Gillian Iliana Waters, born on 16th January 1975, is a prominent American actress, and she has left an indelible mark on the film industry since 1995.
Early Life
Born in Los Angeles, CA, Gillian hails from a diverse heritage, encompassing African-American, Blackfoot Indian, and Irish descent. During her high school years, she excelled as an all-around student-athlete, garnering recognition as a star basketball player, Homecoming Queen, and an honors student.
Initially aspiring to become an FBI agent, Gillian earned a scholarship from the LAPD to study Administration of Justice at Howard University. However, she later shifted her focus, choosing to major in Human Communication with a minor in Dramatic Arts.
Career
Gillian White’s career spans over two decades, and she made her on-screen debut as LL Cool J’s lover in his music video “Hey Lover” featuring Boyz II Men. Subsequently, she starred as Dr. Dre’s wife and tango partner in his music video “Been There, Done That.” Transitioning to television, she secured her first role in the film “How To Be a Player” and later portrayed Cole’s girlfriend on the popular show “Martin.”
Throughout her career, Gillian continued to secure guest-starring roles in dramas, sitcoms, and smaller roles in feature films, including Spike Lee’s “Bamboozled” and Quentin Tarantino’s classic works. Notably, she cherished her portrayal of Amoria, the Amazon warrior, on “Xena: Warrior Princess,” filmed in New Zealand, and her recurring villain role as China Lee Arvin on the soap opera “Days of Our Lives.”
Personal Life
Gillian has two daughters from her previous marriage, Alaia Waters (born in 2001) and Niahla Waters (born in 2008). She is currently married to her best friend of 19 years and fiancé of three years, the accomplished actor, martial arts star, and director, Michael Jai White. Their wedding was a lavish and intimate affair held in Thailand, graced with a stunning Thai couture dress, Thai drummers, a parade of painted elephants, firework shows, and exotic dancers during the ceremony. The wedding took place following the completion of filming Sony Picture’s “Never Back Down” in Bangkok, where the couple co-starred.
Beyond her daughters, Gillian embraces her role as a stepmother to three children, Devin, Jai, and Morgan White, from her second marriage. Gillian and Michael’s public relationship is characterized by love, focus on family, upcoming projects, health, fitness, and happiness, solidifying their status as one of Black Hollywood’s most sought-after couples.
Net Worth
Gillian Waters’ net worth is estimated to be around $1 million, primarily stemming from her successful acting career, encompassing both minor and major roles in TV shows, soap operas, and films. As for Michael Jai White, his estimated net worth stands at $3.5 million, derived from his accomplished acting profession.
The Future
As a self-proclaimed “very cool, very hip nerd” and career-driven woman, Gillian continues to excel in diverse roles, transitioning from a music video vixen to an esteemed figure in Hollywood. Her rising stardom promises a bright future, and audiences eagerly anticipate witnessing more of Gillian’s remarkable talent on the screens in the years to come.
