Queen Latifah: Age, Biography & Career Highlights
Is it possible for a single artist to not only break barriers in the music industry but also redefine it and achieve similar success in acting and beyond? For Dana Elaine Owens, better known to the world as Queen Latifah, the answer is a resounding yes.
Born on March 18, 1970, in Newark, New Jersey, Latifah has become a cultural icon, a multifaceted artist whose influence spans music, film, television, and business. From her early days as a pioneering female rapper to her Oscar-nominated acting career and her role as a powerful businesswoman, Latifah has consistently broken down barriers and inspired generations. Her journey offers a compelling case study in talent, hard work, and the unwavering pursuit of one's dreams. She celebrates her birthday on the 18th of March every year.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Dana Elaine Owens |
| Stage Name | Queen Latifah |
| Date of Birth | March 18, 1970 |
| Place of Birth | Newark, New Jersey, United States |
| Age (as of 2024) | 54 years old |
| Occupation(s) | Rapper, Singer, Actress, Songwriter, Author, Producer, Model, Businesswoman |
| Known For | Pioneering female rapper, critically acclaimed acting roles, host of "The Queen Latifah Show," successful businesswoman. |
| Height | 5 feet 10 inches |
| Notable Awards | Grammy Award (1994), Academy Award Nomination (2002), multiple Emmy nominations |
| First Album | All Hail the Queen (1989) |
| Zodiac Sign | Pisces |
| Parents | Lancelot Owens Sr. (father), Rita Owens (mother) |
| Brother | Lancelot Owens Jr. |
| Notable Works | Living Single (TV series), Chicago (film), Bringing Down the House (film), Girls Trip (film), Hairspray (film), Bessie (film) |
| Spokesperson | CoverGirl Cosmetics |
| Reference | IMDB |
From the outset, Latifah's journey was marked by a deep connection to her roots in Newark. She was born to Lancelot Owens Sr., a police officer, and Rita (ne Bray), a teacher. This upbringing instilled in her a strong sense of values and a drive to succeed. Tragically, she lost her brother, Lancelot Owens Jr. in an auto collision in 1992, an event that deeply affected her and shaped her perspective on life.
Queen Latifah's career began to take shape in the late 1980s, a time when the rap scene was largely dominated by male artists. She recorded a demo tape, which caught the attention of Tommy Boy Records. At the age of 18, she was signed to the label, a pivotal moment that launched her into the music industry. Her debut album, All Hail the Queen, released in 1989, was a bold statement of intent. The albums success, including the hit single Wrath of My Madness, was a major hit and sold over one million copies globally, establishing her as a force to be reckoned with and redefining the traditionally male genre.
The early 1990s saw Latifah releasing subsequent albums, including Nature of a Sista (1991) and Black Reign (1994), solidifying her place as a prominent figure in hip-hop. Her music often addressed social and political issues, tackling themes of empowerment, racial identity, and female strength. Her 1994 Grammy Award win for "U.N.I.T.Y." for Best Solo Rap Performance highlighted not only her musical prowess but also her ability to connect with audiences on a deeper level. The song's message of respect and self-worth resonated widely.
Simultaneously, Latifah began to explore acting, landing a role in the critically acclaimed Fox sitcom Living Single, which aired from 1993 to 1998. The show was a groundbreaking success, portraying a group of successful, independent Black women navigating their lives and careers. Latifah's portrayal of Khadijah James made her a household name and showcased her comedic and dramatic abilities.
Her transition to film was seamless. She played roles in movies such as Bringing Down the House, Girls Trip and Hairspray. Perhaps her most acclaimed role came in the 2002 film Chicago, where she earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. The role was a testament to her acting skills and her ability to embody complex characters. Further recognition came with her role in the 2015 HBO biopic Bessie, where she played the legendary blues singer Bessie Smith. The performance earned her further critical acclaim. Furthermore, queen latifah has been known for her critically acclaimed films like chicago(2002) and bessie (2015).
Latifahs entrepreneurial spirit has also been a defining characteristic. She expanded her reach into television production with the launch of "The Queen Latifah Show", a daytime talk show that showcased her charisma and ability to connect with people from all walks of life. The show provided a platform for her to discuss a range of topics, from entertainment to social issues. She also became the spokeswoman for covergirl cosmetics. As of 2023 and 2025, the success in the 90s saw her estimated net worth to be $70 million.
Beyond her entertainment ventures, Latifah has consistently used her platform to advocate for social change and empowerment. She has been a vocal supporter of women's rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and various social justice causes. Her commitment to giving back to the community is evident in her philanthropic endeavors, including her work with various charitable organizations.
In terms of her personal life, Queen Latifah has chosen to keep much of it private. Many speculate her sexual orientation and she rather gives it the fuel when she was seen dating girls which include her personal trainer jeanette jenkins and eboni nichols. Latifah's life was made significant by Rita owens. After rita died of scleroderma in 2018, latifah made a documentary.
Queen Latifah has also ventured into the world of voice acting, lending her voice to the popular Ice Age franchise, voicing Ellie the mammoth. She voices ellie the mammoth in ice age: Dawn of the dinosaurs, ice age: Continental drift, and ice age: Collision course. She'll later reprise her role in ice age 6, which will release in 2026.
Queen Latifah's story is a testament to the power of talent, perseverance, and the ability to break boundaries. From her early days as a groundbreaking rapper to her multifaceted career as an actress, producer, and businesswoman, she has consistently defied expectations and inspired millions. Her impact extends beyond entertainment, as she continues to use her platform to advocate for social change and empower others. Dana Elaine Owens, or Queen Latifah, has undeniably earned her place as a true icon.
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