Omari Hardwick

Explore the life of Omari Hardwick (born January 9, 1974) — actor, poet, and creative voice. From his early struggles to his breakthrough role as “Ghost” on Power, discover his journey, philosophy, and memorable quotes.

Introduction

Omari Latif Hardwick (born January 9, 1974) is an American actor, poet, and creative entrepreneur whose presence spans stage, screen, and spoken word. Best known for his lead role as James “Ghost” St. Patrick in the Starz crime drama Power, Hardwick’s path to success has been marked by perseverance, artistic exploration, and self-discovery. He is not only an actor but also a poet and a storyteller, known for blending vulnerability, intensity, and integrity in his work.

Early Life & Education

Hardwick was born in Savannah, Georgia, and raised largely in Decatur, Georgia.

Growing up, Hardwick showed both athletic and artistic interests. In high school, he attended Marist School in Brookhaven, Georgia, where he played baseball, basketball, and football.

He later enrolled at the University of Georgia on a football scholarship, with a minor in theater.

Early Career & Struggles

After college, Hardwick aimed for a career in the NFL, even declaring for the NFL Draft, but was not selected.

His early onscreen credits include being an extra in the Floetry music video “Say Yes” (2002)

Rise to Prominence & Major Roles

Breakthrough Role: Power

Hardwick’s major breakthrough came when he was cast as James “Ghost” St. Patrick in the Starz series Power (2014–2020).

Film & Television Work

In addition to Power, his credits include:

• Miracle at St. Anna (2008) by Spike Lee

• Kick-Ass (2010) as Sergeant Marcus Williams

• For Colored Girls (2010) in a Tyler Perry ensemble

• Army of the Dead (2021) in a Zack Snyder production

• Pieces of Her (Netflix adaptation) as Gordon Oliver

• More recently, he was cast in The Greatest, a biopic series of Muhammad Ali, to play Ali’s father, Cassius “Cash” Clay Sr.

He has also been involved in theatre, poetry, and creative ventures (e.g. co-founding Bravelife Films).

Personality & Creative Ethos

Hardwick often speaks of growth, introspection, and authenticity. In interviews and his poetry, he addresses the tension between public expectation and internal truth. For instance:

“It’s rare for artists to really stare deeply at themselves … I’m really into growth… I see somebody who’s just trying to get better everyday.”

He also has said:

“When you start out on a project as an actor … you approach the character … by maybe making a mental list of the adjectives that the character has.”

His background in poetry strongly influences his approach to acting—he often treats roles as layered, lyrical, and emotionally resonant.

Family, faith, humility, and introspection appear as constants in his public reflections.

Famous Quotes

Here are some notable quotations by Omari Hardwick that reflect his thought:

• “Actors are intelligent. Yet, many of them do not communicate well.”

• “Poetry has, in a way, been my bridge to my acting career.”

• “I’ve been described as a smart actor because I’ve attended college. Or I’ve been called an artsy jock. And I am thinking, ‘So, are actors supposed to be dumb?’”

• “If you remain open to great directors who look like you … you can do okay, and everybody can get more of a piece of the pie. But you've got to be open and brave.”

• “I’m safe where I’m at being the guy where people go, ‘That’s a really good actor. What’s his name again?’”

These reflect his humility, ambition, and commitment to craft.

Lessons from Omari Hardwick

1. Persistence through hardship
   His years living in a car and juggling odd jobs demonstrate that sustained resilience can lead to breakthrough.

2. Integrate your passions
   By carrying his poetic voice into acting, Hardwick bridges disciplines and deepens his expression.

3. Embrace humility with ambition
   He speaks of wanting to be known for work—not just fame—and of continual growth.

4. Be open and brave
   He encourages artists to accept opportunities, especially ones that expand visibility for underrepresented voices.

5. Character as layered truth
   His method—identifying character traits, emotional subtext, and contradictions—shows that roles gain depth through introspection.

Conclusion

Omari Hardwick is not merely a television star: he is a poet, a thinker, and a voice that resonates beyond the screen. His journey from small roles and struggle to commanding presence in Power mirrors his internal path of growth and authenticity. The famous quotes of Hardwick offer glimpses into a creative mind striving for integrity, connection, and purpose. His legacy is still being written—but his impact already lies in the way he carries his truths into every role.