Carolyn Michelle Smith, a groundbreaking individual of Trinidadian-American heritage, was born in the nation's capital, Washington, DC. Her formative years were characterized by an international private elementary school education within the Washington, DC metropolitan area. A significant figure in her early life was her mother, Carol Angela Smith, a dedicated and hardworking legal secretary who devoted herself to her profession with unwavering commitment. In stark contrast, Carolyn's father, Mervyn Thompson, toiled away as a factory worker, while simultaneously nurturing his passion for music by honing his skills as a flutist.
Carolyn embarked on a captivating and intriguing academic journey, which ultimately led her to the prestigious Fordham University at Lincoln Center in the vibrant city of New York, where she accomplished the impressive feat of earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theatre, a testament to her academic prowess and dedication.
Carolyn's extraordinary academic prowess and impressive educational background empowered her to secure a full scholarship to the esteemed Juilliard School in New York City, a globally recognized institution of higher learning revered for its demanding academic programs and faculty comprising distinguished experts in their respective fields.
Following her academic tenure at the prestigious Juilliard institution, Carolyn's exceptional aptitude and expertise garnered her the privilege of sharing the stage with renowned theatrical organizations, including the esteemed Williamstown Theatre Festival, a revered summer stock theatre company located in the picturesque state of Massachusetts, which has historically served as a springboard for numerous illustrious careers within the entertainment industry.
Carolyn's illustrious career boasts a remarkable array of performances with The Old Globe Theatre in San Diego, a prestigious regional theatre company that has garnered widespread acclaim for its groundbreaking productions and steadfast dedication to artistic mastery.
Beyond her notable collaborations with prominent organizations, Carolyn has been privileged to take the stage at the renowned Barrow Street Theatre, a celebrated Off-Broadway venue celebrated for its diverse array of productions and cozy ambiance, offering a unique and captivating performance experience.
Carolyn's exceptional skill and unwavering commitment to her craft culminated in her securing a coveted role in the 2013 Broadway production of the timeless and iconic tragedy "Romeo and Juliet", a masterpiece of dramatic storytelling that has captivated audiences for centuries, boasting an esteemed cast featuring the renowned Orlando Bloom and the accomplished Condola Rashad.
Carolyn's extraordinary transformation from a background player to a leading figure in the world of entertainment was profoundly marked by her groundbreaking debut alongside the illustrious Robin Wright in the universally acclaimed television series "House of Cards", where she impressively breathed life into the complex and dynamic character of "Willa", the astute and vibrant Chief of Staff to the enigmatic and captivating Claire Underwood.
As her professional journey continues to evolve and mature, Carolyn's impressive career trajectory now finds her maintaining a dual residence in two of the world's most iconic and culturally vibrant cities, Los Angeles and New York.
