5 Key Facts About Jabari Redd: The Actor, Producer, And Jussie Smollett's Fiancé

Jabari Redd has quickly become one of the most talked-about multi-hyphenate artists in Hollywood, a surge of interest driven by his diverse roles both in front of and behind the camera, and his high-profile personal life. As of today, December 15, 2025, the New York-born actor and producer is at the center of entertainment news following his engagement to long-time partner, actor and director Jussie Smollett, an announcement that cemented their status as a powerful creative couple. This comprehensive profile dives deep into the life and career of Jabari Redd, moving past the headlines to explore his significant acting credits on shows like *The Chi* and films like *B-Boy Blues*, his surprising background as a music video producer for major hip-hop artists, and the recent projects that are defining his status as a rising industry force. Redd's journey is a compelling narrative of athletic discipline, artistic versatility, and a commitment to telling authentic stories, particularly within the Black and LGBTQ+ communities.

Jabari Redd: A Complete Biography and Profile

Jabari Redd is an American actor, director, and producer whose career is marked by a blend of on-screen performances and significant behind-the-scenes production work. He embodies the modern artist, capable of excelling in multiple creative fields. His professional trajectory has seen him transition from a collegiate athlete to a respected figure in film and television.

• Full Name: Jabari Redd
• Profession: Actor, Producer, Director
• Hometown: Westbury, New York
• Education: Attended Morehouse College
• College Focus: Track and Field Athlete (Hurdles); Minors in Biology and Journalism and Sports
• Known For (Acting): Deondray on *The Chi*, D.C. in *B-Boy Blues*, Damien Holliday in *The Lost Holliday*
• Known For (Producing): Music videos for rapper Soulja Boy and production work for Lil Wayne
• Latest News: Announced engagement to Jussie Smollett in June 2025.
• Family: Has three siblings (per college biography)

From The Chi to The Lost Holliday: Redd's Rising Acting Career

Redd’s acting credits showcase his versatility, but he is arguably best known for his recurring role on the hit Showtime drama, *The Chi*. On the series, he portrays the character Deondray, a role that has given him consistent exposure to a wide audience and allowed him to explore complex storylines within the show's ensemble cast.

His breakthrough into feature films came with the critically acclaimed 2021 drama, *B-Boy Blues*, where he played the pivotal character D.C. The film, directed by his now-fiancé Jussie Smollett, explores the complexities of Black gay life in New York City and was a significant entry point for Redd into the world of independent, intentional filmmaking.

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Redd and Smollett continued their artistic collaboration with the 2023 holiday film, *The Lost Holliday*. The film, which also stars veteran actress Vivica A. Fox and Cynthia Bailey, premiered at the 2024 American Black Film Festival (ABFF) and featured Redd in a major role as Damien Holliday. His involvement in this project, alongside co-stars like Marquise Vilsón and Brittany S. Hall, highlights his commitment to projects that resonate with diverse audiences and showcase strong family dynamics and emotional depth.

Other notable acting appearances include a role in the long-running sitcom *House of Payne* and the 2023 film *BLUE HOUR*, further demonstrating his range across different genres and production scales.

Beyond the Camera: Jabari Redd's Powerhouse Producer Credits

What many fans of his acting career may not realize is that Jabari Redd established himself in the entertainment industry first as a formidable producer. His roots are deeply embedded in the music world, where he gained recognition for his work on high-profile music videos.

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Redd is best known for producing music videos for the popular rapper Soulja Boy, including the hit "Rick and Morty." This experience provided him with invaluable production knowledge and the ability to manage large-scale creative projects. Furthermore, he was part of the production team for major music events, including work on the "Young Money Uproar," which featured artists like Lil Wayne.

This dual skill set—acting and producing—makes Redd a valuable asset to any set. His background allows him to understand both the creative demands of a performance and the logistical realities of production. This comprehensive perspective is likely a key factor in his successful transition into directorial roles and his seamless collaboration with filmmakers like Jussie Smollett and Tressa Azarel Smallwood.

The Jussie Smollett Engagement: A New Chapter and Creative Partnership

The most recent and significant news surrounding Jabari Redd is his engagement to actor and director Jussie Smollett, which was publicly announced in June 2025. The couple had kept their relationship private for years, making the announcement a major revelation in the entertainment world.

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Their relationship is not just personal; it is a powerful creative alliance. Their joint projects, such as the films *B-Boy Blues* and *The Lost Holliday*, highlight their shared artistic vision and commitment to telling stories that matter. This professional synergy suggests that their future collaboration will likely continue to produce compelling and culturally relevant content.

The engagement marks a new, positive chapter for both artists, allowing them to embark on new creative projects together, free from the intense scrutiny that has previously surrounded Smollett. Redd has provided a stable and supportive partnership, which has been publicly celebrated by their friends and peers in the industry.

As the couple moves forward, fans and industry insiders are eagerly anticipating their next moves. Whether it’s another film collaboration, a new television project, or a joint venture into directing, the combined talent of Jabari Redd and Jussie Smollett is set to make a considerable impact on the future of independent and mainstream media.

What's Next for the Multi-Hyphenate Star?

Jabari Redd's career trajectory is on a steep upward climb. With recent appearances that have solidified his acting chops and a proven track record as a successful producer, his topical authority in the industry is undeniable. Entities like Showtime, ABFF, and major music labels have all benefited from his talent.

His background as a Morehouse College athlete, where he excelled in track and field with a focus on hurdles, speaks to a deep-seated discipline that he has clearly applied to his artistic pursuits. This discipline, combined with his multifaceted skills as an actor, director, and producer, positions Jabari Redd not just as a rising star, but as a long-term, influential figure in entertainment.

Fans can expect to see Redd continuing to champion diverse and meaningful storytelling, both through his own performances and his work behind the scenes. Keep an eye out for his next projects, which are sure to build on the momentum of his recent successes and his highly publicized new personal chapter.