Rae Dawn Chong

Actor

1961-02-28 · Edmonton, Alberta, Canada

Rae Dawn Chong, a Canadian-American actress, has graced screens for decades. Born in Edmonton in 1961, the daughter of comedian Tommy Chong, her heritage reflects a rich mix of African-American, Native American, Asian, and Scottish-Irish ancestry. After her debut in the 1978 film "Stony Island," Chong's breakthrough came in 1981 with "Quest for Fire," which earned her a prestigious Genie Award for Best Actress. Throughout the 80s, she thrived with diverse roles in films like "Beat Street," "The Color Purple," "Commando," and "Soul Man," showcasing her versatility across comedies, dramas, and thrillers. Continuing to act in the 90s and beyond, Chong has also been a philanthropist, supporting charities and even discovering a future star (Chris Pratt) during his early days as a waiter. With her impactful performances, Rae Dawn Chong remains a remarkable figure in the entertainment industry.

• Commando (1985) — Cindy
• The Color Purple (1985) — Squeak
• Jeff, Who Lives at Home (2012) — Carol
• Quest for Fire (1981) — Ika
• Tales from the Darkside: The Movie (1990) — Carola (segment ‘Lover’s Vow’)
• Crying Freeman (1995) — Detective Forge
• The Principal (1987) — Hilary Orozco
• Hideaway (1995) — Rose Orwetto
• Soul Man (1986) — Sarah Walker
• American Flyers (1985) — Sarah
• Fear City (1984) — Leila
• Beat Street (1984) — Tracy Carlson
• Cheech & Chong's The Corsican Brothers (1984) — The Gypsy
• Reborn (2018) — Dory Ryder
• The Borrower (1991) — Diana Pierce
• Cyrus: Mind of a Serial Killer (2010) — Vivian
• The Mistress (2023)
• Choose Me (1984) — Pearl Antoine
• When the Party's Over (1993) — M.J.
• Shiver (2012) — Detective Burdine
• Time Runner (1993) — Karen Donaldson
• Deadly Skies (2006) — Madison Taylor
• The Squeeze (1987) — Rachel Dobs
• City Limits (1985) — Yogi