W. Kamau Bell: CNN, Age, Height, Books, Wife, Children, Salary and Net Worth
W. Kamau Bell Biography & Wiki
W. Kamau Bell is a renowned American television host, stand-up comedian, and sociopolitical commentator. He is best known as the host and executive producer of the Emmy Award-winning CNN series United Shades of America with W. Kamau Bell. Beyond television, Bell has co-hosted several acclaimed podcasts, including Denzel Washington Is The Greatest Actor of All Time Period, Politically Re-Active, and Kamau Right Now!.
How Old is W. Kamau Bell? | Age and Birthday
As of 2025, W. Kamau Bell is 52 years old. He was born on January 26, 1973, in Palo Alto, California, USA. He celebrates his birthday annually on January 26th.
Education
W. Kamau Bell attended the University of Chicago Laboratory Schools for high school. He later enrolled at the University of Pennsylvania but decided to leave before graduating in order to pursue his passion for comedy full-time.
Family Background | Parents and Early Life
Kamau was born to Walter Bell and Janet Cheatham Bell. His father served as Alabama’s Insurance Commissioner and later became Chairman of Swiss Re America Holding Corporation. His mother is an accomplished author and the founder of a self-publishing firm. Though he rarely discusses siblings, Kamau often references his parents’ influence on his worldview and activism.
Nationality and Ethnicity
Bell is an American citizen by birth. He was born in California and raised across various cities, including Alabama, Boston, and Chicago. He is of African American heritage.
How Tall is W. Kamau Bell? | Height and Measurements
W. Kamau Bell stands at an impressive 6 feet 4 inches tall (approximately 1.93 meters). While he has not publicly shared other body measurements, his towering presence is often noted in his media appearances.
Is W. Kamau Bell Married? | Wife and Wedding
Yes, Kamau is married to Melissa Hudson Bell, a choreographer, scholar, and performer based in Berkeley, California. The couple met in 2003 in the San Francisco Bay Area through mutual friends and married in March 2009. Together, they have three daughters:
- Sami Bell (born 2011)
- Juno Bell (born 2014)
- Asha Bell (born 2018)
United Shades of America | CNN
Bell is the creator, host, and executive producer of United Shades of America, an Emmy Award-winning CNN Original Series. Since its premiere in April 2016, the show has explored race, identity, and cultural divides across the United States. Known for blending humor with serious topics, Bell has immersed himself in communities as diverse as KKK rallies, inner-city neighborhoods, retirement communities, and prisons to shed light on what it means to be American today.
The series has earned widespread critical acclaim and multiple Creative Arts Emmy Awards, including one in 2017 for Outstanding Unstructured Reality Program. Bell was also nominated for a Primetime Emmy for Outstanding Host for a Reality or Reality-Competition Program.
W. Kamau Bell CNN Career and Other Projects
Beyond United Shades, Bell has hosted and contributed to various CNN specials and reports. He previously fronted the satirical late-night comedy series Totally Biased with W. Kamau Bell, which aired on FX and later FXX. The show tackled topics such as race, class, and politics through a comedic lens.
He also remains active in the podcasting world and frequently speaks at universities and conferences on racial justice, free speech, and inequality.
Totally Biased with W. Kamau Bell
Totally Biased with W. Kamau Bell was a groundbreaking satirical news and late-night comedy show hosted by Bell. It premiered on FX in 2012, produced by comedy legend Chris Rock. The show was praised for its sharp political commentary and inclusive, progressive approach to hot-button issues such as race, gender, and social justice.
Despite critical acclaim and a loyal fanbase, the show was canceled in 2013 after its move to FXX and a decline in ratings. Nevertheless, Totally Biased played a significant role in shaping Bell’s public voice and cementing his reputation as a smart, socially conscious comedian.
The Awkward Thoughts of W. Kamau Bell
This is Bell’s memoir and social critique, published in 2017. It’s a collection of humorous and personal essays that delve into:
- His experiences growing up as a tall, nerdy Black kid
- His journey into comedy
- Being a father and husband
- Navigating race and privilege in America
The book is notable for its balance of levity and depth, earning comparisons to the work of Ta-Nehisi Coates, Trevor Noah, and other cultural commentators. It’s a recommended read for fans of thoughtful, comedic takes on real-world issues.
Do The Work: An Antiracist Activity Book
Co-authored by W. Kamau Bell and Kate Schatz, this book was released in 2022 and aims to help readers actively engage in anti-racism work. The format is interactive and educational, including:
- Prompts
- Quizzes
- Charts
- Jokes
- Historical context
It’s accessible to beginners but valuable for anyone seeking to better understand and dismantle systemic racism. The book has become popular in classrooms, community groups, and book clubs.
W. Kamau Bell Kennedy Center
W. Kamau Bell has performed at the prestigious Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C., a testament to his national recognition and cultural relevance. His appearance there typically features a mix of stand-up comedy and social commentary, aligning with the Kennedy Center’s mission to celebrate diverse voices in the arts. Bell has also participated in discussions and educational programming connected to the center’s initiatives on equity and inclusion.
W. Kamau Bell Teeth
W. Kamau Bell’s teeth have occasionally sparked curiosity among fans due to his prominent and slightly spaced front teeth—part of his unique and recognizable look. While he’s never made his teeth a central topic, he’s known for embracing his natural appearance and using humor to deflect superficial commentary, often focusing instead on deeper societal issues. His smile is part of his authentic persona, both on- and off-screen.
Is W. Kamau Bell Gay?
No, W. Kamau Bell is not gay. He identifies as a heterosexual man and is married to Melissa Hudson Bell, with whom he has three children. While Bell is not part of the LGBTQ+ community himself, he is a vocal ally and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. He frequently uses his platform to speak out against homophobia and support marginalized communities.
W. Kamau Bell Salary
As of 2025, W. Kamau Bell earns an estimated annual salary of $350,000, largely from his roles in television production, speaking engagements, and public appearances.
Net Worth
Through a successful career in comedy, television, and public speaking, Bell has built an estimated net worth of $4 million as of 2025.
