The daughter of two music teachers, Vanessa Williams is a singer and actress who first gained fame as the first African American Miss America. In 1988, she released her first album and went on to have great success with singles such as "Running Back To You", "Save The Best For Last", and "Colors Of The Wind". In the 1990s, she starred in the films Eraser and Soul Food and performed on Broadway in Kiss Of The Spider Woman. In 2000, she was nominated for a Tony award for her performance in Into The Woods. Her TV career has included roles on The Love Boat, The Fresh Prince Of Bel Air, and Ally McBeal. She is now enjoying renewed success with her role on the TV hit, Ugly Betty.
