

Woody McClain
United StatesAlso known as: Woodrow McClain, WoodyTheGreat
Birthday
May 17, 1993
Birth Sign
Taurus
Birthplace
Charleston, South Carolina
Age
33 years old
Height
5 ft 10 in (178 cm)
About
Woody McClain is an American actor, dancer, and comedian best known for his transformative portrayal of R&B icon Bobby Brown in the 2017 BET miniseries The New Edition Story and as Cane Tejada in the Starz drama series Power Book II: Ghost. Born in Charleston, South Carolina, he moved to Jacksonville, Florida, where he attended high school before heading to Los Angeles in 2012. His career has evolved from viral internet stardom to becoming a leading man in major television productions.
Today, McClain stands as one of the most recognizable faces in modern urban drama and comedy. He balances a demanding acting schedule with his role as a father to twin daughters named Emily and Maya. Beyond performing, he has expanded his footprint into writing and producing, actively developing independent projects that reflect his creative vision. His ability to switch between high-energy comedy and intense dramatic roles has cemented his status as a versatile entertainer in Hollywood.
Early Life & Background
Woodrow McClain was born in Charleston, South Carolina, but his formative years took shape in Jacksonville, Florida. During his senior year of high school, his family relocated there, setting the stage for his early artistic development. While attending Florida A&M University, he identified proudly as a "Rattler" and cultivated a deep appreciation for performance arts. He eventually paused his studies to chase a dream that had been growing since childhood.
Before stepping onto a professional set, McClain found his voice on the digital stage. In the mid-2010s, he became a dominant force on Vine, gaining millions of followers under the handle @woody_thegreat. His short-form videos showcased a unique blend of sharp comedic timing and impressive dance skills that set him apart from other creators. This online success served as his training ground, allowing him to refine his persona and build a loyal following without the backing of a traditional agency.
The transition from social media star to serious actor required grit and preparation. Moving to Los Angeles at age 18, he navigated the competitive entertainment landscape by leveraging his existing fanbase while proving his acting chops were genuine. His journey from creating six-second clips to landing the lead role of Bobby Brown marked a pivotal shift from internet novelty to mainstream recognition.
Career Growth
McClain's breakthrough arrived in 2017 when he was cast as Bobby Brown in BET's critically acclaimed miniseries The New Edition Story. Critics praised his ability to embody the physicality, swagger, and emotional volatility of the R&B legend during the group's turbulent rise and fall. The performance earned him widespread recognition and established him as a serious dramatic actor capable of carrying a major production.
Following this success, McClain secured the lead role of Cane Tejada in Power Book II: Ghost, a spinoff of the hit series Power. The show premiered in 2020 and ran through 2024, solidifying his status as a leading man in television drama. His performance in the series showcased his range beyond comedy, handling complex storylines involving crime, family dynamics, and romance.
In addition to acting, McClain has expanded into writing and producing. As of 2026, he is actively developing an independent romantic comedy, which he describes as a heartfelt project created from the ground up. He launched a Kickstarter campaign to fund this film, aiming to tell stories that reflect his creative vision and support independent cinema. He also maintains a strong presence on YouTube with sketch comedy series such as "Stories With Dave Chappelle" and collaborations with other creators, further diversifying his portfolio.
Career Timeline
Public Image & Style
McClain is known for his athletic build, a result of his background in dance and the physical demands of his roles. His public image is that of a versatile entertainer who seamlessly blends comedy, drama, and music. Media portrays him as charismatic, energetic, and deeply committed to his craft. His aesthetic often features stylish, contemporary fashion that reflects his status as a modern Hollywood leading man. On social media, his voice is authentic and engaging, often sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses of his life and work while maintaining a connection with his fanbase.
