Since his debut as Ricky Baker in John Singleton’s “Boyz In the Hood,” Morris Chestnut has consistently portrayed powerful African American characters. He most recently starred in the 20th Century Fox feature “Like Mike” and “Half Past Dead,” opposite Steven Seagal and Ja Rule.

Chestnut starred opposite Alan Alda in the Showtime feature “The Killing Yard” which premiered at the 2002 Toronto Film Festival. Chestnut’s independent features include “Scenes of the Crime,” directed by Dominique Forma, and stars Noah Wyle and Jeff Bridges.

Chestnut is known for his roles in “The Brothers,” “The Best Man” and “Boyz In the Hood.” In “The Brothers” he starred opposite Bill Bellamy, D.L. Hughley and Shemar Moore, who are four friends beginning to question relationships, when one of them gets engaged. In Malcolm Lee’s “The Best Man,” he played Lance, the hottest pro running back with the best of everything. He received a NAACP Image Award nomination and the film also won the award for Best Motion Picture. John Singlton’s “Boyz In The Hood” introduced the world to the struggles, hopes and dreams of inner city youth while trying to survive in a world controlled by gangs.