Kerry Washington is a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry, known for her captivating performances and her unwavering commitment to equity and inclusion. What many may not know is that the acclaimed actress has also made a significant impact as an entrepreneur, investing in innovative companies and using her platform to support diverse business ventures. Kerry Washington‘s entrepreneurial spirit and her ability to balance a successful acting career with her various business ventures are a testament to her multifaceted talents and her drive to create positive change.
With an estimated net worth of $50 million1, Kerry Washington has leveraged her success in the entertainment industry to become a savvy investor and advocate for underrepresented communities. Her husband, Nnamdi Asomugha, a former NFL cornerback, is also actively involved in philanthropy through the Asomugha Foundation, which aims to empower disadvantaged youth and women through educational opportunities and mentorship1. In 2015, Asomugha launched iAm21 Entertainment, a production company focused on highlighting and impacting social change1.
As Kerry Washington continues to captivate audiences with her acclaimed performances, her entrepreneurial ventures and her commitment to equity and inclusion have also made her a trailblazer in the industry. This article will delve into the multifaceted career of this remarkable woman, exploring her transition from a talented actress to a savvy entrepreneur and her ongoing efforts to make a lasting impact on the world around her.
Kerry Washington: Accomplished Actress and Producer
Kerry Washington is a versatile and acclaimed actress who has captivated audiences with her powerful performances on both the big and small screens. Her acting career began in her teenage years when she was part of New York’s TADA! Youth Theater, laying the foundation for her future success2.
Early Career and Breakthrough
Washington’s early work in the theater paved the way for her to appear in hit shows and movies, including “Ray”3 and “Little Fires Everywhere,”3 before landing her most acclaimed role as Olivia Pope in the Shonda Rhimes-created series “Scandal.”3
As the lead character in “Scandal,” a primetime drama that aired on ABC, Kerry Washington captivated audiences with her portrayal of a powerful and complex crisis management expert, cementing her status as a talented and versatile actress and producer3.
“I think the most important thing is to be passionate about what you’re doing and always give it your all. That’s what I’ve tried to do throughout my career.”
Washington’s performance as Olivia Pope in “Scandal” earned her critical acclaim, including numerous award nominations and a Primetime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series3. Her ability to bring depth and nuance to complex characters has made her a standout in the industry.
In addition to her acclaimed acting work, Kerry Washington has also made a name for herself as a producer, with her production company, Simpson Street, responsible for successful projects like “Confirmation” and “Little Fires Everywhere.”2 Her versatility and dedication to her craft have solidified her status as one of the most respected and sought-after talents in the entertainment industry23.
Behind the Scenes: Kerry Washington’s Entrepreneurial Ventures
Alongside her successful acting career45, Kerry Washington has ventured into the world of entrepreneurship and investing. She has been an angel investor in various innovative companies, including the direct-to-consumer teeth-aligner startup Byte, the celebrity-focused fundraising platform Omaze, the women’s co-working space The Wing, and the SMS-based marketing platform Community. Washington is thoughtful about the companies she chooses to invest, and she actively engages with the founders and communities.
Investing in Innovative Companies
In addition to her acting and producing roles4, Kerry Washington has demonstrated her entrepreneurial spirit by investing in cutting-edge companies that align with her values. From tech startups like Byte and Community to social impact platforms like Omaze and The Wing, Washington has strategically diversified her portfolio, showcasing her keen eye for identifying promising ventures.
Equity 101: Sharing Knowledge on Building Wealth
Furthermore, in 20224, Washington partnered with Carta, an ownership and equity management platform, to launch the “Equity 101” campaign. Through this initiative, she shared her knowledge and insights on building wealth through equity investments, empowering others to take control of their financial futures.
“It’s exhausting to put on a mask to maintain appearances.”
– Kerry Washington
Washington’s entrepreneurial ventures and dedication to equity and wealth-building within the45 community reflect her multifaceted approach to creating impact. By investing in innovative companies and educating others on the power of equity, she continues to push boundaries and inspire change.
Kerry Washington: Advocating for Equity and Inclusion
Beyond her acclaimed work in the entertainment industry, Kerry Washington has been a vocal advocate for equity and inclusion, particularly for Black individuals. Following the social unrest of 2020, the acclaimed actress spoke candidly about the ongoing challenges faced by the Black community, stating that the “level of danger and anger and fear” has been a reality for generations4.
