Person · Actor
Anna Deavere Smith
A pioneering actress, playwright, and professor navigates the highs and lows of her trailblazing career in Hollywood and academia, facing challenges that test her artistry, identity, and perseverance.
- Also:
- Actress
- Writer
- Producer
In short · Acting since 1987, 5 decades active, 24 credits.
Known for
Ranked by community engagement + sustained interest across this person's credits in our database.
Biography
Anna Deavere Smith (born September 18, 1950) is an American actress, playwright, and professor. She is currently the artist in residence at the Center for American Progress.
Filmography · 24 of 24
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Actor
24 credits
Pendulum(2027)
Cora
Film
Inventing Anna(2022)
Maud
TV
Flora & Ulysses(2021)
Dr. Meescham
Film
Radio Play Revival(2021)
Actor
TV
A West Wing Special to Benefit When We All Vote(2020)
Nancy McNally
Film
Notes from the Field(2018)
Actor
Film
For the People(2018)
Tina Krissman
TV
Can You Ever Forgive Me?(2018)
Elaine
FilmTED Talks(2016)
Actor
TV
DC's Legends of Tomorrow(2016)
Older Kendra (1 Episode)
TV
Seizing Justice: The Greensboro 4(2010)
Narrator
Film
Nurse Jackie(2009)
Gloria Akalitus
TV
Rachel Getting Married(2008)
Carol
Film
Life Support(2007)
Lucille
Film
The Kingdom(2007)
Maricella Canavesio
Film
Rent(2005)
Mrs. Jefferson
Film
The Manchurian Candidate(2004)
Political Pundit
Film
The Human Stain(2003)
Mrs. Silk
Film
Presidio Med(2002)
Dr. Letty Jordan
TV
Law and order SVU(1999)
Lucille Fenton (1 Episode)
TV
The American President(1995)
Robin McCall
Film
Dave(1993)
Mrs. Travis
Film
Philadelphia(1993)
Anthea Burton
Film
Unfinished Business(1987)
Anna
Film
Awards & Nominations
6 nominationsScreen Actors Guild Award
- Nom2013Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series — Anna Deavere Smith
More awards & festivals (5) — regional academies & film-festival prizes
Naacp Image Award
- Nom2014Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series — Anna Deavere Smith
- Nom2013Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series — Anna Deavere Smith
- Nom2011Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series — Anna Deavere Smith
- Nom2004Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series — Anna Deavere Smith
- Nom2003Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series — Anna Deavere Smith
Originals
Streaming originals this person worked on.
Representation
- Agent
Gersh Agency· Updated Jun 10, 2026
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