Greg Tarzan Davis From Teacher to Top Gun Star

Greg Tarzan Davis was born on September 25, 1993, in New Orleans, Louisiana. Growing up in a culturally rich city known for jazz, passion, and resilience, Greg was surrounded by creativity from an early age. He adopted the nickname “Tarzan” as a child a tribute to his boundless energy and it stuck with him through the years. Unlike many Hollywood stories that begin with childhood stardom, Greg’s journey began far from the red carpet. He spent his early life focusing on academics and athletics before stepping into the world of acting.
Quick Bio Greg Tarzan Davis
Full Name | Greg Tarzan Davis |
---|---|
Date of Birth | September 25, 1993 |
Age (as of 2025) | 31 years old |
Place of Birth | New Orleans, Louisiana, USA |
Height | 6 feet (183 cm) |
Nationality | American |
Profession | Actor, Former School Teacher |
Education | Xavier University of Louisiana |
Famous For | Top Gun: Maverick, Grey’s Anatomy |
Active Years | 2018 – Present |
Net Worth (2025) | $1.5 – $2 million USD |
Instagram Handle | @gregtarzandavis |
Zodiac Sign | Libra |
Age and Zodiac Identity
As of 2025, Greg Tarzan Davis is 31 years old. His zodiac sign is Libra, often associated with balance, charisma, and charm all of which shine through in his on-screen presence. His maturity, both in age and performance, has allowed him to transition seamlessly into more complex and diverse roles in television and film.
Education and Teaching Career
Before fame found him, Davis graduated from Louisiana’s Xavier University with a degree in education. He went on to work as an elementary school teacher, dedicating himself to uplifting young lives. This chapter of his life speaks volumes about his grounded nature and passion for community impact. He has often said that teaching helped him develop empathy and communication skills, two traits that later strengthened his acting.
Physical Appearance and Height
Standing at 6 feet tall (183 cm), Davis has a strong and athletic build. His toned physique and magnetic smile contribute to his screen presence, especially in action-packed roles. With a deep voice and confident gait, he exudes a commanding yet approachable aura whether he’s in uniform in “Top Gun” or facing drama in a TV hospital ward.
Acting Beginnings
Greg’s journey into acting began while he was still teaching. He started attending acting workshops and eventually landed roles in local theater. His breakout came when he played Jayson in the 2018 film “The Call of the Wild”, an independent project that earned him some early recognition. Soon, he decided to take a leap of faith, leaving teaching to pursue acting full-time relocating to Los Angeles to chase his dream.
Breakthrough with “Top Gun: Maverick”
Davis’s career skyrocketed when he appeared as Lieutenant Javy “Coyote” Machado in “Top Gun: Maverick” (2022), the highly anticipated sequel to Tom Cruise’s 1986 classic. The film not only dominated the global box office, but also introduced Davis to millions of viewers around the world. Sharing screen space with legends like Tom Cruise, Miles Teller, and Glen Powell, Davis held his own, bringing intensity and relatability to his fighter pilot role.
He underwent rigorous physical and flight training for the role, including real G-force flying sequences. His commitment earned him praise from both audiences and critics. That role opened major doors and solidified his position as a rising force in Hollywood.
Other Notable Roles
After “Top Gun: Maverick,” Greg Davis added more impressive credits to his filmography. One of his most prominent roles was as Dr. Jordan Wright in the medical drama “Grey’s Anatomy” during its 18th season. His recurring role added a breath of fresh air to the long-running series. He brought warmth, intellect, and authenticity to the part of a young resident trying to find his footing at Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital.
He also appeared in the 2023 action film “Mission: Impossible Dead Reckoning Part One,” reuniting with Tom Cruise and showing his versatility in high-stakes sequences. His role in the film further confirmed his ability to handle physically demanding and emotionally intense roles.
Family and Personal Life
Greg Tarzan Davis is quite private about his personal life, especially regarding his family. However, he has often spoken about the deep influence his mother had on him growing up. He credits her for instilling in him the values of discipline, faith, and resilience. Davis remains closely connected to his roots in New Orleans, and frequently visits home.
As for romantic relationships, he has not publicly confirmed any partners. In a time where many celebrities share every detail of their personal lives online, Davis chooses to keep certain aspects of his world sacred a trait that adds to his grounded and mature public image.
Net Worth and Career Earnings
As of 2025, Greg Tarzan Davis has an estimated net worth of $1.5 million to $2 million, according to industry sources and interviews. Most of his earnings come from his acting roles, brand endorsements, and event appearances. His biggest paydays have come from “Top Gun: Maverick” and “Mission: Impossible” two blockbuster franchises that dramatically increased his market value.
With more projects lined up and growing fan interest, his financial success is only set to rise in the coming years.
Personality and Public Image
Those who’ve worked with Greg describe him as humble, focused, and fiercely passionate about his craft. Despite the fame, he maintains a work ethic shaped by his years in education. He often mentors young actors and volunteers for youth programs when off set.
His personality is a blend of charm and determination. Fans appreciate his approachable manner during interviews and public appearances. He speaks openly about the challenges of switching careers and chasing passion in the face of uncertainty, making him a relatable figure for aspiring artists and dreamers.

Social Media Presence
Greg Tarzan Davis maintains a strong but not overly flashy presence on social media. His Instagram handle (@gregtarzandavis) has over 150,000 followers as of mid-2025, and it’s where he shares glimpses of his movie sets, motivational posts, and fitness routines. He also posts frequently about social causes, New Orleans culture, and throwbacks to his teaching days.
Unlike many young actors who rely on viral trends to boost visibility, Davis uses his platform to tell stories, uplift others, and give fans a closer look at the man behind the roles.
Upcoming Projects and Future Goals
Greg Tarzan Davis is not slowing down anytime soon. In recent interviews, he’s hinted at exploring writing and directing in the future. He has a deep love for storytelling and wants to eventually produce films that highlight underrepresented voices and authentic Black stories.
He’s also set to appear in two upcoming thrillers and is reportedly in talks for a dramatic role in a streaming platform original series. These opportunities will likely showcase even more of his acting depth beyond the action and hospital dramas.
Style and Fitness
Greg keeps a clean, casual, and sporty style, often appearing in fitted shirts, denim jackets, and sneakers during public appearances. On red carpets, he’s shown off sleek suits that highlight his tall, athletic frame. He maintains his physique through daily workouts, functional training, and a diet rooted in balance sharing occasional tips and routines with his followers online.
His dedication to fitness isn’t just for screen roles it’s part of his lifestyle. He emphasizes strength, consistency, and mental well-being as key pillars of his training.
Inspirations and Role Models
Davis has named Denzel Washington, Will Smith, and Chadwick Boseman among his acting heroes. Like them, he aspires to use his talent not just for entertainment, but also for impact. His work ethic, attention to craft, and intentional career choices reflect this vision.
He has also spoken about how watching Tom Cruise’s discipline and dedication up close while filming “Top Gun” and “Mission: Impossible” helped him level up as an actor.
Final Thoughts
Greg Tarzan Davis is more than just a Hollywood newcomer he’s a symbol of what happens when passion meets perseverance. From teaching classrooms in Louisiana to flying F/A-18 jets alongside Tom Cruise, his story is as inspiring as it is exciting.
In an industry often dominated by overnight fame and viral trends, Davis is building a long-lasting career based on grit, talent, and heart. Whether it’s a high-octane action film or a dramatic medical series, he brings depth, soul, and a human touch to every performance.