Biografía
Rolonda's name, face, and unique voice have become familiar to audiences worldwide through her many Emmy-winning achievements across television, radio, film, theater, digital media, stand-up comedy, motivational speaking, and as the bestselling author of Destiny Lingers, her acclaimed romance suspense novel endorsed by Dr. Maya Angelou.
Known simply as Rolonda, she launched her internationally syndicated talk show (1994-1998), produced by King World and Watts Works Productions. Following the show, she moved to Hollywood to pursue acting. Her breakthrough came in 1997 with a recurring role as Vivica Shaw on the popular series Sister, Sister.
Watts went on to secure numerous roles in various television series, including Criminal Minds, Bull, Sister, Sister, and soap operas such as Days of Our Lives and The Bold and the Beautiful.
Her distinctive deep, rich, raspy voice is highly recognized in voiceover work, lending her talents to projects like voicing Professor Wiseman on Curious George (PBS), as well as characters in The Penguins of Madagascar, Lego City Adventures, Kung Fu Panda, The Proud Family, Tyler Perry's Medea's Tough Love, and many others.
Rolonda has returned to daytime television as the announcer and promo voice for Sherri Shepherd's talk show, Sherri. Sherri often calls her a "daytime talk show legend" and invited her to be a comedy judge for Sherri's Funny Over 50 Comedy Contest, showcasing Rolonda's sharp wit and comedic skills.
The year 2024 has been remarkable for Rolonda, with her career busier than ever. She stars as Lucille, the sassy and loving family matriarch, in the Bounce TV comedy series Mind Your Business.
Additionally, Rolonda will have a recurring role in the upcoming second season of the Netflix sitcom Survival of the Thickest. This year also marks a significant milestone as The National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences inducted her into the Silver Honor Society for lifetime achievements in television at the 2024 Emmys.
"Being honored by the academy for my 40 years of television work is a dream come true," Rolonda said. "Whether hosting a talk show, acting in soaps, or serving as announcer or voice talent, TV is my passion, and to be recognized for that hard work means everything."
Before her talk show and acting career, Rolonda worked as an investigative reporter, anchorwoman, and producer for Inside Edition, WABC-TV Eyewitness News, WNBC, Lifetime Television, New Jersey Nightly News, and WFMY-TV.
She graduated Magna Cum Laude from Spelman College, earned a degree from Columbia University's Graduate School of Journalism, and holds an Honorary Doctorate from Winston-Salem State University.
Rolonda also shares her expertise by teaching and coaching through her Voice Acting Master Class.
