Rutina Wesley is a talented actress, born in the vibrant city of Las Vegas, Nevada, where she was exposed to the arts from a very young age. Her father, Ivery Wheeler, is a renowned tap dancer, and her mother, Cassandra Wesley, performed as a showgirl on the Vegas strip. Rutina's passion for dance led her to study it for years, and she eventually earned an undergraduate degree in Theatre Performance from the University of Evansville in Indiana.
Her academic achievements did not go unnoticed, as she was accepted into the prestigious Juilliard School. During her time at Juilliard, she had the opportunity to spend a summer at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, further honing her craft. It was during this period that she reconnected with her Juilliard classmate, Nelsan Ellis, who would later become her co-star on the hit HBO series True Blood.
After leaving Juilliard, Rutina made her Broadway debut in the production of David Hare's play, "The Vertical Hour," opposite Bill Nighy. She then appeared in the Public Theater production of "In Darfur," showcasing her versatility as an actress. Her early film credits include a small role in the hit movie Hitch, which was ultimately cut from the final version, as well as a role in the dance melodrama How She Move.
Rutina's breakthrough role came when she was cast as Tara Thornton in the HBO series True Blood, which is based on the Sookie Stackhouse Southern Vampire literary series by Charlaine Harris. Conceived for the small screen by Alan Ball, the show premiered in 2008 and quickly gained a cult following. Rutina's portrayal of Tara, a complex character with a sharp tongue and tough exterior, but vulnerable heart, was widely praised by critics and audiences alike.
True Blood's success was a surprise to many, as the show's unique blend of drama, romance, and horror resonated with viewers. Rutina's performance as Tara was a key factor in the show's popularity, and she has become a fan favorite. The show's success has led to Rutina being recognized as one of the most talented young actresses in Hollywood, and she is expected to continue making waves in the entertainment industry in the years to come.
