What is S Epatha Merkerson Net Worth?
$8 Million.
S Epatha Merkerson is an acclaimed American film, stage and television actress. As of 2024, S Epatha Merkerson’s net worth is $8 million.
| Full Name | Sharon Epatha Merkerson |
| Net Worth | $8 Million |
| Birth Date | 28 November 1952 |
| Age | 71 Years Old |
| Profession | Actress |
| Update | 2024 |
She is best known for her long-running role as Lieutenant Anita Van Buren on the popular police procedural series “Law & Order”. Over her illustrious career spanning five decades, Merkerson has garnered numerous accolades including a Golden Globe, Emmy nominations and multiple NAACP Image Awards.
In this article, we will talk about S Epatha Merkerson’s biography, family, career, net worth and many more.
Read Also: Sunny Ozell Biography
S Epatha Merkerson Biography/Wiki: Early Life & Education
Epatha Merkerson was born on November 28, 1952 in Saginaw, Michigan. She is 71 years old as of 2024. She belongs to the American nationality and believes in the Christian religion. Her ethnicity is African American and her zodiac sign is Sagittarius.
Her mother was a postal worker and her father was a factory worker. Merkerson’s parents encouraged her interest in acting from a young age. She appeared in many school plays.
After graduating high school, Merkerson moved to Detroit and worked various jobs before deciding to pursue acting full-time at the age of 25.
She enrolled at Wayne State University and graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in theater in 1978. Merkerson later earned a Master of Fine Arts from Yale School of Drama in 1993.
Physical Appearance: Height, Weight & Body Measurements
S Epatha Merkerson stands at 5 feet 4 inches(163 cm) and weighs around 143 lbs(65 kg). She has an average build with measurements of 36-28-38 inches. The actress has dark brown eyes and black hair. Over the years, Merkerson has maintained a youthful graceful appearance.
Read Also: Marie Osmond Biography
S Epatha Merkerson Family, Husband, Children
Merkerson prefers to keep her personal life private. In interviews over the years, she has stated she never married and does not have children. Her long demanding career has meant that she focused more on acting than starting a family. Merkerson considers her friends and colleagues as her family.
S Epatha Merkerson Net Worth
According to reports, S Epatha Merkerson has an estimated net worth of $8 million dollars as of 2024. She has earned considerable wealth from her successful acting career spanning over 30 years.
At the peak of her time on “Law & Order” in the 2000s, Merkerson’s salary was $375,000 per episode. Her net worth is poised to increase further as the veteran actress continues taking on more roles.
Details Career
After graduating Yale in 1993, Merkerson found sporadic work off-Broadway and low-budget independent films throughout the 90s.
Her breakout role came in 1991 when she was cast as supervising detective Lieutenant Anita Van Buren on the hugely popular police procedural series “Law & Order”. Merkerson portrayed Lt. Van Buren for 17 seasons until the show ended its historic run in 2010.
Post “Law & Order”, Merkerson continued acting in film, television and on stage. She was part of ensemble casts in acclaimed films like “The Six Wives Henry LeFay” (2012), “Mother of George” (2013) and “Beware the Gonzo” (2010).
On the small screen, the actress had recurring roles in “The PJs”, “Pariah” and guest starred in various other hit shows. She also appeared on stage regularly much to the delight of her dedicated fanbase.
In 2022, Merkerson reprised her iconic role as Lt. Van Buren in the reboot series “Law & Order: For the Defense” bringing much joy to longtime fans. She remains a versatile performer taking on diverse meaningful roles that provide new challenges.
Facts & Trivia
1. Before becoming an actress, Merkerson worked odd jobs including tour guide at the Big Apple Circus and national park ranger at the Grand Canyon.
2. She was nominated for a Tony Award in 2004 for her performance in the Broadway play “A Raisin in the Sun”.
3. Merkerson won a Golden Globe award in 1998 for Best Actress in a Television Series for “Law & Order”.
4. She has won five NAACP Image Awards and a Satellite Award over her prestigious career.
5. Director Spike Lee offered Merkerson her very first film role – a brief appearance in “She’s Gotta Have It” in 1986.
6. Merkerson received an honorary degree from her alma mater Wayne State University in 2002.
7. She holds the record for second longest run on “Law & Order” after Sgt. Phil Cerreta’s character portrayed by actor Paul Sorvino.
8. Merkerson appeared in the documentary “My Plea” highlighting America’s broken public defense system.
9. She is an avid sports fan and supporter of the Detroit Pistons and Michigan Wolverines.
10. In 2022, Merkerson was inducted into the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences alongside other iconic actresses.
Awards & Achievements
S Epatha Merkerson’s outstanding work over the years has earned her numerous accolades:
- 5x NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series (1996–2000)
- Satellite Award for Best Actress in a Series, Drama (1998)
- Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Television Series – Drama (1998)
- Obie Award for Performance (1989)
- Lucille Lortel Award for Outstanding Featured Actress (1992)
- Drama League Award for Distinguished Performance (2004)
- Champion of Health Award from the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation (2008)
In addition, Merkerson has received two honorary Doctorate of Fine Arts degrees and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2022 recognizing her long successful career.
Website, Social Media: Instagram, Twitter
Unfortunately S Epatha Merkerson is not active on any social media platforms. She does not have an official website or social media handles. Merkerson has mentioned in past interviews that she prefers to keep a low profile online as she leads a private life away from the glamor world. Fans can only hope she makes an appearance on social media soon to interact more with her loyal fanbase.
Conclusion
In summary, S Epatha Merkerson stands tall as one of the most prolific African-American actresses of our times. Her authentic yet captivating performances have cut through racial barriers in Hollywood for decades. At 70 years of age today, Merkerson continues to be in-demand showcasing her exceptional talent.
With a Golden Globe, Obie and numerous other accolades under her belt – along with an iconic role in a hit series – very few artists can boast of achieving this legendary actress’ level of success. There is likely more history to be created in Merkerson’s story as she entertains global audiences with her thespian skills for years to come.
FAQs
1. Where is S Epatha Merkerson originally from?
She was born in Saginaw, Michigan on November 28, 1952 in Saginaw, Michigan. She is 71 years old.
2. What was Epatha Merkerson’s role on Law & Order?
Merkerson portrayed the role of supervising police detective Lieutenant Anita Van Buren for 17 seasons on the hit series “Law & Order” from 1993 to 2010.
3. Has S Epatha Merkerson been married or have kids?
No, the actress has never been married and does not have children.
4. What is S Epatha Merkerson’s net worth?
S Epatha Merkerson’s estimated net worth as of 2024 is $8 million dollars.
5. How many awards has she won in her career?
Merkerson has won over 10 major awards including a Golden Globe, Obie Award, Tony Award nomination and five NAACP Image Awards.
6. How tall is S Epatha Merkerson?
She stands at 5 feet 4 inches(163 cm).
