Cuba Gooding Jr., a highly acclaimed African-American actor, rose to prominence with his Academy Award-winning performance in the American sports comedy film ‘Jerry Maguire’, directed by Cameron Crowe. Prior to this breakthrough, Gooding had made appearances in TV series like ‘Better Days’ and ‘Hill Street Blues’ in small guest roles.
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However, it was his role in the 1991 American drama film ‘Boyz n the Hood’, directed by John Singleton, that truly propelled his career. The film achieved immense success and garnered numerous accolades, including a nomination for Gooding as Best Supporting Actor by the Chicago Film Critics Association.
Continuing his impressive trajectory, Gooding went on to star in the medical thriller ‘Outbreak’, directed by Wolfgang Peterson. The film centered around the outbreak of a fictional virus called the Motaba virus, first in Zaire and then in the US. It achieved commercial success, earning Gooding nominations for two awards. Subsequently, he appeared in several other successful films before transitioning to predominantly direct-to-DVD releases, diverging from theatrical and television projects.
In more recent years, Gooding’s notable works include the 2013 film ‘Life of a King’ and the 2014 American film ‘Freedom’, in which he not only portrayed the lead character but also served as the executive producer. Despite his shift towards different avenues of distribution, Gooding’s talent and impact as an actor continue to be recognized.
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Profile Summary
| Real Name/Full Name | Cuba Mark Gooding Jr |
| Nick Name/Celebrated Name: | Cuba Gooding Jr |
| Birth Place: | The Bronx, NY, United States |
| Date Of Birth/Birthday: | 2 January 1968 |
| Age/How Old: | 55 years old |
| Height/How Tall: | In Centimetres – 178 cm In Feet and Inches – 5’10” |
| Weight: | In Kilograms – 75 kg In Pounds – 165 lbs |
| Eye Color: | Brown |
| Hair Color: | Black |
| Parents Name: | Father – Cuba Gooding Sr. Mother – Shirley Sullivan |
| Siblings: | Omar Gooding, Tommy Gooding, April Gooding |
| School: | John F. Kennedy High School |
| College: | N/A |
| Social media Accounts: | |
| Religion: | Christian |
| Nationality: | American |
| Zodiac Sign: | Capricorn |
| Gender: | Male |
| Sexual Orientation: | Straight |
| Marital Status: | Divorced |
| Girlfriend: | N/A |
| Wife/Spouse Name: | Sara Kapfer (m. 1994-2017) |
| Kids/Children Name: | Mason Gooding, Piper Gooding, Spencer Gooding |
| Profession: | Actor |
| Net Worth: | $16 million |
| Last Updated: | 2023 |
Childhood & Early Life
Cuba Gooding Jr. was born on January 2, 1968, in the Bronx, New York City, United States. His father, Cuba Gooding Sr., was a renowned lead vocalist of the soul music band ‘The Main Ingredient,’ while his mother, Shirley, was a singer associated with ‘The Sweethearts.’ Together, they had four children, including Cuba Gooding Jr.
In 1972, Gooding Jr.’s father’s music group achieved great success with the hit single ‘Everybody Plays the Fool,’ which prompted the family to relocate to Los Angeles. Unfortunately, his parents’ marriage did not endure, and his father eventually left the family, leaving his mother to raise the children on her own.
During his educational journey, Gooding Jr. attended various schools such as Apple Valley High School and John F. Kennedy High School. After completing high school, he developed a fascination for Japanese martial arts and dedicated three years to studying and practicing them. However, his focus eventually shifted towards acting, leading him to pursue a career in the performing arts.
Personal Life & Legacy
In 1994, Cuba Gooding Jr. tied the knot with his high-school sweetheart, Sara Kapfer. Their love story began during their younger years, and together they have three children. However, after spending many years together, the couple made the difficult decision to separate in 2014, and they are currently undergoing the process of finalizing their divorce.
The journey of love and companionship that Cuba Gooding Jr. and Sara Kapfer shared has taken a different path, and they are now focused on moving forward separately. Despite the challenges they face, their main priority remains the well-being and happiness of their children.
While their relationship has changed, it is a reminder that life is full of twists and turns, and even in difficult times, growth and new beginnings can emerge. Both Cuba Gooding Jr. and Sara Kapfer are navigating this transition with respect and understanding, as they embark on their individual journeys.
Cuba Gooding Jr.’s Career
Cuba Gooding Jr. began his acting career with guest roles in popular TV shows like ‘Better Days’ (1986), ‘Hill Street Blues’ (1987), and ‘MacGyver’ (1989). However, it was his breakthrough role in the American drama film ‘Boyz n the Hood,’ directed by John Singleton, that brought him widespread recognition. Released on July 12, 1991, the film not only achieved commercial success but also elevated Gooding’s status in the industry.
Following the success of ‘Boyz n the Hood,’ Gooding took on supporting roles in notable films such as the 1992 American drama ‘A Few Good Men,’ the 1993 American action thriller ‘Judgment Night,’ and the 1994 American thriller ‘Blown Away.’
In 1996, Gooding’s career soared to new heights with the release of the sports drama film ‘Jerry Maguire.’ Starring alongside Tom Cruise, Gooding portrayed the character of an arrogant yet loyal football player. The movie became a blockbuster hit, earning over $273 million worldwide and receiving numerous awards. Gooding’s exceptional performance earned him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, solidifying his place as a talented actor in the industry.
In the years following his breakthrough, Gooding appeared in notable films such as the 1997 American comedy ‘As Good as It Gets,’ directed by James L. Brooks, and the 1998 fantasy drama ‘What Dreams May Come,’ alongside Robin Williams.
Throughout his career, Gooding has taken on various film roles, with several of them achieving considerable success. Some notable films include ‘Snow Dogs’ (2002), ‘Boat Trip’ (2002), ‘Radio’ (2003), ‘American Gangster’ (2007), ‘Linewatch’ (2008), ‘Lies & Illusions’ (2009), and ‘The Hit List’ (2011).
In 2013, Gooding delivered a significant performance in the American drama film ‘The Butler,’ loosely based on the life of Eugene Allen, a waiter and butler who served in the White House. Alongside acclaimed actors Forest Whitaker, Oprah Winfrey, John Cusack, James Marsden, and Alan Rickman, the film garnered positive reviews and achieved commercial success.
Gooding has also made appearances in several TV shows, often in guest roles. Notably, he portrayed a significant character in ‘The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story,’ a show that delved into the infamous O.J. Simpson murder case. Premiering on February 2, 2016, the series received critical acclaim and multiple awards.
Awards & Achievements
Throughout his illustrious career, Cuba Gooding Jr. has garnered numerous accolades and prestigious awards. One of his most notable achievements is winning the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his exceptional portrayal in the 1996 film ‘Jerry Maguire.’ His captivating performance as an arrogant yet loyal football player earned him critical acclaim and solidified his place among the finest actors in the industry.
In addition to his Academy Award, Gooding has also been recognized by the NAACP Image Awards. He received the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Actor in a Television Movie, Mini-Series, or Dramatic Special for his remarkable role in the 2012 television film ‘Firelight.’ This recognition highlights his versatility and ability to captivate audiences in various formats, showcasing his remarkable talent as an actor.
These awards are a testament to Cuba Gooding Jr.’s exceptional skills and his contributions to the world of film and television. His dedication and commitment to his craft have earned him the admiration and respect of both his peers and audiences alike.
