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Donald Adeosun Faison (/ˈfeɪzɒn/; born June 22, 1974) is an American actor and comedian. He is known for his leading role as Dr. Chris Turk in the ABC/NBC comedy-drama Scrubs (2001–2010; 2026), and a supporting role as Murray in both the film Clueless (1995) and the subsequent television series of the same name. He also starred as Phil Chase in the TV Land sitcom The Exes (2011–2015). Faison has also co-starred in the films Waiting to Exhale (1995), Remember the Titans (2000), Uptown Girls (2003), Something New (2006), Next Day Air (2009), Skyline (2010), and Kick-Ass 2 (2013).

Key Information

Early life and education

[edit]

Donald Adeosun Faison was born on June 22, 1974,[1] in Harlem, New York City, to talent agent Shirley and building manager Donald Faison.[2] His parents were active with the National Black Theatre in Harlem.[3] They divorced in 1992.[2] He is the older brother of singer/musician Olamide Faison.[citation needed] Despite sharing a surname, Faison is not related to fellow actor Frankie Faison.

Faison attended the Professional Children's School in Manhattan with his best friend, actor Dash Mihok.[3]

Career

[edit]

Faison first appeared in a 1989 commercial for Folgers coffee at the age of 15, in which he played the younger brother of a soldier returning from war.[4] In 1992, he appeared with Malik Yoba in the ABC News special Prejudice: Answering Children's Questions, hosted by Peter Jennings. He also had a small role in Sugar Hill starring Wesley Snipes. He then became famous for his role as Murray Duvall in the 1995 film Clueless and the subsequent television series, which ran from 1996 to 1999. In 1995, he also appeared in Waiting to Exhale as Tarik, the son of Loretta Devine's character, Gloria. He was featured in New Jersey Drive. He also starred in Big Fat Liar alongside Frankie Muniz, Paul Giamatti, and Amanda Bynes. He had a recurring role as Tracy on Felicity, appeared in Remember the Titans as the running back turned safety Petey Jones, and provided voice work for various characters in the MTV animated series Clone High. He had minor roles in the sitcoms Sister, Sister and Sabrina, the Teenage Witch, and in the film Josie and the Pussycats. In 2005, Faison produced one episode of MTV's Punk'd involving his Scrubs co-star Zach Braff.[5] He also appeared in the music videos for Brandy's "Sittin' Up in My Room," Fall Out Boy's cover of Michael Jackson's "Beat It," and Gavin Degraw's "Chariot."

In 2008, Faison voiced Gary the Stormtrooper in Robot Chicken: Star Wars Episode II. Afterwards, he interned on the Robot Chicken show to learn more about stop motion animation, and started a Star Wars-themed Lego stop-motion show, BlackStormTrooper, on his YouTube channel, shundigga.[6][7]

On February 13, 2009, Faison participated in the NBA All-Star Weekend Celebrity Game. Other celebrities participating included NBA Hall of Famers Clyde Drexler and Dominique Wilkins, NFL wide receiver Terrell Owens, actor Chris Tucker, and four Harlem Globetrotters.[8]

In 2010, Faison starred alongside Scottie Thompson, Brittany Daniel, Eric Balfour, Laz Alonso, Crystal Reed, and David Zayas in the Brothers Strause science fiction thriller Skyline.[9]

Faison was in the 2010 CBS comedy pilot The Odds.[10]

Faison in 2023

As of March 2011, Faison appeared in commercials for The Sims Medieval. In 2012, he made a cameo appearance in the movie Pitch Perfect.[11][12] In 2013, Faison hosted the short-lived TBS comedy sketch show Who Gets the Last Laugh?.[13] From 2016 to 2018, he hosted the GSN game show Winsanity.[14]

From 2018 until 2020, Faison voiced pilot Hype Fazon, a character written and named for him by Dave Filoni, in Star Wars Resistance. Faison had caught Filoni's attention via his stop motion Star Wars cartoons.[15]

Faison and Scrubs co-star Zach Braff co-host the rewatch podcast Fake Doctors, Real Friends, which launched in March 2020, sharing their stories and experiences of shooting the show. The podcast is distributed by iHeartRadio.[16]

Faison created the web series Alabama Jackson for Adult Swim's YouTube channel, which premiered in 2022. Faison stars as the title character.[17]

Personal life

[edit]
Faison with second wife CaCee Cobb at the 2010 Tribeca Film Festival

He had his first son, Sean Faison-Ince (born 1996), with ex-girlfriend Audrey Ince.

In 1997, Faison started dating Lisa Askey, a nursing student. The two were married from 2001 to 2005, and had three children, twins Kaya and Dade (born 1999), and Kobe (born 2001).

Faison married his second wife, CaCee Cobb, on December 15, 2012, after six years of dating. They have two children, Rocco (born 2013) and Wilder Francis (born 2015).[18] The wedding was held at the home of Faison's best friend, and Scrubs co-star, Zach Braff, who also served as a groomsman. Serving as a bridesmaid was singer Jessica Simpson, for whom Cobb formerly worked as a personal assistant.[19][20][21]

When Askey, Faison's first wife, died in 2017,[22] their children moved in with Faison and Cobb.[23][24] Faison is also the first cousin of actor Julian Horton.[25]

Filmography

[edit]

