Dawnn Lewis
Biography
Dawnn Jewel Lewis (born August 13, 1961) is an American actress. She is best known for her role as Jaleesa Vinson–Taylor on the NBC television sitcom A Different World from the series beginning in 1987 until the end of its fifth season in 1992, in addition to co-writing the opening theme song for the series. Lewis's other notable roles include portraying Robin Dumars on the ABC sitcom Hangin' with Mr. Cooper for its first season (1992–93) and as Cheryl Spade in the 1988 film I'm Gonna Git You Sucka. Since then, Lewis has appeared in numerous TV series, including other sitcoms, and has also performed on stage.
Also Known As
Movie Appearances
Charlotte's Web 2: Wilbur's Great Adventure
as Bessie
2003
Writing Around the Christmas Tree
as Sharon Samuels
2021
Celebrating 100 Disney Channel Original Movies
as Self
2016
Sinbad: Where U Been?
as Self
2010
The Last Sentinel
as Angel - Tallis' Rifle (voice)
2007
Maggie Simpson in "Rogue Not Quite One"
as Additional Voices (voice)
2023
The Poof Point
as Marigold Ballard
2001
For Gunter’s Eyes Only
as (voice)
2022
Let It Shine
as Gail
2012
Bruno the Kid: The Animated Movie
as Di Archer (voice) (archive footage)
1997
Minions: The Rise of Gru
as Additional Voices (voice)
2022
Second Chances
as Maria
2013
Welcome to the Club
as Ursula / Kaa (voice)
2022
Under Pressure
as Sandy Tierra
1997
Race to Freedom: The Underground Railroad
as Minnie
1994
A Lesson in Romance
as Diane
2014
Megachurch Murder
as Lucille Williams
2015
Dreamgirls
as Melba Early
2006
The Adventures of Brer Rabbit
as Mom (voice)
2006
Blackjack Christmas
as Corrine Allen
2022
TV Appearances
A Different World
as Jaleesa Vinson-Taylor
1987
Medical Investigation
as Dr. Burton
2004
Futurama
as LaBarbara Conrad (voice)
1999
Andy Richter Controls the Universe
2002
Dream On
as Rema Hort
1990
Static Shock
as Brickhouse (voice)
2000
Sliders
as Dr. Natalie Sylvius
1995
Early Edition
as Gayle Clark
1996
King of the Hill
as Sharona Johnson (voice)
1997
The Jamie Foxx Show
as Dr. Kanella
1996
Girlfriends
as Linda Dent
2000
CSI: NY
as Waitress
2004