Who Is André De Shields? Age, Biography, and Wiki
André De Shields was born on January 12, 1946, making him 79 years old in 2025. A celebrated American actor, singer, and director, he has made a significant mark in the entertainment industry with his captivating performances and undeniable talent. Known for his diverse roles on stage and screen, André has garnered numerous accolades, including a Tony Award for his performance in "Hadestown."
Occupation | Choreographer |
---|---|
Date of Birth | January 12, 1946 |
Age | 79 Years |
Birth Place | Baltimore, Maryland, U.S. |
Horoscope | Capricorn |
Country | U.S |
Popularity
André De Shields's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
André De Shields stands at an impressive height of 6 feet (183 cm), which complements his commanding presence on stage. Although specific weight measurements are often kept private, he is known to maintain a healthy lifestyle that reflects in his physique. His body stats, while not widely publicized, show a fit individual who takes pride in his health and well-being.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
As of 2025, André De Shields remains a private individual when it comes to his personal life. He is currently not publicly linked to anyone, and there have been no official announcements regarding a boyfriend or girlfriend. Historically, he has preferred to keep his romantic life away from the limelight, focusing more on his impressive career and artistic contributions.
He was raised in Baltimore, the ninth of eleven children; his father died at the age of 50, when André was 17. De Shields obtained his high school diploma at Baltimore City College in 1964, then attended Wilmington College, where he starred in a production of Lorraine Hansberry's A Raisin in the Sun.
He then transferred colleges and earned his BA in English literature from the University of Wisconsin, Madison in 1970. In 1991, De Shields received his MA in African-American studies from the Gallatin School of Individualized Study of New York University.
Net Worth and Salary
As a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, André De Shields has amassed a considerable fortune over the years. In 2025, his estimated net worth is approximately $3 million. His income is derived from various sources, including his successful stage performances, directing roles, and various guest appearances on television.
Career, Business, and Investments
André's career spans several decades, with highlights including his work in musical theater, television, and film. In addition to his Tony Award win, he has received critical acclaim for his performances in productions like "The Wiz," and "Play On!" Beyond acting, André is known for his entrepreneurial spirit, having invested in various theater projects and artistic initiatives aimed at empowering young artists and promoting diversity in the arts.
De Shields began his professional career in the 1969 Chicago production of Hair, which led to a role in The Me Nobody Knows and participation in Chicago's Organic Theater Company. He performed in a number of Off-Off-Broadway productions at La MaMa Experimental Theatre Club in the East Village of Manhattan during the 1970s, 1980s, and early 1990s.
These included Ken Rubenstein's Sacred Guard (1973), Lamar Alford's Thoughts (1974), and the Cotton Club Gala with music by Aaron Bell and directed by Ellen Stewart (1985). He co-wrote (with Judith Cohen) and directed an evening of songs called Judith and the Cohen Sisters in Midnight in Manhattan at La MaMa in September/October 1984.
He directed a production of Chico Kasinoir's The Adventures of Rhubarb: The Rock and Roll Rabbit in 1985 and a production of his own work, Saint Tous, to celebrate Black History Month at La MaMa in February 1991.
Social Network
André De Shields is active on social media, particularly Instagram and Twitter, where he shares insights into his life and career. His engaging posts often reflect his artistic journey and connect with fans who admire his work. As of 2025, he has a significant following, showcasing the impact he has made in the entertainment industry.
On December 28, 2020, it was announced that De Shields would star as Anton Ego in a benefit concert presentation of Ratatouille the Musical, an internet meme that originated on TikTok, inspired by the 2007 Disney/Pixar film. The concert streamed exclusively on TodayTix on January 1, 2021.
De Shields appeared in Lin-Manuel Miranda's directorial debut film, tick, tick... BOOM!, released on Netflix on November 12, 2021, as a patron of the Moondance Diner in the musical scene for "Sunday", as well as other Broadway actors such as Chita Rivera, Renée Elise Goldsberry, Phillipa Soo, among others.
He also plays the significant supporting role of Jack in the Netflix comedy Uncoupled, released in July 2022.
Education
André De Shields is an alumnus of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he received a Bachelor of Arts degree. His educational background laid a strong foundation for his artistic endeavors, allowing him to cultivate his talents and develop a deep understanding of the performing arts.
De Shields has portrayed Barrett Rude Sr. in The Fortress of Solitude, the musical based on Jonathan Lethem's novel The Fortress of Solitude, since its inception in 2012 at Vassar College.
The Fortress of Solitude premiered at the Dallas Theater Center in spring 2014, and the off-Broadway production of The Fortress of Solitude, co-produced with The Public Theater, ran through November 2014.
De Shields, Lillias White, Stefanie Powers, and Georgia Engel starred in the new musical Gotta Dance, directed and choreographed by Jerry Mitchell. The musical began performances on December 13, 2015, at Chicago's Bank of America Theatre and ran through January 17, 2016.