Film

[edit]
Year Title Role Notes
1992 Juice Student
1994 Sugar Hill Kymie Daniels
1995 New Jersey Drive 'Tiny Dime' Credited as Donald Adeosun Faison
Clueless Murray Duvall
Waiting to Exhale Tarik Matthews Credited as Donald Adeosun Faison
1996 The Quest Robber Uncredited
1997 Academy Boyz Glen Lewis
1998 Butter Khaleed
Can't Hardly Wait Dan
1999 Trippin' June Nelson
2000 Remember the Titans Petey Jones
2001 Double Whammy Cletis
Josie and the Pussycats D.J. Uncredited
2002 Big Fat Liar Frank Jackson
2003 Ravedactyl: Project Evolution Gunner Short film
Uptown Girls Huey
Good Boy! Wilson Voice only
2005 King's Ransom Andre
2006 Something New Nelson McQueen
Bachelor Party Vegas Ash
Homie Spumoni Renato Molina / Leroy
2007 Venus & Vegas Stu
2009 Next Day Air Leo
2010 Skyline Terry
2012 Pitch Perfect Older Acapella Man
2013 Kick-Ass 2 Samuel Keers / Doctor Gravity
A Snow Globe Christmas Ted
Stag Ken
2014 Wish I Was Here Anthony
Let's Kill Ward's Wife Ward
Wonderland Ted
2016 The Perfect Match Rick
Hot Bot Mr. Huffington
2017 Little Evil Larry
2018 Game Over, Man! Himself
2019 The Wave Jeff
2020 Embattled Mr. Dan Stewart

Television

[edit]
Year Title Role Notes
1992 Sesame Street Duane 9 episodes
1996 New York Undercover James Episode: "Sympathy for the Devil"
1996–2000 Sabrina, the Teenage Witch Justin Episode: "Magic Joel"
Dashiell Calzone 3 episodes
1996–1999 Clueless Murray Duvall Main role; 62 episides
1998 Sister, Sister Darryl Episode: "Greek to Me"
1999 Supreme Sanction Marcus Television film
2000–2002 Felicity Tracy 23 episodes
2002–2003 Clone High Toots / Various Characters Voice only; 13 episodes
2001–2010; 2026 Scrubs Christopher Turk Main role; 183 episodes
2004–2005 Higglytown Heroes Firefighter Hero Voice only; 2 episodes
2005–present Robot Chicken Various voices 10 episodes
2006 The Playbook Host 3 episodes
2007 Saturday Night Live Christopher Turk Episode: "Zach Braff/Maroon 5"
Robot Chicken: Star Wars Dr. Cornelius Evazan / Mace Windu Voice only; television special
Kim Possible Ricky Rotiffle Voice only; episode: "Homecoming Upset"
2008 The Boondocks Catcher Freeman / Tobias / Wedgie Rudlin Voice only; 3 episodes
Robot Chicken: Star Wars Episode II Gary / Darth Maul / Imperial Pilot Voice only; television special
2009 Scrubs: Interns Christopher Turk Episode: "Our Meeting with Turk and Todd"
American Dad! Christopher Turk Voice only; episode: "G-String Circus"
Titan Maximum Martian Fleet Commander Episode: "Pilot"
2010 Fact Checkers Unit Donald 9 episodes
Cubed Himself Episode: "2.12"
Robot Chicken: Star Wars Episode III Gary Voice only; television special
The Odds Tyler Television film
2011 Love Bites Ricky 2 episodes
2011–2015 The Exes Phil Chase 64 episodes
2012 Tron: Uprising Bartik Voice only; 5 episodes
Adventure Time Princess Cookie Voice only; episode: "Princess Cookie"
2013 Wedding Band Moses Episode: "99 Problems"
Who Gets the Last Laugh? Host 9 episodes
A Snow Globe Christmas Ted Television film
2014 Hollywood Game Night Himself 3 episodes
Jim Henson's Creature Shop Challenge Wizard Episode: "Head's Up"
2015 Undateable Donald 2 episodes
2015–2018 Supermansion Quiplash Voice only; 4 episodes
Drunk History Joe Louis / Mansa Musa 2 episodes
2016 Winsanity Host
House of Lies Donald 2 episodes
2017 Bill Nye Saves the World Himself
2017–2019 Ryan Hansen Solves Crimes on Television 2 episodes
2017–2018 Ray Donovan Antoine A'Shawn Anderson 7 episodes
2018 Unsolved: The Murders of Tupac and the Notorious B.I.G. Jacques Agnant 2 episodes
2018–2020 Star Wars Resistance Hype Fazon/TIE Pilot #1 Voice only; 18 episodes
2019 Timeline Principal Anderson Main role
2019–2020 Emergence Alex Evans
2020 Star Wars The Clone Wars Tactical Droid Voice only; episode: "Old Friends Not Forgotten"
2021 The L Word: Generation Q Tom Maultsby 5 episodes
Powerpuff Prof. Drake Utonium Unaired pilot
2022–2024 Alice's Wonderland Bakery Harry the March Hare Voice only[26]
2022 Legends of Tomorrow Booster Gold Episode: "Knocked Down, Knocked Up"[27]
Reindeer in Here Bucky (voice) Television special[28]
Alabama Jackson Alabama Jackson Main role; also creator, executive producer and writer
2023 The Wonder Years Terrence Episode: "Blockbusting"
2023–2024 Extended Family Trey Lead role

Web

[edit]
Year Title Role Notes
2026 Backyard Sports: The Animated Special Dante Robinson (voice) Animated special[29]

Music videos

[edit]
Year Title Artist
1995 "Sittin' Up in My Room" Brandy
1996 "Kissin' You ("Oh, Honey" Remix)" Total, Puff Daddy & Notorious B.I.G
1999 "No Doubt" Imajin
"Flava"
"Da Bomb" DJ Fury and RX Lord
2003 "Chariot" Gavin DeGraw
2008 "Beat It" Fall Out Boy featuring John Mayer
2013 "More Champagne" DJ Whoo Kid featuring A$AP Ferg, Problem and Wiz Khalifa
2015 "Time Machine"[30] Ingrid Michaelson

Video games

[edit]

A dance that Faison performs during an episode of Scrubs is featured in the video game Fortnite. Faison's permission was not sought before including the dance, and he did not receive royalties for it.[31]

