Highlights
- Woody McClain has successfully transitioned from a professional dancer to a comedian and actor.
- McClain’s portrayal of Bobby Brown in BET’s “The New Edition Story” in 2017 was his breakout role, leading to numerous opportunities in television and film.
- He is the executive producer and star of “Stories with Kev,” a streaming series where he portrays Kevin Hart.
Woody McClain, born Edward Woody McClain on May 14, 1989, in Charleston, South Carolina, has rapidly become a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.
Known for his versatility as an actor, comedian, and dancer, McClain’s journey to stardom is a testament to his talent and perseverance.
Early Life and Education
McClain grew up in a close-knit family with supportive parents, Edward Allen McClain and Rosetta Robinson.
His father owns a non-profit organization, while his mother works in the transport sector.
Woody shares a special bond with his younger sister, Mercedes Cheyanne McClain, who studied at Santa Fe College.
The McClain family’s strong foundation is evident in their long-lasting relationships.
In March 2024, Woody’s parents celebrated their 36th wedding anniversary, showcasing their enduring love and commitment.
McClain attended Robert E. Lee High School before enrolling at Florida A&M University in 2008.
However, his pursuit of a career in entertainment led him to make a bold move to Los Angeles in 2012, leaving his studies behind.
The Journey to Stardom
Upon arriving in Los Angeles, McClain initially focused on establishing himself as a professional dancer.
His talent quickly gained recognition, and he soon found himself performing as a backup dancer for renowned artists such as Chris Brown and Fifth Harmony.
McClain’s career took an unexpected turn when he began creating original content for social media platforms.
His comedic skills shone through, particularly when his version of Kevin Hart’s “Permission to Cuss” skit went viral.
This caught Hart’s attention, leading to McClain signing with HartBeat Digital, Hart’s production company, in December 2015.
Acting Breakthrough
McClain’s transition into acting proved to be a game-changer.
His first major role came in 2017 when he was cast as Bobby Brown in BET’s “The New Edition Story.”
This portrayal earned him critical acclaim and opened doors to numerous opportunities in the industry.
Following his success, McClain reprised his role as Bobby Brown in “The Bobby Brown Story.”
He has since appeared in various TV shows and films, including “Power Book II: Ghost” (2020-2022) as Cane Tejada, “The Harder They Fall” (2021) as Clyde Grimes, and “Unsolved: The Murders of Tupac and the Notorious B.I.G.” (2018) as Jimmy Henchman Rosemund.
Multi-faceted Talent
Beyond acting, McClain continues to showcase his diverse talents.
He is the executive producer and star of “Stories with Kev,” a streaming series where he portrays Kevin Hart.
The show airs on Hart’s streaming video service, “Laugh Out Loud.”
McClain’s social media presence remains strong, with over 1.2 million followers on Facebook and 2 million on Instagram.
He continues to engage his audience with his comedic content under the moniker “WoodyTheGreat.”
Personal Life and Heritage
While McClain keeps much of his personal life private, he is known for his close relationship with his family.
He often expresses gratitude towards his parents on social media, acknowledging their support in his journey to success.
Interestingly, on August 2, 2024, McClain tweeted that he is British, adding an intriguing layer to his background.
This revelation suggests a connection to Portsmouth, England, where he reportedly spent part of his childhood before moving to Jacksonville, Florida.
As of 2024, at 35 years old, Woody McClain continues to make waves in the entertainment industry.
His journey from a dancer to a multi-talented entertainer serves as an inspiration to aspiring artists.
With his charisma, versatility, and dedication, McClain is undoubtedly a rising star to watch in the coming years.
