Who is the actor who breathed life into the chillingly charismatic Avon Barksdale, a character that etched itself into the annals of television history? The answer, of course, is Wood Harris, a name synonymous with compelling performances and an enduring presence on both the big and small screens.

Born Sherwin David Wood Harris in Chicago, Illinois, on October 17, 1969, Harriss journey to becoming a celebrated actor is a testament to his dedication and talent. From his early roles to his most recent projects, Harris has consistently delivered captivating performances, earning him critical acclaim and a devoted fanbase. His ability to inhabit diverse roles, from the menacing drug kingpin to the sensitive high school athlete, showcases his versatility and depth as an actor. His career spans several decades and he established himself as a talented and versatile actor who can seamlessly portray a wide range of characters. The actors parents, Steve and Wood Harris would never have guessed that their sons would become professional actors.

Attribute	Details
Full Name	Sherwin David Wood Harris
Date of Birth	October 17, 1969
Place of Birth	Chicago, Illinois, USA
Education	B.A. in Theatre Arts from Northern Illinois University; Master of Fine Arts from New York University, Graduate Acting Program
Known For	Avon Barksdale in "The Wire"; Motaw in "Above the Rim"; Julius Campbell in "Remember the Titans"
Notable Works	"Above the Rim" (1994), "Remember the Titans" (2000), "Paid in Full" (2002), "The Wire" (2002-2008), "Blade Runner 2049" (2017), "BMF" (2021)
Estimated Net Worth	$3 Million (as of 2019)
Other Appearances	"Oz," "NYPD Blue," "House," "Numb3rs," "Southland," "As Good as It Gets," "Creed," "Empire"
Brother	Steve Harris (also an actor)
Reference	The Famous People - Wood Harris

Harris's journey began in the heart of Chicago, a city that would shape his perspective and fuel his artistic aspirations. His upbringing, as he himself has described, was a "normal, sort of ghetto, urban upbringing." His father, a bus driver, and his mother, a seamstress and substitute schoolteacher, instilled in him the values of hard work and perseverance. These early experiences provided a rich tapestry of life that he would later draw upon to inform his character portrayals.

His formal training in the arts further honed his craft. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Arts from Northern Illinois University and a Master of Fine Arts from New York University's Graduate Acting Program. This rigorous education equipped him with the technical skills and artistic understanding necessary to navigate the demanding world of acting.

Harris's breakthrough came with his role as Motaw in the 1994 film "Above the Rim." This role marked the beginning of his rise to prominence and showcased his ability to portray complex characters with authenticity. He followed this with the role of Julius Campbell in the 2000 film "Remember the Titans," a film that resonated with audiences and became a box office success, grossing over $115 million in the U.S. and $136 million worldwide.

However, it was his portrayal of Avon Barksdale in the HBO crime drama "The Wire" that solidified his place in television history. As the ruthless but complex drug kingpin, Harris delivered a performance that was both captivating and chilling. His nuanced portrayal of Barksdale, a man of power and principle navigating the brutal realities of the drug trade, earned him critical acclaim and established him as a force to be reckoned with in the acting world. Harris starred as Avon Barksdale in the first, second, and third seasons and reprised the role as a guest star in the fifth season.

Harris's talent extends beyond the realm of television. He has also appeared in films such as "Paid in Full" (2002), where he played the cocaine dealer Ace and "Blade Runner 2049" (2017). His filmography is a testament to his versatility, featuring roles in various genres, from dramas to action films. His ability to seamlessly transition between different characters and settings is a hallmark of his acting prowess.

Beyond his on-screen work, Harris is also known for his dedication to his craft and his commitment to authenticity. He immerses himself in his roles, studying the characters and their motivations to deliver believable and impactful performances. This commitment to his craft has earned him the respect of his peers and the admiration of his fans.

In recent years, Harris has continued to take on challenging and compelling roles. He has starred in the Starz series "BMF" (2021), playing the drug lord Pat. This series has brought him into the limelight again, showcasing his ability to adapt to contemporary storytelling. It is the role of a drug lord that has put him in the limelight.

Wood Harris, the Chicago native, holds a B.A. in theatre arts from Northern Illinois University. He also holds a master of fine arts degree from New York University's graduate acting program. His journey, from the streets of Chicago to the heights of Hollywood, is a testament to his talent, dedication, and perseverance. He is an American actor who rose to prominence in the late 90s and early 2000s in numerous feature films and television series. He continues to captivate audiences with his compelling performances. Wood Harris's impact on the entertainment industry is undeniable, and his contributions to the art of acting will be remembered for years to come.

Wood Harris's career is a lesson in the power of hard work, dedication, and the pursuit of artistic excellence. His ability to inhabit a diverse range of characters has made him a celebrated figure in the entertainment industry. From the streets of Chicago to the world stage, Harris has consistently delivered captivating performances, solidifying his legacy as one of the most talented and versatile actors of his generation. He made his 2 million dollar fortune with "The Wire", "Paid in Full" & "Remember the Titans". Harris is renowned for his roles in "The Wire" and "Paid in Full," showcasing his versatility in acting.