’Deyemi Okanlawon was born Adeyemi Okanlawon on April 19, in Lagos. He is the son of Adeyemi Okanlawon, an aircraft engineer, and Adeyinka Felicia Okanlawon, a baker and entrepreneur. Okanlawon attended schools in Lagos; he went to TaiKenny Nursery and Primary School, International School, and the University of Lagos, Akoka. He holds a degree in Chemical Engineering, and a certificate in Acting for Film from the New York film Academy.

Okanlawon’s first acting performance was in a school play at the age of 5. He featured in a national family planning campaign at the age of 9. While at the University of Lagos, Okanlawon was active with Gf(x), Xtreme Reaction and Snapshots theater groups. In 2010, Okanlawon made his acting debut in ‘’ZR-7’’, and by 2012, he has gained recognition for his online appearances in several short films and web series.

Prior to his career as an actor, Okanlawon worked as a Sales and Marketing Executive for Baker’s World cupcakes until his decision to fully change careers in 2013. Okanlawon has gained repute on stage, TV, and films. He is known for ‘’Grain of Wheat’’ (short film, 2010), ‘’Dependence’’ (short film, 2011), ‘’6:30 PM’’ (short film, 2012), ‘’Blink’’ (short film, 2012), ‘’Journey to Self’’ (2012), ‘’Kpians: The Feast of Souls’’ (2014), ‘’Gidi Up’’ (TV and web series, 2013-present), ‘’Oblivious’’ (2013), ‘’A Place Called Happy’’ (2014), ‘’Perfect Imperfection’’ (2014), ‘’Lekki Wives: Season 3’’ (TV series, 2014), ‘’Friends and Lovers’’ (2014), ‘’A Few Good Men’’ (2014), ‘’Vanity’s Last Game’’ (2014), ‘’Dowry’’ (TV series, 2014-2015), ‘’ Road to Yesterday’’ (2015), ‘’If Tomorrow Never Comes’’ (2015), ‘’All of Me’’ (2015), ‘’Undercover Lover’’ (2015), ‘’It’s About Your Husband’’ (2016), ‘’Beyond Blood’’ (2016), ‘’Madam Caitlyn’’ (2016), ‘’Asawana’’ (2016), ‘’Dinner’’ (2016), and ‘’The Royal Hibiscus Hotel’’ (2018).

Okanlawon is married to Damilola Okanlawon (m. 2013), and has two children: sons, Ademide and Adeife.