The Parkers Cast & Character Guide: Where The Actors Are Now

While it may not be as well-known as its flagship series Moesha, The Parkerswas a quality sitcom with a talented cast. Sometimes referred to as "Meet The Parkers", The Parkers aired from 1999 to 2004, on UPN and The WB. In its run, the sitcom explored the lives of Nikki Parker, her daughter Kim, and a colorful group of college friends and faculty members as the mother and daughter attended Santa Monica College.

The Parkers was praised for its portrayals of strong, complex women of color like Nikki Parker, played by the incomparable Mo’Nique, and the evolving mother-daughter relationship that formed the TV show's heart. Today, many of the show’s stars have gone on to explore various paths, with some continuing to act while others have ventured into music and entrepreneurship. Whether through expanding their credits list, or stepping into personal growth, the cast members of The Parkers have continued to evolve since the show ended.

Countess Vaughn

She's Still Acting And Even Making Music

Character: Kimberly Ann "Kim" Parker is a central character in both Moesha and The Parkers. She is introduced as Moesha's best friend and is known for her vivacious personality, distinctive fashion sense, and unwavering confidence. In The Parkers, the narrative focuses on Kim and her mother, Nikki, as they both attend Santa Monica College, navigating the challenges of higher education and personal relationships together.

Where She Is Now: Following The Parkers, Countess Vaughn continued her television career with appearances in shows like Cuts and Let's Stay Together. She also ventured into reality television, starring in Hollywood Divas from 2014 to 2016, where she shared personal experiences, including her challenges with hair loss due to wig use. In 2016, Vaughn released the single "Do You Love Him?/Wifey," which showcased her musical talents. As of 2025, she remains a mother of two and continues to engage with her audience through various entertainment platforms.

Mo'Nique

She Won An Academy Award

Character: Nicole "Nikki" Parker appears in both Moesha and The Parkers. Nikki is an animated and determined single mother who, after dropping out of high school due to her pregnancy with Kim, decides to pursue her education alongside her daughter at Santa Monica College.Her character is known for her unwavering confidence, the humorous pursuits of Professor Stanley, and her close-knit bond with her daughter. Throughout the series, Nikki's infectious energy and resilience highlight themes of personal growth and the importance of family.

Where She Is Now: Notably, Mo’Nique won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her performance in 2009's Precious. In 2024, Mo'Nique reunited with director Lee Daniels for the horror filmThe Deliverance, released on Netflix. The film, inspired by real events, delves into a family's harrowing experiences with demonic forces in their Indiana home. Despite challenges during production, including Mo'Nique's hospitalization, the film has garnered attention for its intense portrayal of supernatural events. Beyond her entertainment endeavors, Mo'Nique maintains an active presence on social media by sharing updates on her projects and personal insights.

Dorien Wilson

He's Been Celebrated With Various Accolades

Character: Professor Stanley Oglevee is a prominent character in The Parkers. As a professor at Santa Monica Community College, he became the object of Nikki Parker's affection, which led to many comedic situations. Professor Oglevee is depicted as a bachelor with multiple romantic interests, most notably his on-again, off-again relationship with Veronica Cooper. Despite his initial reluctance towards Nikki, the pair wind up getting married by the end of the series.

Where He Is Now: After The Parkers, Dorien Wilson continued to thrive in the entertainment industry. In the mid-2010s, he starred in the BounceTV series In The Cut. More recently, Wilson acted alongside Jasmine Guy in the BET+ film A Wesley South African Family Christmas, expanding the A Wesley Christmas franchise. In September 2024, Wilson was honored with the Sophia Award at the Syracuse International Film Festival, recognizing his contributions to film and television. Wilson's enduring career reflects his commitment to his craft, continually resonating with audiences through diverse roles and performances.

Jenna von Oÿ

She Is An LBGTQ+ Activist

Character: Stevie Alison Van Lowe is introduced as Kim Parker's roommate and best friend in The Parkers. The character comes from an affluent background, bringing a contrasting dynamic to Kim's life. Despite their different upbringings, Stevie is down-to-earth, loyal, and often serves as the voice of reason within their friend group. Her character adds depth to the series by addressing themes of friendship, socio-economic diversity, and personal growth.

Where She Is Now: Jenna von Oÿ is widely recognized for portraying Six LeMeure in the 1990s sitcom Blossom, which is rumored to have a revival in development. After her television successes, von Oÿ pursued a career in country music, releasing her debut album, Breathing Room, in 2007. She has also authored books, including Situation Momedy, which offers humorous insights into motherhood. In 2023, she publicly came out as a lesbian, sharing her journey and embracing her authentic self, and has become an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights.

