Yvette Nicole Brown

Yvette Nicole Brown is an actress, producer, writer, and host whose career encompasses television, film, voice acting, and advocacy. Brown began her entertainment career as a recording artist in her teens, signing with Motown Records and featuring on the album "The East Coast Family Vol. 1," which included the Top 20 single "1-4-All-4-1." After completing her education and relocating to Los Angeles, Brown appeared in national television commercials for brands such as Pine-Sol, CitiBank, Hallmark, DiGiorno, Best Buy, and Hamburger Helper.

Following a role on the sitcom "The Big House," Brown secured a recurring part on the Nickelodeon series "Drake & Josh," establishing herself as a versatile performer. She gained widespread recognition for her role as Shirley Bennett on NBC's sitcom "Community." Brown's portrayal of Shirley, a devout Christian and dedicated mother, earned her a Gold Derby Award for Ensemble of the Year. During her tenure on "Community," Brown balanced her acting career with caregiving responsibilities for her father, who had Alzheimer's disease, ultimately stepping away from the show after five seasons. She later returned to acting with roles on the CBS sitcom "Mom," the film "Avengers: Endgame," and as host of the Disney+ game show "The Big Fib."

Brown also starred as Dani in the reboot of "The Odd Couple" on CBS and as Dina Rose on the ABC sitcom "The Mayor." She received a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy Series for her recurring role as Judge Anita Harper on HBO's "A Black Lady Sketch Show." Her film credits include supporting roles in "(500) Days of Summer," "Tropic Thunder," "Repo Men," "Percy Jackson: Sea of Monsters," and "Avengers: Endgame." Brown has contributed voice work to animated projects such as "Minecraft: Story Mode," "Pound Puppies," "Elena of Avalor," "DC Super Hero Girls," and "Inside Out 2."

Brown has guest co-hosted programs including "The View," "The Talk," "The Real," "Access Hollywood," and "Talking Dead," and has moderated panels at San Diego Comic-Con. She is a NAACP Image Award-nominated writer for "Always a Bridesmaid," a romantic comedy she wrote and executive produced, available on Netflix and BET+.

Off-screen, Brown is involved with the Alzheimer's Association and is an advocate for diversity and inclusion in the entertainment industry. She serves on the national boards of DonorsChoose, EMILY's List, MPTF Next Gen, and SAG-AFTRA.