Free

Marie Wright, known professionally as Free, is an American media personality, television producer, choreographer, rapper, and philanthropist with a career spanning television, radio, music, and community advocacy.

Known to many as the longtime host of BET’s top-rated television program 106 & Park, Marie “Free” Wright has expanded her career into entrepreneurship and philanthropy. In addition to leading her charitable organization, Team Cancer Free Inc., Wright is the founder and creator of Pudding Stone Bath Co., a bath and beauty brand inspired by her lifelong struggle with dry, sensitive skin, eczema, and psoriasis. After more than 14 years of crafting and sharing handmade skincare products with friends and family, Wright transformed her passion for healthy skin and natural remedies into a business focused on creating bath and beauty products made with care and compassion.

Wright's entertainment career began with dance and performance, including a notable appearance in the rap music video "Good Vibrations" by Marky Mark and the Funky Bunch. She gained national recognition as the first host, alongside A. J. Calloway, of Black Entertainment Television's "106 & Park." The show became a central platform for hip hop and R&B music discovery, shaping music trends and youth culture. During her tenure at "106 & Park," Wright interviewed prominent figures such as Michael Jackson, Denzel Washington, Aaliyah, Halle Berry, Mariah Carey, Maxwell, Alicia Keys, Janet Jackson, and Beyoncé.

Wright's association with BET extended beyond her initial hosting role. She produced and starred in anniversary specials for "106 & Park," hosted the BET Awards Post-Show, and led the program "Lens on Talent." Wright also hosted the final episode of "106 & Park" alongside Bow Wow, Terrence J, and Rocsi. In radio, she served as an on-air personality at KKBT 100.3 The Beat in Los Angeles and on "The Ed Lover Morning Show" on Power 105.1 in New York City. Wright has also emceed events such as the Hip-Hop Summit Action Network Tour and the "Total You" Tour with Queen Latifah.

In addition to her media work, Wright founded the Free4Life Foundation, a nonprofit organization focused on empowering youth in disadvantaged neighborhoods through literacy, financial education, and creative arts programs. The foundation initially targeted domestic violence prevention and financial literacy, later expanding its mission to support broader youth development initiatives in Boston's underserved communities. Wright is also active in health advocacy, participating in the American Cancer Society's "Making Strides Against Breast Cancer" walk and forming team Walk 4 Tina in honor of her late mother. She serves as CEO of TeamCancerFree and owns Pudding Stone Bath, a business specializing in soaps and bath products. Wright's career reflects a commitment to media, music, community empowerment, and philanthropy.