You’ve probably seen her face while scrolling through Netflix, likely trading sharp-witted barbs with comedy heavyweights like Mike Epps and Wanda Sykes. Khali Daniya Renee Spraggins is that girl. But if you think she just kind of appeared out of thin air to play Aaliyah Upshaw, you’re missing the actual story of one of Chicago’s most disciplined young talents.
She isn't just a "sitcom kid." Honestly, her journey is a lot more technical than the average child star narrative. Born on September 22, 2005, in Chicago, Illinois, Khali didn't just stumble into a casting office. She built a foundation in the grueling theater scene of the South Side, and that’s why she can hold her own against veterans who have been in the game longer than she’s been alive.
The Chicago Roots and That Second City Hustle
Most people don't realize that Khali Spraggins is a product of some serious training. She didn't just have "it"; she worked for it. Early on, she landed a scholarship at The Second City in Chicago. If you know anything about comedy, you know that’s basically the Harvard of improv.
It shows.
When you watch her on The Upshaws, her timing isn't accidental. It’s the result of years spent in shows like Cynderfella and The Storm Within. She was grinding in local Chicago productions long before the Netflix checks started rolling in. By the time she signed with Big Mouth Talent in 2016, she already had a professional resume that would make most adults jealous.
Playing a Young Icon
Before she was Aaliyah, she had to step into the shoes of a literal legend. One of her most overlooked roles was playing a young Cookie Lyons on the hit Fox series Empire.
Think about that for a second.
You have to emulate Taraji P. Henson. You have to capture that specific "Cookie" energy—the sass, the resilience, the "don't mess with me" eyes—without it looking like a caricature. Khali nailed it. She studied Taraji’s mannerisms and integrated them into a younger version of the character that felt authentic. It was a brief window into her range, proving she could handle high-stakes drama just as well as she could deliver a punchline.
The Upshaws: Why Aaliyah Matters
Let’s talk about The Upshaws. The show is a throwback to those classic, multi-cam Black family sitcoms we grew up with, but it has a modern, gritty edge. Khali plays Aaliyah Upshaw, the eldest daughter of Bennie (Mike Epps) and Regina (Kim Fields).
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Here’s where it gets complicated.
Aaliyah isn't just a background character. She’s the same age as her half-brother, Kelvin, who was born out of her father's "mess." That’s a heavy dynamic for a sitcom to handle. Khali plays Aaliyah with a mix of teenage angst and a deep-seated desire to get out of Indianapolis and make something of herself. She’s often the smartest person in the room, and she knows it.
Working with Wanda Sykes and Kim Fields is like a masterclass every single day. Khali has mentioned in interviews how she uses her own life as the oldest sibling to fuel the character. She brings that "manager of the house" energy that a lot of first-born daughters will find incredibly relatable.
Beyond the Screen: The Real Khali
Away from the bright lights of Los Angeles sets, she’s still very much a Chicago girl at heart. She’s been vocal about her love for the city's culture and how it shaped her work ethic.
- Nationality: American
- Hometown: South Side of Chicago
- Influences: She’s cited Zendaya as a major inspiration, specifically for her ability to navigate different genres and stay grounded despite the fame.
- Hobbies: Believe it or not, she’s a huge fan of cheerleading and spent years balancing her athletic pursuits with her acting gigs.
One thing that’s really refreshing about her is the lack of "Hollywood" pretension. She talks about her career like a job she’s lucky to have but one she’s also earned through sheer repetition.
What’s Next for Khali Spraggins?
As of early 2026, The Upshaws has reached its final chapters (Part 7 premiered recently). This marks a massive turning point for her. We are seeing the transition from "child actress" to "leading lady."
The industry is watching.
She’s already proven she can do sitcoms. She’s proven she can do period-piece drama (Empire flashbacks). Now, the rumor mill is buzzing about potential film projects and a move into more mature, complex roles. She’s 20 years old now. The "precocious kid" labels are falling away, replaced by a serious actress with a decade of professional experience under her belt.
Actionable Insights for Aspiring Talents
If you're looking at Khali’s career as a blueprint, here are the actual takeaways:
- Get the training first. Don't wait for an agent. Khali’s time at Second City gave her the tools to survive a high-pressure set with Mike Epps.
- Local theater is a goldmine. Those Chicago stage credits weren't just for fun; they built the stamina needed for 12-hour filming days.
- Study the greats. When she got the Empire role, she didn't just show up. She studied Taraji P. Henson’s specific "Groove." Observation is 80% of the job.
- Stay connected to your roots. Khali’s "Chicago-ness" is part of her brand. It gives her a groundedness that casting directors find refreshing in a sea of LA-standardized performers.
Khali Daniya Renee Spraggins is a name you’re going to keep hearing. Not because of a viral moment or a lucky break, but because she’s been doing the work since she was eleven years old. Keep an eye on her next moves—the transition from Netflix star to cinema staple is usually where things get really interesting.