Tina Lifford

Tina Lifford is a Hollywood veteran whose career spans more than four decades and includes more than 100 film and television roles, establishing her as a prolific and versatile character actress. Lifford first gained recognition as the series lead in the FOX comedy-drama "South Central," a role that marked a significant milestone in her acting career. She went on to portray Jackie Joyner-Kersee in "Run for the Dream: The Gail Devers Story" and Winnie Mandela in Joseph Sargent's "Mandela and de Klerk," opposite Sidney Poitier. Her film credits include roles in "Grand Canyon," "Blood Work," and "Hostage."

Lifford's television work encompasses a wide range of characters, including the CIA director on "Scandal" and the mother-in-law on "Parenthood." She is widely recognized for her role as the matriarch of a Southern family in the Oprah Winfrey Network series "Queen Sugar." Her portrayal of Aunt Vi in that drama earned her multiple NAACP Image Award nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series and a Gracie Award from the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation for Best Supporting Actress.

In addition to her acting career, Lifford is a prominent figure in personal development and inner well-being. Her interest in inner fitness began after overcoming stage fright as a child, which led her to pursue deep personal growth. Lifford completed the University of Santa Monica's Master Program in Spiritual Psychology and, following the loss of her brother, developed self-care principles and inner fitness guidelines to help others manage daily life challenges. She founded The Inner Fitness Project, a lifestyle brand dedicated to promoting inner fitness as an essential aspect of overall wellness.

Lifford identifies as an Inner Fitness Strategist, offering information and strategies to help individuals build resilience and navigate life's challenges. Drawing from her studies in spirituality, psychology, and personal development, she created The 14 Practices of Inner Health and Well-Being. Lifford is also the playwright of "The Circle," a play about seven women navigating life's complexities, and the author of "The Little Book of Big Lies," which has been recognized by Forbes.com as a top self-help book. Through her writing, speaking engagements, and workshops, Lifford integrates her experience in entertainment and wellness, providing audiences with practical tools for personal transformation.