Omar Gooding Wiki, Bio, Networth, GF, Wife, Family & More

Brief Introduction of Omar Gooding

Omar Miles Gooding, born October 19, 1976, is a versatile American actor, comedian, and rapper also known by his stage name, Big O. [1, 3] He has carved out a successful and enduring career in Hollywood, gaining recognition for his memorable roles in television series such as “Hangin’ with Mr. Cooper,” “Smart Guy,” and “Family Time.” [1, 3] Gooding is also celebrated for his compelling performances in films like “Baby Boy” and “Ghost Dad,” showcasing his dynamic range as a performer. [1] A familiar face on both the big and small screens for decades, he is a respected figure in the entertainment industry.

Omar Gooding Overview

Early Life and Education of Omar Gooding

Omar Gooding was born in Los Angeles, California, into a family deeply rooted in the entertainment industry. [1, 2] His father, the late Cuba Gooding Sr., was the lead singer of the popular R&B group The Main Ingredient, famous for hits like “Everybody Plays the Fool.” [8, 12] His mother is singer Shirley Sullivan. [8] This creative environment heavily influenced Omar and his older brother, Academy Award-winning actor Cuba Gooding Jr. [2, 12]

Growing up in such a talented household, it was almost natural for Omar to be drawn to performing. [29] His interest in acting was sparked at a young age, and by the age of 10, he was discovered by the Coralie Jr. Theatrical Agency. [2] With his mother’s support, he began his acting journey in theater. [2] Gooding attended North Hollywood High School, where he graduated in 1994. [1, 3]

Omar Gooding’s Career

Early Career and Breakthrough

Omar Gooding’s on-screen career began in the early 1990s. One of his first significant roles was as a host on the popular Nickelodeon kids’ show “Wild & Crazy Kids” from 1990 to 1992. [1, 3] In 1990, he also made his film debut in the Bill Cosby-led movie “Ghost Dad.” [2, 6] His early years were marked by guest appearances on various television shows, including “Blossom.” [6, 29]

A major breakthrough came when he was cast as Earvin Rodman in the sitcom “Hangin’ with Mr. Cooper,” a role he played from 1992 to 1997. [3, 13] This was followed by another leading role as the smart and witty Morris L. “Mo” Tibbs in the sitcom “Smart Guy,” which aired from 1997 to 1999. [2, 29] These roles cemented his status as a familiar and beloved television actor of the 90s.

Film and Television Roles

In 2001, Gooding delivered a critically praised performance as “Sweetpea” in John Singleton’s film “Baby Boy,” a role that showcased his dramatic acting abilities. [1, 2] Throughout the 2000s, he continued to work steadily in both film and television. He appeared in the third season of the acclaimed HBO series “Deadwood” and had a recurring role in the ESPN series “Playmakers.” [1, 4] In 2005, he took on the lead role of Calvin Palmer Jr. in the television adaptation of the movie “Barbershop.” [1]

From 2012 to 2020, Gooding starred as Anthony “Tony” Stallworth in the Bounce TV sitcom “Family Time,” where he reunited with his “Baby Boy” co-star Angell Conwell. [1, 4] His other notable television appearances include roles in “Miami Medical,” “Grey’s Anatomy,” and more recently, the Disney Channel series “Saturdays.” [1, 3]

Music Career

In addition to his acting career, Omar Gooding is also a rapper who performs under the name “Big O.” [13] He has released music, including a 2019 hip-hop album titled “The Excuse.” [1, 23] He has noted that his son was one of the inspirations behind the album. [19]

Omar Gooding Personal Life & Family

Omar Gooding comes from a close-knit and talented family. He is the son of the late singer Cuba Gooding Sr. and Shirley Sullivan. [1] He has three siblings: an older brother, actor Cuba Gooding Jr., a sister named April Gooding, and a musician brother, Tommy Gooding. [8, 12]

In the early 2000s, Gooding was in a long-term relationship with actress Angell Conwell. [2, 10] The two remain on good terms and later co-starred as a married couple in the series “Family Time.” [19]

Omar Gooding is married to Mia Vogel. [18] While they have kept their relationship relatively private, it’s known that they are dedicated parents to their two sons. [19] Their first son, Omar Dari Gooding Jr., was born on January 27, 2017. [18, 21] Their second son, Miles Christian Gooding, was born in November 2019. [19, 21]

Awards and Achievements of Omar Gooding

Omar Gooding’s work, particularly in his early years, has been recognized with several awards and nominations.

• 1991: Nominated for a Young Artist Award for Best Young Actor Supporting Role in a Motion Picture for “Ghost Dad.” [5]
• 1992: Won a Young Artist Award for Outstanding Hosts for a Youth Variety or Game Show for “Wild & Crazy Kids.” [5]
• 1993: Nominated for a Young Artist Award for Best Young Actor Recurring in a Television Series for “Hangin’ with Mr. Cooper.” [5]
• 1993: Nominated for a Young Artist Award for Outstanding Hosts for a Youth Magazine, News or Game Show for “Wild & Crazy Kids.” [5]
• 1994: Nominated for a Young Artist Award for Best Youth Actor Recurring or Regular in a TV Series for “Hangin’ with Mr. Cooper.” [5]
• 2006: Nominated for an Image Award for Outstanding Actor in a Comedy Series for “Barbershop.” [5]

Omar Gooding Net Worth and Income

As of 2024-2025, Omar Gooding’s net worth is estimated to be between $1 million and $2 million. [11, 13, 15, 27] His wealth has been accumulated through his long and consistent career in the entertainment industry, spanning over three decades. [11] His income sources are varied, including his work as an actor in television and film, as well as his ventures in music as a rapper. [15, 28]

Legacy and Influence

Omar Gooding has built a lasting legacy as a versatile and reliable actor. His ability to transition seamlessly between comedy and drama has earned him respect in the industry. He has been a consistent presence in television for generations of viewers, from his early days on Nickelodeon to his leading roles in family sitcoms. [29] He takes pride in his body of work and is selective about the roles he chooses, aiming to do work that people enjoy. [18]

Interesting Facts about Omar Gooding

• He is a talented musician who can play both the drums and the piano. [2]
• His first on-camera appearance was as a child in an educational film about crime. [5]
• He has a passion for his work and has stated, “I don’t really have hobbies… whatever I do, I do it to the fullest.” [5]
• He is known for his sense of humor and for being a prankster on set, helping to keep the atmosphere light during long filming hours. [2]

Controversies

In 1995, Omar Gooding was arrested for gun possession and was sentenced to 18 months of probation. [2, 10]

More recently, in late 2024 and early 2025, Gooding has been involved in a public feud with rapper Cam’ron. The disagreement began after Cam’ron made comments about Gooding’s career on his podcast. [36] This led to an exchange of words and diss tracks. The feud escalated when Cam’ron orchestrated a prank, flying Gooding to Miami for a fake movie shoot. [25, 31] Gooding responded with humor, stating he got a free trip and was paid for his time. [31] He has used the increased attention to promote his upcoming music projects. [25]

Social Media Presence

Omar Gooding maintains an active presence on social media, where he connects with his fans. As of late 2024, he has a significant following on Instagram, with over 360,000 followers. [22]

Final Words about Omar Gooding

With a career that has successfully navigated the changing landscape of Hollywood for over thirty years, Omar Gooding has proven his staying power. He continues to be an active force in entertainment, with recent roles in television and a continued passion for his music. His legacy is one of versatility, resilience, and a genuine connection with his audience. As he looks to the future with new projects on the horizon, Omar Gooding remains a respected and beloved figure in both television and film.