Kimberly Elise is a celebrated American actress renowned for her powerful performances in both film and television. Born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on April 17, 1967, Elise studied film and acting at the University of Minnesota, earning a BA in Mass Communications before launching her professional acting career. Her journey from the Midwest to Hollywood is marked by a string of critically acclaimed roles that showcase her versatility, emotional depth, and unwavering commitment to her craft
Elise made her feature film debut in the action-drama Set It Off (1996), a breakout role that established her as a formidable talent alongside stars like Jada Pinkett Smith, Queen Latifah, and Vivica A. Fox. Her performance as Tisean Williams in the film was both vulnerable and fierce, setting the tone for a career defined by complex, multidimensional characters. She quickly followed this with a standout role as Denver in Beloved (1998), an adaptation of Toni Morrison’s novel, which garnered her widespread critical acclaim and opened doors to a variety of challenging projects.
Kimberly Elise Movies and TV Shows Table
| Year | Title | Type | Role/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | A Snowy Day in Oakland | Film | Theona |
| 2021 | The Mosquito Coast | TV Series | Special Agent Estelle Jones |
| 2020 | Love Life | TV Series | Suzanné Hayward |
| 2019 | Carole’s Christmas | TV Movie | Carole Jordan |
| 2019 | Ad Astra | Film | Lorraine Deavers |
| 2018 | Death Wish | Film | Detective Jackson |
| 2016 | Star | TV Series | Dianne |
| 2016 | Almost Christmas | Film | Cheryl |
| 2016 | Confirmation | TV Movie | Sonia Jarvis |
| 2015 | Dope | Film | Lisa Hayes |
| 2015 | Back to School Mom | TV Movie | Mary Thomas |
| 2014 | Apple Mortgage Cake | TV Movie | Angela Logan |
| 2014 | A Day Late and a Dollar Short | TV Movie | Djanel |
| 2013 | Highland Park | Film | Toni |
| 2013 | Hit the Floor | TV Series | Sloane Hayes |
| 2013 | Alpha Alert | Film | Blau |
| 2012 | Hannah’s Law | TV Movie | Stagecoach Mary |
| 2011 | Ties That Bind | Film | Theresa Harper |
| 2010 | For Colored Girls | Film | Crystal/Brown |
| 2009 | HawthoRNe | TV Series | Cast |
| 2009 | Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story | TV Movie | Sonya Carson |
| 2007 | The Great Debaters | Film | Pearl Farmer |
| 2007 | Private Practice | TV Series | Angie Paget |
| 2007 | Masters of Science Fiction | TV Series | Cast |
| 2007 | Pride | Film | Sue Davis |
| 2005 | Close to Home | TV Series | Maureen Scofield |
| 2005 | Grey’s Anatomy | TV Series | Rebecca Swender |
| 2005 | Diary of a Mad Black Woman | Film | Helen McCarter |
| 2004 | Woman Thou Art Loosed | Film | Michelle Jordan |
| 2004 | The Manchurian Candidate | Film | Rosie |
| 2002 | The Twilight Zone | TV Series | Jasmine Gardens/Police Detective |
| 2002 | John Q | Film | Denise Archibald |
| 2001 | Bojangles | TV Movie | Fannie |
| 2000 | Bait | Film | Lisa Hill |
| 2000 | Girlfriends | TV Series | Cast |
| 2000 | Soul Food | TV Series | Estella |
| 2000 | The Loretta Claiborne Story | TV Movie | Loretta Claiborne |
| 1998 | Beloved | Film | Denver |
| 1997 | The Ditchdigger’s Daughters | TV Movie | Jeanette |
| 1996 | Set It Off | Film | Tisean Williams |
| 1996 | The Sentinel | TV Series | Candace Blake |
| 1995 | In the House | TV Series | Roulette |
| 1983 | Newton’s Apple | TV Series | Bile Duct Supervisor |
Early Life and Breakthrough
Raised in Minneapolis, Kimberly Elise’s early exposure to the arts and her academic background in mass communications laid the groundwork for a thoughtful, nuanced approach to acting. Her breakout in Set It Off was a pivotal moment, earning her instant recognition and leading to a series of roles that would define her as a leading actress capable of handling emotionally charged material.
Her role in Beloved (1998), opposite Oprah Winfrey and Danny Glover, showcased her ability to convey deep trauma, resilience, and hope. This performance solidified her reputation and led to further opportunities in both independent films and major studio productions.
Career Highlights in Film
Kimberly Elise’s filmography is marked by a range of powerful performances:
- John Q (2002): Starring alongside Denzel Washington, Elise played Denise Archibald, a mother fighting for her son’s life, in this gripping drama about healthcare and family.
- The Manchurian Candidate (2004): In this political thriller, she portrayed Rosie, adding depth to a star-studded cast.
- Diary of a Mad Black Woman (2005): Elise took the lead as Helen McCarter in Tyler Perry’s breakout film, earning acclaim for her portrayal of a woman rebuilding her life after betrayal.
- Woman Thou Art Loosed (2004): Her role as Michelle Jordan earned her an Independent Spirit Award nomination for Best Female Lead.
- The Great Debaters (2007): Elise played Pearl Farmer in the historical drama about a debate team at a historically Black college, again starring opposite Denzel Washington.
- For Colored Girls (2010): In Tyler Perry’s adaptation of Ntozake Shange’s play, she delivered a standout performance as Crystal/Brown, one of several women navigating trauma and healing.
- Dope (2015), Almost Christmas (2016), Death Wish (2018), and Ad Astra (2019): These films further showcased her range, from comedy to action and science fiction.
Television Achievements
Beyond film, Kimberly Elise has made significant contributions to television:
- Close to Home (2005–2007): Elise starred as Maureen Scofield, a dedicated prosecutor, in this CBS crime drama, earning praise for her strong, empathetic portrayal.
- Hit the Floor (2013): In the VH1 drama, she played Sloane Hayes, a former dancer and team executive, demonstrating her versatility in serialized storytelling.
- HawthoRNe (2009): Elise had a recurring role in this medical drama, further cementing her place as a dynamic TV actress.
- Guest appearances: She has appeared in acclaimed series such as Grey’s Anatomy, Private Practice, The Twilight Zone, Soul Food, Girlfriends, and The Sentinel, often taking on roles that highlight her emotional intelligence and adaptability.
Awards and Recognition
Kimberly Elise’s work has been recognized with numerous accolades, including:
- Independent Spirit Award nomination for Best Female Lead (Woman Thou Art Loosed, 2004).
- NAACP Image Awards and other honors for her contributions to African American cinema and televisio..
- Widespread critical acclaim for her ability to portray women facing adversity with dignity and strength.
Acting Style and Legacy
Elise is known for her emotionally resonant performances and her commitment to portraying authentic, complex women. Whether as a mother fighting for her child, a survivor rebuilding her life, or a professional navigating systemic challenges, Elise brings a rare depth and truth to every role.
Her legacy is not just in the range of characters she has played, but in her impact on audiences and her role as a trailblazer for Black actresses in Hollywood. She continues to inspire with her dedication, resilience, and artistry.
Conclusion
Kimberly Elise’s career is a testament to the power of talent, perseverance, and authenticity. From her breakout in Set It Off to her acclaimed performances in film and television, she has become a respected and influential figure in American entertainment. Her roles continue to resonate with audiences, and her work stands as a model of excellence and integrity in the industry.