ACTOR · BORN 1945
Ernie Hudson
- Born
- 17 December 1945, Benton Harbor, Michigan, USA
- Known for
- Grey's Anatomy (2005), Ghostbusters (1984), Ghostbusters (2016), Arrow (2012)
14 archived facts 4 topics 1 source Last reviewed Sep 2026
All facts (14)
- #001
As of 2003, Ernie Hudson had served for 14 years as a Reserve Deputy Sheriff with the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Office in California. The role is a voluntary or part-time position generally aimed at contributing to public safety. Hudson's long service reflects a responsible personality closely engaged with his community.
- #002
After graduating from Benton Harbor High School, Ernie Hudson joined the Marine Corps but had to be medically discharged in less than three months because of asthma. The brief stint ended his military career, though it did not prevent him from later achieving major success as an actor.
- #003
Ernie Hudson has said openly that Muhammad Ali and Bruce Lee were the two figures he admired while growing up. In 1994 he had the chance to appear alongside the late Brandon Lee in 'The Crow', a film that became a notable entry in Hudson's career and is remembered for Brandon Lee's tragic death.
- #004
Ernie Hudson is the father of the actor Ernie Hudson Jr., and the two appeared together on screen in HBO's award-winning series 'Oz'. Their shared role in the prison drama showcased both their family ties and their professional collaboration.
- #005
Ernie Hudson lost his mother when he was only two months old. Raised without her, he was sustained through that difficult period by his grandmother's support, an experience that helped shape his strong, independent character and a more sensitive, understanding outlook on life.
- #006
Ernie Hudson completed his training in the performing arts at the Yale University School of Drama. The prestigious institution gave him a solid foundation in theatre and acting, and the education he received there became a turning point that enabled successful performances on stage as well as in film and television.
- #007
After his mother's early death, Ernie Hudson was raised by his grandmother, who served as both a mother figure and a guide in his life. Her love and support helped him cope with hardships and succeed, and Hudson has often expressed his gratitude to her.
- #008
Ernie Hudson was shortlisted for the role of the Master in the 1996 'Doctor Who: The Movie', but the part ultimately went to Eric Roberts. Hudson's connection to the Doctor Who universe came in 2011 with a notable guest role in the episode 'Miracle Day: The Middle Men', part of the series 'Torchwood'.
- #009
Ernie Hudson also continued his education at the University of Minnesota. His time there contributed to his academic and personal development and broadened his knowledge in different fields, helping him become a versatile individual and later benefiting his acting career.
- #010
Ernie Hudson is the father of four sons: Ernie Jr., Rahaman, Andrew and Ross. His sons are at the center of his family life, and he has carried out the role of father with great devotion. His son Ernie Jr. also followed him into an acting career.
- #011
Ernie Hudson auditioned to reprise his 'Ghostbusters' role of Winston Zeddemore, which he played in the 1984 film, for the 1986 animated series 'The Real Ghostbusters', but the part went to Arsenio Hall. Though the outcome was disappointing for Hudson, the 'Ghostbusters' series remains one of his best-known works.
- #012
Ernie Hudson graduated from Wayne State University, which holds an important place in his academic career. The education he received there, including developing himself in theatre and drama, laid a solid foundation for his acting career.
- #013
Ernie Hudson hosted 'Summer of a Thousand Movies', a program broadcast on the Cinemax channel that aimed to bring thousands of films to viewers during the summer months. His hosting reinforced his presence in television and let him show his talents as a presenter as well as an actor.
- #014
Ernie Hudson has great-grandchildren through three of his grandchildren. This shows how far his family ties have extended, and he takes joy in having a large family, with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren holding an important place in his life.
Sources & editorial notes
Reference databases
Sources for the entries on this page
- IMDb IMDb
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