Known for his other Black-centered films, including “Black Panther” and “Creed,” Ryan Coogler is adding the upcoming horror movie “Sinners,” starring Michael B. Jordan, to his director’s resume.

With the film coming to theaters on April 18, the award-winning Black director has appeared on many red carpets to promote the film, but not standing alone. The saying “behind every great man is a great woman” continues to reign true, especially when it comes to Coogler’s wife.

Zinzi Evans has often flown under the radar, choosing to support her husband’s vision from behind the scenes rather than in the spotlight. But her presence, influence, support, and success in her own right are undeniable. So who is she? Let’s take a closer look.

Who is Ryan Coogler Married To?

Coogler has been married to Zinzi Evans since 2016. The couple has kept many aspects of their personal life private, but their love and admiration for one another are evident. Oftentimes, they speak about each other in interviews and appear together on red carpets.

Together, Coogler and Evans share two children. They’ve remained private about the genders and names of their little ones. The couple seems dedicated to keeping their growing family out of the public eye. However, during the New York premiere of Warner Bros. Pictures’ “Sinners,” the couple made a rare and exciting public statement without saying a word. 

Dressed in complementary burgundy outfits, Coogler and Evans stepped onto the red carpet—Evans glowing with a visible baby bump. Although the couple hasn’t officially confirmed it yet, it’s widely believed they’re expecting their third child.

“This [the movie] was made, meant, built, and poured into for theaters. It’s such an immersive film with incredibly layered, complicated, and fun-loving characters,” Evans said during an interview at the premiere. 

This moment not only marked a major milestone for the film but also highlighted the quiet strength and presence Evans consistently brings to Coogler’s side.

How Did Ryan Coogler Meet His Wife?

Coogler met his wife while studying in undergrad. It was during these college years that Coogler began his relationship with Evans.  The couple began dating while the young director was playing football at Saint Mary’s College on a scholarship, before transferring to Sacramento State College.

As their bond deepened, so did Coogler’s interest in filmmaking and storytelling. He has credited Evans with playing a vital role in his early development as a screenwriter and filmmaker—especially when times were financially tough.

“I was trying to write in Microsoft Word. It’s impossible because your format gotta be right. I was broke, playing football on the little scholarship money. And my wife scrapped together some cheese and bought me Final Draft, which is the software that you write your movies on. And she got me that,” Coogler said in an interview with Hot 97 in 2018. 

It was a simple gesture but a deeply meaningful one. That early support helped Coogler gain the tools he needed to pursue his dreams. He eventually enrolled in the USC School of Cinematic Arts. There, he focused on screenwriting and honing his craft, setting the foundation for what would become a stellar filmmaking career.

Who Is Zinzi Evans?

Alongside being Coogler’s wife, Evans is a professional woman in her own right. According to her official IMDB page, Evans is a certified American Sign Language Interpreter. The same site also claims Evans worked with Apple on software training for hearing-impaired clients.

As her husband’s career blossomed, Evans began carving out her own space in the film industry. She has worked as an assistant director and producer, with credits on critically acclaimed projects such as “Creed III” and “Judas and the Black Messiah.” 

Her behind-the-scenes work showcases her deep understanding of storytelling, project management, and creative vision. Evans has also collaborated with her husband on other film projects. In 2021, she joined forces with Coogler and Sev Ohanian to create Proximity Media. The multimedia company produces feature films, television shows, and soundtracks. Proximity Media has already played a major role in shaping modern Black cinema, with projects that honor heritage, explore identity, and push genre boundaries.

Beyond the technical aspects of her career, Evans is also a role model for women navigating the intersection of motherhood, marriage, and professional ambition. Balancing family life with a growing presence in Hollywood, she exemplifies grace, intelligence, and resilience.

A Quiet but Powerful Force

While Evans doesn’t seek the spotlight, her influence is still powerful. She supported Coogler during his early days of scriptwriting and now helps produce powerful films that reflect the Black experience. She brings a grounded energy to their partnership; both at home and in business.

In an industry where celebrity relationships often play out in the public eye, Evans and Coogler have chosen a different path. Their relationship is seemingly rooted in privacy, respect, and shared purpose. Their marriage isn’t just a love story, but a creative collaboration. Although Evans may not frequently give interviews or post on social media, she makes her presence felt in every project Coogler touches.

As “Sinners” hits theaters, Coogler continues to expand his body of work. Evans is part of the journey, not just as his wife but as his trusted creative partner. Whether walking red carpets or working behind the scenes, she remains a quiet but powerful force in the film industry and an integral part of Ryan Coogler’s legacy.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Where is Zinzi Evans from?

Like her husband, Zinzi Evans is from Oakland, California. According to the official Fresno State Athletics website, she formerly was a distance and track & field runner at the institution. The website also states that Evans ’ parents’ names were Maria and Zishan. 

Are Ryan Coogler and Michael B. Jordan friends?

Yes, it seems as though Coogler and Jordan have both a healthy professional relationship and a platonic friendship. The pair have worked together on a number of projects, the latest being “Sinners.” In a 2025 interview with Entertainment Tonight, Jordan referred to Coogler as his “long lost brother.”