Deidrie Henry, a multifaceted individual, was born in Barbados and later relocated to the United States with her family in the late 1970s. As a student at Atlanta's Avondale High School, Henry showcased her remarkable range of talents, excelling academically, musically, dramatically, athletically, and in various extracurricular activities. Her unique blend of competitiveness and collaboration, fierce determination and friendly demeanor, made her a formidable force.
Initially, Henry aimed to pursue a career as a commercial airline pilot, earning her degree in aeronautical science and a pilot's license from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Florida. However, she graduated just as Eastern Airlines, her anticipated employer, was facing financial difficulties and eventually ceased operations.
Undeterred, Henry redirected her energies towards a career in theatre, performing in various productions across the United States, Europe, and Africa. Her accomplishments include winning the Backstage Bistro Award for Outstanding Vocalist and Cabaret Debut in New York, as well as making a living performing Shakespeare, August Wilson, and Chekhov in Oregon. In Paris, she sang in a cabaret, toured with an African band, and even recorded music.
Since relocating to Los Angeles in 2004, Henry has enjoyed a thriving career in both stage and screen productions. She has toured the country with award-winning shows, been cast in memorable television series, and has won numerous accolades, including the LA Tony Award for Best Actress and the NAACP Image Award. Her stage credits include lead roles in "Raisin in the Sun," "Streetcar Named Desire," "Yellowman," "Lady Day at Emerson's Bar and Grill," and "The Ballad of Emmett Till," among many others.
Henry has also made a name for herself in television, appearing in shows such as "MacGyver," "Game of Silence," "Criminal Minds," "Justified," "CSI," "Bones," "Ghost Whisperer," "The Riches," "Brothers and Sisters," "E.R.," "Shark," "Without A Trace," and "NCIS." In addition to her acting credits, Henry is also known as the long-time TV spokesperson for Popeye's Chicken, playing the role of "Annie."
