Fred Lee Scruggs Jr., born April 18, 1971, known as Fredro Starr, is an American rapper and actor, best known as a member of Onyx, discovered by Jam Master Jay of Run-D.M.C. He was nominated at the 1994 American Music Awards and won Best Rap Album at the 1994 Soul Train Music Awards. He’s acted in over 55 films and shows, including Strapped, Clockers, Save the Last Dance, and Torque. On TV, he’s known for Moesha, and also appeared in The Wire, Blade, and Dance 360.
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Fredro Starr Net Worth
Fredro Starr has a net worth of $2 million. The beef between Onyx and 50 Cent began during Def Jam’s “Survival Of The Illest” concert at the Apollo Theater on July 18, 1998, when Scarred 4 Life performed 50 Cent’s verse on the song “React.”
At the 2003 Vibe Awards, 50 Cent allegedly confronted Starr, leading to a scuffle. Fredro later called him “a punk” and accused him of disrespecting Jam Master Jay.
Early life
Fred Lee Scruggs Jr. was born on April 18, 1971, at Kings County Hospital Center. He grew up in Flatbush, Brooklyn, and in 1984, moved with his brother David Scruggs to South Jamaica, Queens.
From 1984 to 1988, he attended John Adams High School, where fellow students included Marlon Fletcher (Big DS), Tyrone Taylor (Suave, Sonny Seeza), Mr. Cheeks, and Freaky Tah. Fredro Starr met Suave during a rap battle at Ajax Park in Jamaica, now known as Dr. Charles R. Drew Park.
Career
Fredro Starr began as a breakdancer called Magic after watching Beat Street (1984). Inspired by Krush Groove and LL Cool J, he became a street poet in 1985. In 1986, he first rapped as Kool Fredro at Baisley Park with Mr. Cheeks, Freaky Tah, and others.
He worked at Nu Tribe Barbershop, where he cut hair alongside cousin Kirk Jones (Sticky Fingaz). In 1988, Fredro, Big DS, and Suavé formed Onyx. After meeting Jam Master Jay in 1991, Sticky Fingaz joined, and JMJ Records signed the group.
Personal life
Fredro Starr is married to Korina Longin, a Croatian model, since 2007. Together, they have three children. His cousin, Kirk Jones, better known as Sticky Fingaz, is also a member of the rap group Onyx.
Their close bond extended from family life to music, with both rising to fame as hardcore rap artists under Jam Master Jay’s mentorship. The collaboration between Fredro Starr and Sticky Fingaz helped define Onyx’s gritty sound and solidify their status in 1990s hip hop culture.
What happened to Fredro Starr?
Despite retiring from rap to focus on his acting career, Fredro Starr remains a respected figure in entertainment. His journey reflects a transition from music to acting, showcasing his versatility and dedication to his craft.
Conclusion
Fredro Starr’s journey from a young rapper in Queens to a renowned actor and rapper showcases his remarkable versatility and tenacity. His contributions to music and film have left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry, making him a true icon of his era.
FAQs about Fredro Starr
- What is Fredro Starr’s real name?
- Fredro Starr was born Fred Lee Scruggs Jr.
- How did Fredro Starr start his career?
- He began his career with breakdancing and later transitioned to rap, inspired by movies like “Beat Street” and “Krush Groove.”
- What are some of Fredro Starr’s notable acting roles?
- Starr’s notable acting roles include appearances in “Clockers,” “Save the Last Dance,” and “Moesha.”
- Has Fredro Starr won any awards for his music or acting?
- As part of Onyx, Fredro Starr was nominated for “Favorite Rap/Hip-Hop New Artist” at the American Music Awards of 1994 and won “Best Rap Album” at the 1994 Soul Train Music Awards.
- What recent projects has Fredro Starr worked on?
- Starr has focused on his acting career in recent years, with roles in various television shows and movies, while also engaging in music projects like his mixtape “Live 4Ever, Die 2Day.”
