Notorious B.I.G.