In the vibrant tapestry of Black American culture, a concept emerges that celebrates certain movies as “Blassics.” This term, a fusion of ‘Black’ and ‘Classics,’ is a testament to the unique stories of Black Americans and their experiences brought to life through films starring Black actors. These films, often featuring familiar faces like Angela Bassett, Nia Long, and Taye Diggs, are not just movies but cultural milestones. They have left an indelible mark on the industry and include films like “Waiting to Exhale, “Friday,” “School Daze,” and “The Best Man,” resonating deeply with the culture’s shared experiences and heritage.
Of those listed, Diggs may be most recently known for his appearance on the CW’s “All American,” portraying former NFL player and high school football coach Billy Baker. However, his career has roots much deeper than the teenage-themed drama series.
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Diggs, a native of Rochester, NY, began his journey in the performing arts at a young age, Men’s Journal reports. His passion for dance and acting led him to take classes, setting the stage for his future career. Despite a brief foray into athletics in junior high, Diggs ultimately returned to his first love — performance. This dedication culminated with a degree in musical theater from Syracuse University, a testament to his commitment and talent.
Upon graduation from college, Diggs would work on Broadway and land his breakout role in 1996 as Benny in the original production of “Rent,” according to the outlet. Shortly after his acclaimed time doing theater, he landed a co-starring role alongside Angela Bassett in the film adaptation of Terry McMillan’s book — “How Stella Got Her Groove Back.”
The 53-year-old has continued to amaze with his diverse career, seamlessly transitioning between roles in television shows and films, joining the cast of “Ally McBeal,” “The Wood,” and “Brown Sugar.” While his acting resume is undoubtedly impressive, Diggs has also made significant contributions in the literary space. He has authored a collection of books that tackle important themes of race and justice, demonstrating his versatility and commitment to using his platform for meaningful storytelling. One of his books, “The Festival of Creatures,” was written in partnership with Baskin-Robbins in 2020, offering free copies of the book.
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Diggs has continued to give back to those interested in the arts by teaching at the Broadway Dance Center in New York. He has also served as a teacher and choreographer, previously working in spaces such as The Millennium Dance Complex and The Edge Dance Studio, both in Los Angeles, CA, and the Syracuse University Dance Program.
Diggs’ multiple-decade career has earned him an estimated $7 million net worth, according to Celebrity Net Worth.
Although his focus has been on the fine arts, Diggs’ primary priority is being a father to his son, Walker Nathaniel Diggs. The established actor co-parents with his former “Rent” co-star, Idina Menzel.
“She has a career, and she has her own relationships, and she still makes sure that Walker is where he needs to be when he needs,” Diggs told People concerning their co-parenting relationship, though the two are no longer married. “He’s got the best coaches and the best teachers, and we’re at the best schools, and it’s all because of her.”
While Walker has up-close exposure to Hollywood and access to resources supporting his future endeavors, he is not interested in following in his parents’ footsteps.
According to a Blavity report, Menzel hopes their son will enter the industry, but Diggs notes that sports are his focus.
“No interest at all, and it’s killing his mother,” Diggs told OK magazine, per the outlet. “I don’t really care, but he has such a beautiful voice. He is a good-looking kid, he’s hilarious, so he would be great [in the industry], but he has no interest whatsoever.”
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Diggs, however, has been able to deepen his relationship with his son at the intersection of acting and sports. His role on “All American” is centered around sports, so it provided an opportunity for Diggs and Walker to bond in another way.
“I felt very lucky because I was in a situation where art was kind of imitating life, and even when I was on that program, my son knew more about football than I did,” Diggs said. “So, we were able to watch that show together and discuss the issues as well as the athletics. That was a seminal moment for us.”
