Jasmine Guy is an American actress, director, singer, and dancer who rose to prominence in the late 1980s. She is best known for her iconic role as Whitley Gilbert-Wayne on the hit NBC sitcom A Different World, which aired from 1987 to 1993. For her portrayal of the sophisticated Southern belle, she won six consecutive NAACP Image Awards for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series. Before her television success, she began her career as a dancer, appearing in the 1982 television series Fame. She also showcased her musical talents by releasing a self-titled debut album in 1990, which featured the hit single Try Me. Throughout her career, Guy has appeared in numerous films, including Spike Lee's School Daze and Eddie Murphy's Harlem Nights. She has also maintained a strong presence in theater, performing in various Broadway productions such as Beehive and Leader of the Pack. In later years, she gained a new generation of fans for her recurring role as Sheila Bennett on the supernatural drama series The Vampire Diaries. Beyond acting, she is an accomplished author, having penned the biography Evolution of a Revolutionary: The Dramatic Rise, Remarkable Rise and Private Life of Tupac Shakur. She continues to work in television, theater, and voice acting, remaining a respected figure in the entertainment industry. Her work often highlights her versatility, moving seamlessly between comedic, dramatic, and musical roles.