Anthony Anderson’s story begins in Compton, California, where determination shaped his earliest dreams. He grew up in a community full of grit, family pride, and the kind of everyday resilience that prepares a person for anything. As a teenager, he found his voice at Hollywood High School for the Performing Arts. A powerful monologue from The Great White Hope led him to first place at the NAACP ACTSO Awards and earned him a scholarship to Howard University. That moment marked the start of a long and meaningful career.
Anthony’s path has never been linear. He took on small roles first, learning the business from the inside out. He showed up early, stayed late, and studied every set he stepped onto. Those early years helped him build the kind of foundation that lasts. His work in films like Barbershop, The Departed, and Transformers proved his range, while Black-ish became the project that changed everything. As both the lead actor and an executive producer, he helped create a show that blended comedy with truth and opened new conversations in homes across the world.
His curiosity has led him across genres, hosting game shows, producing documentaries, and co-creating Kings of BBQ with Cedric the Entertainer. Living with Type 2 diabetes, Anthony is an advocate for health awareness and community support. His annual golf classic raises money for youth and health charities. Through every chapter, he continues to show that creativity paired with heart can open doors, shape culture, and leave something behind that matters.
What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?
My days start early. I’m usually awake by 6 a.m., and before anything else, I walk. It’s part exercise, part meditation. Living with Type 2 diabetes means I have to stay on top of my health, and walking keeps me grounded. After that, I check scripts, emails, and production updates for whichever project is active. I find that structure keeps me productive. If I don’t set the tone early, the day runs me instead of the other way around.
How do you bring ideas to life?
For me, ideas start with conversation. I talk things out with writers, producers, friends, even my mother. Black-ish began with conversations about family, culture, and identity. Kings of BBQ started with Cedric and I joking over food. Once an idea feels honest, I gather people who can sharpen it.
What’s one trend that excites you?
I’m excited about the rise of food-and-culture storytelling. It’s personal, it’s community-driven, and it connects people. It lets us talk about identity in ways that feel warm and welcoming.
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
I plan my day the night before. If it’s not scheduled, it probably won’t happen.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Don’t rush the journey. The “no” you hear today might save you for a better “yes” later.
Tell us something you believe almost nobody agrees with you on?
I believe comedy is one of the most honest forms of education. People think humor distracts from seriousness, I think it points us toward truth.
What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?
Walk. It clears the mind, strengthens the body, and makes space for new thoughts.
When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?
I cook. Barbeque, especially. Slow cooking forces you to slow down, and that’s something I need when things get chaotic.
What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?
Collaboration. I’m not the smartest person in every room, but I know how to bring smart people together. Everything great I’ve done came from teamwork.
What is one failure in your career, how did you overcome it, and what lessons did you take away from it?
My first sitcom, All About the Andersons, didn’t last long. At the time, it felt like a blow. But I realised it was a necessary step. It taught me pacing, leadership, and that timing matters. Without that experience, I wouldn’t have been ready for Black-ish.
What is one business idea you’re willing to give away to our readers?
Create a mobile community kitchen that partners with local barbershops, with food, conversation, and support all in one place.
What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?
I use a simple note-taking app. Ideas hit fast, and if I don’t write them down instantly, they disappear.
Do you have a favorite book or podcast you’ve gotten a ton of value from and why?
I love listening to interviews with chefs and pitmasters. Their lives mirror creativity, culture, and discipline, three things I live by.
What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?
I enjoyed revisiting The Jeffersons for the live specials. It reminded me why representation and comedy matter.
Key learnings
- Consistent routines and simple habits like walking can sharpen creativity and focus.
- Collaboration and open conversation are essential tools for bringing ideas to life.
- Failure can serve as preparation for future opportunities when viewed with patience.
- Personal experiences, including health challenges, can inspire meaningful advocacy and leadership.
- Creativity grows when paired with structure, curiosity, and a willingness to keep learning.