Fame & Fandom (iFAMOUS Rankings)
iFANN has not yet collected fame data for Woody McClain. He is not featured on the September 2026 iFAMOUS Rankings flagship list. Despite the lack of formal ranking data, his supporters are highly organized and vocal. Fans often refer to themselves collectively through hashtags like #WoodyTheGreat or simply as fans of Power Book II: Ghost. His fanbase is notable for its intensity during the release of The New Edition Story, where they championed his performance against skepticism. Fan campaigns have included trending topics on Twitter/X to boost the visibility of his projects and organizing watch parties for new episodes. McClain interacts with fans through Instagram live sessions and Q&A posts, fostering a loyal community that appreciates his humor and talent.
Interesting Facts and Legends
McClain is a proud alumnus of Florida A&M University, often referencing his time as a "Rattler" in his bios and social media posts. Before his acting career took off, he was one of the most followed creators on Vine, proving that social media stardom can translate to mainstream success. He is a father to twin girls, a role he balances with his demanding acting schedule. His viral Vine era involved unique comedic timing and dance skills that made him a household name among internet users before he ever stepped onto a movie set. One of the most iconic moments in his career was his audition for Bobby Brown, where he immersed himself in the singer's life, learning his dance moves and studying his mannerisms.
Notable Quotes
“I'm making my first rom-com independent, heartfelt, and from the ground up. Follow the journey, support the dream.”
“Being a Rattler means you never back down from a challenge.”
Family & Personal Life
Woody McClain is a devoted father to twin daughters named Emily and Maya. He has publicly identified himself as a "Twin GirlDad," indicating his close bond with his children. His Instagram bio explicitly lists their names, suggesting they are central to his life outside of work. While he keeps his romantic life private, he frequently shares glimpses of his family life on social media, fostering a connection with fans who appreciate his dedication as a parent.
Notable Connections
Michaela Thurlow, Cam Newton, Michael Ealy, Meagan Good.
Relationships & Dating History
Woody McClain maintains a relatively private personal life compared to his public career. There are no widely documented long-term engagements or marriages in the public record prior to 2026. However, search queries and fan discussions frequently raise questions about his relationship status, including inquiries about a "baby mama" and whether he is currently dating. He is a father to twin daughters named Emily and Maya, but he has not publicly disclosed the identity of their mother, keeping her privacy intact.
As of 2026, there is no confirmed information regarding a current spouse or a publicly acknowledged long-term partner. He appears to be focused on his career and raising his twin daughters. The lack of recent high-profile relationships suggests he may be single or keeping his romantic life strictly out of the spotlight. No credible sources report a divorce, separation, or widowhood.
- SingleCurrentFather to twin daughters Emily and Maya; mother's identity unknown.
Salary, Net Worth In 2026
$4 Million
iFANN Editorial Team estimate
As of 2026, research by the iFANN Editorial Team puts Woody McClain's fortune at around $4 million. This estimate reflects his earnings from his tenure on Power Book II: Ghost, his earlier social media monetization on platforms like Vine and YouTube, and income from brand endorsements. His wealth sources include his salary from Starz, which likely increased with each successful season of the hit series.
Beyond acting salaries, McClain has diversified his income through business ventures. He launched a Kickstarter campaign to fund an independent romantic comedy, signaling a shift toward equity-based wealth generation. Industry reports suggest potential backend deals from the Power franchise may contribute significantly to his financial standing. While specific real estate holdings remain undisclosed, his active pursuit of independent filmmaking indicates a strategic approach to building long-term assets.
Awards & Accolades
Known For
The New Edition Story
2017 · Bobby Brown
Power Book II: Ghost
2020 · Cane Tejada
Keywords
Sources
Quick Facts
- Profession
- actor, dancer, comedian
- Birthplace
- Charleston, South Carolina
- Gender
- Male
- Education
- Florida A&M University
- Children
- Emily and Maya (twins)
Personal Details
- Full Name
- Woodrow McClain
- Height
- 5 ft 10 in (178 cm)
- Children
- Emily and Maya
- Education
- Florida A&M University
Filmography
12
Total
2
Film
10
TV
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Woody McClain's baby mama?
Is Woody McClain in a relationship?
How old is Woody McClain?
What is Woody McClain's net worth?
Why did Woody McClain get locked up?
Join the community
fans discussing


