Net Worth Ranker
What Is Mekhi Phifer’s Net Worth?
Mekhi Phifer, a prominent American actor recognized for his roles in films like “8 Mile,” “Clockers,” and “Paid in Full,” has an estimated net worth of $500,000. This figure reflects his career earnings offset by financial challenges, most notably a bankruptcy filing in 2014. Phifer’s journey showcases the complexities of wealth management in the entertainment industry.
Mekhi Phifer’s Financial Background
In May 2014, Mekhi Phifer filed for bankruptcy protection, revealing a stark contrast between his assets and liabilities. The filing indicated assets totaling approximately $67,000, while his debts amounted to a substantial $1.3 million. A significant portion of this debt, around $1.2 million, was attributed to unpaid taxes owed to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Phifer also stated that his monthly expenses were $11,000, while his monthly income only amounted to $7,500. This situation highlighted the financial difficulties he faced despite his successful acting career.
Mekhi Phifer’s Early Life and Career Beginnings
Mekhi Phifer was born on December 29, 1974, in Harlem, New York City. Raised by his single mother, Rhoda Phifer, who worked as a high school teacher, Phifer’s early life provided a foundation for his future endeavors. His breakthrough role came with his debut in Spike Lee’s 1995 urban drama, “Clockers,” where he portrayed the character Ronald “Strike” Dunham, a petty drug dealer. He secured this role after attending an open casting call in 1994, standing out among nearly 1,000 other applicants due to his charisma. Following this, Phifer appeared in the comedy film “High School High” (1996), which notably also featured his ex-wife Malinda Williams.
Mekhi Phifer’s Film Roles
Following “High School High,” Mekhi Phifer continued to build his acting portfolio with appearances in various films. In 1997, he starred in “Soul Food,” further establishing his presence in the industry. The following year, in 1998, he co-starred with Jennifer Love Hewitt and Freddie Prinze Jr. in the horror film “I Still Know What You Did Last Summer,” and also featured in “Hell’s Kitchen.” 1999 saw him in “A Lesson Before Dying” and “Uninvited Guest,” the latter marking his second collaboration with ex-wife Malinda Williams. In 2000, he appeared in the action thriller “Shaft,” alongside Samuel L. Jackson, Christian Bale, and Vanessa L. Williams. During the 2000s, Phifer expanded his filmography with roles in “Carmen: A Hip Hopera” (2001), a made-for-television film produced by MTV; “O” (2001), a modern adaptation of Shakespeare’s “Othello”; “Brian’s Song” (2001), a remake of the 1971 television film; “8 Mile” (2002), which featured rapper Eminem in his acting debut; “Paid in Full” (2002), a crime drama film set in Harlem; “Impostor” (2002), a science fiction thriller film directed by Gary Fleder; “Honey” (2003), co-starring Jessica Alba and Romeo Miller; “Dawn of the Dead” (2004), an action horror film directed by Zack Snyder; “Slow Burn” (2005), starring Ray Liotta, Jolene Blalock, and LL Cool J; “Puff, Puff, Pass” (2006), which Phifer starred in and directed; “This Christmas” (2007), a holiday-themed romantic musical comedy; and “A Day in the Life” (2009), written and directed by rapper Sticky Fingaz.
Mekhi Phifer’s Later Film Career and “Divergent” Franchise
In later years, Mekhi Phifer continued to appear in a range of films, including “The Suspect” (2013) and the “Divergent” franchise. He played roles in “Divergent” (2014), “The Divergent Series: Insurgent” (2015), and “The Divergent Series: Allegiant” (2016). These roles helped maintain his presence in the film industry and contributed to his overall earnings. The “Divergent” series, based on the novels by Veronica Roth, provided Phifer with exposure to a broader audience.
Mekhi Phifer’s Television Work
Mekhi Phifer has had an extensive career in television, beginning in the 1990s. He appeared on police and crime shows such as “New York Undercover” (1995-1996), “Homicide: Life on the Street” (1996-1998), “Lie to Me” (2009-2011), “Psych” (2012), and “Chicago P.D.” (2018). His versatility allowed him to take on roles in other genres, including “Curb Your Enthusiasm” (2005), “Torchwood” (2011), “White Collar” (2012), “Roots” (2016), “Secret City” (2016), “Frequency” (2016), “Truth Be Told” (2019), and “Love, Victor” (2020). His consistent work in television has been a steady source of income throughout his career, impacting his net worth.
Mekhi Phifer’s Music Video Appearances
In addition to his film and television roles, Mekhi Phifer has appeared in numerous music videos. Some of his notable appearances include “Many Men (Wish Death)” by 50 Cent (2003), “The Boy Is Mine” by Brandy and Monica (1998), “Don’t Let Go” by En Vogue (1996), “Nobody” by Keith Sweat (1996), “Flava in Ya Ear” by Craig Mack (1994), and three Eminem videos: “Just Lose It” (2004), “Lose Yourself” (2002), and “Without Me” (2002). These appearances likely provided additional income and exposure, contributing to his overall earnings.
Mekhi Phifer’s Business Ventures and Charity Work
Outside of acting, Mekhi Phifer has engaged in various business ventures. He owns several “Athlete’s Foot” athletic footwear franchise stores in California. Additionally, he heads the production company Third Reel Films, which he launched in January 2011. Phifer has also been involved in charity work, including participating in the Celebrity Poker Showdown Championship event. In 2004, he won the event, defeating actor Neil Patrick Harris. He has also served as the Chairman of the Board of the non-profit organization The Vine Group USA, which provides educational resources to universities in Africa. These activities reflect his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to philanthropy.
Mekhi Phifer’s Personal Life
Mekhi Phifer’s personal life includes previous marriages and children. He was previously married to actress Malinda Williams, with whom he has one son. He also has a son with Oni Souratha. On March 30, 2013, he married his longtime girlfriend, Reshelet Barnes, in Beverly Hills, California. These personal details provide insight into his life outside of his professional career.
