Garcelle Beauvais, a prominent Haitian-American actress, television personality, and author, has made significant strides in the entertainment industry since her arrival in the United States at the age of seven. Known for her captivating performances and strong presence, Beauvais has become a cultural icon, particularly recognized for her roles in popular television shows and films.
Table of Contents
Who is Garcelle Beauvais?
- Age: 58 years
- Family: Axel Jean Pierre (father) and Marie-Claire Beauvais (mother)
- Ex Husband: Michael Nilon
- First Husband: Daniel Saunders
- Kids: Oliver Saunders, Jax Joseph Nilon and Jaid Thomas Nilon
- Ex Boyfriend: Michael Jordan, Eddie Murphy, and Will Smith
- Salary: $1.5 million annually
- Net Worth: $8 million
- Height: 5 feet 9 inches (approximately 1.68 meters)
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Garcelle Beauvais Age, Parents, and Early Life
Born on November 26, 1966, in Saint-Marc, Haiti, Garcelle was the daughter of Marie-Claire Beauvais, a nurse, and Axel Jean Pierre, a lawyer. Her parents divorced when she was just three years old. At the age of seven, Garcelle immigrated to the United States with her mother and six older siblings, settling in Peabody, Massachusetts.
The transition was challenging; initially speaking only French and Haitian Creole, she learned English by watching Sesame Street, demonstrating her resilience and adaptability from a young age. Garcelle’s pursuit of success began early. At 16, she moved to Miami to pursue modeling opportunities.
Modelling Career
Her big break came when she was approached by a modeling agency owner while stopped at a red light. This serendipitous encounter led her to New York City at 17, where she signed with the prestigious Ford Modeling Agency. Throughout her modeling career, she worked with renowned brands such as Avon and Clairol and walked runways for fashion icons like Calvin Klein.
She quickly gained recognition for her striking looks and poise on the runway. Her height of 5’9″ made her a standout in the fashion industry, and she became one of the first Black models to achieve significant success in a predominantly white industry during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Her modeling career not only provided her with financial stability but also opened doors to acting opportunities.
Beauvais transitioned into acting with ease, leveraging her modeling experience to captivate audiences both on screen and stage.
Acting Career
Garcelle’s acting career took off in the late 1980s. She made her television debut in 1984 on the crime drama series Miami Vice. Her role as a rose bearer in the beloved romantic comedy Coming to America (1988) introduced her to a wider audience. Following this success, she starred in Aaron Spelling’s soap opera Models Inc. (1994), which further solidified her status as an actress.
However, it was her role as Francesca “Fancy” Monoe on “The Jamie Foxx Show” (1996-2001) that catapulted her to fame. The sitcom showcased her comedic talents and charm, earning her a dedicated fan base. Her character, Fancy, was a love interest of Jamie Foxx’s character, providing both humor and romance that resonated with viewers.
Following her success on “The Jamie Foxx Show,” Beauvais continued to build an impressive resume. She starred as Assistant District Attorney Valerie Heywood on “NYPD Blue” (2001-2005), further solidifying her status as a versatile actress capable of handling both comedy and drama. Her performances were well-received, showcasing her range and depth as an actress.
In addition to television roles, Beauvais appeared in several films throughout her career. Some notable films include “Coming to America” (1988), where she played one of the lead roles alongside Eddie Murphy, and its sequel “Coming 2 America” (2021). She also appeared in action films like “White House Down” (2013) and “Spider-Man: Homecoming” (2017), demonstrating her ability to adapt to various genres.
Reality Television and Recent Projects
In 2020, Garcelle made headlines as the first Black cast member on Bravo’s reality series The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. Her candid approach to discussing race and privilege has resonated with audiences and brought important conversations about social issues into the reality TV space. She has used this platform to advocate for various causes while maintaining authenticity in her portrayal of life as a Black woman in Hollywood.
Garcelle also co-hosted the daytime talk show The Real from 2020 until its conclusion in 2022. The Emmy Award-winning daytime talk show focuses on women’s issues and current events. Her time on this show allowed her to engage with diverse topics ranging from entertainment news to personal stories about motherhood and relationships.
In addition to reality television, Beauvais has ventured into producing. She partnered with Lifetime to executive produce original titles, including the critically acclaimed film “Black Girl Missing” (2023). This move marked a significant step in her career as she sought to create content that reflects diverse narratives.
Writing and Other Ventures
Garcelle’s creative endeavors extend into literature as well. In April 2022, she released her memoir titled Love Me As I Am: My Journey from Haiti to Hollywood to Happiness, which chronicles her life experiences from childhood struggles to achieving success in Hollywood. The memoir explores on themes of love, identity, and self-acceptance.
