DeWanda Wise

DeWanda Wise, born as DeWanda Jackson born on May 30, 1984, is an acclaimed American actress. She is particularly famous for starring in Spike Lee's Netflix comedy-drama series She's Gotta Have It (2017–19), a contemporary take on Lee's 1986 film. Hailing from Jessup, Maryland, she was raised in multiple Maryland locales such as Woodlawn, Laurel, and Baltimore. Her acting journey began during her sophomore year at Atholton High School, where she received a part in a production as opposed to detention. In 2006, Wise graduated from New York University's Tisch School of the Arts, earning a Bachelor's in fine arts in drama and urban studies. A close friend of hers during her undergraduate years was Gina Rodriguez.

Her acting career initially consisted of appearances on TV series like Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, The Good Wife, and Boardwalk Empire. She made a film debut with the 2007 drama Spinning into Butter, and later scored roles in Steam (2007) and Precious (2009). Wise landed a leading role in the Netflix series She's Gotta Have It in 2017, which was unfortunately canceled in 2019. Despite this setback, she went on to work in projects like The Weekend, Someone Great for Netflix, and Jurassic World Dominion. Off-screen, Wise leads a vegan lifestyle and is based out of Pasadena, California.