Nia Long, born Nia Talita Long on October 30, 1970, in Brooklyn, New York, is an accomplished American actress known for her work in Black cinema. She rose to prominence after starring in the film "Boyz n the Hood" (1991) and for her portrayal of Beullah "Lisa" Wilkes on the NBC sitcom "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" (1991-1995).

Her mother, Talita Long, is a teacher and printmaker of Trinidadian descent, while her father, Doughtry Long, is a high school teacher and poet. Nia has an older half-sister, Sommore, who is a comedian and actress.

Her lifestyle reflects her dedication to her craft and her community. She is known for her elegance and grace, both on and off-screen. She has always been passionate about serving her community, and she actively supports organizations like Black Girls Rock, which promotes the arts for young women of color.

She also has a strong interest in connecting women in the US to those in the Caribbean islands, reflecting her family roots in Trinidad, Grenada, and Barbados.

Nia Long was previously in a relationship with Ime Udoka, a professional basketball coach, and they have two children together. Although they parted ways in 2022, she continues to be a devoted mother. She is currently engaged to someone new, and her personal life remains a source of inspiration for many of her fans.

Her career spans several decades, with notable roles in films such as "Friday" (1995), "Love Jones" (1997), "Soul Food" (1997), "The Best Man" (1999) and its sequel "The Best Man Holiday" (2013), as well as the "Big Momma's House" franchise.

On television, she has been a part of shows like "Third Watch" (2003-2005), "Empire" (2017), and "NCIS: Los Angeles" (2017-2018). Her versatility as an actress has earned her several accolades, including two NAACP Image Awards and a Black Reel Award.

Her journey in the entertainment industry is a testament to her talent, dedication, and resilience. From her early days on "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" to her recent work in "NCIS: Los Angeles," she has consistently delivered powerful performances that resonate with audiences.