Despite being an actress, Denise Gordy has faced numerous personal challenges in her life. However, she managed to overcome them and make a name for herself in Hollywood through her talent in acting and singing, winning the hearts of her fans.
Denise Gordy Quick Facts
Full name: Denise Georgette Gordy
Date of birth: 11th of February, 1949
Age: 71 years old
Place of birth: Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
Nationality: American
Ethnicity: Mixed
Zodiac sign: Scorpio
Profession: Actress
Parents: George and Rosemary
Ex-spouse: Richard Lawson (1978 and 1989)
Children: Mavin Gaye III (son) and Bianca Lawson (daughter)
Early Life & Family
Denise Georgette Gordy was born on February 11, 1949, in Detroit, Michigan, USA, to parents George Weldon and Rosemary Gordy. At 72 years old, she is the eldest of seven siblings, including one sister named Patrice Gordy and six brothers.
The actress was raised in a family known for their strong ties to the music and entertainment world. Her father was initially a businessman but later joined her uncle, Berry Gordy Jr., as a songwriter in the music industry.
Denise Gordy’s mother, Rosemary, died in 1980, just two years after marrying Richard Lawson. On the other hand, her father passed away in his sleep at 85 years old in 2011.
Career
Gordy began her professional journey in 1972, at a young age. Inspired by her father’s work in the show business, she made her debut as a dancer in Lady Sings the Blues.
Following this, Denise Gordy’s film and television career experienced a significant rise as she effectively portrayed her characters. Gordy took on various roles in multiple films until 1991 and also became a familiar presence on TV series.
In addition, she was cast in Black Fist, a film depicting the struggles of black individuals, in 1974. Additionally, Denise lent her vocals to the soundtrack album Bogard for the movie Black Fist. Subsequently, the performer recorded a new version of the track “Let’s DO It Again” for the same film.
Denise’s first appearance on television was in 1976 on the show Starsky and Hutch. She gained recognition for her roles in the films Before School Girls (1986) and My Man Adam (1895).
Her final film, Toy Soldier, was released in 1991. She had a moderately successful career, also appearing in various other movies and TV shows. Here are some of Gordy’s movies and TV shows:
- Mahogany
- Starsky & Hutch
- Charlie’s Angels
- Little Ladies of the Night
- Scott Joplin
- Enos
- At Ease
- Bare Essence
- D.C. Cab
- Fantasy Island
- Getting Physical
- My Man Adam
- It’s a Living
- Reform School Girls
Although Denise Gordy made a name for herself in the film industry, her presence is not often seen on social media. This is likely because social media was not widely used during the time of her success.
At the age of forty-two, Denise decided to end her career in acting after spending approximately seventeen years in the film industry.
Personal Life
Steve Turner revealed the hidden truth about Marvin Gaye III’s birth parents in his book, Trouble Man: The Life and Death of Marvin Gaye. According to Turner, Denise Gordy gave birth to Gaye’s child in 1966 and then moved on with her life while her aunt raised the child.
After twelve years, she tied the knot with fellow actor Richard Lawson. Together, they welcomed a daughter named Bianca Jasmine Lawson, who began her career in the film industry at the young age of nine, following in her parents’ footsteps. However, the marriage ended in divorce in 1989, after being together since 1978.
Net Worth
Various online sources report that Denise Gordy has an estimated net worth of $10 million, largely acquired through her successful acting career. Prior to her retirement, she had several film and television projects under her belt.
The entertainment world has been captivated and motivated by Denise Gordy’s dynamic career. Despite being a mother and grandmother, she refused to let the paternity scandal of her first child hinder her path to success.