Awards and nominations

[edit]
Year Award Category Nominated work Result
2002 6th OFTA Television Awards Best Actor in a New Comedy Series
Scrubs
 Nominated
2004 6th Teen Choice Awards Choice TV: Sidekick Nominated
1st BET Comedy Awards Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series Won
2005 36th NAACP Image Awards Nominated
7th Teen Choice Awards Choice TV: Sidekick Nominated
9th Prism Awards Performance in a Comedy Series Nominated
2nd BET Comedy Awards Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series Won
2006 37th NAACP Image Awards Outstanding Actor in a Comedy Series Nominated
8th Teen Choice Awards Choice TV: Sidekick Nominated
2007 38th NAACP Image Awards Outstanding Actor in a Comedy Series Nominated
9th Teen Choice Awards Choice TV: Sidekick Nominated
2008 39th NAACP Image Awards Outstanding Actor in a Comedy Series Nominated
2009 40th NAACP Image Awards Nominated
2010 41st NAACP Image Awards Nominated
2013 44th NAACP Image Awards
The Exes
 Nominated
6th L.A. Comedy Film Festival and Screenplay Competition Awards Best Actor in a Feature Film
Stag
 Nominated

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Donald Faison

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Donald Adeosun Faison (born June 22, 1974) is an American actor, comedian, and producer best known for his portrayal of Dr. Christopher "Turk" Turk on the long-running medical comedy-drama series Scrubs, which aired on NBC and ABC from 2001 to 2010.[1][2] Born and raised in New York City to parents Shirley, a talent agent and actor, and Donald, a building manager and actor involved in the National Black Theatre in Harlem, Faison developed an early interest in performing arts, training at the Children's School for the Development of Intuitive and God Conscious Art and attending the Professional Children's School in Manhattan. He is the older brother of singer Olamide Faison.[3] Faison's acting career began in the early 1990s with a small role in the film Juice (1992), followed by his breakthrough performance as Murray Duvall in the teen comedy Clueless (1995) and its subsequent television adaptation (1996–1999).[3][2] He gained widespread recognition for Scrubs, earning two BET Comedy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series (2004 and 2005), along with multiple nominations for NAACP Image Awards, Teen Choice Awards, and others.[4][3] Throughout his career, Faison has appeared in notable films such as Remember the Titans (2000) and Kick-Ass 2 (2013), television series including Felicity (1998–2002), The Exes (2011–2015), and Emergence (2019), and provided voice work for animated projects like Clone High (2002–2003), Robot Chicken, and American Dad!.[2][3] More recently, he co-hosted the podcast Fake Doctors, Real Friends with former Scrubs co-star Zach Braff, revisiting episodes of the series until its conclusion in August 2025,[5] and is set to reprise his role as Turk in a Scrubs reboot ordered by ABC for the 2025–2026 season.[2][6] In his personal life, Faison was previously married to Lisa Askey, with whom he had three children—son Kobe (born 2001) and twins Dade and Kaya (born 1999)—before her death in 2017; the children subsequently joined his household.[7] He married actress CaCee Cobb in 2012, and the couple has two children together: son Rocco (born 2013) and daughter Wilder (born 2016).[8][7] Faison is also a first cousin to actor Julian Horton and maintains a close friendship with Braff, who serves as godfather to his children.[7]

Early life and education

Family background

Donald Adeosun Faison was born on June 22, 1974, in Harlem, New York City, to Shirley Faison, an actress and talent agent, and Donald Faison, an actor and building manager.[9] Both parents were actively involved in the National Black Theatre, a Harlem-based institution founded in 1968 to promote Black cultural expression through performance arts, where Shirley served as a director and producer of plays.[10][11] Faison grew up in a creative household alongside his two younger brothers, Dade Faison, an actor, and Olamide Faison, a singer and musician.[12] From an early age, he was immersed in the arts, often attending theater performances at the National Black Theatre and observing his mother's rehearsals, which sparked his interest in acting by age five.[10] Family discussions centered on the performing arts, influenced by his parents' professional experiences in theater and their commitment to cultural storytelling in the Black community.[13] His upbringing occurred in Harlem during the 1970s and 1980s, a period marked by economic challenges, including urban decay and the rise of the crack epidemic in the 1980s, alongside a vibrant cultural scene that the National Black Theatre exemplified through its focus on African American history and empowerment.[14][11] Despite these hardships, Faison's home environment provided a nurturing foundation in the arts, shielding him from some of the neighborhood's difficulties while exposing him to professional creative pursuits.[15]

Early training and influences

Faison began his performing arts journey at a young age through the Children's School for the Development of Intuitive and God-Conscious Art, associated with the National Black Theatre, where his parents were active members as actors and directors.[9] At the age of six, he participated in children's theater productions there, co-writing and performing in a play titled When the Lion Roars, marking his initial exposure to stage acting in off-Broadway settings.[10][9] His family's artistic background motivated early immersion in the performing arts, providing connections to local productions and fostering skills in acting through hands-on experiences in Harlem's vibrant cultural scene. This environment exposed him to Black theater traditions and comedy, shaping his foundational influences as he pursued small roles and auditions in community-based shows.[16][9] Faison received further formal training in acting, dance, and music at the Professional Children's School in Manhattan, an institution dedicated to nurturing young performers. The school's curriculum emphasized practical skills in these disciplines, complementing his family-driven experiences. He also attended LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts, from which he graduated in 1992, preparing him for professional opportunities.[9]

