Woody McClain built his career through digital platforms before breaking into mainstream television. Born on May 14, 1989, in Charleston, South Carolina, and raised in Jacksonville, Florida, McClain transitioned from a professional backup dancer and viral Vine comedian into a recognized dramatic actor. He earned widespread critical acclaim for portraying R&B icon Bobby Brown and later cemented his stardom as Cane Tejada in the Starz hit series Power Book II: Ghost.
Early Life and Transition to Dance
Growing up in Jacksonville, McClain developed an early interest in the arts and entertainment. He attended Robert E. Lee High School (now Riverside High School), graduating in 2008, before studying at Florida A&M University, where he participated in the famous Marching 100 band.
Driven by a passion for dance, McClain made a pivotal move to Los Angeles in 2012. Without industry connections or guaranteed income, he worked hard to break into the commercial dance scene. His talent eventually secured him roles as a professional backup dancer for major music acts, including Fifth Harmony and Chris Brown. Touring and performing on large stages gave him a front-row seat to the entertainment industry, but he soon realized his ambitions extended beyond background choreography.
Viral Comedy and Digital Stardom
Before landing major acting roles, McClain leveraged the rising power of social media platforms. Operating under the moniker WoodyTheGreat, he posted short-form comedy sketches on Vine, Instagram, and Facebook. For another perspective on this event, check out the recent update from Reuters.
His breakout viral moment came when he recorded a comedic reaction and interpretation of comedian Kevin Hart's stand-up routine. The clip caught traction online, significantly boosting his digital footprint. This online success drew the attention of Kevin Hart's production company, HartBeat Digital, marking his first formal bridge into the professional comedy and acting world. Building a massive organic following proved that he understood audience engagement, a skill that translated well when he moved into scripted television.
Breakthrough Role as Bobby Brown
McClain's transition from internet personality to serious actor arrived in 2017. He successfully auditioned to play a young Bobby Brown in the BET biographical miniseries The New Edition Story.
Portraying a legendary and dynamic music figure is a difficult task for any newcomer, but McClain captured Brown's distinct charisma, intensity, and dance background with precision. His performance received widespread praise from critics and audiences alike, earning him nominations at the Image Awards and Black Reel Awards. The role established his credibility as a dramatic actor, leading him to reprise the character in the 2018 follow-up project The Bobby Brown Story.
Starring as Cane Tejada in Power Book II: Ghost
Following his success with the BET miniseries, McClain secured recurring and guest roles in shows like Training Day, The Deuce, and Unsolved: The Murders of Tupac and the Notorious B.I.G. However, his defining television role arrived when he was cast as Lorenzo "Cane" Tejada Jr. in the Starz crime drama Power Book II: Ghost.
As Cane Tejada, McClain played a ruthless, ambitious, and unpredictable enforcer within a powerful drug-dealing family. The character's complex family dynamics and volatile nature resonated deeply with viewers, making McClain a fan favorite across multiple seasons. The show expanded his global reach and showcased his range in high-stakes action and dramatic storytelling.
Beyond television, McClain has branched into feature films. He appeared as Clyde Grimes in the Jeymes Samuel-directed Western The Harder They Fall (2021) and took on roles in films like Death of a Telemarketer and Desperation Road. Track his complete project history on IMDb.
Personal Life and Public Presence
Despite his rising fame, McClain maintains a relatively grounded personal life while keeping fans updated through social media. In 2025, McClain and his partner Charlie B announced they were expecting twin daughters, sharing milestones from their baby shower and welcoming their twins, Emily and Amaya, later that year.
He is also known for his philanthropic mindset and connection to his roots in South Carolina and Florida, frequently speaking about the discipline required to transition from independent content creation to studio-backed television production.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Woody McClain get famous?
He initially gained fame through viral comedy videos on Vine and Instagram under the name WoodyTheGreat. His digital presence caught industry attention, leading directly to his breakout acting role as Bobby Brown in The New Edition Story.
What is Woody McClain's height?
Woody McClain stands approximately 6 feet 2 inches tall, a physical trait that helped him excel both as a professional backup dancer and an action-oriented television actor.
Is Woody McClain related to any other celebrities?
He is not biologically related to other prominent figures in the industry, though his career trajectory has brought him into close professional collaboration with high-profile names like Kevin Hart and Mary J. Blige.
What are Woody McClain's most notable TV shows?
His most notable television credits include playing Bobby Brown in BET's biographical miniseries and starring as Cane Tejada in the Starz drama series Power Book II: Ghost. Read more about television updates on Deadline.
