Emayatzy Corinealdi was born on January 14, 1980, in Fort Knox, Kentucky. She grew up in a military household that brought discipline and adaptability into her life from an early age. Her father, Edward Corinealdi, is Panamanian, and her mother, Rosemarie Hilton, is African-American from Ohio. This mix of cultures shaped her worldview and gave her a deep sense of identity.
As part of a military family, her childhood meant constant movement. She spent time in Germany, Ohio, Kansas, and New Jersey, gaining exposure to different environments. This experience of traveling and adapting would later help her as an actress who could step into many different roles with ease.
Quick Bio
| Full Name | Emayatzy Evett Corinealdi |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | January 14, 1980 |
| Age | 45 years (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | Fort Knox, Kentucky, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Panamanian (father) & African-American (mother) |
| Height | 5 ft 6 in (1.70 m) |
| Body Measurements | 35-25-35 inches (approx.) |
| Marital Status | Married to Jermaine Oliver |
| Children | 1 (born in 2021) |
| Occupation | Actress |
| Net Worth | Approx. $1.5 million |
| Social Media | Instagram: @emayatzycorinealdi |
Education and Training
Her passion for acting emerged early, but she pursued it with a strong commitment to formal training. Emayatzy Corinealdi studied at the Actor’s Training Studio in New Jersey, continued at the William Esper Studio in New York, and refined her craft at Playhouse West in Los Angeles.
Unlike many actors who jump into auditions without proper training, she focused on building a foundation in her craft. These years of study not only gave her technical skills but also a resilience that would guide her through the ups and downs of Hollywood.
Career Beginnings
Before her big break, Emayatzy Corinealdi took on smaller television and film roles, sharpening her abilities and gaining industry experience. Like many rising talents, she faced challenges and financial struggles. She once shared that she lived on a tight budget and often relied on simple meals like oatmeal lunches just to keep going.
Her dedication, however, began to pay off when she started landing more substantial roles that showcased her talent and range.
Breakthrough with Middle of Nowhere
Her turning point came in 2012 with Ava DuVernay’s independent film Middle of Nowhere. In the film, she played Ruby, a woman navigating life while her husband is incarcerated. The performance was subtle, raw, and deeply moving.
This role earned her the Gotham Independent Film Award for Breakthrough Performer and a nomination for the Independent Spirit Award for Best Female Lead. The film also premiered at Sundance, giving her visibility in the indie film world. It was the moment that introduced her as a serious actress with depth and authenticity.
Major Film Roles
After Middle of Nowhere, Emayatzy Corinealdi began to appear in more notable projects. She starred in The Invitation (2015), a tense psychological thriller, and later played Frances Taylor Davis, the wife of jazz legend Miles Davis, in Miles Ahead (2016).
Her ability to adapt to very different types of roles—from intimate dramas to biographical films—demonstrated her versatility. Each role carried a sense of honesty that made her stand out even among bigger stars.
Success on Television
Television became another platform for her success. She joined the cast of Hand of God (2014–2017), a crime drama on Amazon Prime. She also appeared in the critically acclaimed miniseries Roots (2016), where she portrayed Belle, a pivotal character in the narrative.
Her role in HBO’s Ballers (2017–2019) brought her further into mainstream television, playing opposite stars like Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. In 2019, she starred in The Red Line, a thoughtful drama about race, politics, and community. Each role reinforced her reputation as a thoughtful and commanding actress.
Leading Role in Reasonable Doubt
In 2022, Emayatzy Corinealdi took on her first leading television role as Jax Stewart in Hulu’s legal drama Reasonable Doubt. Produced by Kerry Washington, the series gave her a platform to lead a major project. Her character, a brilliant and bold defense attorney, allowed her to showcase strength, vulnerability, and complexity all at once.
This marked a milestone in her career, showing how far she had come since her indie film breakthrough.
Personal Life and Family
Away from the cameras, Emayatzy Corinealdi leads a grounded personal life. She married Jermaine Oliver, and in 2021, the couple welcomed their first child. Becoming a mother added a new dimension to her life, and she has spoken about balancing her career with family responsibilities.
Her strong connection to her Panamanian and African-American heritage also plays a central role in her life, giving her both cultural pride and a sense of responsibility in the roles she chooses.
Age, Height, and Physical Appearance
As of 2025, Emayatzy Corinealdi is 45 years old. She is reported to stand at about 5 feet 6 inches (1.70 meters) tall, with a graceful figure often described as 35-25-35 inches.
Her appearance on screen is often noted for her expressive eyes, natural elegance, and ability to embody a wide range of characters—from vulnerable to powerful.
Net Worth and Professional Standing
With her steady career in film and television, Emayatzy’s net worth is estimated around $1.5 million. While not among the highest-paid Hollywood stars, she has built her career on authenticity rather than chasing trends.
Her financial and professional standing reflects the respect she has earned within the industry. Instead of simply taking every role offered, she has been careful to pursue projects that align with her values and artistic goals.
Social Media and Public Presence
Emayatzy Corinealdi maintains an active presence on Instagram (@emayatzycorinealdi), where she has around 129K followers. She shares behind-the-scenes glimpses of her projects, personal reflections, and moments of gratitude.
Her social media is not overly polished or artificial; instead, it feels authentic—an extension of her real personality and her connection with fans.
Fun Facts and Personal Touches
- Her name “Emayatzy Corinealdi” comes partly from a Panamanian princess named Ematy and partly from her grandmother.
- During her early acting days in Los Angeles, she often lived on very modest means while attending auditions and workshops.
- She once said that she turned down guaranteed work because she wanted to pursue roles that truly resonated with her, showing her dedication to artistic integrity.
- Despite her success, she remains humble and rooted, often speaking about the importance of perseverance and patience.
Legacy and Inspiration
Emayatzy Corinealdi’s journey is not just about Hollywood success—it’s about resilience and authenticity. From a childhood of constant moves to a career of intentional choices, she has built a path on her own terms.
Her story inspires aspiring actors and fans alike: that with dedication, courage, and authenticity, it is possible to rise in an industry that often prioritizes fame over substance.
Conclusion
Emayatzy Corinealdi is far more than a Hollywood actress; she is a storyteller, a role model, and a woman who has stayed true to herself. Her journey from military roots to the bright lights of Hollywood is a story of strength, discipline, and vision.
At 45 years old, with a career that continues to grow, she represents the kind of artistry that endures. Whether on the big screen, on television, or through her quiet presence online, she continues to captivate audiences with honesty, grace, and purpose.
FAQs About Emayatzy Corinealdi
1. Who is Emayatzy Corinealdi?
Emayatzy Corinealdi is an American actress best known for her breakout role in Middle of Nowhere and her lead role as Jax Stewart in Hulu’s Reasonable Doubt.
2. How old is Emayatzy Corinealdi?
She was born on January 14, 1980, which makes her 45 years old as of 2025.
3. Is Emayatzy Corinealdi married?
Yes, she is married to Jermaine Oliver, and the couple welcomed their first child in 2021.
4. What is Emayatzy Corinealdi’s net worth?
Her estimated net worth is around $1.5 million, earned through her film and television career.
5. Where can fans follow Emayatzy Corinealdi?
Fans can follow her on Instagram at @emayatzycorinealdi, where she shares updates about her work and personal life.
