Will Packer, born on April 11, 1974, in St. Petersburg, Florida, has become one of Hollywood’s most prolific and successful producers. At 50 years old, Packer’s career spans over two decades, during which he has produced films grossing more than $1 billion worldwide. His estimated net worth stands at $50 million.
Early Life and Education
Growing up in a family that valued education, Packer was encouraged to excel academically. He graduated from St. Petersburg High School in 1991 and pursued higher education at Florida A&M University (FAMU), a historically Black university in Tallahassee. In 1996, he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering, graduating magna cum laude.
Entry into Film Production: Rainforest Films
While at FAMU, Packer met his future business partner, Rob Hardy. Together, they co-founded Rainforest Films in 1994. Their first project, “Chocolate City” (1994), was produced on a modest budget of $20,000 and secured a distribution deal with Blockbuster Video.
The breakthrough came with “Trois” (2000), an independently produced erotic thriller that grossed over $1 million, a significant achievement for an independent film. This success established Rainforest Films as a formidable entity in the industry. Subsequent projects included “Stomp the Yard” (2007) and “Obsessed” (2009), starring Beyoncé. In 2012, “Think Like a Man” debuted at number one at the box office, further solidifying Packer’s reputation.
Establishing Will Packer Productions
After Rainforest Films dissolved in 2014, Packer founded Will Packer Productions. Under this banner, he continued to produce box office hits. “Ride Along” (2014), a buddy-cop comedy featuring Kevin Hart and Ice Cube, grossed over $150 million worldwide. “Girls Trip” (2017), with an all-Black female lead cast, became the first Black-led film to surpass $100 million at the box office.
Expansion into Television and Digital Media
In 2017, Packer launched Will Packer Media, focusing on producing diverse content across multiple platforms. The company has been involved in various projects, including the critically acclaimed limited series “Fight Night” for Peacock, which premiered on September 5, 2024. The series received a 95% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and became the most-watched premiere in Peacock’s history.
Historic Role in the 2022 Academy Awards
Packer made history in 2022 as the first Black producer to helm the Academy Awards ceremony. Despite the event being overshadowed by an incident involving Will Smith and Chris Rock, Packer’s production was praised for its inclusivity and engagement.
Personal Life and Philanthropy
Packer has been married twice. He wed his first wife, Nina Packer, in July 2001, and they had two children before divorcing in February 2009. In August 2015, he married Heather Hayslett.
Beyond his professional achievements, Packer is a dedicated philanthropist. He serves on the board of the Atlanta Hawks Foundation and is a strong supporter of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). In recognition of his contributions, FAMU honored him by renaming its amphitheater the Will Packer Amphitheater in 2021.
Recent Ventures and Net Worth
In May 2024, Packer expanded his influence in the sports industry by becoming one of four new limited partners in the Atlanta Falcons ownership group.
As of February 2025, Packer’s net worth is estimated at $50 million, reflecting his successful career in film and television production.
Will Packer’s journey from a young entrepreneur to a Hollywood mogul exemplifies the impact of passion, resilience, and strategic vision. His commitment to diverse storytelling continues to inspire and shape the entertainment industry.