2. Karyn Parsons
Known from: Fresh Prince of Bel-Air
Now: Writer
Capital: $1.5 million*
Karyn Parsons, widely recognized for her role as Hilary Banks, the family’s eldest daughter on “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” from 1990 to 1996, as well as her part as the adversary of Damon Wayans in the 1995 movie “Major Payne,” has taken a significant turn in her career. Following her acting tenure, including appearances in other projects like SNL Studios’ “The Ladies Man,” Parsons has shifted her focus towards writing. She created an animated series titled “Sweet Blackberry,” which narrates the stories of lesser-known African American heroes. Furthermore, Parsons ventured into the literary world with the publication of her teen novel “How High the Moon,” drawing inspiration from her mother’s upbringing in the Southern United States, marking her transition from acting to becoming an established writer.