The 1997 film Soul Food, a heartwarming drama centered around the Joseph family’s Sunday dinners in Chicago, resonated with audiences for its portrayal of family, tradition, and the unifying power of food. Where is the stellar ensemble cast, including Vanessa Williams, Vivica A. Fox, and Nia Long, now? Let’s delve into their careers since this pivotal film.
Soul Food Movie Cast: Then and Now
Soul Food captured the essence of family bonds and cultural heritage, making it a timeless classic. Let’s revisit the actors who brought the Joseph family to life and explore their career trajectories since the film’s release.
Nia Long, Mekhi Phifer, and Irma P. Hall in Soul Food (Image Credit: Al Pereira/Contributor via Getty Images)
Jeffrey D. Sams (Kenny)
Jeffrey D. Sams, who played Kenny, Teri’s ex and Maxine’s husband, has continued working in television. He’s made guest appearances on shows like CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, Strong Medicine, Veronica Mars, and more recently, Station 19.
Jeffrey D. Sams then and now (Image credit: Ron Galella/Contributor via Getty Images and Mitch Haaseth/Contributor via Getty Images)
Brandon Hammond (Ahmad)
Brandon Hammond, who played young Ahmad, the film’s narrator, won an NAACP Image Award for his performance. After roles in Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman and other shows, he transitioned to filmmaking, earning accolades for his writing and directing.
Brandon Hammond Then and Now (Image Credit: Ron Galella/Contributor via Getty Images and Paul Archuleta/Contributor via Getty Images)
Gina Ravera (Faith)
Gina Ravera, who played the controversial cousin Faith, went on to secure significant television roles, including Detective Irene Daniels on The Closer, and appearances in shows like ER, CSI, and Arrow.
Gina Ravera Then and Now (Image Credit: Jon Kopaloff/Contributor via Getty Images and Colleen Hayes/Contributor via Getty Images)
Mekhi Phifer (Lem)
Mekhi Phifer, who portrayed Lem, achieved widespread recognition for his role as Dr. Gregory Pratt on ER. He’s also appeared in films like 8 Mile, Divergent, and various television series.
Mekhi Phifer Then and Now (Image Credit: New York Daily News Archive/Contributor via Getty Images and Frazer Harrison/Contributor via Getty Images)
Michael Beach (Miles)
Michael Beach, who played Miles, has enjoyed a successful career in both film and television, with roles in Aquaman, If Beale Street Could Talk, and popular series like Law & Order, Sons of Anarchy, and S.W.A.T.
Michael Beach Then and Now (Image Credit: Vince Bucci/Contributor via Getty Images and Paras Griffin/Contributor via Getty Images)
Nia Long (Bird)
Nia Long, who portrayed Bird, has starred in successful films like the Big Momma’s House franchise and The Best Man series. Her television credits include Third Watch, House of Lies, and NCIS: Los Angeles.
Nia Long Then and Now (Image Credit: Al Pereira/Contributor via Getty Images and Gilbert Flores/Contributor via Getty Images)
Vivica A. Fox (Maxine)
Vivica A. Fox, who played Maxine, earned an NAACP Image Award for her performance. She’s since starred in films like Kill Bill and Independence Day and appeared in TV series like Empire.
Vivica A. Fox Then and Now (Image Credit: Ron Galella/Contributor via Getty Images and Michael Tullberg/Contributor via Getty Images)
Vanessa Williams (Teri)
Vanessa Williams, who played Teri, achieved acclaim for her role as Wilhelmina Slater in Ugly Betty. She also starred in Desperate Housewives and various Broadway productions.
Vanessa Williams Then and Now (Image Credit: Steve Granitz/Contributor via Getty Images and Isabel Infantes – PA Images/Contributor via Getty Images)
Irma P. Hall (Mother Joe)
Irma P. Hall, who played the beloved Mother Joe, won an NAACP Image Award for her performance. She continued acting in films like Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil and The Ladykillers.
Irma P. Hall Then and Now (Image Credit: Ron Galella/Contributor via Getty Images and Jeff Vespa/Contributor via Getty Images)
The Legacy of Soul Food
The cast of Soul Food has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Their individual successes since the film’s release underscore the film’s lasting impact and the talent of its ensemble cast.