Washington leverages her platform and influence to amplify the voices of marginalized groups and push for meaningful change in the industry and beyond. She has received numerous accolades for her advocacy efforts, including the GLAAD Media Vanguard Award in 2015 and the ACLU Bill of Rights Award in 20166.
The Emmy-nominated actress has also used her production company, Simpson Street, to bring stories of equity and inclusion to the forefront. Projects like “Confirmation” and “Little Fires Everywhere” have earned critical acclaim and recognition, further solidifying Washington’s commitment to creating impactful content that addresses social issues6.
As a trailblazer and advocate, Kerry Washington continues to leverage her platform to drive change and inspire others to join the fight for a more just and equitable society. Her unwavering dedication to Black Lives Matter and other social justice movements has cemented her status as a prominent activist and role model for countless individuals4.
Balancing Career and Family Life
While Kerry Washington’s professional achievements are remarkable, she also places great importance on her personal life and family. Washington has been married to former NFL cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha since 2013, and together they have three children7. Despite her busy schedule, Washington is intentional about keeping her family life private. However, she has shared that playing the character of Olivia Pope on “Scandal” helped her feel more prepared for the challenges of motherhood, as the character’s resourcefulness and problem-solving skills inspired Washington’s own approach to juggling her career and family responsibilities.
Marriage to Nnamdi Asomugha
Washington’s marriage to Nnamdi Asomugha, a former NFL cornerback, has been a source of stability and support in her life. The couple has been together since 2013, navigating the demands of their careers while prioritizing their family. Washington has expressed gratitude for her husband’s understanding and willingness to share the responsibilities of raising their three children.
Raising Three Children
In addition to her successful acting and entrepreneurial ventures, Kerry Washington is dedicated to being a hands-on parent. She has shared that her children are her greatest source of joy and inspiration, and she strives to create a nurturing and stable environment for them7. Washington’s approach to parenting is rooted in her belief in the importance of family, and she has been intentional about finding ways to balance her professional commitments with her responsibilities as a mother.
“When a decision is clear, it’s a yes; indecision indicates a no, helping her streamline choices in her career.”
Kerry Washington’s Investment in Spill
In addition to her renowned acting career and diverse business ventures, Kerry Washington has also invested in Spill, a promising Black-owned social media platform8. Washington recognizes the importance of supporting marginalized communities in the digital space and has become both an investor and an active user of Spill, a platform founded by former Twitter employees Alphonzo Terrell and DeVaris Brown9.
Supporting a Black-Owned Social Media Platform
As an investor in Spill, Kerry Washington is deeply involved with the platform, providing her expertise and knowledge to the team9. The app, which is described as a space for connections, culture, and commerce8, aims to foster honesty, creativity, connection, and community through its safe environment, particularly for marginalized groups like Black, Brown, and LGBTQIA communities8.
Engaging with Users and Hosting “Tea Parties”
In addition to her role as an investor, Kerry Washington also engages directly with the Spill community by hosting “Tea Parties,” which are live video conversations where she connects with users on various topics, including voter registration8. These Tea Parties reflect Washington’s commitment to supporting a platform that prioritizes marginalized groups in the digital space8.
Washington’s investment in Spill, along with her active involvement, demonstrates her desire to support the platform’s growth and its focus on inclusivity and safety9. With features like the live multiplayer Spades game and the ability for users to express themselves through 90-character text additions to images, GIFs, or videos, Spill aims to differentiate itself from established social media platforms and create a space that resonates with the Black community8.
Net Worth and Financial Success
Kerry Washington’s extensive career as an acclaimed actress, producer, and savvy investor has significantly contributed to her impressive net worth, which is estimated to be around $50 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth10. Her financial success is a testament to her versatility, entrepreneurial spirit, and commitment to making a positive impact in the entertainment industry and beyond.
During her acclaimed run on the hit TV series “Scandal,” Washington’s salary reached up to $250,000 per episode, and by the final seasons, she was earning $4.5 million per season10. For her role in the miniseries “Little Fires Everywhere,” she earned a remarkable $1.1 million per episode10. Washington’s entrepreneurial ventures, including investments in innovative companies, have further bolstered her financial portfolio.
