Vanessa Williams

About

Vanessa Williams is an American singer, actress, and fashion designer. She is best known as the first African American woman to win the Miss America pageant in 1984. She has since gone on to achieve success as an actress, most notably for her lead role in Ugly Betty. Her musical career has seen success with her debut album, The Right Stuff, going platinum in 1988.

Vanessa Williams Timeline

1963

Vanessa Williams is Born

On March 18, 1963, Vanessa Williams was born in The Bronx, New York.

1983

Wins Miss America

Vanessa Williams becomes the first African American woman to be crowned Miss America.

1988

Debut Album Release

Williams releases her debut studio album, "The Right Stuff".

1991

Grammy Nomination

She receives her first Grammy nomination for the album "The Comfort Zone".

2000

Broadway Debut

Williams makes her Broadway debut in the revival of "Kiss of the Spider Woman".

2006

Stars in "Ugly Betty"

She stars as Wilhelmina Slater in the hit TV show "Ugly Betty".

2012

Joins "666 Park Avenue"

Williams joins the cast of ABC's supernatural drama "666 Park Avenue".

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Vanessa Williams birthday?

Vanessa Williams was born on March 18, 1963 and is currently 60 years old. She is best known for her starring role in the sitcom Ugly Betty and for her prolific career in theater. In 1984, Williams became the first African-American woman to be crowned Miss America.