Ken Lawson

He's An Actor And Musician

Character: Thaddeus Tyrell "T" Radcliffe is a main character in The Parkers. As the lead rapper of Freestyle Unity, T is a close friend to Kim Parker and Stevie Van Lowe. His character is known for his laid-back demeanor, musical talent, and the dynamic he brings to the trio's college experiences at Santa Monica College. T's interactions often provide comedic relief, while also emphasizing the importance of friendship and ambition.

Where He Is Now: Following the conclusion of The Parkers in 2004, Ken Lawson continued his acting career with various roles. He appeared in films such as Malibu's Most Wanted and Steppin: The Movie. In 2015, Lawson reunited with his The Parkers co-star Dorien Wilson on the Bounce TV sitcom In the Cut. In 2023, Lawson took on a recurring role as Officer Driver in the BET drama series The Oval, demonstrating his versatility as an actor. Beyond acting, Lawson has pursued interests in music, performing under the name Ken L.

Yvette Wilson

She Passed Away In 2012

Character: Andell Wilkerson was a beloved character in both Moesha and its spin-off The Parkers. As the owner of the popular hangout spot Andell’s, she was known for her sharp wit, wisdom, and motherly advice. When The Parkers began, Andell transitioned into Nikki Parker’s best friend, supporting her through comedic adventures and personal growth. Her character provided a steadying presence, balancing the over-the-top humor with warmth and authenticity.

Where She Is Now: After The Parkers ended in 2004, Wilson took a step back from acting, focusing on her health and personal life. She made a few more television and film appearances, including in Thugaboo: A Miracle on D-Roc’s Street before her illness worsened. Sadly, Yvette Wilson passed away on June 14, 2012, at the age of 48, after battling cervical cancer and kidney disease. In her final years, friends and fans, including her Moesha and The Parkers co-stars, raised funds to help cover her medical expenses.

Kara Bustos

She Became A Cake Decorator

Character: Regina Foster was a recurring character on The Parkers. She was a member of snobbish AAA sorority, she frequently looked down on Kim and her friends. Her character brought comedic tension, serving as a rival in the social hierarchy of Santa Monica College. Despite her sometimes condescending attitude, Regina's presence added depth to the show, highlighting college life’s cliques and dynamics.

Where She Is Now: After The Parkers, Kara Bustos continued acting and appeared in shows like Moesha, Sister, Sister, and Girlfriends. She also had a role in the hit film Love & Basketball. Over time, she stepped away from the spotlight to focus on her personal life and new ventures. She married in 2004 and dedicated herself to raising her three children. Beyond acting, Bustos pursued her passion for baking, running a successful cake-decorating business for several years. Eventually, she decided to close the business and return to acting.

The ParkersSupporting Cast And Character Guide

The Cast Found Success After The Show's End

Mari Morrow as Desiree Littlejohn: Desiree was introduced in the first season of The Parkers as Nikki Parker’s glamorous neighbor. Desiree’s character was written out after the first season, leaving fans wondering about her sudden departure. Her role, though brief, contributed to the show's dynamic, especially in Nikki’s social circle. Post-The Parkers, Mari Morrow appeared in Soul Food, The Jamie Foxx Show, and One on One. She also pursued a career in real estate, becoming a licensed agent while balancing her work in the entertainment industry.

Thomas Mikal Ford as Mel: Mel is a smooth-talking, often overconfident friend of Professor Oglevee.After The Parkers, Thoms Mikal Ford played Jerome in the sitcom, Martin, which has a prequel series in development. Sadly, Ford passed away in 2016 at the age of 52, leaving behind a legacy of great performances.

Dwight Woody as Joe Woody: Joe Woody was a part of the college community and played a recurring role throughout the series, often adding subtle humor to the storylines. After The Parkers, Dwight Woody continued his career with a few guest roles in television and film, although he didn’t achieve the same level of fame as some of his co-stars. In 2004, he appeared in the film Gas. Over the years, he has kept a relatively low profile in the entertainment industry.

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The Parkers

TV-PG

Comedy

Reality

Release Date

1999 - 2023-00-00

Network

UPN

Directors

Ken Whittingham, Erma Elzy-Jones, Gerren Keith, Chip Fields, Jeff Melman, William Allen Young, Henry Chan, Linda Day, Matthew Diamond, Debbie Allen

Writers

Felicia D. Henderson

Cast

See All

• 
  Amy Hunter

  Uncredited
• 
  Bobby McGee

  Kim Parker
• 
  Brandy Norwood

  Stevie Van Lowe
• 
  Brian Hooks

  Bentley

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