Akbar Gbajabiamila has hosted American Ninja Warrior since the show's seventh season. The Los Angeles, CA native has since become synonymous with the program, even writing a book in 2019 entitled Everyone Can Be a Ninja. However, there's plenty more to the popular host. As the show returns for its 12th season, here's everything you need to know about him.
Gbajabiamila was born to Nigerian parents in 1979. He was raised Muslim, but converted to Christianity while in college at San Diego State University. In 2000, his father was tragically diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, and only two years later, his mother died in a car crash. The 41-year-old has therefore dedicated his life to several charitable causes. He sits on the board of multiple foundations, including the Michael J. Fox Foundation, which works to fund Parkinson's research.
In addition to American Ninja Warrior, Gbajabiamila hosts American Ninja Warrior Junior on the Universal Kids network. He previously hosted NFL Fantasy Live on the NFL Network, which was the highest-rated show on the network at the time. Gbajabiamila's time on the NFL Network makes sense, as he just so happens to be a former NFL player as well! He entered the league in 2003 as a member of the Oakland Raiders. He also played for the San Diego Chargers and Miami Dolphins during his five-year career. While his career was far from prolific, it ultimately propelled him towards a successful career in broadcasting. He was selected by the NFL to participate in a broadcasting boot camp at the NFL Network headquarters in Mt. Laurel, NJ. From there, he was invited to appear on ABC's Expedition Impossible as a member of the "Football Players" team. His older brother Kabeer also played in the NFL, spending eight seasons with the Green Bay Packers, and eventually landing in the team's Hall of Fame.
Gbajabiamila's philanthropic efforts have continued to expand over the years. He recently teamed up with Experian to help promote financial literacy, with a particular focus on staying financially stable during the global pandemic (via NBC Washington). It seems the former athlete refuses to let any one aspect of his career define him, as he continues to reinvent himself and work on issues that are personal and significant to him.
The latest season of American Ninja Warrior has featured some of the most impressive contestants of all time, and Akbar Gbajabiamila has been there to see it all, providing his unique perspective every step of the way.
Source: NBC Washington