Acting career

Early roles and breakthrough

Faison entered professional acting in the early 1990s, following his training at the Professional Children's School in Manhattan. His screen debut came in 1992 with a small uncredited role as a student in the crime drama Juice, directed by Ernest Dickerson and starring Tupac Shakur. He followed this with a guest appearance on the Fox series New York Undercover in 1996, portraying James in the episode "Sympathy for the Devil." These initial roles provided Faison with early exposure in urban-themed projects amid a competitive landscape for young Black actors. Faison's breakthrough arrived in 1995 with the teen comedy Clueless, directed by Amy Heckerling, where he played Murray Duvall, the humorous boyfriend of Dionne (Stacey Dash) and best friend to Cher (Alicia Silverstone). The film, a modern adaptation of Jane Austen's Emma, grossed over $56 million worldwide and became a cultural touchstone, marking Faison's first prominent comedic performance and shifting his career toward lighthearted supporting parts. That same year, he appeared as Tarik Matthews, the teenage son of Gloria (Loretta Devine), in the ensemble romantic drama Waiting to Exhale, directed by Forest Whitaker and based on Terry McMillan's novel, which highlighted relationships among African American women. He also portrayed Noel Crane, a resident advisor and love interest, in the WB drama series Felicity from 1998 to 2002. In 2000, Faison played Petey Jones, a quick-witted linebacker, in the sports drama Remember the Titans, directed by Boaz Yakin and starring Denzel Washington, which depicted the racial integration of a high school football team in 1971 Virginia. Throughout the late 1990s, Faison continued building his resume with roles in coming-of-age stories, including Sean in the 1999 indie comedy The Wood, directed by Rick Famuyiwa, which explored Black male friendships in Inglewood, California. As a young Black actor in Hollywood, Faison navigated challenges such as typecasting in comedic sidekick roles, later reflecting that his Clueless portrayal led to perceptions of him as the "white black guy," limiting dramatic opportunities despite his versatile training. These early experiences solidified his reputation in ensemble casts while underscoring the era's barriers for actors of color seeking diverse parts.

Scrubs era

Faison was cast in the lead role of Dr. Christopher Turk, a surgical intern and best friend to protagonist Dr. John "J.D." Dorian (played by Zach Braff), in the medical comedy-drama series Scrubs, which premiered on NBC in 2001 and ran for nine seasons until 2010, with the final two seasons airing on ABC.[6] The series followed the lives of young doctors at Sacred Heart Hospital, blending humor, fantasy sequences, and heartfelt moments to explore medical training and personal growth.[17] Turk's character arc highlighted his surgical expertise, evolving from an ambitious intern to a seasoned surgeon and chief of surgery, while his storyline emphasized family dynamics, including his romance and eventual marriage to nurse Carla Espinosa (Judy Reyes) and the birth of their daughter, Isabella. Central to Turk's development was his enduring bromance with J.D., depicted through affectionate banter, shared rituals like high-fives, and emotional support that challenged traditional notions of male friendship on television. Faison infused the role with improvisational energy, notably creating the spontaneous dance routine to Bell Biv DeVoe's "Poison" in season five, which became a cultural touchstone and emblem of Turk's playful physicality.[18][19] Critics praised the on-screen chemistry between Faison and Braff for driving the show's comedic heart, with Faison's physical comedy and charismatic delivery enhancing Turk's likable, easygoing persona. The duo's dynamic contributed to Scrubs' acclaim as a groundbreaking sitcom, earning the series multiple Emmy nominations and boosting Faison's profile as a versatile comedic actor. During the show's run, Faison balanced his television commitments with film roles, including appearances in Uptown Girls (2003) as a supportive friend, which overlapped with early Scrubs promotion.[20][21]

Post-Scrubs television and film

Following the conclusion of Scrubs in 2010, which served as a significant launchpad for his comedic talents, Donald Faison diversified his roles in both film and television during the 2010s, often blending humor with ensemble dynamics. In the science fiction thriller Skyline (2010), he portrayed Terry, a graphics designer and host to friends during an alien invasion in Los Angeles, marking an early foray into action-oriented projects that highlighted his ability to mix levity with high-stakes tension. The film spawned sequels, including Beyond Skyline (2017) and Skyline: Warpath (2024), though Faison's involvement was limited to the original, where his character's quick-witted survival efforts exemplified the series' action-comedy hybrid style.[22] Faison continued in feature films with supporting parts that capitalized on his affable screen presence. In the comedy-drama The Dilemma (2011), directed by Ron Howard, he played Banky, a friend navigating personal and relational conflicts amid a web of infidelity and corporate intrigue. His role in the musical comedy Pitch Perfect (2012) as a member of the Tonehangers, an older a cappella group, added to the film's ensemble energy during college competition scenes, with Faison contributing to the group's comedic rivalry. He also appeared as Doctor Gravity in the superhero film Kick-Ass 2 (2013). Later, in the horror-comedy Little Evil (2017), he appeared as Larry, a supportive friend to the protagonist dealing with supernatural suspicions about his stepson, blending Faison's trademark humor with satirical takes on fatherhood and horror tropes.[23] On television, Faison took on more prominent recurring work to sustain his post-Scrubs momentum while allowing flexibility for family commitments after marrying Cacee Cobb in 2012 and welcoming two children. He starred as Phil Chase, a charming yet womanizing sports agent and divorcé, in the TV Land sitcom The Exes (2011–2015), appearing in all 64 episodes alongside Wayne Knight and Kristen Johnston, where the series explored post-divorce friendships in a lighthearted ensemble format. Faison also made guest appearances on 2 Broke Girls (2012–2017), including as Josh in the episode "And the 'It' Hole" (season 3, 2013), injecting his comedic timing into the show's diner-based antics across multiple outings. His selective project choices during this period reflected a deliberate balance between professional opportunities and personal life as a new father.[24]

