Born and raised in Los Angeles, California, she is an exotic mix of Russian, German, and African-American - and was the face of the African-American Barbie doll as a child.
She is a graduate of the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, is a California Arts Scholar, and has studied at several other respected theatrical institutions such as Cal Arts, University of the Arts (Philadelphia), and the National Theatre Education Space in London. She continues expanding her artistry and knowledge of the craft with some of the most venerated professionals in the business.
Since she knew what she was born to do at the tender age of seven, she also attended a performing arts high school so that she could hone and focus her craft, although she also excelled academically. Encouraged and inspired by the likes of Fassbinder, Vincent Gallo, Gena Rowlands, John Cassavetes, Pam Grier, Nina Simone, Basquiat, Nietzsche, and Black Flag, she aspires to not just be another working actress, but a great artist. She trained extensively as a classical ballet artist because she found the movement, grace, and gesture that would help to further her artistic sensibilities.
She appears as Case Model #25 on "Deal or No Deal." A true humanitarian, she enjoys doing the show because she loves watching people's dreams become reality!
1. Are there particular qualities you like in a contestant?
Definitely! I love contestants who have a great reason for why they need a million dollars. a genuinely touching reason that will enrich lives. I also love people who are fun and passionate and don't get whiny if they hit some of the cases containing the higher amounts.
2. Do you have a favorite contestant, and who was it?
Of course! My girl Anteia Greer! We're still friends and talk all the time. It may be Season 3 but guess what??! It's STILL all about the FRO!!
3. How tough is it to stand in place for the entire taping? Is there something like martial arts training for long-term smiling?
What the home audience doesn't see is that we dance during the commercial breaks or lie down on the stage and take off our shoes. We have fun! And as far as the smiling, that's not so bad because usually we are actually talking but without moving our lips!
4. What was your most embarrassing moment on the show?
I can't believe I'm gonna admit this, but it was after my case was called and I fell down the stairs. I fell so hard that I broke my case! They had to stop taping!
5. What would you like to be doing next in your career?
All I've ever seen myself doing or want to do is act.
6. What do you like doing most with your free time?
I don't have a lot of it. I have a lot going on with my acting right now, so I'm really thankful! But, the little time I do get, I love to hang out with my boyfriend and two dogs and watch "To Catch a Predator". I don't know what it is about that show, but I love it!
7. What one person, besides your parents, has had the most influence on your life? Why?
God. He has blessed me beyond my wildest dreams!
8. Where are you from originally? (If not from Los Angeles) What brought you to Los Angeles?
L.A. baby!
9. What has been a particularly memorable experience in your life, something that really stood out?
This past year really. My dreams are really starting to manifest and it's just been really exciting!
10. Now for the important questions: what was your favorite television show when you were ten?
"Saved by the Bell" and "Clarissa Explains It All." Don't tell anyone, but I just recently bought both on DVD! I still credit "Clarissa Explains It All" for my love of fashion, and one day I will have a small alligator named Elvis just like her!
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