Person Biography:
Shamika Cotton is a renowned actress, born in Cincinnati, Ohio, who pursued her passion for acting at the prestigious School for the Creative Performing Arts. Her alma mater boasts a list of notable alumni, including Sarah Jessica Parker and Rocky Carroll.
Cotton's career in acting began on stage, where she landed roles in various productions, including Ain't Supposed to Die, Medea, Vanities, Joe Turner's Come and Gone, and Iphigenia. Her performances earned her a nomination for a Drama Desk Award for Best Musical in 2004.
In 2006, Cotton became a participant in the reality series "I Wanna Be a Soap Star," where she emerged as a judge and fan favorite, finishing as a top finalist. Her success on the show led to a multi-episode arc on the CBS daytime drama "As the World Turns."
Cotton's versatility as an actor is showcased in her recurring role as Michael's drug-addicted mother in the fourth and fifth seasons of HBO's critically acclaimed drama series "The Wire." Her other television credits include a high-profile guest lead role on USA Network's "Law & Order: Criminal Intent" and a national Robitussin commercial filmed in 2006.
In addition to her television work, Cotton recently completed production on the independent short drama "Stream," executive produced by Whoopi Goldberg, Tom Leonardis, and Mitchell Reichgut. She portrays "Young Jodi," a woman played in later life by Goldberg, in this searing drama focusing on mental illness.
In her free time, Cotton enjoys billiards, fashion, music, dancing, and volunteering on behalf of her favorite charities.