Recent and upcoming projects

In 2023, Faison starred as Trey Taylor in the NBC sitcom Extended Family, a multi-camera comedy centered on co-parenting dynamics among divorced parents and their blended family, co-starring Jon Cryer as Jim and Abigail Spencer as Julia.[25] The series, created by Mike O'Malley and inspired by the real-life arrangement of Boston Celtics owner Wyc Grousbeck and his ex-wife Emilia Fazzalari, premiered on December 23, 2023, and ran for one season, concluding on March 26, 2024, after 13 episodes.[26] Despite positive notes on its family-oriented humor, the show was canceled by NBC in May 2024.[27] Faison appeared in supporting roles in several films during the early 2020s, including the sports drama Embattled (2020), where he played Quinn, a coach navigating family tensions amid a son's pursuit of mixed martial arts under an abusive father figure.[28] Directed by Nick Sarkisov and starring Stephen Dorff, the film premiered in theaters and on video-on-demand on November 20, 2020, earning praise for its exploration of generational trauma in combat sports.[29] He also featured as Jeff in the sci-fi thriller The Wave (2019), a role involving hallucinogenic elements that disrupt a lawyer's reality, with the film receiving a limited release and VOD rollout in early 2020.[30] In 2019, Faison played Alex Barnes in the ABC thriller series Emergence. A major highlight in Faison's recent career is his involvement in the Scrubs revival series, ordered to series at ABC in July 2025, with Faison reprising his role as Dr. Christopher Turk alongside Zach Braff as J.D. Dorian and Sarah Chalke as Dr. Elliot Reid.[31] The 30-minute comedy, set to premiere on February 25, 2026, at 8 p.m. ET/PT, follows the original protagonists reuniting at Sacred Heart Hospital to confront modern medical challenges with new ensemble members.[32] Production began in late 2025, and the first teaser trailer, released on November 5, 2025, showcased Braff and Faison's return, emphasizing their enduring friendship and hospital antics.[33] In 2025, Faison participated in anniversary events tied to his earlier films, serving as a presenter at the Garden State 20th Anniversary Concert on March 29 at the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles, benefiting the Midnight Mission and featuring performances from the film's soundtrack artists like The Shins and Colin Hay.[34] The event reunited him with Braff and Chalke onstage, including a duet of Taylor Swift's "Anti-Hero," and was later streamed on Veeps.[35] He also appeared at a special 30th anniversary screening of Clueless on November 23, 2025, at Digital Gym Cinema in Los Angeles, celebrating the film's cultural impact alongside costume designer Mona May.[36]

Other professional endeavors

Voice acting

Donald Faison has built a notable presence in voice acting, particularly in animated television series, where his versatile performances bring humor and energy to a variety of characters. Since the early 2000s, he has contributed to over 10 voice projects, showcasing his ability to infuse roles with comedic timing and enthusiasm drawn from his live-action background.[37] One of his prominent recurring roles is as Harry the March Hare in Disney Junior's Alice's Wonderland Bakery, a whimsical preschool series inspired by Lewis Carroll's Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, which aired from 2022 to 2024. In the show, Faison voices the eccentric clothing designer and Alice's quirky friend, delivering lines with playful exuberance that fits the character's madcap personality; he has expressed excitement about participating in this kid-friendly reimagining of the classic tale, including opportunities to sing in episodes.[38] In 2025, Faison made a guest appearance in Marvel's Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur, voicing Corey/Blobby in the episode "Crushed," which premiered on Disney Channel and Disney+ in February. This role highlights his continued involvement in high-profile animated superhero content, where his energetic delivery complements the series' blend of action and comedy for young audiences.[39][40] Faison's voice work extends to other animated projects, including the pilot racer Hype Fazon in Star Wars Resistance (2018–2020), various characters across multiple seasons of Robot Chicken since 2005, Ricky Rotiffle in an episode of Kim Possible (2007), and Firefighter Hero in Higglytown Heroes (2004–2008). His animated performances often emphasize comedic flair, making him a fitting choice for ensemble casts in family-oriented programming.[37][41]

Producing and comedy work

In addition to his acting roles, Donald Faison has taken on producing responsibilities in several television and film projects. He served as co-producer on the 2009 crime comedy film Next Day Air, which follows a botched drug delivery leading to chaotic consequences in Philadelphia. Faison also produced the 2008 mockumentary TV movie Welcome to Los Feliz, a satirical look at aspiring actors navigating Hollywood. More recently, he executive produced the 2022 web series Alabama Jackson, a comedic exploration of family dynamics in the South. For the upcoming Scrubs reboot set for 2026, Faison is slated to executive produce the series, drawing on his deep familiarity with the series' tone from his long tenure as a lead actor. Faison's comedy work extends to hosting and on-camera contributions that highlight his improvisational skills honed through acting. In 2013, he hosted the TBS hidden-camera prank series Who Gets the Last Laugh?, where celebrities like Snoop Dogg and Lisa Kudrow endured comedic scares to win charity donations; the show ran for one season of 13 episodes. From 2016 to 2018, Faison hosted the Game Show Network's trivia competition Winsanity, challenging contestants to rank everyday facts in numerical order across 40 episodes, blending humor with quick-witted commentary.[42] His acting background has informed these hosting roles, allowing him to infuse scripted comedy with natural, relatable energy. Beyond television, Faison has appeared in music videos that showcase his comedic timing in brief, playful cameos. He featured in Jennifer Lopez's 2001 remix video for "I'm Real," portraying a humorous side character amid the song's urban dance sequences. Other appearances include Matchbox Twenty's 2000 video for "3 A.M.," where he contributed to the band's lighthearted narrative, and Brandy's 1995 "Sittin' Up in My Room," adding to the romantic comedy vibe. Faison also co-hosts the ongoing comedy podcast Fake Doctors, Real Friends with Zach Braff since 2020, where they rewatch and discuss Scrubs episodes with guest comedians, amassing over 300 episodes focused on behind-the-scenes anecdotes and humorous reenactments.[43]

Personal life

Marriages and children

Donald Faison was first married to Lisa Askey, whom he met while she was attending nursing school.[44] The couple wed in 2001 and divorced in 2005.[45] They shared three children: fraternal twins son Dade and daughter Kaya, born in 1999, and son Kobe, born in 2001.[46] Askey died in 2017.[44] Following her passing, their three children joined Faison's household, and he shared photos of himself spending time with Dade, Kaya, and Kobe, highlighting their close bond amid the family's grief.[47] Prior to his marriage to Askey, Faison had a son, Sean, born in 1997, from a previous relationship with Audrey Ince.[48] Faison married actress and producer CaCee Cobb on December 15, 2012, in a ceremony at the Los Angeles home of his Scrubs co-star Zach Braff.[8] The couple has two children together: son Rocco, born in 2013, and daughter Wilder Frances, born on April 23, 2015.[49][50] Faison is a father of six children in total and has embraced a blended family dynamic, co-parenting effectively after his divorce from Askey and integrating all his children into family activities following her death.[47] In a 2019 interview, he described his parenting philosophy as hands-off, stating that he rarely disciplines his children and prefers to let them learn from experiences rather than strict rules.[48] He often involves them in family trips and Hollywood events to foster closeness, occasionally sharing glimpses of these moments, such as attending sports games with his younger children.[51] Despite his demanding acting career, Faison has noted the challenges of balancing work with family time but prioritizes being present for milestones.[48]

