Kelley was born on August 1, 1986 in LaGrange, Georgia, to parents who were both in the military. His father was a pilot and his mother was a nurse. Kelley has two older sisters. He was raised in a strict Baptist household.
Kelley attended LaGrange High School. He was a talented singer and was a member of the school choir. He also played football and ran track. After graduation, he attended the University of California, Los Angeles on a track scholarship.
Kelley’s acting career began with a small role in the film Drumline (2002). He has since appeared in such films as Hairspray (2007), Red Tails (2012) and The Butler (2013). He has also guest-starred on television shows such as CSI: Miami and Numb3rs.
Kelley’s net worth is estimated to be $3 million. He has earned his wealth through his acting roles and endorsements. He is currently single and does not have any children.
General Info
Full Name
Elijah Kelley
Date Of Birth
August 1, 1986
Height
1.69 m
Profession
Actor, Dancer, Singer
Education
Troup County High School
Nationality
American
Accomplishments
Awards
Critics' Choice Movie Award for Best Acting Ensemble
Nominations
Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture, Critics' Choice Movie Award for Best Song
Movies
The Wiz Live!, Strange Magic, The Boys of Abu Ghraib, The Butler, Red Tails, Hairspray, Take the Lead, Rome & Jewel, 28 Days
Growing up in Georgia, it was sort of the last place to jump on the bandwagon of the integrated frontier.. I have aunts and uncles and grandparents that experienced the 'whites only" and segregated schools. Their experiences are very real and ...I wanted to be part of cinematic history in exploring how ridiculous the separation of these two cultures was.
2
I'm an actor. I'm a singer. And I dance. To be able to do all these things is amazing. And to have similar-minded people all around you, doing what you love, is even more amazing.
Facts
#
Fact
1
Coming out with his debut album 'Love Letters', due out in September 2008 [July 2008]
2
Was ranked #30 on Entertainment Weekly's '30 Under 30' the actors list. (2008).
3
Awarded the key to the city (La Grange) in July 2007.
4
After high school graduation he moved with his family to Los Angeles to pursue his career seriously.
5
As a child he performed in a gospel band in his hometown and appeared in several Coca-Cola commercials.
6
He is establishing the Elijah Kelley Foundation in his hometown of LaGrange, GA to help local children follow their dreams. The Elijah Kelley Center for Performing Arts will offer music, dance, and drama classes.