Bre-Z Height, Age, and Life Story: From Barber’s Chair to Hollywood Star

Bre-Z, born Calesha Murray, is one of the few artists who can seamlessly balance authenticity with fame. Known for her powerful presence on-screen and her raw storytelling in music, she has become a voice of inspiration to many. From humble beginnings in a family of barbers to becoming a standout actress and rapper, her journey reflects persistence, passion, and purpose.

Real Name	Calesha Murray
Stage Name	Bre-Z
Date of Birth	July 22, 1987
Age (2025)	38 years old
Birthplace	Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
Raised In	Wilmington, Delaware
Height	5 ft 1 in (155 cm)
Profession	Actress, Rapper, Songwriter
Notable Roles	Freda Gatz (Empire), Tamia “Coop” Cooper (All American)
Education	Full Sail University, Florida
Estimated Net Worth	$4 – $15 million
Instagram Handle	@brezofficial

 

Early Life and Family Background

Calesha Murray, famously known as Bre-Z, was born on July 22, 1987, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and raised in Wilmington, Delaware. Coming from a tight-knit family of barbers, she was surrounded by hard work and creativity from an early age. Her grandfather, father, and mother all worked as barbers, and she picked up the clippers at just 10 years old. This hands-on upbringing taught her about discipline and self-expression.

Her nickname, Bre-Z, has an endearing origin. As a baby, she would cry until her grandmother closed the window, saying, “It must be breezy in here,” and the name stuck. Over time, it became her professional moniker, representing her calm yet powerful personality.

Education and Early Ambitions

Bre-Z graduated from high school in 2005 and later attended Full Sail University in Florida, where she developed her love for the arts. While barbering remained a skill she valued, her passion for music began to take shape during her teenage years. By 14, she was performing at local shows, and by 15, she recorded her first song with the rapper Freeway.

Her family’s grounded influence kept her humble, but she always knew she wanted more from life than just a trade – she wanted to tell stories, to perform, and to inspire others.

Height and Physical Appearance

Bre-Z stands at approximately 5 feet 1 inch (155 cm) tall. Despite her relatively short height, her commanding energy and confidence make her appear larger than life. Fans often note that her height only adds to her unique charm, setting her apart from traditional Hollywood stereotypes.

Her style reflects her personality – bold, clean, and unapologetically authentic. Often seen rocking short haircuts, casual streetwear, and sneakers, she embraces individuality over trends.

From Barber’s Chair to the Spotlight

Before she was a household name, Bre-Z was a working barber. She cut hair for celebrities like Akon and Ludacris, using her skills to stay afloat while pursuing her artistic dreams. This experience gave her valuable life lessons about perseverance, networking, and self-reliance.

In 2014, Bre-Z took a major leap of faith and moved to Los Angeles with less than a dollar to her name. It was a bold move that would change her life forever. That same year, she landed her breakout role as Freda Gatz in the hit Fox series Empire. Her raw energy and authenticity resonated with audiences, proving that her unique path had prepared her for the spotlight.

Acting Breakthrough and Fame

After Empire, Bre-Z earned even greater recognition when she was cast as Tamia “Coop” Cooper in The CW’s All American. The role showcased her versatility and emotional depth, portraying a young woman navigating friendship, loyalty, and identity in South Los Angeles.

Coop quickly became a fan favorite. The character’s confidence, authenticity, and vulnerability mirrored Bre-Z’s real-life personality. Bre-Z once said, “Coop is literally me in high school.” The role also had cultural impact, highlighting LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream television with dignity and realism.

Musical Journey

Long before acting, music was Bre-Z’s first love. Her lyrical talent and commanding flow reflect the storytelling roots of classic hip-hop. She released her debut EP The Grl in 2015, followed by her album Full Circle in 2020. Her songs often explore themes of perseverance, authenticity, and empowerment.

Bre-Z describes her music as deeply personal, calling it her “diary in rhythm.” She writes from experience, blending rap with emotion, and aims to motivate listeners to stay true to themselves.

Age and Personal Life

At 38 years old (as of 2025), Bre-Z continues to balance acting, music, and business ventures with ease. She often emphasizes the importance of privacy, stating that not everything needs to be public. In an interview, she said, “I love everybody, but what’s in my home is mine. You have to keep something for yourself.”

While she keeps her romantic life private, Bre-Z has been open about her belief in love and respect for individuality. Her grounded nature and dedication to authenticity have earned her admiration beyond her fan base.

Net Worth and Lifestyle

Bre-Z’s estimated net worth ranges between $4 million and $15 million as of recent reports. Her income comes from multiple sources – acting, music royalties, brand partnerships, and personal ventures.

Despite her success, she lives modestly, prioritizing growth and creativity over luxury. She often expresses gratitude for her journey, staying close to her roots and family values.

Social Media and Influence

Bre-Z maintains a strong connection with her audience on social platforms. Her Instagram (@brezofficial) has over 1 million followers, where she shares glimpses of her work, performances, and behind-the-scenes moments. Fans appreciate her mix of humor, honesty, and inspiration.

Through her presence online, she promotes messages of self-acceptance, creative freedom, and staying authentic in an industry often obsessed with appearances.

Fun Facts About Bre-Z

• Her nickname came from her grandmother’s remark about a “breezy” room.
• She started cutting hair at 10 years old and continued professionally before fame.
• She once cut hair for high-profile clients like Akon and Ludacris.
• Her role as Coop was inspired by her own teenage experiences.
• She believes music and acting are both extensions of her storytelling nature.

Recognition and Impact

Bre-Z’s impact reaches beyond entertainment. She is celebrated for her fearless representation of strong, multifaceted women on screen. Through roles like Coop, she opened doors for more inclusive and realistic portrayals of LGBTQ+ characters in television.

She has also inspired countless fans from working-class backgrounds, proving that perseverance and faith can take anyone from humble beginnings to stardom.

Why Her Story Matters

Bre-Z’s life exemplifies authenticity and grit. Her height, background, or gender never limited her vision. Instead, they shaped her unique path. She embodies the message that success is not about fitting into a mold but about breaking barriers and staying true to yourself.

Her story is a reminder that even the smallest voices can make the loudest impact when driven by passion and purpose.

Final Thoughts

At 5′ 1″ tall and with a heart full of determination, Bre-Z has risen from a barbershop in Delaware to the bright lights of Hollywood. Her journey filled with hard work, self-belief, and authenticity continues to inspire dreamers everywhere.

Whether she’s rapping in the studio, cutting hair, or portraying powerful characters on TV, Bre-Z remains unapologetically herself. Her legacy reminds us that no matter where you start, you can always rise higher than your height.

FAQs

How tall is Bre-Z?

Bre-Z stands at around 5 feet 1 inch (155 cm) tall. Despite her petite stature, her confidence and energy make her presence unforgettable on-screen.

What is Bre-Z’s age?

As of 2025, Bre-Z is 38 years old. She was born on July 22, 1987.

What is Bre-Z’s net worth?

Her estimated net worth ranges between $4 million and $15 million, based on acting, music, and brand collaborations.

What shows is Bre-Z known for?

She is best known for playing Freda Gatz in Empire and Tamia “Coop” Cooper in All American.

Is Bre-Z active on social media?

Yes, Bre-Z is active on Instagram (@brezofficial), where she connects with over a million followers, sharing authentic glimpses of her life and work.