Friendships and public persona

Donald Faison shares a longstanding friendship with fellow actor Zach Braff, which originated during their time working together on the television series Scrubs in the early 2000s. Their on-screen chemistry as best friends J.D. and Turk was inspired by their genuine off-screen bond, which Braff has described as evolving from shared living spaces in New York during auditions to enduring camaraderie over decades.[20] Braff serves as godfather to Faison's children. Faison is also a first cousin to actor Julian Horton.[2] This relationship has extended beyond Scrubs through various collaborative endeavors, including appearances in television commercials and the launch of their joint podcast, Fake Doctors, Real Friends with Zach and Donald, in 2020, where they revisit episodes of the show in a comedic format.[20][52] In 2025, Faison and Braff participated in multiple interviews discussing the revival of Scrubs for a tenth season, highlighting their continued collaboration and the series' impact on their personal and professional lives.[53][54] Faison maintains a public persona characterized by humor and approachability, often showcased through his lighthearted interactions with Braff and his active presence on social media. He frequently uses his Instagram account (@donald_aison) to post updates about his family life and career milestones, engaging fans with relatable and entertaining content. For instance, in November 2025, he shared a reel expressing enthusiasm for the animated film KPop Demon Hunters, crediting his daughter Wilder for introducing him to the project and noting it as his current favorite.[55] In addition to his entertainment pursuits, Faison has been involved in philanthropic efforts supporting health causes and youth development. He has participated in fundraising for Stand Up to Cancer, appearing in public service announcements and events to promote innovative cancer research since at least 2010.[56][57] Faison also supports the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, using his platform to raise awareness and funds for children affected by HIV/AIDS.[58]

Awards and nominations

Television honors

Faison received multiple nominations from the NAACP Image Awards for his television performances, recognizing his contributions to diverse representation in comedy series. He was nominated for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series in 2005 for his role as Dr. Christopher Turk on Scrubs, highlighting his comedic timing and portrayal of a Black surgeon navigating hospital dynamics.[59] These early nods underscored the cultural impact of Scrubs in blending humor with medical realism while featuring prominent African American leads. Further nominations for Outstanding Actor in a Comedy Series came in 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, and 2010, reflecting sustained acclaim for his evolving character across the show's seasons.[60] In 2013, Faison earned a nomination for Outstanding Actor in a Comedy Series for his lead role as Phil Chase on The Exes, marking a transition to starring status in ensemble sitcoms.[61] Faison's notable television wins include the BET Comedy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series in 2004 and 2005 for Scrubs, celebrating his energetic delivery and on-screen chemistry that helped elevate the series' popularity among diverse audiences.[62][63] This accolade emphasized the show's breakthrough in multicultural casting and its appeal to Black viewers through relatable humor. In 2002, Faison received an Online Film & Television Association (OFTA) Television Award nomination for Best Actor in a New Comedy Series for Scrubs. He was also nominated for Teen Choice Awards for Choice TV Sidekick for Scrubs in 2004, 2005, 2006, and 2007, acknowledging his likable, supportive role that resonated with younger demographics and contributed to the series' cult following.[64] Additionally, he received a Prism Award nomination in 2005 for Male Performance in a Comedy Series related to Scrubs' health storylines, praising his authentic depiction of medical professionals addressing mental health and wellness themes.[65] These honors collectively illustrate Faison's versatility in television comedy, particularly in roles that promoted inclusivity and addressed social issues through entertainment.

Other accolades

In the early stages of his career, Faison received the AUDELCO Rising Star Award in 1989 for his performance in the off-Broadway production Red Sneaks at the Billie Holiday Theatre, recognizing his emerging talent in Black theater.[10] Faison's contributions to film have earned him niche recognition, including a nomination for Best Actor in a Feature Film at the 6th L.A. Comedy Film Festival and Screenplay Competition in 2013 for his role in Stag. While Faison has not secured major wins in voice acting, his versatile portrayals in animated projects underscore his range beyond live-action roles.[1] In 2025, Faison was featured alongside longtime friend and Scrubs co-star Zach Braff in People magazine's Sexiest Man Alive issue, where they reflected on their enduring friendship and professional partnership, serving as a career tribute to his charismatic presence in entertainment.[66] Since 2010, Faison has not received major awards outside television, yet these honors across theater, film, and voice work illustrate his broad versatility as a performer.[59]

