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Ciera Payton is a versatile actress, philanthropist, writer, educator, and entrepreneur.
Early Life
Growing up in the vibrant city of New Orleans, surrounded by street performers, artists, and unique cuisine, Ciera found solace in art amid a challenging home environment. Her innate passion for storytelling, creative writing, performing, and filmmaking would ultimately shape her career.
Career Beginnings
Following Hurricane Katrina, Ciera and her family moved to North Carolina, where she earned a BFA from the University of North Carolina School of the Arts. During her time at UNCSA, she secured her first leading role opposite Steven Seagal in the action film Flight of Fury. Since then, she has appeared alongside notable actors such as Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, Nicolas Cage, Kevin Hart, and Josh Brolin.
Acting Highlights
Ciera’s credits include AMC's The Walking Dead, USA Network's Graceland, Spike Lee's Oldboy, and the web series First, acquired by the Issa Rae Network. She stars as Lilly Winthrop, a fashion designer and wife of the chief of staff, in Tyler Perry's The Oval, a 22-episode series that followed her breakout role as Sylvia in A Madea Family Funeral. Her work also includes appearances in the second season of Spike Lee's She's Gotta Have It and Amazon's supernatural thriller The Manor.
In Lifetime’s biopic Wendy Williams: The Movie, Ciera delivered a compelling portrayal of the iconic talk show host, a role that fans enthusiastically supported on social media.
Philanthropy and Advocacy
Ciera transformed her experiences into a one-woman show titled Michael's Daughter. Recognizing a shared struggle among family members of the incarcerated, she created the Michael's Daughter Project to provide healing and a voice for these individuals.
The initiative grew alongside its community, leading Ciera to establish The Michael's Daughter Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization where she serves as president.
Motivation and Outreach
Dedicated to inspiring others to thrive regardless of their circumstances, Ciera also runs The In Trive - The Inspired Thriving Tribe, a lifestyle website featuring uplifting stories and advice on wellness, fashion, and beauty from her and contributing writers.
Personal Life and Passions
When not working on screen or supporting others through her foundation, Ciera enjoys exploring plant-based recipes and restaurants, practicing meditation, dancing at intimate gatherings, and hiking the nature trails of California.
Ciera Payton’s dynamic presence and genuine spirit continue to elevate her career as an actor, writer, producer, and creator, while embodying her mission to inspire and uplift those around her.
