By Admin 
The world of Hollywood has introduced countless stars who have left their mark on audiences across generations. Among them, Rae Dawn Chong stands out as a versatile actress with a fascinating family background, a long career filled with memorable performances, and a personal life that has often captured public interest. Known for her breakthrough roles in films such as Quest for Fire, Commando, and The Color Purple, Rae Dawn has enjoyed decades in the spotlight while also balancing family ties and her cultural heritage.
In this article, we dive deep into her life: who is Rae Dawn Chong, her age, her net worth, her career in movies, her father Tommy Chong, relationships, marriages, and children.
Who is Rae Dawn Chong?
Rae Dawn Chong is a Canadian-American actress and performer who first rose to prominence in the late 1970s and early 1980s. She was born on February 28, 1961, in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, and went on to develop a career in acting that spans both film and television.
Her career is diverse, ranging from critically acclaimed dramas to cult action films. With a natural on-screen presence, Rae Dawn earned respect for her ability to portray layered characters in different genres. While many may recognize her for her supporting role as Cindy opposite Arnold Schwarzenegger in Commando, or as Squeak in The Color Purple, her career is much broader than just these highlights.
Rae Dawn Chong Age
As of 2025, Rae Dawn Chong is 64 years old. Despite the decades that have passed since her breakout roles in the 1980s, she continues to make appearances in film and television, maintaining her relevance in Hollywood.
Early Life and Family Background
One of the most compelling aspects of Rae Dawn’s life is her family heritage. She is the daughter of Tommy Chong, the world-famous comedian, actor, and activist, best known as one half of the iconic comedy duo Cheech & Chong. Her mother, Maxine Sneed, was of Black Canadian and Cherokee descent.
This gave Rae Dawn a uniquely diverse cultural background: Chinese and Scots-Irish roots from her father’s side, and Black Canadian and Native American roots from her mother’s side.
She grew up with several siblings:
- Robbi Chong, her sister, is also an actress and model.
- She has half-siblings from her father’s later marriage, including Paris, Gilbran, and Precious.
- Her adopted brother Marcus Chong is also an actor, best known for his role in The Matrix.
This artistic family environment undoubtedly helped shape Rae Dawn’s passion for performance.
Career and Movies
Rae Dawn Chong began acting in the late 1970s, but her breakthrough came in the early 1980s. Over her career, she has acted in more than 40 films and numerous television shows. Below are some of her most notable works.
Early Breakthrough – Quest for Fire (1981)
Her performance as Ika in Quest for Fire earned her a Genie Award for Best Actress. This prehistoric adventure film was a challenging role but proved her versatility early in her career.
1980s Success
The 1980s marked her busiest period as an actress:
- Beat Street (1984) – Played Tracy Carlson.
- Choose Me (1984) – Appeared as Pearl Antoine.
- Cheech & Chong’s The Corsican Brothers (1984) – Worked alongside her father.
- Commando (1985) – Played Cindy, a flight attendant who partners with Arnold Schwarzenegger’s character.
- The Color Purple (1985) – Played Squeak, one of her most famous roles in a critically acclaimed film.
- Soul Man (1986) – Starred opposite C. Thomas Howell.
- The Principal (1987) – Played Hilary Orozco.
Later Work
Rae Dawn continued to act into the 1990s and beyond:
- Tales from the Darkside: The Movie (1990).
- Time Runner (1993) alongside Mark Hamill.
- Boulevard (1994).
On television, she starred in Mysterious Ways (2000–2002) and had guest roles in shows such as Melrose Place. More recently, she played Betty Currie in Impeachment: American Crime Story (2021) and appeared in Interview with the Vampire (2022).
Legacy in Film
Her filmography demonstrates versatility—from action to drama to science fiction. Her work in the 1980s remains especially celebrated, cementing her status as a recognizable actress of her generation.
Rae Dawn Chong Net Worth
As of 2025, Rae Dawn Chong’s net worth is estimated between $2 million and $4 million. Reports vary depending on the source:
- Some celebrity finance sites estimate around $2 million in recent years.
- Others, such as Celebrity Net Worth, estimate closer to $4 million.
Her wealth comes from decades in acting, occasional directing, and appearances in television and independent film.
Relationships, Marriages, and Personal Life
Like many celebrities, Rae Dawn Chong’s personal life has been subject to public curiosity.
- She has been married three times:
- Owen Baylis (1982–198?): A stockbroker. This marriage produced her only child.
- C. Thomas Howell (1989–1990): Her co-star in Soul Man. Their marriage lasted about a year.
- Nathan Ulrich (2011–2014): An engineer and pilot. Their relationship also ended in divorce.
- Children: Rae Dawn has one son, Morgan Baylis, from her first marriage to Owen Baylis. Through Morgan, she also has two grandchildren, making her not only a mother but a grandmother.
- Other relationships: There have been rumors and reports of her past connections, including a brief youthful romance with Mick Jagger, though she has never centered her life around such tabloid mentions.
Despite ups and downs, Rae Dawn Chong continues to live a fulfilling life, often sharing insights about her heritage and family.
Rae Dawn Chong’s Father – Tommy Chong
It’s impossible to discuss Rae Dawn without highlighting her father, Tommy Chong. A legendary comedian, actor, and cannabis rights activist, Tommy Chong rose to fame in the 1970s alongside Cheech Marin as part of the duo Cheech & Chong.
Their stoner comedy films (Up in Smoke, Cheech & Chong’s Next Movie, Still Smokin, etc.) became cult classics. Tommy Chong’s fame indirectly spotlighted Rae Dawn, but she carved her own path in Hollywood, separate from her father’s comedic legacy.
Today, Tommy Chong remains an influential figure in pop culture and the cannabis legalization movement.
Rae Dawn Chong’s Cultural Heritage and Influence
Rae Dawn Chong is proud of her multicultural heritage—Chinese, Scots-Irish, Black Canadian, and Cherokee. She has often spoken about identity and representation in Hollywood, being one of the few actresses of her era who came from such a diverse background.
Her career paved the way for more inclusivity in casting, showing that talent matters more than labels.
Rae Dawn Chong Today
Even at 64, Rae Dawn Chong continues to work. She makes selective appearances in film and television and has also explored behind-the-camera opportunities. Beyond acting, she occasionally shares her thoughts on social issues and Hollywood’s evolution.
She maintains a connection with fans through interviews and public appearances, proving that her legacy continues to resonate.
Conclusion
From her breakthrough in Quest for Fire to her unforgettable role in The Color Purple, Rae Dawn Chong has lived a career full of variety and accomplishment. Her family background, with father Tommy Chong’s fame and her own artistic journey, makes her story truly unique.
At 64 years old, with a net worth of around $2–4 million, Rae Dawn continues to be admired for her talent, resilience, and presence in the entertainment industry. Her personal story—her marriages, her son Morgan, and now her grandchildren—adds depth to her Hollywood image.
For readers seeking more celebrity features and entertainment coverage, visit primeheadlines where stories like Rae Dawn Chong’s come alive.