His mother, Marilyn Wilson, worked as a teacher, and her assignments took the family overseas to countries such as Denmark and Bahrain. Shemar spent part of his early education in Denmark before returning to the United States in 1977. He completed his high school education at Gunn High School in Palo Alto, California.

Moore later attended Santa Clara University on a partial baseball scholarship. While there, he majored in Communications and minored in Theater Arts. His initial aspiration was to become a professional Major League Baseball pitcher, but a shoulder injury prematurely ended that dream.

Introduction to Modeling and Early Career Struggles

During his college years, Shemar Moore took up modeling jobs to help offset tuition costs. After his baseball setback, he leaned into performing arts, combining his theater studies and growing interest in media. Encouraged by positive modeling feedback and a passion for entertainment, he moved to New York City to pursue a career as a media personality.

In the early stages of his career, Moore faced significant challenges. He waited tables to make ends meet while attending auditions. His initial break came when he appeared in an advertisement for shaving cream in GQ magazine. This exposure led to additional auditions for television and film roles. Determined to improve his craft, Moore hired acting coach Steven Anderson. Financial difficulties soon followed, but he persisted in his pursuit of acting.