Filmography

Feature films

Donald Faison began his feature film career in the mid-1990s with supporting roles in teen comedies and dramas, often leveraging his comedic timing and charisma. His filmography emphasizes ensemble casts in mainstream hits and occasional leads in independent or direct-to-video projects, transitioning from early breakout appearances to more sporadic cameos as his television commitments intensified after 2010.[67][68] In Clueless (1995), Faison portrayed Murray, the humorous boyfriend of Dionne Davenport (Stacey Dash), in Amy Heckerling's adaptation of Jane Austen's Emma set in a Beverly Hills high school; the film, produced on a $13 million budget, grossed over $56 million worldwide and marked Faison's early breakout alongside leads Alicia Silverstone and Paul Rudd.[69] Faison played Petey Jones, a quick-witted running back on the integrated T.C. Williams High School football team, in Remember the Titans (2000), directed by Boaz Yakin and starring Denzel Washington as Coach Herman Boone; the sports drama, made on a $30 million budget, earned $136 million at the box office and highlighted themes of racial unity in 1970s Virginia.[70] He appeared as Huey, a laid-back music producer and friend to the protagonist, in Uptown Girls (2003), a romantic comedy directed by Boaz Yakin featuring Brittany Murphy as a spoiled socialite and child star Dakota Fanning as her precocious charge; the film explored class differences and personal growth amid New York City's glamour.[71] In the sci-fi thriller Skyline (2010), Faison took on the role of Terry, a loyal friend caught in an alien invasion in Los Angeles, directed by the Brothers Strause (Greg and Colin); produced on an estimated $11 million budget, it grossed $67 million globally despite mixed reviews for its effects-heavy action sequences.[22][72] Faison's brief appearance in Pitch Perfect (2012) as one of the Tonehangers, an older a cappella group (Clef #4), added comedic flair to Jason Moore's musical comedy starring Anna Kendrick; the sleeper hit, centered on college a cappella competitions, revitalized the genre and spawned a franchise. In the sports drama Embattled (2020), directed by Nick Sarkisov, Faison played Mr. Stewart, a supportive high school teacher and veteran aiding a student amid family turmoil in the MMA world; the film, led by Stephen Dorff as an abusive fighter, delved into cycles of violence and redemption.[28] Faison played Renato, a Black man raised in an Italian-American family who discovers his heritage, in the comedy Homie Spumoni (2006), directed by Mike Cerrone with co-stars including Whoopi Goldberg; the film was released direct-to-video.[73] He also starred as Ash in Bachelor Party Vegas (2006), a raucous comedy about friends' misadventures during a Las Vegas bachelor trip, directed by Eric Bernt and co-starring Kal Penn; the film was released direct-to-video.[74]

Television roles

Faison first achieved widespread recognition for his portrayal of Dr. Christopher "Turk" Turk, a charismatic surgeon and best friend to the lead character, in the medical comedy-drama series Scrubs. The show aired on ABC from 2001 to 2008 and moved to NBC for its final two seasons from 2009 to 2010, totaling 182 episodes across nine seasons.[75] Faison's performance highlighted his physical comedy and improvisational skills, particularly through recurring dance numbers and bromantic dynamics with co-star Zach Braff.[76] After Scrubs concluded, Faison starred as Phil Chase, a smooth-talking divorced sports agent, in the TV Land sitcom The Exes from 2011 to 2015. He appeared regularly in all 64 episodes over four seasons, playing one of three divorced men sharing an apartment and navigating post-divorce life under the management of their divorce attorney landlord.[1] The role allowed Faison to explore flirtatious and self-absorbed character traits, contrasting his more grounded persona from Scrubs.[77] In 2023, Faison returned to leading-man status as Trey, a wealthy Boston Celtics owner and the new fiancé of the protagonist's ex-wife, in the NBC family sitcom Extended Family. The series, which drew from a real-life custody arrangement, ran for one season comprising 13 episodes until its cancellation in 2024.[78] Faison's character brought humor to blended-family dynamics through his optimistic and competitive nature.[79] Beyond these series regulars, Faison made notable guest appearances on various programs.

Voice and animation credits

Donald Faison has built a notable career in voice acting, leveraging his comedic timing from live-action roles to bring energetic and humorous characters to life in animated projects. His voice work spans television animation, where he has contributed to both guest appearances and recurring roles, often portraying lively, eccentric figures that align with his signature upbeat persona. Over the years, Faison has amassed around 15 major voice credits in animation, frequently in comedic or high-energy parts that showcase his versatility.[37] In television animation, Faison made early contributions to series like Clone High (2002–2003), where he voiced George Washington Carver across multiple episodes, infusing the historical clone with a playful, irreverent edge. He later provided the voice for Gary the Stormtrooper in the Robot Chicken: Star Wars Episode II special (2008), delivering a memorable, hapless performance that highlighted his knack for satirical humor in the anthology format. Faison's Disney credits include voicing Ricky Rotiffle in an episode of Kim Possible (2004) and Firefighter Hero in Higglytown Heroes (2004), both roles emphasizing heroic yet lighthearted archetypes in children's programming.[41] More recently, he recurred as Hype Fazon, a boastful podracer pilot, in Star Wars Resistance (2018–2020), a role tailored to his dynamic style by creator Dave Filoni. Faison continued his Disney animation involvement with a recurring role as Harry the March Hare, an eccentric fashion designer, in Alice's Wonderland Bakery (2022–2024), where his energetic delivery added whimsy to the bakery-themed adventures inspired by Lewis Carroll's classic.[80] In 2025, he guest-starred as Corey in an episode of Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur, voicing a character in the Marvel animated series that further demonstrated his ability to adapt to superhero ensemble dynamics.[81] Additional guest spots include voicing characters in Adventure Time (2012), such as Princess Cookie, contributing to the show's eclectic, surreal humor.[82] While Faison's primary voice contributions are in television animation, he has limited involvement in video games, with minor cameos that echo his animated work. No prominent music video voice credits were identified in his portfolio. His comedy background has notably aided his transition to voice acting, allowing him to excel in roles requiring expressive, animated delivery without on-screen presence.[2]
Year(s)TitleRoleNotes
2002–2003Clone HighGeorge Washington CarverRecurring, multiple episodes
2004Kim PossibleRicky RotiffleGuest, episode: "Homecoming Upset"
2004Higglytown HeroesFirefighter HeroGuest appearance
2008Robot Chicken: Star Wars Episode IIGary the StormtrooperSpecial episode
2012Adventure TimePrincess CookieGuest voice, episode: "Princess Cookie"
2018–2020Star Wars ResistanceHype FazonRecurring
2022–2024Alice's Wonderland BakeryHarry the March HareRecurring
2025Moon Girl and Devil DinosaurCoreyGuest, single episode

