Epps Family Genealogy & History

Omar Hashim Epps, an acclaimed American actor, rapper, and producer, is known for his diverse roles in both film and television. Epps's notable performances include starring in "Juice," "Higher Learning," "The Wood," "In Too Deep," and "Love & Basketball." On television, he gained fame as Dr. Eric Foreman on the Fox medical drama "House," earning multiple NAACP Image Awards. Epps's career also features roles in "ER," "Resurrection," "Shooter," and "Power Book III: Raising Kanan." His accolades include nine NAACP Image Awards, two Teen Choice Awards, and a Screen Actors Guild Award, showcasing his significant impact on the entertainment industry.

Born on July 20, 1973, in Brooklyn, Omar Epps was raised by his mother, Bonnie Maria Epps, following his parents' divorce. Bonnie, an elementary school principal, played a pivotal role in his upbringing. Epps spent his childhood in various Brooklyn neighborhoods, including Bedford–Stuyvesant, East New York, and East Flatbush.

Mike Epps, born Michael Elliot Epps on November 18, 1970, is a renowned American stand-up comedian and actor, celebrated for his roles as Day-Day Jones in "Next Friday" and "Friday After Next," and as "Black Doug" in "The Hangover" series. Epps has showcased his versatility in films like "Resident Evil: Apocalypse" and "Sparkle," where he played his first non-comedic role. He has starred in sitcoms like "Uncle Buck" and "The Upshaws," and voiced characters in animated films such as "Open Season 2." Additionally, Epps has made significant contributions to music, featuring in projects with Jim Jones and G Unit, and releasing his own album, "Funny Bidness: Da Album."

Epps was born and raised in Indianapolis to parents Mary Reed and Tommie Epps.

Edwin Epps, a notorious slaveholder born in 1808, operated a cotton plantation in Avoyelles Parish, Louisiana. Known for his violent temper and alcoholism, Epps enslaved Solomon Northup, who documented his harrowing experience in the memoir "Twelve Years a Slave." Epps's brutal treatment of enslaved individuals, including infamous whippings and exploitation, is a significant aspect of his legacy. His story was portrayed by Michael Fassbender in the 2013 film adaptation of Northup's memoir, enhancing its cultural and historical significance.

Edwin Epps was born in North Carolina around 1808. By 1843, he was married to Mary Elvira Robert, and they had several children, including John, Edwin, Robert, Virginia, Mary, Wilbur, and Massa.

Jeanette Jo Epps is a distinguished American aerospace engineer and NASA astronaut, known for her remarkable contributions to space exploration. With a Ph.D. in aerospace engineering from the University of Maryland, Epps has served in pivotal roles, including her work in the ISS Operations Branch and participation in analog astronaut missions like NEEMO 18 and CAVES 19. She was part of the SpaceX Crew-8 mission, spending 235 days on the ISS. Epps also worked as a Technical Intelligence Officer at the CIA, showcasing her diverse expertise and dedication to advancing aerospace technology and research.

Jeanette Epps was born in Syracuse, New York, to Henry and Luberta Epps, who were part of the Great Migration from Mississippi. She is one of seven children and shares a twin sister, Janet. Epps’ family background highlights a strong foundation in education and determination, setting the stage for her and her sister's success in math and science from an early age.