Ursula Kodjoe may not be a celebrity in the traditional sense, but her presence is deeply woven into the success story of her son, actor and model Boris Kodjoe. A dedicated psychologist and mother, Ursula has led a life of quiet influence, steering clear of the spotlight while raising a family rooted in values, education, and emotional strength. Born in 1956 in Germany, Ursula is now 69 years old and continues to be an inspiring example of how profound an impact a nurturing parent can have—even away from public view.
Early Life and Cultural Roots
Ursula Kodjoe was born in post-World War II Germany, a country undergoing massive social and cultural transformation. Her upbringing in this transitional period likely shaped her thoughtful, introspective character. Of Jewish heritage, Ursula’s background adds depth to her story, suggesting a lineage shaped by resilience, identity, and an understanding of historical challenges. However, she has intentionally kept most details of her early life private, contributing to the air of quiet dignity that surrounds her.
This preference for privacy is something Ursula has carried throughout her life. Despite being the mother of a Hollywood star, she remains largely absent from interviews and media coverage. Her story has unfolded mostly through the words and admiration of her children, especially Boris.
A Career in Psychology and Social Pedagogy
Ursula chose a career path centered on compassion and understanding. She pursued studies in psychology and social pedagogy, building a profession dedicated to helping individuals and families navigate emotional complexities. Her work, while not high-profile, has been rooted in making a real difference—particularly in family counseling and issues surrounding divorce and separation.
Throughout her career, Ursula focused on fostering emotional health and resilience, both in her clients and at home. Though she never sought accolades or attention for her professional life, those close to her recognize her work as meaningful and transformative. Her calm, private demeanor is likely a product of decades spent guiding others through challenging emotional terrain.
Family Life and Marriage to Eric Kodjoe
Ursula married Eric Kodjoe, a Ghanaian physician whose career in medicine mirrored Ursula’s dedication to service. The couple had four children, including their most well-known son, Boris Kodjoe, born in 1973. Their marriage eventually ended in divorce when Boris was around six years old. Despite the separation, both Ursula and Eric maintained a strong focus on their children’s well-being, successfully co-parenting with mutual respect.
Ursula’s role as a mother was central. After the divorce, she raised her children in Germany, balancing her professional commitments with a deep sense of responsibility at home. Her parenting style emphasized discipline, compassion, and strong moral grounding—all of which are reflected in Boris’s public character today.
The Bond with Boris Kodjoe
Boris Kodjoe has often spoken publicly about the respect and admiration he holds for his mother. He credits Ursula for instilling in him the values of perseverance, humility, and empathy. Their bond remains close, and Boris has occasionally shared photos and heartfelt captions about her on social media, providing rare glimpses into their family life.
Despite Boris’s fame in Hollywood—with roles in Soul Food, Brown Sugar, Station 19, and The Last Man on Earth—Ursula has remained behind the scenes. She has attended a few red-carpet events but largely avoids the media. Her decision to remain private highlights a deep-seated belief that parenting and personal integrity matter more than public praise.
A Life Lived with Purpose
While not much is known about Ursula’s personal hobbies or current activities, it is evident that she lives by a steady and consistent set of values. Her professional career in psychology, combined with her dedication as a mother, reflects a life rooted in service and stability. She is known for being thoughtful, disciplined, and emotionally intelligent—traits that helped her raise successful and well-rounded children.
As of 2025, Ursula Kodjoe’s estimated net worth is believed to be between $200,000 and $400,000, accumulated through her long-standing career in psychology. She has never capitalized on her son’s fame and remains financially independent, choosing a life of modesty and principle over public exposure.
The Lasting Impact of Quiet Influence
What makes Ursula Kodjoe’s story particularly compelling is that she proves how powerful a quiet life can be. She has never chased attention or tried to monetize her proximity to fame. Instead, she has invested in people—first through her work as a psychologist and then through the nurturing of her family.
Her influence is visible in Boris Kodjoe’s career, not just in his success, but in the way he carries himself. Known for being respectful, articulate, and grounded, Boris is a reflection of his mother’s teachings and example. The values she instilled have helped him navigate both Hollywood and fatherhood with grace.