References

  1. Donald Faison - Actor, Host - TV Insider
  2. Who Is Donald Faison? All About Life, Career - NBC
  3. Donald Faison Biography | Booking Info for Speaking Engagements
  4. Donald Faison Biography, Celebrity Facts and Awards - TV Guide
  5. 'Scrubs' ABC Revival Official as Donald Faison, Sarah Chalke Return
  6. Donald Faison Jokes He Lies to His Kids 'All the Time' (Exclusive)
  7. Donald Faison Marries Cacee Cobb - People.com
  8. Donald Faison | Encyclopedia.com
  9. Donald Faison Biography - Born into a Family of Actors, Found ...
  10. Donald Faison's TV Doctors of America Campaign - Amsterdam News
  11. Olamide Faison - Biography - IMDb
  12. Donald Faison Biography | Booking Info for Speaking Engagements
  13. Donald Faison, Trailblazing Actor, Comedian, And Harlem Native ...
  14. STYLE & SUBSTANCE: DONALD FAISON - New York Post
  15. The Transformation Of Donald Faison From Childhood To Scrubs
  16. TELEVISION REVIEWS; Just Take Two Funny Lines And Call Me in ...
  17. What Happened to Donald Faison's Character Turk on Scrubs? - NBC
  18. Scrubs: J.D. and Turk's Bromance Redefined Male Friendships - CBR
  19. Zach Braff: 'Scrubs' Wrote Donald Faison Friendship Into the Series
  20. A Brief History Of J.D. And Turk's Bromance On 'Scrubs' - UPROXX
  21. Skyline (2010) - IMDb
  22. Little Evil (2017) - IMDb
  23. The Exes (TV Series 2011–2015) - IMDb
  24. Extended Family (TV Series 2023–2024) - IMDb
  25. NBC Sitcom 'Extended Family' Delivers The Laughs After A Two ...
  26. Does Extended Family Star Donald Faison Still Talk to Zach Braff ...
  27. Embattled (2020) - IMDb
  28. Embattled | Rotten Tomatoes
  29. The Wave (2019) - IMDb
  30. https://www.tvline.com/lists/scrubs-reboot-everything-we-know-abc-revival/
  31. https://abc.com/news/d216d22f-6319-48eb-957b-973662fbd427/category/1138628
  32. https://screenrant.com/scrubs-sequel-zach-braff-donald-faison-return-video-first-look/
  33. Garden State 20th Anniversary Concert: Benefiting the ... - IMDb
  34. Garden State 20th Anniversary Concert Review, Set List
  35. Breaking Into New Hollywood: Clueless - Digital Gym Cinema
  36. Donald Faison (visual voices guide) - Behind The Voice Actors
  37. Step Inside Alice's Wonderland Bakery with the Voice Cast
  38. "Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur" Crushed (TV Episode 2025) - IMDb
  39. When Lunella discovers that Eduardo has a crush on...
  40. Donald Faison | Disney Wiki - Fandom
  41. GSN Will Play 'Winsanity' With Host Donald Faison - Deadline
  42. Fake Doctors, Real Friends with Zach and Donald | iHeart
  43. Donald Faison Mourns Death of Ex-Wife Lisa Askey - People.com
  44. Donald Faison and Ex-Wife Lisa Askey: A Look Back at Their ...
  45. Donald Faison Shares Sweet Photo With Kids After Death of Ex-Wife
  46. Donald Faison Spends Time with Children Days After Ex-Wife Lisa ...
  47. Father of Six Donald Faison: 'It's Rare That I Discipline' - People.com
  48. Donald Faison and CaCee Cobb Welcome Daughter Wilder Frances
  49. CaCee Cobb Welcomes Baby Girl Wilder With Donald Faison
  50. Donald Faison Takes Mini-Me Son Rocco to Celtics Game - NBC
  51. Fake Doctors, Real Friends with Zach and Donald | Podcast on Spotify
  52. Another 'Scrubs' star will scrub in again for series revival with Zach ...
  53. Zach Braff and Donald Faison have revealed several ... - Facebook
  54. https://www.instagram.com/reel/DQu6KWHkrBF/
  55. Young Hollywood Bands Together to Stand Up To Cancer | Stand ...
  56. Stand Up to Cancer Announces More Than $80 Million Pledged So ...
  57. Donald Faison: Charity Work & Causes - Look to the Stars
  58. Awards - Donald Faison - IMDb
  59. The 39th NAACP Image Award Nominations - Variety
  60. NAACP Image Awards: Winners Announced - The Hollywood Reporter
  61. BET Comedy Awards (2005) - IMDb
  62. Teen Choice Awards (2007) - IMDb
  63. Scrubs (TV Series 2001– ) - Awards - IMDb
  64. https://people.com/scrubs-stars-zach-braff-donald-faison-on-their-real-life-friendship-reboot-sexiest-man-alive-11844507
  65. Donald Faison Movies & TV Shows List | Rotten Tomatoes
  66. Donald Faison - IMDb
  67. Clueless (1995) - IMDb
  68. Remember the Titans (2000) - IMDb
  69. Uptown Girls (2003) - IMDb
  70. Skyline (2010) - Box Office and Financial Information - The Numbers
  71. Homie Spumoni (2006) - IMDb
  72. Everything You Need to Know About Homie Spumoni Movie (2007)
  73. Vegas, Baby (Video 2006) - IMDb
  74. Donald Faison Film Credits - Movie Insider
  75. Watch Scrubs Streaming Online | Hulu
  76. https://ew.com/donald-faison-sarah-chalke-join-scrubs-revival-zach-braff-11770193
  77. Donald Faison on season finale of "The Exes," "Clueless" - CBS News
  78. Who's in the Extended Family Cast? What to Know - NBC
  79. Extended Family Interview: Jon Cryer, Donald Faison & Abigail ...
  80. s03e08 - And the 'It' Hole - 2 Broke Girls Transcript - TvT
  81. As If! 30 Years of 'Clueless' - Nightline Full Broadcast - YouTube
  82. Harry the March Hare Voice - Alice's Wonderland Bakery (TV Show)
  83. Corey Voice - Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur (TV Show)
  84. Donald Faison - TV Guide
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