Novella Nelson was an American actress and singer, born on December 17, 1939, in Brooklyn, New York. She grew up in a family where her father worked as a pastor and taxi driver, and her mother was an executive assistant. She initially studied biochemistry at Brooklyn College but discovered her passion for acting after taking a speech class. This led her to switch her major to theater, and she later trained at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts.

Her career began on stage, where she performed in Broadway and Off-Broadway productions. She was known for her powerful presence and versatility, taking on roles in classical and avant-garde theater. She also directed and produced plays, showcasing her talent behind the scenes. 

Her film career started in 1977 with a role in "An Unmarried Woman," and she went on to appear in movies like "The Cotton Club," "The Devil's Advocate," and "Antwone Fisher." On television, she had roles in popular shows such as "Law & Order," "Sex and the City," and "The West Wing."

In her personal life, Novella Nelson was married to George Blanchard, with whom she had a daughter named Alesa. She was deeply committed to her craft and often spoke about the transformative power of acting. She was also a talented singer, performing in cabarets and releasing her own album. Her music ranged from jazz to gospel, reflecting her diverse artistic interests.

Throughout her career, she received recognition for her contributions to the entertainment industry. She was honored by the New Federal Theatre for her commitment to African American theater and film.

Novella Nelson passed away on August 31, 2017, in Brooklyn, New York, leaving behind a rich legacy of artistic achievements and a lasting impact on the world of performance.