Erica Gimpel's illustrious career began with a pivotal role as Coco Hernandez on the pioneering television series FAME, catapulting her to global recognition.
Born in the vibrant city of Manhattan, New York, Erica is the daughter of Phyllis Bash, a gifted concert singer, and Joseph Gimpel, a multifaceted actor, singer, and writer.
Her parents, Phyllis and Joseph, met and fell deeply in love at the studio of their singing teacher, a chance encounter that would change the course of their lives.
In 1963, Phyllis and Joseph took the bold step of marrying, a groundbreaking act of defiance against the societal norms of the time.
Erica's childhood was deeply infused with the rich harmonies and melodious rhythms of music, as her parents would frequently collaborate on stage, showcasing their remarkable chemistry through the iconic Gershwin classic, "Our Love is Here to Stay". This familial affinity for the performing arts would ultimately shape Erica's artistic trajectory, as she began her journey as a young chorister, singing alongside her mother in various opera productions, including the esteemed Porgy and Bess.
As she grew older, Erica's passion for acting only intensified, and at the tender age of eight, she made the bold declaration that she would dedicate her life to the craft. Her unwavering dedication would eventually lead her to secure a coveted spot in the prestigious High School of the Performing Arts' Drama Department, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey that would see her hone her skills and eventually make a lasting impact on the world of entertainment.
Erica's career-defining moment arrived when she successfully auditioned and secured the coveted role of "Coco Hernandez" in the iconic television series FAME, marking a significant turning point in her professional journey. Subsequently, she has had the privilege of starring in a wide range of prime-time and streaming productions, boasting an impressive and diverse repertoire of characters across numerous platforms.
Erica's portfolio boasts an impressive array of projects, with one of her most cherished undertakings being the portrayal of "Trish" in the CBS drama series God Friended Me, a role she diligently executed for the span of two seasons.
Erica's impressive filmography boasts a diverse array of captivating cinematic endeavors, showcasing her remarkable talent and versatility as a thespian.
One of her earliest notable roles was in the film "Tuesday Morning Ride", where she shared the screen with the incomparable Ruby Dee, a legendary actress known for her powerful performances and unwavering dedication to her craft.
In "Smoke", Erica had the privilege of working alongside the talented Forest Whitaker, an Academy Award-winning actor renowned for his nuanced and emotive portrayals of complex characters.
Her subsequent role in "The King of New York", alongside the iconic Christopher Walken, further solidified her status as a rising star in the film industry, with Walken's inimitable presence and Erica's own captivating performance making for a memorable on-screen pairing.
Erica's impressive resume also includes a turn in the critically acclaimed "No Such Thing", where she shared the screen with the esteemed Helen Mirren, a highly respected and accomplished actress known for her versatility and range.
In "Freaky Friday", Erica brought her unique charm and wit to the role opposite Jaime Lee Curtis, a beloved actress and pop culture icon, in a film that delighted audiences of all ages.
In "Romeo and Juliet in Harlem", Erica joined forces with the talented Harry Lennix and Aunjanue Ellis to bring a fresh and innovative take to the classic Shakespearean tale, infusing it with the vibrant energy and cultural nuances of Harlem.
Most recently, Erica starred alongside Tessa Thompson in the romantic drama "Sylvie's Love", a film that showcased her impressive range and emotional depth as an actress.
Looking ahead, Erica can be seen in the upcoming independent feature "Bang Bang", where she will once again share the screen with the talented Tim Blake Nelson, an actor known for his versatility and ability to bring complex characters to life.
Notable performances in Off-Broadway and Regional productions have showcased Erica's remarkable range as a versatile actress. Among her most memorable roles are Mayme, a character she originated in Lynn Nottage's celebrated play Intimate Apparel, which earned widespread critical acclaim and numerous awards. Additionally, Erica has had the privilege of sharing the stage with the esteemed John Malkovich in Sam Shepard's thought-provoking drama States of Shock, playing the complex and multifaceted character of Glory Bee.
Furthermore, Erica's talent has been recognized with the Los Angeles Stage Raw Award for Best Solo-Performance, a testament to her extraordinary skill in bringing multiple characters to life in the one-woman play Sister, penned by Michael Phillip Edwards. Her dynamic portrayal of these diverse characters has left a lasting impression on audiences and critics alike, solidifying her reputation as a talented and accomplished actress in the American theatre scene.
Erica's remarkable journey as a singer-songwriter began with the creative pursuit of producing her own music, a venture that ultimately led to her earning prestigious gold and platinum records for her exceptional vocal performances on the renowned television series FAME.
The title track from her debut album, aptly titled "Spread Your Wings and Fly", has the distinction of being featured in the critically acclaimed indie film "Hill and Gully", which proudly earned the recognition of being an Official Selection at the esteemed Pan African de Cannes film festival.
Erica, a multifaceted individual, is spearheading various projects through her own company, Womans Paradise Productions, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit and creative prowess. As a testament to her versatility, she is simultaneously preparing to take on the dual roles of director and actress in her screenplay, Rise, which is slated to commence production in the vibrant cities of New York and Martha's Vineyard.
Throughout the course of her illustrious career, Erica has consistently utilized her remarkable talents to bring attention to a diverse array of social causes that are deeply personal to her, with a primary focus on advocating for the rights of women, supporting unhoused families, and combating the alarming increase in racially motivated acts of violence perpetrated against individuals of color.
In addition to her tireless efforts to raise awareness and funds for these important issues through the creation and production of benefit concerts, Erica also dedicates a significant amount of her time and energy to sharing her expertise with and mentoring young and aspiring artists, whenever her busy schedule permits.
As a result, Erica has established herself as a true champion of social justice, using her platform to make a positive impact on the world and inspire others to do the same.
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**Person Biography**
Erica is a multifaceted individual with a passion for using her talents to make a difference in the world. With a strong commitment to social justice, she has dedicated her career to advocating for important causes and supporting those in need.
