Charlayne Woodard was born on December 29, 1953 in Albany, New York. She was raised in Albany and from a young age, she had a passion for performing arts. She began her training at the prestigious Goodman School of Drama, where she honed her acting skills and developed a love for the stage.
Woodard made her television debut in 1978 in the show Cindy, where she played the title character. This marked the beginning of her successful acting career. In 1982, she ventured into feature films, making her debut in Hard Feelings. Her talent and versatility quickly caught the attention of audiences and critics alike.
Woodard's breakthrough came when she landed recurring roles on popular television series such as ER, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, and Roseanne. Her captivating performances earned her accolades, including an Obie Award for her roles in The Witch of Edmonton and In The Blood. She also delved into playwriting, penning acclaimed plays like Pretty Fire and In Real Life.
Throughout her career, Woodard has received numerous nominations and awards for her outstanding work. In 1978, she was nominated for a Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Musical for her role in Ain't Misbehavin'. She was also nominated for a Genie Award in 1983 for Best Performance by a Foreign Actress in Hard Feelings. Woodard's talent and dedication to her craft have solidified her status as a respected actress in the entertainment industry.
Woodard married Alan Michael Harris in 1991 and the couple has shared a life together filled with love and support. Despite her demanding career, Woodard has always made time for her family and values the bond they share.
Charlayne Woodard's journey from a young aspiring actress to a seasoned performer is a testament to her talent and dedication. Her presence both on stage and screen has left a lasting impact on audiences worldwide, and her legacy continues to inspire aspiring artists to pursue their dreams.