Hollywood is full of familiar faces who may not always be front and center but leave an unforgettable mark through their performances. One such figure is Rae Dawn Chong—a Canadian-American actress who has captivated audiences since the 1970s. Best known for her diverse roles in films like Quest for Fire, The Color Purple, Commando, and Soul Man, Chong has carved her own identity in an industry that often typecasts talent. Beyond acting, she is also known for her famous father, comedian and activist Tommy Chong, her mixed heritage, and her personal life, which has seen its share of highs and lows.
In this long-form article, we will explore who Rae Dawn Chong is, her age, net worth, filmography, family background, relationships, marriages, and children, painting a complete picture of the actress and the life she has led both in front of the camera and behind the scenes.
Who Is Rae Dawn Chong?
Rae Dawn Chong was born on February 28, 1961, in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, into a multicultural family that would later become known worldwide. She grew up surrounded by the arts, thanks to her father, Tommy Chong, one half of the comedy duo Cheech & Chong. With exposure to entertainment at such an early age, it was almost inevitable that Rae Dawn would be drawn to the performing arts.
Her heritage is a fascinating mix—her father’s side contributes Chinese and Scots-Irish ancestry, while her mother, Maxine Sneed, is of Black Canadian and Cherokee descent. This rich background gave Rae Dawn a unique identity that translated beautifully on screen, often allowing her to stand out in roles that called for depth, strength, and individuality.
Rae Dawn Chong’s Age
Born in 1961, Rae Dawn Chong is currently 64 years old (as of 2025). She has spent nearly five decades in the entertainment industry, a testament to her resilience, adaptability, and passion for storytelling.
Early Career and Breakthrough
Rae Dawn made her earliest film appearance in 1978’s Stony Island, but her big breakthrough came in 1981’s Quest for Fire, where she played Ika, a character in a prehistoric setting. The film not only won critical acclaim but also earned Rae Dawn the Genie Award for Best Actress (Canada’s equivalent of the Academy Award).
Her success quickly opened doors in Hollywood. By the mid-1980s, she had landed prominent roles, appearing alongside some of the biggest stars of the era.
Movies with Rae Dawn Chong
Rae Dawn Chong’s filmography is extensive, spanning both film and television. Below are some of her most notable works:
- Quest for Fire (1981) – Her breakout role as Ika.
- Beat Street (1984) – A cult classic about New York’s hip-hop scene.
- Choose Me (1984) – A romantic drama showcasing her versatility.
- Cheech & Chong’s The Corsican Brothers (1984) – A family tie-in film with her father, Tommy Chong.
- Commando (1985) – A blockbuster action film where she starred alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger as Cindy, a flight attendant turned unlikely ally.
- The Color Purple (1985) – Directed by Steven Spielberg, Chong played “Squeak,” cementing her place in serious dramatic cinema.
- Soul Man (1986) – A controversial comedy where she starred opposite C. Thomas Howell.
- The Principal (1987) – She played Hilary Orozco in this gritty drama about inner-city schools.
- Tales from the Darkside: The Movie (1990) – A horror anthology role.
- Time Runner (1993) – A science-fiction thriller with Mark Hamill.
- Boulevard (1994) – A drama film that tackled social issues.
Her television appearances include roles in shows like Melrose Place, Highlander: The Series, Mysterious Ways, Impeachment: American Crime Story (where she portrayed Betty Currie), and Interview with the Vampire (2022).
Rae Dawn Chong’s Father
It’s impossible to discuss Rae Dawn without mentioning her father, Tommy Chong. Best known as one half of the comedy duo Cheech & Chong, Tommy Chong is a cultural icon, celebrated for his comedic roles, his advocacy for cannabis rights, and his longevity in entertainment.
Tommy Chong’s influence shaped Rae Dawn’s early life, exposing her to Hollywood’s glitz and chaos. Despite his fame, Rae Dawn has carved out her own reputation, ensuring that she isn’t overshadowed by her father’s legacy.
Relationships and Marriages
Rae Dawn Chong has lived a life that’s been just as eventful off-screen as it has been on-screen. She has been married three times:
- Owen Baylis (1982) – Rae Dawn’s first marriage was to stockbroker Owen Baylis. Though short-lived, it resulted in the birth of her son, Morgan Baylis.
- C. Thomas Howell (1989–1990) – Chong’s second marriage was to actor C. Thomas Howell, her co-star in Soul Man. Their marriage lasted barely a year before they parted ways.
- Nathan Ulrich (2011–2014) – Her third marriage was to Nathan Ulrich, an entrepreneur. This relationship too ended in divorce after three years.
In addition to her marriages, Rae Dawn has been linked to other figures in entertainment, including a rumored relationship with Mick Jagger during her youth.
Children
Rae Dawn Chong is the mother of one son, Morgan Baylis, from her first marriage. Morgan has largely stayed away from the public spotlight. Through Morgan, Rae Dawn is also a grandmother, with reports suggesting she has two grandchildren.
Family remains a grounding force in her life, even as she continues to act and pursue creative projects.
Rae Dawn Chong’s Net Worth
The wealth of an actress like Rae Dawn Chong is not just tied to blockbuster films but also to steady work in television and other media. As of 2025, estimates of her net worth vary:
- Celebrity Net Worth pegs her at around $4 million.
- Other sources suggest it may be closer to $2 million.
These numbers reflect her long career, though it’s worth noting that celebrity net worth figures are often approximate rather than definitive.
Legacy and Impact
Rae Dawn Chong may not always have been a household name, but her contributions to cinema and television are undeniable. She broke through barriers in Hollywood at a time when roles for women of mixed heritage were often limited or typecast. By bringing depth and authenticity to her performances, she paved the way for more diverse representation.
Her roles in films like Quest for Fire and The Color Purple remain culturally significant, while her action work in Commando has become a staple for fans of 1980s cinema. Beyond her film career, Rae Dawn’s resilience in the face of personal struggles shows her strength and determination.
Conclusion
From her early breakthrough in Quest for Fire to her memorable roles in Hollywood blockbusters, Rae Dawn Chong has built a career defined by versatility, resilience, and a commitment to craft. At 64, she continues to inspire audiences with her work, while her personal life—including her relationships, her son, and her connection to her famous father—adds further depth to her story.
As she remains active in both film and television, Rae Dawn Chong proves that true talent never fades, and her story continues to resonate with fans worldwide.
This article is published for readers of londonzine, where we celebrate the stories of cultural icons who have shaped entertainment and continue to inspire across generations.
