Blair Underwood Speaking Fee: $30,000 to $50,000

Blair Underwood, born on August 25, 1964, in Tacoma, Washington, is an accomplished actor, director, and producer whose career spans over three decades. Growing up in a military family, he experienced life on various U.S. Army bases, both domestically and abroad, which provided him with a broad perspective on diverse cultures. Underwood honed his acting skills at Carnegie Mellon University's School of Drama, laying the foundation for his future success. Underwood's breakthrough came with his portrayal of attorney Jonathan Rollins on the NBC legal drama L.A. Law, a role he held from 1987 to 1994. This performance not only garnered him a Golden Globe nomination but also established him as a prominent figure in the television industry. He continued to diversify his roles with notable performances in films such as Set It Off (1996), Gattaca (1997), and Deep Impact (1998), showcasing his versatility across genres. In the realm of theater, Underwood made a significant impact with his Broadway debut in the 2012 revival of A Streetcar Named Desire, taking on the iconic role of Stanley Kowalski. His stage presence was further recognized in 2020 when he starred as Captain Richard Davenport in the Broadway revival of A Soldier's Play, demonstrating his enduring commitment to live performance. Beyond his artistic endeavors, Underwood is deeply involved in philanthropy. He co-founded Artists for a New South Africa, an organization dedicated to promoting democracy and equality. Additionally, he has supported various causes, including the Muscular Dystrophy Association and YouthAIDS, reflecting his dedication to leveraging his platform for social good. Underwood's recent projects include a role in the Netflix miniseries Self Made: Inspired by the Life of Madam C.J. Walker (2020), where he starred alongside Octavia Spencer. His enduring presence in the entertainment industry, coupled with his philanthropic efforts, underscores a career marked by both artistic excellence and a commitment to meaningful change.