American actor and former college football player Tyriq Withers was born on July 15, 1998, in Jacksonville, Florida, to his parents Leon Withers Jr. and Kimberly Hart.
Raised in a loving household alongside his siblings, Tyriq’s family has played a central role in shaping both his personal values and professional journey.
Withers was raised in a diverse family background, identifying as biracial through his African American mother, Kimberly, and his white father, Leon.
This diverse heritage has given him a unique perspective, one that often shapes the roles he takes on as an actor.
Growing up, Tyriq found himself reflecting on questions of identity, belonging, and community, themes that he continues to explore in his acting career today.
From an early age, Tyriq’s parents instilled in him the Christian faith, a foundation that helped guide his sense of discipline and character.
They also supported his dreams, even when the path wasn’t straightforward.
As a child, Tyriq once hoped to follow in the footsteps of actors like Denzel Washington and Jake Gyllenhaal, while also dreaming of joining the Disney Channel.
His mother took him to a casting call when he was young, and Tyriq believed it was his big break – until they realized the agents were running a scam demanding thousands of dollars.
That early disappointment didn’t stop him; instead, it fueled his drive to keep pursuing his goals.
While much about his parents’ professional lives remains private, what is evident is the unwavering support they’ve given him throughout his journey.
Tyriq is close to both of his parents and often expresses gratitude for the values and encouragement they provided.
Their support was clear during one of the most special moments of his life: his 27th birthday in 2025, which coincided with the premiere of his movie “I Know What You Did Last Summer.”
Having his mother and nephew next to him as he saw himself on screen for the first time made the milestone a meaningful, full-circle experience, symbolizing the strength of his family bond.
Tyriq grew up with his brother, Kionte, and his sister, Cayla, enjoying the closeness of a tight-knit family.
Tragically, his older brother Kionte passed away in April 2021 in a horrific accident, a loss that deeply affected him.
Despite the pain, Tyriq often shares heartfelt tributes to Kionte on social media, calling him his biggest inspiration and role model.
He wrote movingly on Instagram that he always looked up to his brother, saying:
There is no need for superheroes when you have a big brother like you.
Via Instagram
The Role of Leon and Kimberly Withers in Tyriq’s Move from Football to Hollywood
Before his acting career took off, Tyriq Withers excelled as an athlete.
He attended Florida State University, where he played as a wide receiver for the 2017 Seminoles football team.
Later, he earned degrees in Business and Marketing in 2022.
During his time at FSU, he also joined the Black Student Union and participated in their first play, sparking his deeper interest in acting and storytelling.
His journey from college athlete to rising actor has been shaped not just by talent and determination, but also by the grounding influence of his parents.
Tyriq Withers appeared in recurring roles as Connor Tibbs in “The Game” and as Tim in “Tell Me Lies.”
He also co-starred in “I Know What You Did Last Summer,” released in July 2025.
Leon and Kimberly’s dedication gave him the confidence to chase opportunities, whether on the football field, in front of the camera, or on stage.
Today, Tyriq is based in Atlanta, where he continues to immerse himself in the vibrant Black arts community.
Drawing strength from his multicultural background, his faith, and the memory of his late brother, he often reflects on themes of identity and resilience—qualities that his parents helped instill in him.
In interviews and through his work, it’s clear that while Tyriq Withers may be stepping into the spotlight, his foundation remains deeply rooted in the love, guidance, and sacrifices of his parents.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Tyriq’s breakthrough came in 2022, starring opposite George Wallace in the Atlanta episode “Rich Wigga, Poor Wigga.
