Tichina Arnold at a Glance
- Categories: Celebrities > Actors, Celebrities
- Net Worth: $2 Million
- Birthdate: Jun 28, 1969 (55 years old)
- Birthplace: Queens
- Gender: Female
- Profession: Actor, Singer
- Nationality: United States of America
- Height: 5 ft 6 in (1.68 m)
Tichina Arnold: Net Worth, Career, and Life Beyond the Screen
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Tichina Rolanda Arnold, a celebrated American actress and singer, was born on June 28, 1969, in Queens, New York City. Raised in a middle-class family with a strong foundation in the Church of God in Christ, Arnold’s upbringing instilled values that would shape her career. Her mother, Diane, worked in the sanitation department, while her father served as a police officer, providing a stable home environment that fostered her creative pursuits. Arnold’s educational journey included attendance at Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts, a testament to her early commitment to the arts.
Arnold’s passion for performance ignited at a young age. She began singing at the age of four and by eight, she secured a role in the play “The Me Nobody Knows” at the Billie Holiday Theater in Brooklyn. This early experience marked the beginning of her journey, leading to performances in various theaters and supper clubs, building the foundation for her future success.
“Martin” and the Rise to Fame
Tichina Arnold’s breakthrough role came with the FOX sitcom “Martin,” where she played the iconic character of Pamela James. This role proved to be a pivotal point in her career, launching her into mainstream recognition and solidifying her status as a comedic talent. Arnold was a main cast member throughout the show’s entire run, from 1992 to 1997. Her portrayal of Pam, the witty and independent best friend of Gina Waters-Payne (played by Tisha Campbell), showcased her exceptional comedic timing and ability to hold her own alongside the show’s lead, Martin Lawrence. The chemistry among the cast members, including Thomas Mikal Ford and Carl Anthony Payne II, contributed significantly to the show’s popularity. “Martin” became a cultural phenomenon, and Arnold’s performance made her a fan favorite.
Television Success: “Everybody Hates Chris” and Beyond
Building upon the success of “Martin,” Arnold continued to thrive in television, securing memorable roles that highlighted her versatility and range. One of her most acclaimed roles came in the sitcom “Everybody Hates Chris,” where she played Rochelle, the strong-willed, loving mother. Her performance from 2005 to 2009 was lauded for its humor, warmth, and depth, resonating with audiences and critics alike. The show’s success further cemented Arnold’s reputation as a highly talented comedic actress capable of portraying complex characters.
Arnold has consistently proven her adaptability, taking on roles in a diverse range of television shows throughout her career. She appeared in single episodes of popular shows such as “The Jamie Foxx Show,” “The Norm Show,” and “Pacific Blue.” She also had a recurring role in “One on One” as Nicole Barnes from 2001 to 2005, showcasing her ability to deliver consistent performances across different formats.
Following “Everybody Hates Chris,” Arnold remained a fixture on television, demonstrating her longevity and ability to secure notable roles in various series, including “Happily Divorced” (2011-2013), “Survivor’s Remorse” (2014-2017), and “The Neighborhood” (2018-present). Additional appearances include shows like “Raising Hope” (2011), “Hit the Floor” (2014), “Black Dynamite” (2015), “The Eric Andre Show” (2016), “Daytime Divas” (2017), and “Lockdown” (2018), demonstrating a broad range of acting work.

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Film Career: From “Little Shop of Horrors” to Modern Roles
Arnold’s career extends beyond television, as she has built a notable filmography that showcases her talents across different genres. She made her film debut as a teenager in Frank Oz’s musical adaptation of “Little Shop of Horrors” (1986), where she appeared alongside Tisha Campbell, a future co-star. This early film role provided a springboard for a steady stream of film appearances throughout the 1980s, including “Starlight: A Musical Movie” (1988), and “How I Got into College” (1989).
Over the years, Arnold has continued to diversify her film roles. In 1991, she appeared in “Scenes from a Mall,” directed by Paul Mazursky and starring Bette Midler and Woody Allen. Her film credits include “Fakin’ Da Funk” (1997), “Dancing in September” (2000), “Civil Brand” (2002), “Preaching to the Choir” (2005), “Drillbit Taylor” (2008), “Dance Flick” (2009), “Summoned” (2013), “A Day Late and a Dollar Short” (2014), “Royal Family Thanksgiving” (2015), “Royal Family Christmas” (2015), “Countdown” (2019), and “The Main Event” (2020), highlighting her versatility and ability to take on a wide range of roles, from comedies to dramas.
Arnold has reunited with her “Martin” co-star Martin Lawrence in the films “Big Momma’s House” (2000) and “Wild Hogs” (2007). In addition to her on-screen work, Arnold has also showcased her vocal talents, lending her voice to animated projects, such as the adult animated show “The Boondocks” in the 2007 episode titled “Attack of the Killer Kung-fu Wolf Bitch.”

(Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)
Entrepreneurship and Philanthropy
Beyond her acting career, Arnold has demonstrated her entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to giving back. In 1998, she launched her own company, China Moon Rags, which specialized in designer headgear, including Swarovski crystal-embroidered bandanas. The products gained popularity, with celebrities like Tisha Campbell, Janet Jackson, Regina King, Christina Aguilera, Vivica A. Fox, and LisaRaye McCoy being spotted wearing her designs.
Arnold’s philanthropic efforts are equally noteworthy. Inspired by her sister Zenay’s battle with Lupus, Arnold co-founded the We Win Foundation in 2013. The foundation is dedicated to supporting individuals affected by Lupus, demonstrating her commitment to raising awareness and providing support to those in need.
Personal Life
Tichina Arnold’s personal life has included significant relationships. She was previously in a relationship with music producer Carvin Haggins, with whom she had a daughter, Alijah Kai Haggins, born in 2004. Arnold married DaRico Hine, a former assistant coach for the Golden State Warriors, in August 2012 in Honolulu, Hawaii. However, the couple divorced in January 2016.
Real Estate
In January 2018, Tichina Arnold purchased a home in Los Angeles for $933,000. She listed this home for sale in July 2023 for $2 million, but ultimately decided to withdraw the listing. This activity demonstrates her interest in real estate as an investment.
Conclusion
Tichina Arnold’s journey, from her early beginnings in New York City to her successful acting career, entrepreneurial ventures, and philanthropic work, reflects her dedication to her craft and her commitment to making a difference. With a career spanning decades, she has solidified her status as a versatile performer who continues to inspire and entertain audiences. From her iconic role in “Martin” to her memorable performances in “Everybody Hates Chris” and beyond, Arnold remains a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.