8 Things You Didn’t Know About Kenya Barris

A writer, producer, director, and actor in both cinema and television, Kenya Barris was born in the United States on August 9, 1973. Barris was the second of five children to be born in Inglewood, California. Due to his father’s travel to Kenya, he was given the name.

If you are getting curious to know more about Kenya Barris, then you may find these 8 unknown facts interesting

8 Things You Didn’t Know About Kenya Barris

1. Spends Time With His Large Family

Despite leading a demanding professional life, Kenya Barris makes time for his huge family frequently. He has been married to anesthesiologist Dr. Rainbow Barris since 1999, and the two of them have six children together. ^[1]

2. Awarded An Honorary Doctorate

Kenya Barris received an honorary doctorate in humane literature from Clark Atlanta University in 2018. This came after Barris and his wife made a $1 million donation to the educational institution. ^[2]

3. Worked With Tyra Banks

Kenya Barris has collaborated with some of his childhood buddies throughout his career. Tyra Banks, with whom he grew up in California, is the most well-known of these. ‘America’s Next Top Model’ was co-created by Banks and Barris. ^[3]

4. His Source Of Inspiration

Barris has stated that his own childhood and personal experiences are his main sources of inspiration. He grew up in a poor home and began to compare his childhood memories with those of his own children, who live in a good neighbourhood with both he and his wife making a respectable living.

5. Wanted To Pursue A Career In Medicine

Kenya Barris did not always wish to pursue a career in the film industry. Growing childhood, he had aspired to be a doctor and pursue a career in medicine. This was due to his love of ‘The Cosby Show,’ and his desire to become a doctor like Bill Cosby. ^[4]

6. He Was A Stand-up Comedian

Barris is now working behind the scenes as a writer, producer, or director. He did, however, attempt to become a performer himself. He briefly worked as a stand-up comedian after graduating from university with a degree in film, radio, and television.

7. Writer Of Three Television Movies

He is primarily known for writing television series, but he has also scripted three television movies. In 2013, he wrote ‘The Start-Up,’ his debut television film. In 2016, he wrote ‘Barbershop: The Next Cut,’ followed by ‘Libby and Malcolm’ in 2017. ^[5]

8. He Loves Sneakers

Kenya Barris has been able to acquire the things he wants since he began generating money in the film and television industries. His first costly buy was a Gucci leather jacket. He purchased it as soon as he could afford it. However, his most expensive fashion-related hobby is collecting sneakers, which he enjoys.