Born in Tryon, North Carolina, she began her acting career in the late 1980s. She gained recognition for her role as a series regular on the television show "In the Heat of the Night," portraying Luann Corbin. Expanding her talents to the stage, she has also appeared in numerous theater productions. She achieved further acclaim with her role in the Tyler Perry series "The Haves and the Have Nots." Her film credits include "Driving Miss Daisy" and "A Fall from Grace." She is known for her compelling performances and dynamic presence.