October 19, 1976, marked the birth of Omar Miles Gooding in Los Angeles. Over the subsequent decades, he established a diverse professional footprint across American entertainment as an actor, comedian, rapper, and voice artist. His career trajectory highlights a consistent presence within television and film productions, spanning from children's programming to adult-oriented dramatic series.
Early Development and Education
Born to Shirley Sullivan and Cuba Gooding Sr., a former lead singer for The Main Ingredient, Omar Gooding grew up in a household integrated into the performing arts. He pursued his secondary education within the Los Angeles area, attending University High School and later graduating from North Hollywood High School in 1994.
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Gooding gained early national exposure as a host for the Nickelodeon production Wild & Crazy Kids, appearing on the show from 1990 to 1992. His television credits include roles in Touched by an Angel, Hangin' with Mr. Cooper, and Smart Guy. In 2003, he portrayed the running back D.H. in the series Playmakers. His later television work involved a role as Calvin Palmer Jr. in the Barbershop series in 2005, a recurring barber role on UPN’s One on One, and the character Tuck Brody in Miami Medical. From 2012 to 2020, he starred in the Bounce TV series Family Time, followed by his 2023 role as Cal Johnson in the Disney Channel program Saturdays. In film, he appeared in Ghost Dad and garnered critical attention for his performance as Sweetpea in Baby Boy.
Music and Other Creative Pursuits
Operating under the stage name Big O, Gooding has expanded his creative output into the music industry. He released a hip hop album titled The Excuse in 2019. His career remains active, encompassing both performance and voice acting disciplines within the American entertainment market.
Fast facts
- Born: October 19, 1976, Los Angeles
- Stage Name: Big O
- High School: North Hollywood High School
- Early Television Hosting: Wild & Crazy Kids (1990-1992)
- 2019 Music Release: The Excuse
- Notable Film Role: Sweetpea in Baby Boy
- Series Starring Role: Family Time (2012-2020)
Questions readers ask
Is Omar Gooding related to other actors?
Yes, he is the son of Cuba Gooding Sr. and the brother of actor Cuba Gooding Jr.
What was his first recurring television role?
His first recurring role was as a host on the Nickelodeon show Wild & Crazy Kids, where he served from 1990 to 1992.
Achievements
- Educated at University High School and North Hollywood High School
- Worked as actor, voice actor and comedian
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