There’s a certain allure and excitement to earning your first big paycheck–Black celebrities are no different.
For many, it’s a rite of passage that marks the beginning of a new chapter in life.
The paycheck symbolizes perseverance, hard work, and a glimpse into a world of financial freedom.
Given the historical economic challenges faced, this can be particularly poignant within the Black community.
From indulgent purchases to smart investments, Black celebrities, like the rest of us, have made interesting choices with their first significant earnings.
Let’s take a sneak peek into how some cherished Black celebrities in music, sports, and entertainment spent their first big paychecks.
Kerry Washington
Kerry Washington, known for her stellar performances in movies and TV shows like “Scandal” and “The UnPrisoned,” has had a remarkable career.
In a candid interview with The Hollywood Reporter, she reminisced about her early days in the industry.
Kerry revealed that after finishing the filming of “Save The Last Dance,” her second movie, she utilized the money she had saved under her mattress to buy her first laptop.
It was a meaningful purchase for her, symbolizing the beginning of her blossoming career.
Issa Rae
Issa Rae, the multi-talented actress, producer, and entrepreneur, is best known for her hit show “Insecure.”
Her road to stardom was marked by hard work and determination.
When Issa received her first big paycheck, she splurged on a Tesla.
However, life had a different plan as she got into an accident a month later and was without a car for an entire year.
This incident speaks volumes about the unpredictability of life and the vulnerability even Black celebrities experience.
Kelly Rowland
Who can forget Kelly Rowland and her contribution as a third of Destiny’s Child?
When Kelly received her first big paycheck, she did what many other Black celebrities would do: indulge.
She revealed that she bought groceries her mom considered too expensive and threw a party.
Furthermore, she learned valuable lessons after buying a 5-bedroom house at 20.
The house felt too big, and she was too young.
This was a turning point that guided her future financial decisions.
Serena Williams
Serena Williams, a living legend in tennis, has always attributed her financial wisdom to lessons she learned from her father.
Serena shared how she drove to the bank’s drive-through to deposit her first million-dollar check as if it was a normal day.
She was so restrained that the tour directors had to hand her the check since she wouldn’t pick it up.
Talk about financial discipline!
Regina King
Regina King, among Hollywood’s most iconic Black celebrities, has a versatile portfolio ranging from the 80’s classic “227” to the critically acclaimed “The Harder They Fall.”
When she received her first significant paycheck, she decided to invest in an asset most of us dream of–a car.
For Regina, this was a significant milestone, reflecting her dedication and the success she had achieved.
Caleb McLaughlin
Caleb McLaughlin, the young “Stranger Things” star, had his eyes set on a pair of Jordan Wings sneakers.
When the Netflix money began to pour in, he splurged on the expensive kicks.
However, Caleb usually keeps his earnings careful and tries to remain frugal.
Tiffany Haddish
Comedian and actress Tiffany Haddish had a modest start with her first paycheck.
She opened a checking account with $120 and bought a box of her favorite candies: Snickers, Corn Nuts, and Jolly Rancher sticks.
Lil Nas X
Grammy-winner Lil Nas X, known for his hit “Old Town Road,” endearingly spent his first paycheck.
He took his entire family bowling.
It was a gesture that spoke volumes about his values and the importance of family in his life.
Donald Glover
Donald Glover, popularly known as Childish Gambino, was a young college student when he got a writing job on “30 Rock.”
With his first paycheck, he indulged in candy, particularly Gushers–something he was not allowed to have as a kid.
These Black Celebrities Spent Their First Paychecks Like Most Of Us Would
The stories of how these Black stars spent their first big paychecks are fascinating and relatable.
They remind us that celebrities, like us, go through moments of excitement, indulgence, and learning when it comes to handling money.
Whether buying a much-desired item, making an investment, or simply treating oneself, these stories represent a part of the journey these Black celebrities have embarked upon in their illustrious careers
