Anna Deavere Smith

Anna Deavere Smith

Born:September 18, 1950

Place of Birth:Baltimore, Maryland, USA

Known For:Acting

Biography

Anna Deavere Smith, born on September 18, 1950, is a multifaceted talent in the world of entertainment and academia. Beyond her impressive acting skills, Smith is also a renowned playwright and professor. Her diverse talents have earned her the prestigious position of artist in residence at the Center for American Progress, where she continues to inspire and educate through her work.

With a career spanning decades, Anna Deavere Smith has made a lasting impact on both stage and screen. Her ability to embody a wide range of characters with depth and authenticity sets her apart as a truly gifted actress. Known for her powerful performances, Smith captivates audiences with her ability to bring complex and nuanced characters to life.

In addition to her acting prowess, Anna Deavere Smith is a celebrated playwright, crafting compelling narratives that delve into important social and political issues. Through her work, she shines a light on the human experience, sparking conversations and provoking thought among audiences. Smith's plays are a reflection of her deep understanding of the world around her and her commitment to using art as a tool for change.

Beyond her creative endeavors, Anna Deavere Smith is also a dedicated professor, sharing her knowledge and passion for the arts with aspiring talent. Her role as an educator allows her to shape the next generation of performers and storytellers, passing on her wisdom and experience to future generations. Smith's impact extends far beyond the stage, influencing and inspiring countless individuals along the way.

As the artist in residence at the Center for American Progress, Anna Deavere Smith continues to push boundaries and challenge conventions through her work. Her unique perspective and unwavering dedication to her craft make her a true trailblazer in the entertainment industry. Smith's contributions to the arts and academia have earned her a well-deserved reputation as a visionary talent with a profound impact on the world around her.

Whether she is captivating audiences with her performances, enlightening students in the classroom, or advocating for social change, Anna Deavere Smith remains a force to be reckoned with. Her fearless approach to storytelling and her commitment to amplifying diverse voices have solidified her status as a true icon in the entertainment world. Smith's legacy is one of innovation, integrity, and unwavering passion for her craft.

In a career marked by excellence and innovation, Anna Deavere Smith continues to defy expectations and push boundaries. Her work serves as a testament to the power of art to provoke thought, inspire change, and illuminate the human experience. Smith's impact on the world of entertainment and academia is immeasurable, leaving a lasting legacy that will continue to resonate for years to come.

As she navigates the intersection of art, activism, and education, Anna Deavere Smith remains a beacon of creativity and courage. Her unwavering commitment to using her talents for the greater good sets her apart as a true visionary in her field. Smith's influence reaches far beyond the stage, touching the hearts and minds of all who have the privilege of experiencing her work.

Anna Deavere Smith's journey is a testament to the transformative power of storytelling and the enduring impact of art on society. Her ability to inhabit characters with depth and authenticity has earned her critical acclaim and widespread admiration. As she continues to inspire audiences and students alike, Smith's legacy as a groundbreaking artist and educator only continues to grow.

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Anna Deavere Smith
Anna Deavere Smith
Anna Deavere Smith

Filmography

Acting

Ghosted

Ghosted

Claudia Yates

2023

Salt-of-the-earth Cole falls head over heels for enigmatic Sadie—but then makes the shocking discovery that she's a secret agent. Before they can decide on a second date, Cole and Sadie are swept away on an international adventure to save the world.
The Kingdom

The Kingdom

Maricella Canavesio

2007

A team of U.S. government agents is sent to investigate the bombing of an American facility in the Middle East.
Philadelphia

Philadelphia

Anthea Burton

1993

Two competing lawyers join forces to sue a prestigious law firm for AIDS discrimination. As their unlikely friendship develops their courage overcomes the prejudice and corruption of their powerful adversaries.
Rent

Rent

Mrs. Jefferson

2005

This rock opera tells the story of one year in the life of a group of bohemians struggling in late 1980s East Village, New York, USA. The film centers around Mark and Roger, two roommates. While a tragedy has made Roger numb to new experiences, Mark begins capturing their world through his attempts to make a personal movie. In the year that follows, they and their friends deal with love, loss, and working together.
The Manchurian Candidate

The Manchurian Candidate

Political Pundit

2004

Years after his squad was ambushed during the Gulf War, Major Ben Marco finds himself having terrible nightmares. He begins to doubt that his fellow squad-mate Sergeant Raymond Shaw, now a vice-presidential candidate, is the hero he remembers him being. As Marco's doubts deepen, Shaw's political power grows, and, when Marco finds a mysterious implant embedded in his back, the memory of what really happened begins to return.
Dave

Dave

Mrs. Travis

1993

A sweet-natured Temp Agency operator and amateur Presidential look-alike is recruited by the Secret Service to become a temporary stand-in for the President of the United States.
The American President

The American President

Robin McCall

1995

Widowed U.S. president Andrew Shepherd, one of the world's most powerful men, can have anything he wants -- and what he covets most is Sydney Ellen Wade, a Washington lobbyist. But Shepherd's attempts at courting her spark wild rumors and decimate his approval ratings.
Rachel Getting Married

Rachel Getting Married

Carol

2008

A young woman who has been in and out from rehab for the past 10 years returns home for the weekend for her sister's wedding.
Cry_Wolf

Cry_Wolf

Headmaster Tinsley

2005

After a local woman is murdered, a group of teenage liars create a warning e-mail of a serial killer named “The Wolf”, coming on the next full moon. The teens describe each death method The Wolf uses, but when the described victims actually do start turning up dead, suddenly no one knows where the lies end and the truth begins.
Can You Ever Forgive Me?

Can You Ever Forgive Me?

Elaine

2018

When a bestselling celebrity biographer is no longer able to get published because she has fallen out of step with current tastes, she turns her art form to deception.

Production