Terry Crews is an American actor, comedian, television host, and former professional football player whose career spans film, television, and live entertainment. Born July 30, 1968, in Flint, Michigan, Crews first gained recognition as a defensive end and linebacker in the NFL, playing for teams including the Los Angeles Rams, San Diego Chargers, and Washington’s NFL franchise before transitioning into acting in the late 1990s. White Chicks (2004) marked his breakout comedic performance as the eccentric Latrell Spencer, helping launch a prolific screen career that included roles in films such as Friday After Next, Idiocracy—where he played the cult-favorite President Dwayne Elizondo Mountain Dew Herbert Camacho—Norbit, Get Smart, Bridesmaids, Deadpool 2, and the action franchise The Expendables, in which he portrayed weapons specialist Hale Caesar.

On television, Crews became widely known for his portrayal of Julius Rock, the strict yet loving father on the hit sitcom Everybody Hates Chris (2005–2009). He later starred as Nick Kingston-Persons on Are We There Yet? and appeared in numerous series including The Newsroom. His most iconic role came as Sergeant—later Lieutenant and Captain—Terry Jeffords on the acclaimed comedy Brooklyn Nine-Nine (2013–2021), a character created specifically for him that showcased both his physical comedy and heartfelt performances. Alongside his acting work, Crews has become a prominent television personality, hosting America’s Got Talent and its spin-offs since 2019, following earlier hosting duties on Who Wants to Be a Millionaire.

Throughout his career, Crews has earned industry recognition including NAACP Image Award nominations for his performances in both Brooklyn Nine-Nine and Are We There Yet?, as well as an Annie Award nomination for voice acting in Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2. He also received a Daytime Emmy nomination for interactive programming tied to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade broadcast and a People’s Choice Award nomination for Host of the Year for his work on America’s Got Talent.

In recent years, Crews has continued expanding his screen presence, appearing in projects such as Sorry to Bother You and The Killer’s Game while also returning to voice the character Julius Rock in the animated revival Everybody Still Hates Chris. Known for blending larger-than-life physicality with comedic timing and heartfelt sincerity, Crews has become one of Hollywood’s most recognizable personalities, balancing acting, hosting, activism, and entrepreneurship while remaining a prominent figure in film and television.