Gabrielle Union

Gabrielle Union is an award-winning American actress and one of the most recognised faces in the romantic comedy genre. Beginning her career in the 90s on television sitcoms, Gabrielle has since starred in several films and has written four books. Raised to be an independent strong woman, Gabrielle is outspoken on women’s rights and race issues, constantly calling for representation.

Born in Omaha Nebraska in 1972, she was taught to have a world perspective and experienced many cultures from an early age. Her parents instilled in her strong family values, and she was impressed at how they handled their divorce with grace and respect. Tragically, at 19 the summer before starting university, Gabrielle was subject to a heinous attack, raped at gunpoint whilst working at her part-time job. She credits her survival to tips learned from the Oprah Winfrey show.

After graduating from UCLA with a degree in Sociology, Gabrielle started auditioning for minor roles, landing parts in Star Trek, Sister Sister, 7th Heaven and Friends. In 1999 she landed her first film role in She’s All That and 10 Things I Hate About You. Well known for the film Bring it On, she has since starred in several films including City of Angels, Bad Boys II, Cadillac Records, Top Five and most recently in Breaking In. Gabrielle believes her role in Bad Boys II was a blessing that helped propel her career forwards.

Recognised for her exceptional acting skills, Gabrielle has won multiple awards such as Best Actress in Neo Ned at the Palm Beach International Film Festival, an NAACP Image Award for Being Mary Jane and an NAACP Image Award nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series in 2010. She was appointed by President Obama to work with the National Advisory Committee for violence against women. Gabrielle was included on Times 100 most influential people in the world list for 2020. Challenging stereotypes against women, in her speaking sessions Gabrielle raises awareness about sexual violence.