Derek Luke Biography: Wife, Age, Net Worth, Siblings, Parents, Height, Children, Movies, Awards, TV Series

Derek Nathaniel Luke, professionally known as Derek Luke, is an accomplished American actor who gained widespread recognition for his breakthrough performance in the film Antwone Fisher (2002).

His portrayal in the film earned him critical acclaim and a nomination for a NAACP Image Award.

Luke’s diverse filmography includes notable roles in Catch a Fire (2006) and Bait (2000); Luke has showcased his talent on television with significant roles in acclaimed series such as The Americans and 13 Reasons Why.

Beyond his acting career, Luke is dedicated to philanthropy, focusing on youth mentorship and empowerment initiatives.

Profile

• Full Name: Derek Nathanial Luke
• Stage Name: Derek Luke
• Born: April 24, 1974
• Age: 50 years old
• Birthplace: Jersey City, New Jersey, United States
• Nationality: American
• Occupation: American actor
• Height: 1.78 m
• Parent: Marjorie Dixon and Maurice Luke
• Siblings: Maurice Luke and Daniel Luke
• Spouse: Sophia Adella Luke (m. 1998)
• Children: Brielle Luke and Derek Luke Jr.
• Relationship: Married
• Net Worth: $5 million

Early Life And Education

Derek Nathaniel Luke was born on April 24, 1974, in Jersey City, New Jersey, United States. He is the son of Marjorie Dixon, a pianist, and Maurice Luke, a former actor.

Derek has two siblings, Maurice and Daniel Luke. He attended Henry Snyder High School before graduating from Linden High School. Luke is of African-American ethnicity, known for his strong personal values, and practices Christianity as his faith.

Career

Derek Luke began his acting career in the late 1990s, quickly gaining recognition with his breakout role in the 2002 film Antwone Fisher, directed by Denzel Washington.

He portrayed the title character, a young man grappling with his painful past, and his powerful performance earned him critical acclaim, including a NAACP Image Award nomination for Outstanding Actor in a Motion Picture.

This role firmly established Luke as a talented actor capable of compelling and emotionally resonant performances. Following the success of Antwone Fisher, Luke continued to showcase his versatility in a range of film roles.

He appeared in Bait (2000) alongside Jamie Foxx and Catch a Fire (2006), portraying the anti-apartheid activist Patrick Chamusso. His ability to represent complex and multifaceted characters was further demonstrated in films such as Friday Night Lights (2004), Glory Road (2006), and Madea Goes to Jail (2009).

Luke also appeared in Captain America: The First Avenger (2011), where he played Gabe Jones, and starred in Baggage Claim (2013). These roles reflected his capacity to tackle diverse genres and characters.

In addition to his successful film career, Derek Luke significantly impacted television. He appeared in the critically acclaimed series The Americans, playing a CIA agent, and his performance contributed to the show’s success.

He also portrayed Mr. Porter in the popular Netflix series 13 Reasons Why (2017–2020), further establishing himself as a versatile actor. Beyond his acting career, Luke is dedicated to philanthropy, particularly youth mentorship programs.

His involvement in these initiatives reflects his commitment to inspiring and empowering young people through education and the arts, demonstrating his desire to give back to the community and make a positive impact.

Awards and Nominations

Awards:

• NAACP Image Awards: Won Outstanding Actor in a Motion Picture for “Antwone Fisher” (2003).
• Black Film Critics Circle Awards: Won Best Supporting Actor for “Antwone Fisher” (2002).

Nominations:

• NAACP Image Awards: Nominated for Outstanding Actor in a Motion Picture for “Antwone Fisher” (2003).
• Black Film Critics Circle Awards: Nominated for Best Breakthrough Performance for “Antwone Fisher” (2002).

Social Media

• Instagram handle:@derek_luke
• Facebook handle: Derek Luke
• Twitter handle: @DerekLuke

Personal Life

Derek Luke is married to actress Sophia Adella Luke. The couple wed in 1998 and has since maintained a private yet strong and supportive relationship.

Together, they have two children, Brielle Luke and Derek Luke Jr., whom they keep out of the public spotlight, ensuring their family life remains grounded and close-knit.

Filmography

Film

• Antwone Fisher (2002)
• Biker Boyz (2003)
• Catch a Fire (2006)
• The Great Debaters (2007)
• Notorious (2009)
• The Last Fall (2012)
• Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014)  

Television

• The King of Queens (2001)  
• Made in Heaven (2019)
• The 4400 (2021)

Net Worth

Derek Luke’s net Worth is estimated to be approximately $5 million. His wealth is derived mainly from his successful acting career, which spans notable roles in both film and television. His involvement in various endorsements and entertainment projects has also contributed to his financial success.