While comedian and actor Keenen Ivory Wayans is a household name, thanks to classics like In Living Color and Scary Movie, his five children have largely chosen a path away from Hollywood's glare. The star shares his kids with his ex-wife, reality TV personality and producer Daphne Wayans (née Polk). Despite the couple's divorce in 2006, they have maintained a close friendship and a strong co-parenting relationship for their family.
The Wayans Siblings: A Blend of Privacy and Passion
Unlike many celebrity offspring, most of Keenen Ivory Wayans' children value their privacy. However, glimpses into their lives reveal a talented and accomplished group, each forging their own unique identity. From the runway to the university hall, the next generation of Wayans is making its mark on its own terms.
Jolie Ivory Imani Wayans: The Private Eldest
Jolie, born on June 25, 1992, is the eldest daughter. Now 33 years old, she has consistently stayed out of the public eye. Professionally, she has been involved with the New Village Academy in Calabasas, a school founded by Will and Jada Pinkett Smith, where she served on the board. Her life remains the most private among her siblings.
Nala Yasmeen Ivory Wayans: The Fashionista
The second child, Nala, born March 4, 1996, is arguably the most visible. At 29, she has built a career as a professional fashion model, making her debut at New York Fashion Week in 2017. Beyond modelling, she co-hosted the show The Guest House in 2014 with social media star Jordyn Woods. In a lavish August 2022 ceremony at Lake Como, Italy, Nala married William Robillard Cole, founder and CEO of WRC Management.
Keenen Ivory Wayans Jr.: The Creative Son
The only son, Keenen Jr., was born on September 14, 1998. Now 27, he has inherited his father's creative genes but channels them into digital art, animation, and comedy. Also a skilled gymnast, Keenen Jr. prefers to let his work speak for him, keeping his personal life discreet.
Bella Ivory Aziza Wayans: The Academic Achiever
Bella, born on March 4, 2001, is the fourth child. At 24, she recently celebrated a significant academic achievement, graduating from the prestigious Stanford University in 2024. A former student of Sierra Canyon School, she is now pursuing a career in the arts. According to her social media, she has been in a long-term relationship with her partner, Thomas.
Daphne Ivory Shiva Wayans: The Youngest
The youngest of the clan, Daphne was born on July 12, 2003, and is named after her mother. Now 22, she also attended Sierra Canyon School, graduating in 2021. Like her older siblings Jolie and Keenen Jr., she maintains a private life, with few details about her current pursuits available to the public.
A Legacy of Talent and Close-Knit Family
The story of Keenen Ivory Wayans' children underscores that fame is not a mandatory inheritance. While their father, 67-year-old Keenen, remains an iconic figure in American comedy with a reported net worth of $65 million, his children have charted diverse courses in modelling, arts, academia, and beyond. The key takeaway is the enduring family bond. Despite the divorce between Keenen and Daphne Wayans nearly two decades ago, their commitment to raising a united, supportive family has clearly shaped this low-key yet impressive next generation of the Wayans clan.
