EntertainmentAmerican1970 – present

Shemar Moore

Criminal Minds, S.W.A.T., The Young and the Restless

Biography

Shemar Franklin Moore (born April 20, 1970) is an American actor, television host, and model who has built a successful career spanning over three decades in film and television. He is best recognized for his portrayal of Derek Morgan on the hit CBS series Criminal Minds, which ran for 16 seasons and made him a household name. Before that, he gained early recognition as Malcolm Winters on the daytime soap opera The Young and the Restless, earning multiple Daytime Emmy Award nominations. Moore transitioned to leading roles, starring as Daniel "Hondo" Harrelson in the S.W.A.T. reboot, which has become a critical and commercial success. Beyond acting, he has hosted several television programs and has appeared in films including Motives, Diary of a Mad Black Woman, and the Resident Evil franchise. Moore is also known for his advocacy work and has been vocal about social justice issues. His charisma, versatility, and dedication to his craft have made him one of television's most reliable and popular actors.

The Name Shemar

Shemar is a relatively uncommon first name in entertainment, making those who bear it particularly memorable. Shemar Moore's decades-long career success has helped establish the name in popular culture.

Quick Facts

Shemar

American origin

“A modern masculine name blending Shem- with the -ar ending, possibly influenced by Arabic (akin to 'shimar,' meaning 'to leap'). Shemar has a strong, dynamic sound that gained visibility through popular culture, offering contemporary appeal with cross-cultural phonetic richness.”