Harriet Rene "Khandi" Alexander, born on September 4, 1957, in New York City, is an accomplished American dancer, choreographer, and actress known for her dynamic presence on both stage and screen. With a career spanning several decades, she has made significant contributions to the entertainment industry, earning acclaim for her roles in television and film, as well as her work as a choreographer.

Khandi Alexander grew up in a creative environment, influenced by her father, Henry Roland Alexander, and her mother, Alverina Yavonna Masters. She began her career in the 1980s as a dancer, quickly establishing herself in the industry. Her talents were recognized early on, and she became a choreographer for renowned singer Whitney Houston during her world tours from 1988 to 1992. This experience not only showcased her dance skills but also introduced her to the world of performance on an international scale.

In the 1990s, Alexander transitioned into acting, appearing in several notable films. She had roles in CB4 (1993) and What's Love Got to Do with It (1993), where she portrayed the character of Tina Turner's mother. Her filmography continued to grow with performances in Sugar Hill (1994) and There's Something About Mary (1998). Alexander's versatility as an actress became evident as she took on a variety of roles that highlighted her range and depth.

One of her most significant television roles came when she starred as Catherine Duke in the NBC sitcom NewsRadio from 1995 to 1998. This role allowed her to showcase her comedic talents and further solidified her presence in the television landscape. Additionally, Alexander had a major recurring role in the acclaimed NBC medical drama ER from 1995 to 2001, where she played Jackie Robbins, the sister of Dr. Peter Benton, portrayed by Eriq La Salle. Her performance was well-received, contributing to the show's successful run.

Alexander gained critical acclaim for her leading role in the HBO miniseries The Corner in 2000, which depicted the struggles of life in a drug-ridden neighborhood. Her powerful portrayal earned her recognition and set the stage for future successes. From 2002 to 2009, she starred as Dr. Alexx Woods in the CBS police procedural series CSI: Miami, a role that further elevated her profile and showcased her ability to blend drama with a strong character presence.

In the years that followed, Alexander continued to take on challenging roles, including her portrayal of LaDonna Batiste-Williams in the HBO drama Treme from 2010 to 2013. She further captivated audiences with her role as Maya Lewis, Olivia Pope's mother, in the popular ABC drama Scandal, which aired from 2013 to 2018. Her performance in this series garnered her a Primetime Emmy Award nomination in 2015, highlighting her continued relevance in the industry.

Khandi Alexander's talent extends beyond acting; she received a Critics' Choice Television Award nomination for her role as Viola, Bessie Smith's sister, in the 2015 HBO film Bessie. This recognition affirmed her status as a versatile and respected figure in entertainment.

As of now, Khandi Alexander continues to be a prominent figure in the industry, celebrated for her contributions as a dancer, choreographer, and actress. Her journey through the world of performing arts remains an inspiring testament to her dedication and talent, making her a noteworthy figure in American entertainment history.