It quickly rose to prominence on Amazon’s bestseller list and garnered attention from major media outlets such as Good Morning America and PEOPLE Magazine. Through this memoir, Beauvais aimed to inspire others by sharing her journey of overcoming obstacles while embracing her true self. Additionally, she authored a children’s book series titled I AM, which addresses identity issues faced by children today.
The series reflects Garcelle’s commitment to empowering young readers through relatable narratives.
Garcelle Beauvais Boyfriend
As of January 2025, Garcelle Beauvais is reportedly single. She has expressed interest in dating but emphasizes focusing on her children and personal growth. During a BravoCon panel in October 2023, she mentioned that while she would love to have a partner, her priority remains her sons and their well-being.
Garcelle Beauvais First Husband
Beauvais has had a significant and varied relationship history, including two marriages and several high-profile romances. Beauvais married British actor and producer Daniel Saunders in 1991. Their relationship reportedly began in 1990.
The couple welcomed their first child, Oliver Saunders in 1991. Garcelle and Daniel divorced in 2000 after nearly nine years of marriage. Despite the separation, Garcelle has spoken positively about Daniel, referring to him as a “good man” in interviews. Oliver has made Garcelle a proud grandmother.
Garcelle Beauvais Ex Husband and Twins
Following her divorce from Daniel, Garcelle began dating Mike Nilon in 2000, a talent agent. They dated for about nine months before getting married. Garcelle and Mike Nilon were married in a ceremony that highlighted their status as a Hollywood couple on May 12, 2001.
They attended numerous high-profile events together. The couple welcomed twin boys, Jax Joseph Nilon and Jaid Thomas Nilon on October 18, 2007. Garcelle filed for divorce after discovering Mike’s infidelity, which he admitted had been ongoing for five years.
The divorce filing occurred on May 10, 2010 just two days before their ninth wedding anniversary. The divorce was finalized in 2011, marking the end of their marriage. During this period, Garcelle focused on co-parenting their sons while dealing with the emotional fallout from the marriage.
Garcelle Beauvais Net Worth
As of 2025, Garcelle Beauvais’s estimated net worth is around $8 million, reflecting her success across various platforms, including acting, modeling, reality television, and entrepreneurial ventures. Beauvais’s wealth primarily stems from her long-standing career in television and film. Garcelle receives a salary of approximately $1.5 million annually.
This figure reflects her earnings from acting roles, hosting gigs, and reality television appearances. In addition to her entertainment career, Beauvais has ventured into entrepreneurship:
- Launched a children’s jewelry line called Petit Bijou.
- Created a home collection named Garcelle at Home, available through the Home Shopping Network.
- Founded Garcelle Beauvais Productions, allowing her to produce content and maintain creative control over her projects.
Additionally, Beauvais has made strategic real estate investments that reflect her financial acumen; she owns a property valued at approximately $1.2 million in Northridge, California. Furthermore, Garcelle purchased and renovated a beach cottage in Oxnard, further enhancing her asset portfolio.
Beyond entertainment, Garcelle is actively involved in philanthropy. She serves as an ambassador for Cybersmile, an organization focused on digital well-being and combating online bullying. Additionally, she supports UNICEF and CORE (Community Organized Relief Effort), raising funds for Haiti—a cause close to her heart given her roots. Garcelle is also involved with the W.K. Kellogg Foundation’s “Pockets of Hope” campaign aimed at improving conditions for Haitian children and families through locally led initiatives.
FAQs About Garcelle Beauvais
how old is Garcelle Beauvais?
58 years.
how tall is Garcelle Beauvais?
Her height of 5’9″ made her a standout in the fashion industry, and she became one of the first Black models to achieve significant success in a predominantly white industry during the late 1980s and early 1990s.
who is Garcelle Beauvais?
Beauvais, a prominent Haitian-American actress, television personality, and author, has made significant strides in the entertainment industry since her arrival in the United States at the age of seven.
how much is Garcelle Beauvais worth?
As of 2025, Garcelle Beauvais’s estimated net worth is around $8 million, reflecting her success across various platforms, including acting, modeling, reality television, and entrepreneurial ventures.
is Garcelle Beauvais married?
No, however, Beauvais has had a significant and varied relationship history, including two marriages and several high-profile romances.
who is Garcelle Beauvais dating?
As of January 2025, Garcelle Beauvais is reportedly single. She has expressed interest in dating but emphasizes focusing on her children and personal growth.
Who did Garcelle Beauvais have kids with?
Garcelle has one kid with her first husband Daniel, and twins with her second husband Michael Nilon.
Did Garcelle Beauvais date Michael Jordan?
Yes, Garcelle has been romantically linkes to Michael Jordan, Eddie Murphy, and Will Smith.