In addition to her lucrative acting and producing career, Kerry Washington has also demonstrated savvy real estate investments. In 2013, she purchased a home in Los Angeles for $1.9 million and later sold it for $2.7 million in 201610. She and her husband, former NFL player Nnamdi Asomugha, have also acquired a Beverly Hills compound for $6.75 million10.
Washington’s commitment to advocacy and social justice causes has also enhanced her public image and connected her with advocacy-related opportunities and partnerships, further contributing to her financial success10. With her diverse portfolio of acting, producing, investing, and advocacy work, Kerry Washington has established herself as a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry and beyond.
“I’m very interested in empowering young women to be confident in their own voices and not feel like they have to edit themselves.”
Kerry Washington’s Impact and Legacy
Kerry Washington’s impact on the entertainment industry and her unwavering dedication to advocating for equity and inclusion have solidified her legacy as a trailblazer11. Through her acclaimed acting roles, her work as a producer and director, and her entrepreneurial ventures, Washington has consistently used her platform to uplift marginalized communities and push for meaningful change12. Her groundbreaking portrayal of Olivia Pope in the hit TV series “Scandal” helped pave the way for diverse stories and characters to dominate the cultural conversation12, while her involvement in President Obama’s 2007 presidential campaign and her powerful speeches at the Democratic National Conventions in 2012 and 2020 have demonstrated her commitment to social and political activism11.
Beyond her work in front of the camera, Washington has also made significant strides as an entrepreneur, investing in innovative companies and sharing her knowledge on building wealth through her Equity 101 initiative11. Her support for the Black-owned social media platform Spill and her active engagement with the platform’s users have further showcased her dedication to uplifting marginalized voices and creating opportunities for underrepresented groups11.
Kerry Washington’s impact on the entertainment industry and her tireless efforts to advocate for equity and inclusion have left an indelible mark that will continue to inspire future generations of artists, entrepreneurs, and activists12. Her legacy as a trailblazer and a champion for meaningful change will undoubtedly continue to shape the cultural landscape for years to come11.
Source Links
- https://afrotech.com/kerry-washington-net-worth – Kerry Washington Built An Estimated $50M Fortune, But Her Husband And 3 Kids Are ‘Proof Of God’ To Her – AfroTech
- https://afrotech.com/kerry-washington-net-worth/ – Kerry Washington Built An Estimated $50M Fortune, But Her Husband And 3 Kids Are ‘Proof Of God’ To Her – AfroTech
- https://www.elle.com/culture/movies-tv/a61739687/kerry-washington-interview-2024/ – Kerry Washington Looks Back at Her Most Iconic Roles
- https://afrotech.com/kerry-washington-invests-in-black-owned-platform-spill – Kerry Washington Invests In Black-Owned Social Media Platform Spill – AfroTech
- https://www.essence.com/gallery/kerry-washington-beauty-looks-birthday/ – 47 Of Kerry Washington’s Most Inspiring Beauty Looks | Essence
- https://www.gspeakers.com/topics/in-conversation-with-kerry-washington/ – In Conversation with Kerry Washington – Global Speakers Bureau
- https://chief.com/articles/kerry-washington-on-the-power-of-saying-no-and-finding-balance-in-her-career/ – Chief | Kerry Washington on the Power of Saying ‘No’ and Finding Balance in Her Career
- https://www.vibe.com/news/tech/kerry-washington-invests-black-owned-social-media-spill-1234928597/ – Kerry Washington Invests In Black-Owned Social Media Platform Spill
- https://cassiuslife.com/1029830/black-owned-spill-app-invest-kerry-washington/ – Black-Owned Social Media App, Spill, Gets Major Buy-In From Kerry Washington
- https://pennbookcenter.com/kerry-washington-net-worth/ – Kerry Washington Net Worth 2024: Closer Look At Her Earnings & Wealth
- https://www.harpersbazaar.com/uk/culture/culture-news/a45613783/kerry-washington-cover-shoot-interview/ – A woman of purpose: Kerry Washington is our autumn digital cover star
- https://projectcasting.com/blog/news/kerry-washington-shakes-tiktok-post-saying-scandal-prepared-america-for-kamala-harris-presidency – Kerry Washington Shakes TikTok Post Saying ‘Scandal’ Prepared America for Kamala Harris Presidency