Veteran Actor, Playwright & Producer; Known for "Ghostbusters" Franchise & HBO's Oz; Executive Producer of "The Family Business"

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Ernie Hudson Biography

Ernie Hudson is an actor, playwright, and producer whose career spans more than five decades across film, television, and theater. Hudson began his professional journey in Detroit's theater scene, working as a playwright and stage actor. He became the resident playwright at Concept East, the oldest Black theater company in the United States, and helped found the Actor's Ensemble Theatre. Hudson later attended Yale University's MFA program, further developing his craft in regional theater before making his film debut in "Leadbelly," a biopic of blues guitarist Huddie Ledbetter.

Hudson is widely recognized for his role as Winston Zeddemore in the "Ghostbusters" franchise, appearing in "Ghostbusters," "Ghostbusters II," "Ghostbusters: Answer the Call," and "Ghostbusters: Afterlife." He also appears in "Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire," where his character leads the Ghostbusters team. Hudson's filmography includes roles in "The Crow" as Sergeant Darryl Albrecht, "Congo," and "Miss Congeniality." On television, he is known for his portrayal of Warden Leo Glynn on HBO's Oz, as well as recurring roles on Law & Order and Desperate Housewives.

Hudson played Herbert Williams on the NBC drama "Quantum Leap," earning a nomination for Best Supporting Actor in a Television Series at the Saturn Awards and winning Best Supporting Actor in a Broadcast Network or Cable Drama Series at the Astra TV Awards. He also executive produces and appears in BET Plus' "The Family Business," available on Netflix.

The Toronto Black Film Festival honored Hudson with a Career Achievement Award, recognizing his contributions to Hollywood and his role in expanding representation for Black actors. Hudson's enduring career includes work in science fiction, drama, and comedy, establishing him as a versatile presence in the entertainment industry.

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Speaker profile last updated by AAE Talent Team on 11/05/2026.

Ernie Hudson Speaking Topics

  • Surviving Hollywood…With A Smile

    In this personal presentation, Ernie Hudson shares how he survived Hollywood and lived to laugh about it. Hudson has been working in the film industry for over four decades with big film roles in Ghostbusters, The Crow, Miss Congeniality and many more. Join Hudson as he tells how he got started, his journeys, struggles and the lessons he has learned along the way. Whether it is the field of acting or any other endeavor, he will share with you secrets of how to get out of your box of limitations and land the roles of people’s dreams.

  • Overcoming Odds & Adversity

    How do you push through overwhelming odds and become that "somebody" you have always dreamed of being? Born in poverty and raised in the housing projects of Michigan, the odds were more in favor of Ernie Hudson spending a life in prison than having a glowing career in Hollywood. Whether it was gaining the reputation of being the toughest kid in school or attending Yale, raising his sons as a single father or overcoming racism in the entertainment industry, Hudson has practiced his grandmother's teaching: Never fight against the odds, but stand on faith in the eye of the storm. Hudson explains to audiences how knowing you are bigger than any circumstances can lead to success.

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Ernie Hudson Videos

Ernie Hudson's Workout Routine at 80 Is Seriously Unreal

Ernie Hudson's Workout Routine at 80 Is Seriously Unreal

Ernie Hudson is 80 — and his workout routine is turning heads. California Live's Sam Alipour hits the gym with the legendary actor.

Ernie Hudson Puppy Food Bank Ambassador Press Conference

Ernie Hudson Puppy Food Bank Ambassador Press Conference

Ernie Hudson famous for his role in the Ghostbusters franchise was newly announced as a National Ambassador for the Puppy Food Bank.

Ernie Hudson Career Retrospective | SAG-AFTRA Foundation

Ernie Hudson Career Retrospective | SAG-AFTRA Foundation

Ernie Hudson shares stories from his performances in 'Ghostbusters' and 'Quantum Leap' in this career spanning discussion.

  • How do I book Ernie Hudson to speak at my event?

    Our experienced booking agents have successfully helped clients around the world secure speakers like Ernie Hudson for speaking engagements, personal appearances, product endorsements, or corporate entertainment since 2002. Click the Check Availability button above and complete the form on this page to check availability for Ernie Hudson, or call our office at 1.800.698.2536 to discuss your upcoming event. One of our experienced agents will be happy to help you get speaking fee information and check availability for Ernie Hudson or any other speaker of your choice.
  • What are the speaker fees for Ernie Hudson

    Speaking fees for Ernie Hudson, or any other speakers and celebrities, are determined based on a number of factors and may change without notice. The estimated fees to book Ernie Hudson are $50,000 - $100,000 for live events and available upon request for virtual events. For the most current speaking fee to hire Ernie Hudson, click the Check Availability button above and complete the form on this page, or call our office at 1.800.698.2536 to speak directly with an experienced booking agent.
  • What topics does Ernie Hudson speak about?

  • Where does Ernie Hudson travel from?

    Ernie Hudson generally travels from an undisclosed location, but can be booked for private corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. For more details, please contact an AAE Booking agent.
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Ernie Hudson is a keynote speaker and industry expert who speaks on a wide range of topics such as Surviving Hollywood…With A Smile, Overcoming Odds & Adversity, Grandma’s Hands: Life Lessons from a Matriarch and The Value of Fatherhood. The estimated speaking fee range to book Ernie Hudson for your event is $50,000 - $100,000. Ernie Hudson generally travels from and can be booked for (private) corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. Similar motivational celebrity speakers are Hill Harper, Da'Vinchi, Tamera Mowry-Housley, Geena Davis and LeVar Burton. Contact All American Speakers for ratings, reviews, videos and information on scheduling Ernie Hudson for an upcoming live or virtual event.

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