Most Famous Terrences in the World

From Hollywood and Broadway to boxing rings and concert halls, plenty of high-profile figures share the first name Terrence. Below is a friendly, fact-packed look at notable Terrences across film, television, music, theater, and sports, highlighting the work and achievements that made them widely known.

Terrence Howard

Terrence Howard is an American actor best known for starring in ‘Hustle & Flow’ and appearing as James Rhodes in ‘Iron Man’. He reached a huge television audience as music mogul Lucious Lyon on the hit series ‘Empire’. Howard earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor for his performance in ‘Hustle & Flow’. His screen career also includes prominent roles in films such as ‘Crash’ and ‘Ray’.

Terrence Malick

Terrence Malick is a reclusive American filmmaker celebrated for visually rich, philosophical dramas including ‘Badlands’ and ‘Days of Heaven’. He returned to directing after a long hiatus with ‘The Thin Red Line’, noted for its ensemble cast and meditative style. Malick’s ‘The Tree of Life’ received top honors at major international festivals. He is known for unconventional production methods, extensive use of natural light, and impressionistic editing.

Terence Blanchard

Terrence Blanchard is a Grammy-winning jazz trumpeter and composer whose film scores include frequent collaborations with Spike Lee such as ‘Malcolm X’ and ‘BlacKkKlansman’. He has released numerous acclaimed jazz albums as a bandleader and arranger. Blanchard also composed operas, including Fire Shut Up in My Bones, which marked a historic first for the Metropolitan Opera. He serves as an educator and artistic director, shaping the next generation of jazz and film composers.

Terrence J

Terrence Jenkins, known professionally as Terrence J, gained prominence as co-host of BET’s ‘106 & Park’. He later anchored ‘E! News’, expanding his profile in entertainment journalism. Jenkins acted in ensemble comedies such as ‘Think Like a Man’ and its sequel. He is also an author and producer, with projects spanning film, television, and live events.

Terrence McNally

Terrence McNally was an award-winning American playwright whose works include Love! Valour! Compassion! and Master Class. He wrote the books for major Broadway musicals, notably Ragtime and Kiss of the Spider Woman. McNally earned multiple Tony Awards and lifetime honors for his contributions to American theater. His plays are widely produced and studied for their craft and cultural impact.

Terrence Carson

Terrence C. Carson is an actor and voice performer recognized on television for playing Kyle Barker in ‘Living Single’. He voiced Kratos in the early entries of the God of War video game franchise, establishing the character’s signature sound. Carson’s career spans stage, television, animation, and interactive media. He has also released music, showcasing his background in singing and performance.

Terrence Mann

Terrence Mann is an American actor and singer known for originating major roles on Broadway and for film and television work. He starred in long-running stage hits and appeared in genre films including the ‘Critters’ series. Mann has directed and taught in university theater programs. His career includes Tony Award nominations and leadership roles in regional arts organizations.

Share your favorite Terrence—and any we missed—in the comments!