Barry Shabaka Henley Net Worth, Bio, Acting Career
Barry Shabaka Henley is an accomplished American character actor, He has built a diverse career in film, television, and theater, becoming particularly known for his collaborations with director Michael Mann, having appeared in several of Mann’s films including Collateral and Miami Vice.
Real Name | Barry Joseph Henley |
Stage name | Shabaka |
Date of Birth | Wednesday, September 15, 1954 |
Place of Birth | New Orleans, Louisiana |
Age | 69 |
Occuopation | Actor |
School attended | San Francisco Polytechnic High School |
Net Worth | $2.5 Million |
Henley grew up in a family involved in the arts; his mother was a dance teacher. He moved to San Francisco during his childhood and attended San Francisco Polytechnic High School. His acting career began in earnest at the age of 17 when he auditioned for a local theater, leading to a series of stage performances, including work with the San Francisco Mime Troupe.
Early Life and Education
Henley’s stage name “Shabaka” is taken from a Pharaoh from Egypt’s 25th dynasty who ruled from 721 to 707 BC. This reflects Henley’s interest in cultural history.
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Career
Henley began his acting career in theater, notably with the San Francisco Mime Troupe, where he performed various characters, including “Factwino.” His stage work laid the foundation for a successful transition to screen acting.

Here is the list of a few famous movies and TV shows Henley has appeared in.
Barry Shabaka Henley Movies
Movie | Appeared As |
A Star Is Born (2018) | Little Feet |
Paterson (2016) – Doc | Doc |
The Terminal (2004) | Ray Thurman |
Collateral (2004) | Daniel |
Miami Vice (2006) | Lt. Martin Castillo |
Ali (2001) | Herbert |
How Stella Got Her Groove Back (1998) | Buddy |
Life (1999) | Pokerface |
Rush Hour (1998) | Bobby |
Carrie (2013) | Principal Morton |
Four Brothers (2005) | Councilman Douglas |
Barry Shabaka Henley TV Shows
TV Show | Appeard As |
Bob Hearts Abishola (2019–2024) | Uncle Tunde |
Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. (2019) | Dr. Marcus Benson |
FlashForward (2009–2010) | FBI Agent Vreede |
Luck (2012) | Parole Officer |
Heroes (2006) | Detective Fuller |
Better Call Saul (2015) | Police Detective |
Robbery Homicide Division (2002–2003) | Sgt. Alfred Simms |
Barbershop (2005) | Various roles |
Awards
Barry Shabaka Henley has received several prestigious awards throughout his career, particularly for his work in theater. His notable accolades include:
- Drama Desk Award – Recognized for outstanding ensemble performance in the play Jitney (2000).
- Obie Award – Awarded for his performance in the same production, Jitney.
- Olivier Award – Acknowledged for his contributions to theater, although specific productions for this award are not detailed in the sources.
- Drama-Logue Award – Received for his performance in Boesman and Lena.
Henley has also been involved with prominent theater companies, including the West Coast Black Repertory Theatre and the San Francisco Mime Troupe, which have contributed to his artistic development and recognition in the performing arts.