Essence Atkins

Biography

Essence Uhura Atkins, born on February 7, 1972, is an American actress recognized for her roles in television sitcoms. She gained prominence as Dee Dee Thorne on UPN's "Half & Half" and as Yvette Henderson on The WB's "Smart Guy." Currently, she stars in the TBS series "Are We There Yet?" and has a recurring role on "Mr. Box Office."

Atkins's career includes appearances in films such as "How High" and "Deliver Us from Eva," as well as guest roles on popular shows like "Family Matters," "Sister, Sister," and "The Cosby Show." She was also featured in the pilot of "Saved by the Bell: The College Years." Born in Brooklyn, New York, Atkins married Jaime Mendez in September 2009, and they have a son, Varro Blair Mendez, born on December 25, 2011.