Omari Hardwick
- Graduated from University of Georgia
Omari Hardwick is an American actor celebrated for his compelling performances across film and television. He is best known for his role as James St. Patrick, also known as Ghost, in the hit Starz series Power, which has garnered a massive fanbase and critical acclaim. His versatility as an actor is further highlighted by his participation in various genres, including drama, action, and suspense, making him a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.
Born on January 9, 1974, in Savannah, Georgia, Omari Latif Hardwick grew up in a nurturing environment with his parents, Clifford Hardwick IV and Joyce Hardwick. He was raised alongside his siblings, which instilled in him a strong sense of family values. Hardwick pursued his education at the University of Georgia, where he excelled in football before shifting his focus to acting. His early aspirations led him to move to Los Angeles, where he began his acting career in the early 2000s.
Hardwick's breakthrough came with his portrayal of Dante Ponce in the TV movie Sucker Free City (2004), which showcased his potential and opened doors for further opportunities. He made notable appearances in series such as Saved and Dark Blue, gradually establishing himself as a talented actor. His role in Miracle at St. Anna (2008), directed by Spike Lee, further solidified his presence in Hollywood.
In 2010, Hardwick starred in Kick-Ass and For Colored Girls, both of which received considerable attention and praise. His role as Andre in the BET series Being Mary Jane demonstrated his ability to tackle complex characters, earning him recognition and a dedicated following. However, it was his leading role in Power that catapulted him to stardom, as he portrayed the complicated life of Ghost, a drug dealer seeking redemption and a legitimate life.
In addition to his television and film work, Hardwick has ventured into the world of spoken word poetry. He earned nominations for the Grammy Awards for Best Spoken Word Poetry Album for his projects, including "Concrete & Whiskey Act II Part 1: A Bourbon 30 Series" in 2025 and "Pages" in 2026, showcasing his artistic range beyond acting.
More recently, Hardwick appeared in Army of the Dead (2021), directed by Zack Snyder, where he portrayed Vanderohe, further expanding his filmography and demonstrating his versatility as an actor. As he continues to evolve in his career, Omari Hardwick remains a respected figure in the entertainment landscape, known for his dedication to his craft and his ability to captivate audiences with his performances.
- September 24, 2008