Her film credits include roles in box office hits such as Anacondas: The Hunt for the Blood Orchid, Antwone Fisher, I Am Legend alongside Will Smith, and The Great White Hype. Alongside mainstream productions, Richardson has also been praised for her performances in independent films like Pastor Brown and I Will Follow.

Early Life and Education

Born in Chicago to an Irish-Italian father and an African-American/Native American mother, Salli Richardson grew up in a culturally diverse household. She has three siblings: Josh, Chad, and Nalin. Initially a dedicated tennis player, she eventually pursued acting through her involvement with the Kuumba Workshop Theatre. Richardson is a graduate of the University of Chicago Laboratory Schools.

Career Beginnings and Voice Work

Richardson’s early career included minor roles in films such as Prelude to a Kiss, Mo' Money, and Posse. She rose to prominence with a more substantial role in A Low Down Dirty Shame. However, her breakthrough came when she was cast as the voice of Elisa Maza in Disney's acclaimed animated series Gargoyles. This opportunity opened doors to guest appearances on popular TV series such as New York Undercover, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, NYPD Blue, Castle, and NCIS.

Network and Cable Television Roles

After her success on Family Law, Richardson's television career continued to flourish with notable roles in network series. She portrayed Nancy Adams in Rude Awakening and appeared on CSI: Miami as Laura. Her film appearances remained prominent, including working alongside Denzel Washington in Antwone Fisher and starring with Isaiah Washington in The Sin Seer.