Afton Williamson was born on July 17, 1985 in Toledo, Ohio. She attended Eastern Michigan University where she earned her undergraduate degree before continuing her education at the prestigious Alabama Shakespeare Festival where she obtained her Master's degree.
Williamson's acting career took off with a role in the ABC police procedural series The Rookie, where she portrayed the character of Police Officer Talia Bishop. She later appeared in the 2019 Netflix film Otherhood as Julia. Her talent caught the attention of HBO, leading to a part in the limited series The Night Of, where she played Officer Wiggins.
Despite her success, Williamson faced a difficult decision when she publicly revealed that she had quit The Rookie due to issues of racial discrimination, sexual harassment, and assault. Her bravery in speaking out shed light on the ongoing challenges faced by women in the entertainment industry.
Williamson's dedication to her craft is evident in her commitment to her work, as demonstrated by her role as an understudy to Kerry Washington in the 2010 Broadway play Race. She eventually succeeded Washington in the role of Susan, showcasing her talent and versatility as an actress.
Throughout her career, Williamson has proven herself to be a talented and resilient actress who is unafraid to confront challenges head-on. Her courage in speaking out against injustice serves as an inspiration to others in the industry.
As Afton Williamson continues to make her mark in Hollywood, her work serves as a testament to her talent and determination. With each new role, she continues to captivate audiences and push boundaries in pursuit of her craft.