Who Is David Oyelowo? Age, Biography and Wiki
David Oyelowo, born on April 1, 1976, in Oxford, England, is a renowned British actor and producer known for his compelling performances in both film and television. He gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of Martin Luther King Jr. in the critically acclaimed film "Selma" (2014). Oyelowo's acting journey began in theatre, and he graduated from the prestigious London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA). As of 2025, David Oyelowo is 48 years old and continues to captivate audiences with his talent.
| Occupation | Voice Actors |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | April 1, 1976 |
| Age | 49 Years |
| Birth Place | Oxford, Oxfordshire, England |
| Horoscope | Aries |
| Country | England |
Popularity
David Oyelowo's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
David Oyelowo stands tall at approximately 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) and carries a weight of around 165 pounds (75 kg). His athletic build and distinctive features make him a commanding presence on screen. While specific body measurements may vary, Oyelowo maintains a fit physique through regular exercise and a balanced diet, contributing to his longevity in a competitive industry.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
David Oyelowo is happily married to Jessica Oyelowo, his longtime partner, whom he wed in 1998. The couple shares three children, and they maintain a strong family bond rooted in love and support. Oyelowo frequently expresses his commitment to his family and often highlights the importance of their support throughout his career. As of 2025, he has been actively involved in philanthropy, particularly in education and racial equality initiatives, alongside his family.
His father, Stephen, is from Oyo State, South West Nigeria, while his mother is Igbo from South East Nigeria. He was brought up as a Baptist. He grew up on an estate in Tooting Bec, South London, until he was six, when his family moved to Lagos, Nigeria, where his father worked for the national airline and his mother worked for a railway company.
Oyelowo grew up idolising Sidney Poitier and Denzel Washington.
Net Worth and Salary
As of 2025, David Oyelowo's estimated net worth is around $10 million. His wealth is primarily derived from his successful acting career, which includes roles in blockbuster films, acclaimed television series, and stage productions. Additionally, Oyelowo has ventured into producing and directing, further diversifying his income sources. His earnings from film projects and collaborations contribute to his financial standing.
Career, Business and Investments
David Oyelowo's career spans over two decades, with numerous accolades to his name. He has starred in films such as "The Butler," "A United Kingdom," and "Gringo," showcasing his versatility across genres. Apart from acting, Oyelowo has made strides as a producer with projects that reflect his values and vision. His production company, Yoruba Saxon, focuses on telling diverse stories and supporting underrepresented voices in the industry.
Moreover, Oyelowo continues to invest in initiatives that promote diversity in Hollywood and beyond, aligning with his commitment to social change.
He began his stage career in 1999 when he was offered a season with the Royal Shakespeare Company playing roles in Ben Jonson's Volpone, as the title character in Oroonoko (which he also performed in the BBC radio adaptation) and Shakespeare's Antony and Cleopatra (1999) alongside Guy Henry, Frances de la Tour and Alan Bates.
However, he is best known for his next stage performance as King Henry VI in the Royal Shakespeare Company's 2001 productions of Shakespeare's trilogy of plays about the king as a part of its season This England: The Histories.
In a major landmark for colour-blind casting, Oyelowo was the first black actor to play an English king in a major production of Shakespeare, and although this casting choice was initially criticised by some in the media, Oyelowo's performance was critically acclaimed and later won the 2001 Ian Charleson Award for best performance by an actor under
30 in a classical play.
Social Network
David Oyelowo maintains an active presence on social media platforms, sharing insights into his professional and personal life. His official Instagram handle (@davidoyelowo) boasts a significant following, where he engages with fans and promotes his projects. Additionally, he is active on Twitter, using the platform to discuss topics close to his heart, including social justice and representation in the arts.
Oyelowo is an omoba (or prince) of the Yoruba people in the Nigerian chieftaincy system, his grandfather having been king of "a part of Oyo State called Awe". He has commented of his background: "It sounds way more impressive than it actually is.
There are so many royal families in Africa", "royal families are a dime a dozen in Nigeria"; "what we think of as royalty in the UK is very different to royalty in Nigeria: if you were to throw a stone there, you would hit about 30 princes.
So, it's a bit more like being the Prince of Islington: it was useful for getting dates but probably not much else".
Education
David Oyelowo's educational background plays a significant role in his acting prowess. He attended the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA), where he honed his craft and developed his skills as a performer. His formative years instilled in him a deep appreciation for storytelling, paving the way for his future success in film and theater.
Oyelowo attended a "military-style" boarding-school named Lagos State Model College Meiran (now Lagos State Model Junior College Meiran. His family returned to London when Oyelowo was 14, settling in Islington.
