Terry Crews

Terry Crews is an American actor, presenter, activist, and former professional American football player. After a six-year career in the National Football League (NFL), he transitioned to acting, gaining widespread recognition for comedic roles in film and television. Crews is also a prominent public figure known for his advocacy on issues of toxic masculinity and sexual assault.

Early Life and Education

Terry Alan Crews was born in Flint, Michigan, and was raised in a strict Baptist household. He attended Flint Southwestern Academy where he developed his talents in both art and athletics, earning a scholarship to Interlochen Center for the Arts. Crews ultimately accepted an athletic scholarship to Western Michigan University, where he studied art and played as a defensive end for the Broncos. He graduated in 1991 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in graphic design.

Career

Crews was selected by the Los Angeles Rams in the 1991 NFL Draft and played as a linebacker for several teams, including the San Diego Chargers, the Washington Redskins, and the Philadelphia Eagles, as well as a stint with the Rhein Fire in the World League of American Football. After retiring from football in 1997, he pursued an acting career in Los Angeles. His early roles included appearances on television shows like Battle Dome and *The 6th Day*. His breakthrough came with a starring role in the UPN sitcom Everybody Hates Chris, and he later gained significant fame for his portrayal of Sergeant Terry Jeffords on the NBC comedy Brooklyn Nine-Nine. His film career includes notable parts in the FX series *The Newsroom*, the *White Chicks* film, and the *Expendables* franchise. Crews has also served as the host of America's Got Talent and the competition series The World's Best.

Filmography

Crews's extensive filmography highlights his range across comedy and action genres. His major film credits include roles in *Friday After Next*, *Malibu's Most Wanted*, *Soul Plane*, *The Longest Yard*, *Idiocracy*, *Bridesmaids*, and *Deadpool 2*. On television, beyond his signature roles, he has appeared in *Arrested Development*, *Are We There Yet?*, and *The Crew*. He has also voiced characters in animated projects such as *The Boondocks* and *Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2*.

Personal Life

Crews has been married to Rebecca King-Crews, a singer and actress, since 1990, and the couple has five children. The family's dynamics were featured on the BET reality series The Family Crews. An accomplished painter and graphic designer, Crews often incorporates his artistic background into his projects. He is a devout Christian and has spoken openly about his past struggles with pornography addiction, detailing his journey in his memoir *Manhood*.

Activism and Advocacy

In 2017, Crews came forward as a survivor of sexual assault, alleging he was groped by a powerful Hollywood agent, which led to his testimony before the United States Senate and his advocacy for the Sexual Assault Survivors' Bill of Rights. He has become a leading voice against toxic masculinity, working with organizations like the National Organization for Women and promoting healthy masculinity through public speaking. His activism extends to supporting the Black Lives Matter movement and speaking on issues of racial equality and police brutality in the United States.

Category:American male film actors Category:American television actors Category:American football linebackers Category:Activists from Michigan