Michael Rainey Jr. is a talented American actor who rose to fame through his iconic role as Tariq St. Patrick in the hit series Power and its spinoff Power Book II Ghost role. Born on September 22, 2000, in Louisville, Kentucky, Michael has become one of television’s most recognized young stars. His journey from child actor to lead showcases dedication and smart career choices.
Michael Rainey Jr. Quick Facts
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Michael Rainey Jr. |
| Date of Birth | September 22, 2000 |
| Age | 24 years old |
| Height | 5’10½” (1.79m) |
| Weight | 149 pounds (68kg) |
| Birthplace | Louisville, Kentucky |
| Current Residence | New York, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Jamaican American |
| Father | Michael Rainey Sr. |
| Mother | Shauna Small |
| Net Worth | $2 million (2024-2025) |
| Famous Role | Tariq St. Patrick (Power franchise) |
| Music Name | Whereis22 |
| Education | Homeschooled |
| Relationship Status | Single |
| Social Media | 3.5+ million Instagram followers |
Personal Background & Early Life
Michael Rainey Jr early life Staten Island began when his family moved there at age one. He grew up in a multicultural household that shaped his worldview. His father, Michael Rainey Sr., hails from New York, while his mother Shauna Small immigrated from Jamaica as a teenager. This Jamaican heritage played a significant role in his identity and later business decisions.
In 2009, fate intervened when a talent agent from Generations agency noticed young Michael in Staten Island. This chance encounter opened doors to modeling and acting opportunities. What started as pure luck became the foundation of his successful career. The agent saw potential in the nine-year-old that would soon be realized on international screens.
Michael Rainey Jr. Career Journey & Breakthrough
Michael Rainey Jr acting career timeline began with an extraordinary challenge. At just ten years old, he landed the lead role in “Un Altro Mondo” (Another World). The Italian film directed by Silvio Muccino required him to learn Italian fluently. Michael lived in Italy for an entire year while filming. This international experience set him apart from other child actors in America.
The “Power” Phenomenon
In 2014, Michael joined the cast of “Power” as Tariq St. Patrick. Initially, he appeared as a recurring character in this crime drama series. Little did anyone know this role would define his career for the next decade. Michael Rainey Jr character Tariq St. Patrick became one of television’s most complex young characters.
Michael’s salary reflected his growing importance to the franchise. He started at $20,000 per episode in early “Power” seasons. By 2018, his earnings jumped to $45,000 per episode. With “Power Book II: Ghost,” industry reports suggest he commanded between $150,000 and $1,000,000 per episode. This progression demonstrated his value to the network and the show’s success.
Michael Rainey Jr. Business Ventures & Financial Success
Michael Rainey Jr net worth 2025 stands at an estimated $2 million. He built this wealth through smart financial management and diverse income streams. His mother helped him save money from his early acting jobs. Michael didn’t fully understand his earnings until he turned 17 or 18. “My mom always did a great job of helping me save my money since I was a kid,” he revealed on the Forbes “New Money” podcast.
Michael Rainey Jr.’s Investment Portfolio
Real Estate and Property:
- Land ownership in strategic locations
- Property investments for long-term appreciation
- Real estate portfolio diversification
Cryptocurrency Holdings:
- Bitcoin investments
- Ethereum holdings
- Digital asset portfolio management
Business Ownership:
- Co-ownership in Herbs Jamaica cannabis dispensary
- Catch 22 restaurant in Jamaica
- Partnership in mother’s health brand Relax Be Healthy
Entertainment Ventures:
- Twenty Two Entertainment production company
- Michael Rainey Jr podcast The Crew Has It with Gianni Paolo
- Michael Rainey Jr music and production work
Michael Awards & Industry Recognition
Michael Rainey Jr awards and nominations reflect his growing stature in Hollywood. In 2024, he received the Black Cinema & Television Rising Star Award. This honor recognized his impact on Black entertainment. The following year, he won the 2025 NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Actor in a Drama Series. This prestigious award validated his dramatic acting abilities.
Professional praise came from respected colleagues who worked alongside him. Larenz Tate, his co-star on “Power Book II: Ghost,” offered high praise. “Literally every day he’s on set, he’s coming to me with the most encouraging words I’ve ever heard from anybody in my life,” Tate said. This endorsement from a veteran actor speaks volumes about Michael’s character.
Michael Rainey Jr. Personal Life & Interests
Outside acting, Michael pursues various creative and personal interests. He records music under the stage name “Whereis22.” He collaborated with wolfacejoeyy on a song that premiered during “Power Book II: Ghost.” He’s part of a music group called Black Team. Michael takes regular piano and guitar lessons to improve his musical abilities.
Relationship-wise, Michael keeps his personal life private. He was linked to Eva Apio, a Ugandan model, in 2019. Later, he was connected to Haile Rose in 2022. Currently, he appears to be single based on recent interviews. He doesn’t publicly discuss his romantic relationships in detail.
Future Aspirations & Legacy
Michael Rainey Jr upcoming projects include ventures outside dramatic roles. He’s expressed interest in doing a romantic comedy. He wants to play characters very different from Tariq St. Patrick. This desire shows artistic ambition and range. He’s actively avoiding typecasting that could limit his career.
His approach to career longevity is refreshingly mature for his age. “Don’t feel too entitled to where you deprive yourself,” he advises young people. “There’s a million other blessings in the world.” This perspective keeps him grounded despite success. He understands that gratitude and humility matter in sustained success.
FAQ
How tall is Michael Rainey Jr.?
Michael Rainey Jr. stands 5’10½” tall (1.79 meters) and weighs approximately 149 pounds (68 kilograms).
What is Michael Rainey Jr.’s net worth?
Michael Rainey Jr.’s net worth is estimated at $2 million as of 2024-2025, earned through acting salaries, business ventures, and investments.
Who are Michael Rainey Jr.’s parents?
His father is Michael Rainey Sr. from New York, and his mother is Shauna Small, who immigrated from Jamaica to the United States.
Is Michael Rainey Jr. married?
No, Michael Rainey Jr. is currently single. He was previously linked to Eva Apio in 2019 and Haile Rose in 2022.
What businesses does he own?
He co-owns Twenty Two Entertainment production company, Herbs Jamaica cannabis dispensary, Catch 22 restaurant in Jamaica, and invests in cryptocurrency.
What awards has he won?
He won the 2024 Black Cinema & Television Rising Star Award and the 2025 NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Actor in a Drama Series.
What’s his music name?
Michael records music under the stage name “Whereis22” and is part of the music group Black Team.
Conclusion
Michael Rainey Jr. represents a new generation of entertainers who think beyond acting alone. His journey from accidental discovery to calculated success showcases dedication and strategic planning. At just 24 years old, he’s accomplished what many actors spend lifetimes pursuing. His transformation from child actor in Italy to leading a major television franchise demonstrates remarkable growth.
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