Valarie Pettiford shines as a multi-talented actress, dancer, and jazz singer. Since stepping onto Broadway stages, her vibrant presence and unmatched talent have won over audiences and critics alike. She has become synonymous with grace, powerful dance, and captivating performances.
Guess what? Her story jumps beyond just the spotlight. From Queens, New York, Valarie’s path reflects relentless dedication with memorable roles on TV and theater. You’ll notice how her passion and charisma light up every project she takes on.
Let’s dive in and explore her fascinating life—from early days and education to career triumphs and personal tidbits. Along the way, bold keywords like Valarie Pettiford bio, Broadway actress, and Tony Award nominee will guide you through this exciting journey.
Quick Bio
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Valarie Pettiford |
| Real Name | Valarie Pettiford |
| Date of Birth | July 8, 1960 |
| Birthplace | Queens, New York City, USA |
| Family Background | Daughter of Ralph and Blanch Pettiford; married to Tony Rader (manager) |
| Education | Bernice Johnson Theatre of Performing Arts; Performing Arts High School, NYC |
| Career | Actress, dancer, jazz singer, choreographer; Tony Award nominee forFosse |
| Notable Works | Fosse(Broadway),Chicago(West End),Half & Half(TV),The Wiz(film) |
| Awards | Tony Award nomination, NAACP Theatre Award, Backstage Bistro Award, LA Ovation Award |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African American |
| Age | 65 (as of 2025) |
| Height | Approx. 5 ft 6 in (168 cm) |
| Weight | Approx. 135 lbs (61 kg) |
| Physical Attributes | Strong dancer physique, sultry vocal style |
| Religion | Not publicly disclosed |
| Net Worth | Estimated $3-5 million |
| Social Media Presence | Active (updates about performances and career) |
| Hobbies | Knitting, shopping |
| Legacy | Influential multi-talented performer in Broadway, TV, and jazz; inspiring performer |
Early Life and Education
Full Name
Valarie Pettiford
Real Name
Valarie Pettiford
Date of Birth
Born on July 8, 1960, in Queens, New York City.
Childhood
Valarie grew up in Queens, surrounded by a loving family, which nurtured her artistic talents early on. Her natural flair for dance and music defined much of her youth.
Family Background
Daughter to Ralph and Blanch Pettiford, her supportive family played a vital role in encouraging her artistic pursuits.
School/University
She trained rigorously at the Bernice Johnson Theatre of Performing Arts and attended the Performing Arts High School in New York City, laying a strong foundation for her stage career.
Career Journey
Before Fame
Right from the start, Valarie dazzled as a dancer and choreographer, joining Bob Fosse’s Broadway productions. Skilled in ballet and Broadway dance, she built her reputation on graceful strength.
Breakthrough
Her breakthrough came with the touring show Show Boat (1995-1996), followed by her acclaimed role in the Broadway production Fosse (1998-1999). Her Tony Award nomination for Best Featured Actress recognized this milestone.
Peak Years
From 1999 to 2000, she played Velma Kelly in Chicago on London’s West End, performing alongside legendary Chita Rivera. Her TV fame soared with the role of Big Dee Dee Thorne on the sitcom Half & Half, earning three NAACP Image Award nominations.
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Physical Appearance
Age
65 years old (as of 2025)
Height
Approximately 5 feet 6 inches (168 cm)
Weight
Estimated around 135 pounds (61 kg)
Body Measurement
Details are seldom disclosed but Valarie carries a statuesque stage presence celebrated for elegance and poise.
Physical Attributes
Strong dancer’s physique blended with sultry vocal charm makes her a standout performer.
Major Achievements
Awards
- Tony Award nominee for Fosse (1999)
- NAACP Theatre Award for Best Actress in The Wild Party
- Backstage Bistro Award for cabaret debut
- Multiple Robby, Reader’s Choice, and Garland Awards
Records
Repeated critical acclaim for combining singing, acting, and dancing at the highest level.
Notable Works
- Broadway: Fosse, Chicago, Show Boat
- Television: Half & Half, House of Payne, guest roles in Criminal Minds and CSI
- Films: The Wiz (1978), Why Did I Get Married Too? (2010)
Contributions
Efforts in solo cabaret shows like Valarie Pettiford – Thankful and The Concert enhanced her versatility and connected with audiences nationwide.
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Personal Life
Nationality
American
Ethnicity
African American
Religion
Not publicly disclosed
Relationships
Married to Tony Rader, a manager.
Net Worth
Estimated between $3 million to $5 million.
Hobbies
Enjoys knitting and shopping, showcasing a warm, relatable side beyond the stage.
Social Media Presence
Active on platforms sharing updates about performances and engagements.
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Interesting Facts
- Valarie began her film career at age 14 in The Wiz (1978).
- Performed alongside Bob Fosse, a legendary Broadway choreographer.
- Praised by The New York Times for her dual skills in dance and singing.
- Transitioned successfully between stage, TV, and film roles.
- Holds notable accolades from both theater and television industries.
- Known for her sultry rendition in Fosse and captivating solo cabaret performances.
- Continues to inspire young performers with her dynamic career.
Legacy or Influence
Valarie Pettiford’s influence stretches across Broadway, jazz, and TV. Moreover, she inspires countless artists through her unmatched triple-threat talents. Her roles have shaped the portrayal of strong, complex women on stage and screen. Additionally, Valarie’s dedication to dance and music keeps the spirit of Broadway alive and evolving.
FAQs
Who is Valarie Pettiford?
Valarie Pettiford is an American actress, dancer, and jazz singer known for Broadway and television roles.
What awards has Valarie Pettiford won?
She received a Tony nomination and NAACP Theatre Awards among others for her outstanding performances.
What is Valarie Pettiford’s most famous role?
Her role as Big Dee Dee Thorne in Half & Half gained widespread recognition.
How old is Valarie Pettiford?
She was born in 1960, making her 65 years old as of 2025.
Where did Valarie Pettiford grow up?
Valarie grew up in Queens, New York City.
Conclusion
Valarie Pettiford’s biography showcases a journey filled with hard work, passion, and remarkable talent. From Broadway stages to television screens, she has proven to be a captivating force in entertainment.
Her story inspires anyone chasing their dreams with heart and persistence. If you enjoyed learning about Valarie Pettiford, feel free to share your thoughts or explore more fascinating biographies on our blog.
Read more about Valarie Pettiford on IMDb Profile
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