Azja Pryor may first be recognized as the ex-wife of famous comedian and actor Chris Tucker, but her journey is much more than her high-profile relationship. Azja has carved out her own space in the entertainment and wellness industries, making significant contributions as a casting director and a health coach. Beyond her professional achievements, Azja is a devoted mother, a philanthropist, and a strong advocate for healthy living. This article delves into her background, career, family life, and how she has balanced her public and private lives.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Azja Pryor |
| Date of Birth | September 18, 1978 |
| Birthplace | Berkeley, California, USA |
| Zodiac Sign | Virgo |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African-American |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Residence | Los Angeles, California |
| Profession | Health coach, former casting director |
| Ex-Husband | Chris Tucker (married 1997–2003) |
| Current Husband | Cherif A. Ndiaye |
| Children | Two (Destin Christopher Tucker and Iman Joelle Ndiaye) |
Azja Pryor’s Early Years
Azja Pryor was born on August 28, 1978, in Berkeley, California. Growing up in a supportive, middle-class family, she thrived in an environment that valued education and personal development. Her early years were shaped by the influence of her mother, Deborah B. Pryor, though much of her father’s life remains private. Azja also has two siblings, though they prefer to keep their personal lives out of the public eye.
She attended Hamilton Senior High School, where she was known for her academic excellence and participation in various school activities. Azja’s creativity and ambition were evident early on, and these traits guided her educational journey. She later enrolled in Los Angeles Community College, which provided her with the foundation needed for her future career.
Her education played a key role in her professional success. Both high school and college were formative in honing her critical thinking and creative skills, which later translated into her work in the entertainment industry and, eventually, in wellness coaching.
How Old is Azja Pryor?
As of 2024, Azja Pryor is 46 years old, having been born on September 18, 1978. She is a proud Virgo, known for her diligent, methodical approach to both her personal and professional lives. At 5 feet 7 inches tall and weighing 143 pounds, she maintains a healthy and fit lifestyle, which aligns with her advocacy for health and wellness.
Career Highlights
Azja Pryor’s career is a testament to her versatility and passion. Initially, she made her mark as a casting director in Hollywood, where she worked on several music videos and TV shows. One notable project she contributed to was the 2005 TV show Eve, where her casting expertise helped shape the show’s success. Azja was highly regarded for her ability to find the perfect match for roles, and her keen eye for talent quickly made her a respected figure in the industry.
Her transition from casting to health coaching is one of the defining aspects of her career. Inspired by a personal interest in holistic health and wellness, Azja became a certified health coach. She now dedicates her life to helping others achieve healthier, more balanced lifestyles. Through her work, she teaches the importance of fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being, making a tangible difference in the lives of many.
Azja has also contributed to the wellness community by teaching at the Center for Baby Wearing Studies, a testament to her commitment to holistic living. She uses her social media platforms to promote healthy living, sharing tips and advice on fitness, diet, and self-care with her followers. Her philanthropic efforts are also notable; she supports charities like the Children’s Hospital Los Angeles and the American Heart Association, working to give back to the community.
Relationship with Chris Tucker
Azja’s personal life, particularly her marriage to Chris Tucker, has been widely publicized. The couple married in 1997 and welcomed a son, Destin Christopher Tucker, in 1998. However, after six years of marriage, the couple divorced in 2003. Despite their separation, Azja and Chris have maintained a cordial and cooperative co-parenting relationship. Their shared commitment to raising their son in a stable, loving environment has been a priority for both of them.
Though Azja’s marriage to Chris Tucker was the subject of much media attention, their time together was marked by mutual respect. Chris Tucker, known for his roles in Rush Hour and Friday, was at the peak of his career during their marriage. Azja, on the other hand, was building her own career as a casting director. While the media often focused on their relationship, the couple kept the details of their personal lives relatively private, with the well-being of their son being their primary concern.
After her marriage to Chris Tucker ended, Azja briefly dated rapper and actor Ludacris (born Christopher Brian Bridges) in 2005. However, the relationship ended in 2006, and Azja has since moved forward with her life.
Azja’s New Relationship and Family
In 2017, Azja Pryor found love again with Cherif A. Ndiaye, a fitness and life coach from Senegal. Together, they have a daughter, Iman Joelle Ndiaye, who was born on April 16, 2017. The couple’s shared passion for health and fitness has helped them create a harmonious life together. Azja has also embraced her role as a stepmother to Cherif’s two children from a previous relationship, forming a blended family rooted in love and mutual respect.
Azja’s family is incredibly important to her, and she regularly shares moments of their life together on social media. Her dedication to family values is evident in her nurturing relationships with her children and husband.
What is Known About Chris Tucker?
Chris Tucker is one of Hollywood’s most beloved comedians and actors. Born on August 31, 1971, in Atlanta, Georgia, Chris quickly gained recognition for his dynamic stand-up comedy. He appeared on HBO’s Def Comedy Jam and rose to fame with his role as Smokey in the 1995 film Friday. However, it was his role as Detective James Carter in the Rush Hour series that solidified his status as a Hollywood superstar.
After his divorce from Azja, Chris Tucker continued to build on his career. He took some time off from acting but returned to the spotlight with a stand-up comedy special in 2015. He has also been involved in charity work through his Chris Tucker Foundation, which supports youth and educational programs. Currently, he is in a long-term relationship with singer and songwriter India Arie.
Azja Pryor’s Net Worth
Azja Pryor’s net worth is estimated at $1 million as of 2024. This wealth comes from her successful careers in both entertainment and wellness. She continues to build on her financial success through her work as a health coach and her ongoing contributions to the wellness industry. Her ex-husband, Chris Tucker, has a net worth of approximately $5 million, which further contributes to the public interest in their shared history.
Azja Pryor’s Current Life
Today, Azja Pryor enjoys a fulfilling life in Los Angeles, where she resides with her husband, Cherif Ndiaye, and their daughter, Iman Joelle. In addition to her daughter, Azja is the proud mother of Destin Christopher Tucker, who graduated from Morehouse College in May 2021. Destin studied Cinema, Television, and Emerging Media Studies, following in the footsteps of his famous father.
Azja and her husband, Cherif, share a passion for health and fitness, and their bond is strengthened by their shared lifestyle. Azja’s commitment to a healthy lifestyle is evident not only in her professional work but also in her personal habits, including hiking, traveling, and staying active.
Final Thoughts
Azja Pryor’s life is a story of transformation and growth. From her early days in Berkeley to her success in Hollywood as a casting director, Azja has built a career that spans multiple industries. Her shift from entertainment to wellness coaching reflects her evolving interests and deep commitment to living a balanced and healthy life.
Azja’s family life, both with her son Destin and her husband Cherif, has been marked by love, mutual respect, and dedication to maintaining a strong family foundation. Her involvement in health, wellness, and philanthropy underscores her commitment to not just personal success but also to making a positive impact on the lives of others.
Through her work and her personal life, Azja Pryor continues to inspire those around her, proving that it is possible to evolve, adapt, and thrive in both personal and professional realms. She is a living testament to the importance of balance, family, and giving back to the community.