Mo’Nique, an accomplished American actress and comedienne, has a net worth of approximately $6 million. She is celebrated for her unique blend of humor and powerful performances, with notable contributions to both television and film. Known for her candid personality and strong presence, Mo’Nique has carved a distinct path in the entertainment industry, experiencing both triumphs and challenges along the way.
Personal Information
- Full Name: Monique Angela Imes
- Date of Birth: December 11, 1967
- Age: 55 years old
- Birthplace: Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Nationality: American
- Net Worth: Approximately $6 million
- Occupation: Actress, Comedienne, Producer
- Notable Roles: The Parkers, Precious, Phat Girlz
- Awards: Academy Award, Golden Globe Award, NAACP Image Awards
- Spouse: Sidney Hicks (married 2006)
- Children: Shalon (son), David and Jonathan (twin sons)
Early Life
Born Monique Angela Imes on December 11, 1967, in Baltimore, Maryland, Mo’Nique grew up in a household where creativity and expression were encouraged. Her mother, Alice, worked as an engineer, while her father, Steven Jr., was a drug counselor. Mo’Nique is the youngest of four siblings and attended Milford Mill High School, graduating in 1985. After high school, she enrolled at Morgan State University and later earned a degree from the Broadcasting Institute of Maryland in 1987.
Mo’Nique’s journey into comedy began when her brother dared her to perform at an open mic night at the Comedy Factory Outlet in Baltimore. This initial experience sparked her passion for stand-up, leading to a remarkable career in entertainment.
Career Breakthrough
Mo’Nique first gained widespread recognition for her role as Nicole “Nikki” Parker on the UPN sitcom The Parkers, which aired from 1999 to 2004. Her comedic talent and charm made her a fan favorite, and she had previously appeared on Moesha, the show from which The Parkers spun off. Her presence on television paved the way for her to explore other avenues, including hosting duties on shows like Showtime at the Apollo.
In addition to her television work, Mo’Nique made her mark in film. She appeared in notable projects such as Phat Girlz (2006), Welcome Home Roscoe Jenkins (2008), and Precious (2009). Her role in Precious earned her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, marking a high point in her career and solidifying her status in Hollywood.
IRS Challenges and Financial Recovery
Throughout her career, Mo’Nique has faced financial challenges, including IRS issues that reportedly involved liens for unpaid taxes totaling over $620,000. However, she has made significant strides in addressing these financial obligations, aided in part by her successful Las Vegas residency, “Mo’Nique Does Vegas,” which began in 2019.
Personal Life and Relationships
Mo’Nique’s personal life has also been a topic of interest. She was first married to Mark Jackson in 1997, with whom she shares a son, Shalon. The couple divorced in 2001. Later, she began a relationship with Sidney Hicks, and the two married in 2006. Mo’Nique has spoken openly about their unconventional open marriage and the challenges they have faced together, including the premature birth of their twin sons, David and Jonathan, in 2005.
Legal Disputes and Industry Challenges
In late 2019, Mo’Nique made headlines when she sued Netflix for gender and racial discrimination, claiming that she was offered significantly less than her male counterparts for a comedy special. Her legal battles have underscored issues of pay disparity in the entertainment industry, particularly for Black women.
Additionally, Mo’Nique has pursued legal action against Paramount and CBS regarding unpaid royalties for The Parkers, claiming that the companies artificially depressed the show’s profitability. Her determination to fight for fair compensation highlights her commitment to advocating for herself and her colleagues in the industry.
Recognition and Awards
Mo’Nique’s work has garnered her numerous awards and nominations throughout her career. In addition to her Academy Award, she has received multiple Golden Globe nominations, NAACP Image Awards, and accolades for her performances in film and television. Her impact on the industry is evident through her body of work and the recognition she has earned.
