Roots and Reflections: Michael Rainey Jr.'s Story

Michael Rainey Junior! We know this young handsome actor from playing Tariq St. Patrick on “Power & Book II: Ghost.”

He's also gone into music, making a lot of beats. There seems to be a lot to know and learn about this 23-year-old actor. Let's dig into his roots.

Even though the actor is, today, often seen living the high life, it wasn't always the same for Michael Rainey Jr., like many other celebrities in the world. He had to go through a lot, which you probably didn't know.

Michael was born on September 22nd, 2000. Raised by a single mother, Shauna (@shaunasmall on IG), the promising actor grew up without siblings, and his parents were also separated.

Despite an internal conflict with the family, which is usually a pretty difficult pill to swallow, Michael grew up to be a responsible and caring kid who made it big.

During a challenging period, he made everyone who trusted him very proud. He started acting at the tender age of 10. Michael Rainey Jr. looks like a natural actor born to dominate the industry. But even he has a list of celebs he has learned from and admired while growing up.

"The one with a few words of advice that stuck to me, like, 100, since 50 told me, 'Don't ever feel too entitled to something because that's when you deprive yourself.'" He has been fortunate to work with 50 Cent, Ice Cube, Nicki Minaj, and many other celebrities with almost the same African American (or mixed) background as him, which he's proud of.

Besides his acting career, Michael Rainey Jr. is passionate about making music. In his rapping career, he has released several songs under the name "Where is 22?"

He's already worked with artists like the famous Decks. Also, he creates content about his new adventures with his friends to show another side of him. He's actually working on a memoir, too. Now, that is something I'd love to read. How about you?

As a child who faced challenges growing up and seeing poverty, the young actor always expresses gratitude for where he is today. He shows this by identifying with his culture, connecting to his heritage, and giving back to the community, including the less privileged or people with physical challenges.

Michael has put it on himself to use his acting position to work with non-profit organizations. He helps the deprived and helpless people and communities from low-income backgrounds.

Mike donates his money and time generously to the organization "Fines and Feed," which feeds and clothes homeless people. When he visited the Jamaican National Children's Home in 2018, Michael provided the necessary items for the children at the center.

He's also participated in a charity basketball game in support of veterans. The actor also plays the piano, and he's pretty good at it. Seriously, is there anything Michael Rainey Jr. can't do? He's making all other 23-year-olds feel entirely useless!