Lisa Bonet | Biography

• By Stone Palmer
• Original : March 21, 2025

Who is Lisa Bonet?

Lisa Bonet, born on November 16, 1967, in San Francisco, California, is an acclaimed American actress best known for her role as the eclectic and free-spirited Denise Huxtable on the iconic television series "The Cosby Show". Her dynamic portrayal of Denise, which she maintained from 1984 to 1992, led to her starring in the spin-off series "A Different World", showcasing her character's adventures in college. Bonet's artistry and ambition transcended typical television roles; she sought more complex characters, which ultimately shaped her career path and personal life.

Bonet's early years were marked by her biracial background, being the daughter of an African-American father and a Jewish mother, which influenced her identity and experiences growing up. After embarking on her acting journey, she took a bold step into the film industry with her role in "Angel Heart", where she embraced mature themes, which contrasted with her wholesome television image. Throughout her life, Bonet has experienced significant relationships, including her marriage to rock musician Lenny Kravitz, with whom she shares daughter Zoë Kravitz, and her current marriage to actor Jason Momoa, reflecting a blend of creativity and familial warmth within her personal life.

Early Life and Education

Lisa Bonet was born on November 16, 1967, in San Francisco, California. She is the daughter of Allen Bonet, an African-American musician, and Arlene, a Jewish arts educator. Her parents separated when she was very young, leading her mother to raise her as a single parent in Los Angeles. Growing up as a biracial child, Bonet faced challenges related to her identity and often felt out of place in different environments, including her mother's family and school. This experience shaped her perspective on race and acceptance, fostering a sense of introspection.

Bonet found solace in the performing arts, where she could express herself authentically. After completing high school in Van Nuys, California, she pursued her passion for acting at the Celluloid Actor's Studio. Her early life and educational journey played a significant role in preparing her for a successful career in television and film. Bonet's unique background and experiences contributed to her ability to portray complex characters, beginning with her breakout role in "The Cosby Show." Through these formative years, she cultivated the creative prowess that would define her career and personal life.

Television and Film Roles: The Cosby Show and A Different World

Lisa Bonet's most notable television role came as Denise Huxtable on the groundbreaking sitcom "The Cosby Show," which aired from 1984 until 1992. Denise, characterized as a bohemian spirit with a distinctive sense of style, captivated audiences and became a cultural icon. Bonet's performance showcased her versatility, allowing her to portray both a carefree college student and a young woman navigating the complexities of life within a loving family framework. After taking a hiatus from the show to explore more challenging roles, she reprised her character in the spin-off series "A Different World," which focused on the collegiate journey of Denise and her friends, highlighting issues related to race and social life.

In addition to her television accomplishments, Bonet sought to expand her artistic horizons through film. Her role in the 1987 movie "Angel Heart," where she played a sexually liberated character, served as a pivotal moment in her career. This marked a departure from the wholesome image she had cultivated on "The Cosby Show," as Bonet expressed her desire to pursue deeper and more nuanced characters. Although her evolving career brought challenges within the network, her determination set the stage for her future work in both film and television, allowing her to carve a unique path in the entertainment industry while maintaining her artistic integrity.

Career Success: Angel Heart and Major Films

Lisa Bonet achieved significant career success with her transition from television to film, particularly through her role in the 1987 movie "Angel Heart." Portraying the character Epiphany Proudfoot opposite Mickey Rourke, Bonet pushed boundaries and showcased her versatility as an actress. This film was a pivotal moment in her career, allowing her to step away from her wholesome image built on "The Cosby Show." She famously posed topless for Interview magazine to promote the film, asserting her right to choose roles that resonated with her personal and professional aspirations. This bold move highlighted her desire to explore more complex and provocative characters.

Following her success in "Angel Heart," Bonet continued to carve out a niche for herself in Hollywood by selecting diverse projects that reflected her artistic ambitions. She appeared in significant films such as "Enemy of the State" (1998), where she shared the screen with Hollywood heavyweights, and "High Fidelity" (2000), which showcased her ability to balance dramatic and comedic roles. Despite facing challenges in her career, including a controversial firing from "The Cosby Show," Bonet's resilience and commitment to her craft allowed her to maintain a presence in the industry. Her work in both film and television demonstrates her dedication to evolving as an actress while embracing the complexities of her identity and experiences.

Personal Life: Married Life and Children

Lisa Bonet's personal life has been marked by significant relationships that have shaped her journey. In 1987, she married musician Lenny Kravitz, and their union brought forth their daughter, Zoë Kravitz, who has since blossomed into a successful actress and fashion icon. Although Bonet and Kravitz divorced in 1993, they have maintained a close friendship, co-parenting Zoë and celebrating holidays together. Bonet regards their time together as spiritually and intellectually enriching, often sharing fond memories of their early relationship.

Bonet's relationship with actor Jason Momoa also plays a significant role in her life. The couple began dating in 2004 after meeting at a jazz club and eventually welcomed two children together: daughter Lola Iolani, born in 2007, and son Nakoa-Wolf, born in 2008. Bonet and Momoa tied the knot in October 2017, marking a new chapter of love and family life for them. Bonet frequently expresses her admiration for Momoa, describing him as an embodiment of love and a supportive partner who champions family values, contrasting her own experiences of having an absent father.

Net Worth and Earning: Salary and Assets

Lisa Bonet, who has had a varied and celebrated career in television and film, has amassed a significant net worth over the years. As of 2023, her estimated net worth ranges from $10 million to $14 million, largely attributed to her iconic roles, particularly as Denise Huxtable on "The Cosby Show" and its spinoff, "A Different World." The actress has also garnered income through numerous film projects, endorsements, and guest appearances on various television series. Bonet's ability to adapt and evolve in the entertainment industry reflects her talent and dedication to her craft.

In addition to her earnings from acting, Bonet’s financial profile is complemented by her former marriage to rockstar Lenny Kravitz, with whom she shares a daughter, Zoë Kravitz, who is now a successful actress herself. This connection has opened additional avenues for Bonet, including collaborative projects and public appearances that enhance her visibility and brand. Moreover, her marriage to Jason Momoa, whose own net worth is around $25 million, has likely enriched the family's financial landscape. Together, they manage properties and assets, including their home in California, further solidifying Bonet's status as a notable figure in the entertainment realm.