By Staff
Known for his comedic genius, unmistakable voice, and iconic roles, Doug E. Doug has spent decades entertaining audiences across the globe. But behind the laughter and legacy lies one of his most meaningful and transformative roles—being a father. In this candid conversation, the celebrated actor and global icon opens up about the moment he became a dad, the lessons he’s learned along the way, and the values he hopes to pass down to his children. With his signature humor and heartfelt honesty, Doug shares what fatherhood has taught him about love, discipline, legacy, and what really matters most.
Occupation: Global Icon
Dad Name: Dad, Pops
Can you describe the moment you first became a father and what emotions you experienced?
The moment I became a father happened in the delivery room. I was in complete shock and awe. My first thought was, “There is a God,” because I had just witnessed a whole person come out of a place I didn’t think a whole person could fit. It was surreal.
What does fatherhood mean to you—not just the title, but the responsibility and the legacy?
To me, fatherhood means accepting that you will always be the second most significant person in your children’s lives. Competing with a mother for affection is like trying to land a punch on Floyd Mayweather—good luck! But if you don’t need the credit and you focus on doing your job, you can help your partner raise some truly amazing human beings. Now that’s legacy.
In what ways has becoming a father changed you as a man?
Becoming a father—and a husband—has changed me in every imaginable way. I’ve grown so much that now, when I see a beautiful young lady in a tight dress, my first instinct is to pray for her safety. That’s growth.
What do you find most fulfilling about being a father?
The most fulfilling thing is knowing that my kids have what they need to stand on their own—and knowing I had a lot to do with that. It’s an incredible feeling.
How do you show love and affection to your children, and how did you learn that language of love?
I show love and affection to my kids in every way you can think of. I actually learned how to express love from my mother. She was my first example of showing up, being present, and giving unconditional love.
What’s one thing you hope your children remember most about their childhood with you?
I’ve told my kids that their childhood was only the beginning of their story—the rest is theirs to write. I hope they remember that their dad was fun, sometimes crazy, occasionally impossible, but always fully present. Those moments we shared while they were little? Some of the best parts of my own story.
How do you approach discipline, and what values do you hope to instill in your children?
When I first became a father, I made the mistake of trying to discipline out of anger. It was a disaster. You can’t teach discipline if you lack it yourself. I’ve since learned that kids watch what you do, not what you say. Calmly setting firm boundaries, being clear, and leading with affection has been much more effective.
How do you support and uplift other Black fathers in your community?
Anytime I can be honest and open about my experiences as a father, I see it as a blessing. Sharing the real, raw moments can help another brother who’s in the middle of the struggle feel seen and supported.
What kind of conversations do you have with your children about love, respect, and relationships?
Since I have both a son and a daughter, the conversations are different. To my son, I say: Be a gentleman. To my daughter, I say: Watch out for these young dudes out here pretending to be gentlemen.
Can you share a time when you felt especially proud as a father?
My proudest moment wasn’t flashy. It was when my wife looked at me and simply said, “You’re a good father.” That meant everything.
