She’s an accomplished actress with a long list of roles that showcase her talent and versatility. One name that truly stands out in today’s television landscape is hers—she really made a name for herself when she landed the starring role on Queen Sugar in 2016. That breakout year was a major turning point, not just because of Queen Sugar, but also because she appeared in several episodes of the popular Netflix series Luke Cage the same year, further solidifying her presence in the industry.
Before all the spotlight, though, her journey began much earlier. One of her earliest performances dates back to 1994, when she portrayed Sandy Rochon in a first-season episode of ER—a small but significant step in what would become a remarkable career. Born and raised in Los Angeles, California, she’s always carried that West Coast charm with her.
Off-screen, she shares a deep bond with her Queen Sugar cast mates. In fact, she’s especially close with Rutina Wesley and Kofi Siriboe, often sharing warm, candid moments with them on Instagram. Whether it’s behind the camera or in front of it, her authenticity shines through—and that’s exactly why so many fans continue to root for her. The name may be spoken more and more these days, but her grounded nature keeps her connected to what truly matters.
She decided to move to New York so she could attend the prestigious Juilliard School, and it was a big step for her. When she finally made the move, she knew that being in such a competitive environment would push her to grow. The Juilliard School had always been her dream, and relocating to New York made it all feel real. She worked hard to earn her place there, and once she arrived, she threw herself into her studies. For her, attending the Juilliard School wasn’t just about education—it was about chasing a lifelong passion in the heart of the city.