Our Favorite Black Families of All Time
What does a "good" Black family look like?
Buzzfeed recently published an article recounting the rise and fall of the Steph and Ayesha Curry in the eye of the American mainstream — at first beloved for their wholesomeness and photogenic appeal, and then ridiculed when Steph began losing, and Ayesha lashed out on social media in his defense.
Though it's true the Currys tried our patience, and disappointed us, from time to time, they still represent great family values that are important for Black culture. But they're not the only ones. Here are a few of our favorite Black families:
The Obamas
The most powerful family in the world has been held under a microscope since President Obama took office, but neither he, his beautiful wife Michelle, or their lovely daughters Sasha and Malia seem bothered by the scrutiny. It seems impossible that Barack would be able to be as present in his family’s life as he has been since taking the Oval Office, but it appears that this family is closer than ever as they get ready to say goodbye to the White House.
The Smiths
Even before Jaden and Willow were born, Will and Jada Pinkett-Smith were giving us life. But, as a foursome, the Smiths are unstoppable. From starring in big-budget films, to nabbing high-profile fashion deals and dominating social media, it’s clear that the world really loves this family. But the part we love best of all is the close relationship they all have to Will's son Trey and his mother Sheree Zampino. With all the baby momma and daddy drama rampant on social media these days, they set a great example for blended families.
The Currys
Steph Curry has it all: NBA MVP and championship, beautiful and supportive wife, and two incredibly adorable daughters. Each of the Currys is a star in their own right, but together they exude the power of a social media supernova. But despite their fame and money, it always seems like they're most content hanging out together.
- advertisement
The Wayans
The Wayans family has been both in front, and behind of the camera for nearly four decades. From classics like “I’m Gonna Git You Sucka” and “In Living Color” to “White Chicks,” “Scary Movie,” and “Requiem For Dream,” Damon, Shawn, and Marlon Wayans have charmed moviegoers for years, and now their kids, known on their BET reality show as the Second Generation Wayans, are carrying on the tradition.
The Kodjoes
Actor and model Boris Kodjoe and actress Nicole Ari Parker met and fell in love when they costarred in Showtime's Soul Food. It’s no surprise that the picture-perfect couple's two children, Sophie Tei-Naaki Lee Kodjoe and Nicolas Nerdu Kodjoe would turn out stunning, but Sophie's diagnosis with spina bifida when she was born brought the entire family closer together.
The Mowrys
Tia, Tamera, and Tahj have been on TV since the 90’s in classics like “Sister, Sister,” “Full House,” and “Smart Guy,” to more recent hits like “The Real” and films such as “Barbershop: The Next Cut.” But now, the kids are all grown up with families of their own. Unlike so many child stars in Hollywood, these three seem as well-adjusted and happy as ever.
- advertisement
The Harris'
T.I. and Tiny Harris are definitely the King and Queen of Atlanta and have three adorable children together. The two have also brought in their children from previous relationships into their blended family, for a total of seven children under the Harris roof. Now that's a family hustle.
The Harts
When comedian and movie star Kevin Hart announced his divorce with former wife, Torrei, it seemed like just another Hollywood romance gone sour. While these two have done their fair share of shading each other on social media, when push came to shove andKevin found love again with his new wife, Eniko, Torrei voiced her clear support that the father of her children had found happiness. At Hart’s and Eniko’s wedding, his two children, Heaven, 11, and Hendrix, 8, stole the show, with Hendrix even serving as his father’s best man.
The Carters
Everyone can agree that The Carters are American royalty. Their relationship began after she was featured on Jay Z’s track, “’O3 Bonnie & Clyde,” in which Bey appeared as the rapper’s girlfriend. It wasn’t until 2008 that the two tied the knot in a wedding so private, they didn't confirm even happened until years later. Together the two have sold over a combined 300 million records, but we can assume that they would both agree that the most important thing both of them have done is created their adorable daughter, Blue Ivy, who was born in January 2012. Since then, the three have been seen all over the world and despite recent rumors, appear to be an incredibly happy and loving family.
- advertisement
The Broadus'
Snoop Dogg and his wife, Shante Taylor have been married ( and divorced, and remarried) since 1997. These two prove that relationships take work and obstacles can be overcome. The two have three children together, Cordé, Cordell, and Cori, and Snoop has always been a loving and committed father, even serving as head coach for Cordell’s numerous youth football teams.
The Simmons'
Russell and Kimora were married for a decade and together have two gorgeous daughters, Ming Lee Simmons and Aoki Lee Simmons. But it seems they've never been tighter as a family unit as they are since they divorced. They've said numerous times that the count each other as their best friend, look out for each other and respect one another. Russell is even godfather to Kimoras sons Kenzo (whose father is actor Djimon Hounsou) and Wolfe (whom she shares with her current husband Timothy Leissner). Blended and beautiful.