Who Is Nelsan Ellis? Age, Biography and Wiki
Nelsan Ellis was born on November 30, 1977, in Harvey, Illinois. He gained worldwide acclaim for his role as Lafayette Reynolds on HBO's supernatural drama series True Blood. As of 2025, Nelsan would have been 47 years old, having tragically passed away on July 8, 2017, at the age of 39. Despite his untimely death, Ellis left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry with his impressive acting skills and his commitment to portraying complex characters.
| Occupation | Actors |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | November 30, 1977 |
| Age | 39 Years |
| Birth Place | Harvey, Illinois, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Sagittarius |
| Country | U.S |
| Date of death | 8 July, 2017 |
| Died Place | New York City, U.S. |
Popularity
Nelsan Ellis's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Nelsan stood tall at approximately 6 feet (183 cm) and had a weight that varied around 170 lbs (77 kg) during his career. His commanding presence on screen was complemented by his striking features and charismatic personality, which endeared him to fans and critics alike.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Nelsan Ellis was known to keep his personal life private, including his dating history. He had one son, although details about his relationships and any potential romantic partners remained largely undisclosed. Fans often speculated about his life off-screen, but he preferred to concentrate on his art rather than his private affairs.
When Ellis and his siblings were young, their mother, a single parent after her divorce, broke down after the death of her brother. Ellis and his siblings became wards of the state, and later were raised in Bessemer, Alabama, by their maternal grandmother. He was diagnosed with dyslexia in second grade.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his passing, Nelsan Ellis had an estimated net worth of around $3 million. His income primarily stemmed from his successful acting career, including substantial earnings from roles in popular series and movies. His portrayal of Lafayette in True Blood was arguably his most lucrative, reflecting his talent and dedication to his craft.
Career, Business and Investments
Nelsan's career spanned various TV shows and films, where he was known for his versatility. Besides True Blood, he appeared in films like The Help and Get on Up, showcasing his ability to shift between genres. Ellis was also a writer, having had a passion for storytelling which further enhanced his artistic footprint.
In addition to his acting career, Nelsan had been involved in various charitable endeavors, reflecting his commitment to giving back to the community. Unfortunately, he did not have the opportunity to establish extensive business pursuits or investments, which often come with years of career longevity.
In addition to his television work, Ellis appeared in several feature films throughout his career. He portrayed Eddie Sweat in the Disney sports drama Secretariat (2010), was Martin Luther King Jr. in Lee Daniels's The Butler (2013), and was Bobby Byrd in the 2014 James Brown biopic Get on Up. His final acting role was in True to the Game, which was released posthumously.
Social Network
Following his passing, tributes to Nelsan Ellis flooded social media platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook, where fans expressed their admiration for his talent and contributions to the arts. His legacy continues to inspire many aspiring actors and artists, ensuring that his presence remains significant in the entertainment landscape.
Ellis also performed in several feature films; his early roles include The Express: The Ernie Davis Story (2008) and The Soloist (2009). In 2010, he portrayed Eddie Sweat in the Disney sports drama Secretariat.
Education
Nelsan Ellis graduated from the Juilliard School, one of the most prestigious performing arts schools in the world, where he honed his craft and developed his unique acting style. His education played a critical role in shaping his career and enabling him to take on diverse roles throughout his time in the industry.
In Alabama, Ellis attended Jess Lanier High School for a year and transferred to McAdory High School. He moved back to Illinois at age 15, where he lived with his maternal aunt. In 1997 he graduated from Thornridge High School in Dolton, Illinois.
