Valerie Pettiford’s name may not always headline the tabloids, but her career is a powerful testament to resilience, versatility, and artistic integrity.

From her early days as a gifted dancer in Queens to becoming a Tony-nominated Broadway star, television actress, singer, and teacher, Pettiford has carved a unique path in an industry that often tries to confine talent to narrow boxes.

Her story is one of grit, discipline, and survival—proving that true artistry transcends the limitations Hollywood and the entertainment world attempt to impose.

 

Born on July 8, 1960, in Queens, New York, Valerie Pettiford grew up in a vibrant cultural environment rich with music, arts, and diversity.

From a young age, she discovered a passion for performing that would shape her entire life.

She attended the High School of Performing Arts, where she honed her skills in ballet, jazz, and acting—a foundation that would serve her well in her future endeavors.

 

While still a student, Pettiford landed a role in the ensemble of Sydney Lumet’s film *The Wiz*, acting alongside legends like Diana Ross and Michael Jackson.

This early exposure to professional performance confirmed her desire to pursue a career on stage and screen.

As she once recalled, seeing *The Wiz* on Broadway inspired her to chase her dreams relentlessly.

 

Valerie’s Broadway career took off in the early 1980s with electrifying performances in productions like *Sophisticated Ladies* and *Dancin’*.

Not just a dancer, she quickly rose to become a dance captain—a leadership role responsible for rehearsing choreography, maintaining performance standards, and guiding fellow dancers.

This role highlighted her discipline and ability to lead, qualities that would define her career.

 

Her performance in the musical revue *Ladies and Gentlemen, Jerome Kern* earned critical praise, including an article by Alvin Klein in *The New York Times* that singled her out as a standout performer—equally capable of being sexy or sweet on stage.

Her role as Anita in *West Side Story* in 1987 was described as “sensual, spicy, and full of fire,” cementing her reputation as a dynamic and versatile performer.

 

By the 1990s, Pettiford was pushing beyond dance to explore more dramatic and complex roles.

She appeared in off-Broadway productions such as *Weird Romance*, where she played multiple characters, showcasing her range from a media star to a makeup specialist.

Her role as Cassandra Kefir in *The Naked Truth* further demonstrated her ability to tackle emotionally demanding parts.

 

Between 1995 and 1996, Pettiford starred as Julie in a touring production of *Showboat*, a role that proved her capabilities as a dramatic singer and lead actress.

Her performances continued to receive acclaim, with *Variety* describing her as a “cooly, elegant vocal rendition” and a “sultry, powerful dancer” during her time in the Broadway production *Fosse*.

Her success extended internationally when she played Velma Kelly in the London West End production of *Chicago* alongside Chita Rivera from 1999 to 2000.

This role highlighted her ability to captivate audiences across the globe and further solidified her status as a triple threat: singer, dancer, and actor.

 

Valerie Pettiford’s on-screen career began in 1984 with a role in *The Cotton Club*.

Over the years, she appeared in notable films including *Glitter* (2001), where she played Mariah Carey’s mother, and *Stomp the Yard* (2007).

She also starred in the award-winning short film *Response* (2009) and appeared in *Why Did I Get Married Too?* (2010) and *Jumping the Broom* (2011).

 

Her television work expanded her reach to a wider audience.

Early roles included appearances on soap operas such as *Another World* and *One Life to Live*, where she portrayed complex characters like detective Courtney Walker and Sheila Price.

Her big television break came with the role of Big Dontaine Thorne on the UPN sitcom *Half & Half* (2002–2006), where she played the mother of the main characters.

Pettiford continued to appear in popular series such as Tyler Perry’s *House of Payne*, the FBI drama *The Blacklist*, and the supernatural series *A Discovery of Witches*.

In 2024, she joined the cast of *The Young and the Restless* as Amy Lewis, demonstrating her enduring presence on television screens.

 

In addition to acting and dancing, Pettiford has a rich musical career. She released her jazz album *Hear My Soul* in 2005, which she considers a highlight of her career.

Her solo cabaret debut at the Metropolitan Room in 2007 earned her the prestigious Backstage Bistro Award, affirming her talents as a vocalist.

 

She followed this with solo shows like *Thankful* (2008) and *The Concert* (2009), and released *Velvet Sky* in 2012, a lullaby album praised for its soothing melodies.

Pettiford’s performances in musical tributes, including a tribute to Chita Rivera, have earned her stellar reviews in New York and Miami.

 

She is also a regular guest soloist with the Pasadena Symphony, showcasing her vocal talents in annual pops programs.

Pettiford’s music career complements her stage and screen work, highlighting the multifaceted nature of her artistry.

Behind the scenes, Valerie Pettiford is known for her humility and dedication. She has been married to Tony Raider, a former Philadelphia Phillies pitcher and her manager, for over two decades.

Together, they have navigated the complexities of show business while maintaining a strong personal foundation.

 

Pettiford also dedicates herself to teaching at prestigious institutions like Broadway Dance Center and Steps on Broadway.

Her teaching philosophy emphasizes storytelling through dance, encouraging students to express emotion and narrative beyond technical skill.

Through teaching, she passes on the legacy of great performers like those from *Fosse* and inspires new generations of artists.

 

In a 2025 interview, Pettiford courageously shared her fertility journey, reminding audiences that behind the glamour lies a human life filled with challenges and hopes.

Her openness adds depth to her public persona and connects her with fans on a personal level.

 

Throughout her career, Pettiford has faced the harsh realities of Hollywood, including rumors and stereotyping.

She has been labeled “difficult” by industry insiders—not because of drama, but because she refused to accept roles that demeaned Black womanhood or confined her to stereotypes.

Instead, she created her own artistic space through cabaret, albums, and teaching.

Her reputation for professionalism and integrity has earned her respect and longevity in an industry known for fleeting fame.

Pettiford’s ability to focus on her craft rather than gossip or controversy has been a key to her sustained success.

 

Valerie Pettiford’s talent has been recognized with numerous nominations and awards.

She received a Tony nomination for Best Featured Actress in a Musical and an Audelco Award nomination for her role in *Fosse*.

She won the Backstage Bistro Award for her cabaret debut and an NAACP Theater Award for her lead role in *The Wild Party*.

 

Her portrayal of Dee Thorne on *Half & Half* earned her three NAACP Image Award nominations.

Additionally, her performance in *Showboat* garnered several accolades, including the Vancouver Sun Reader’s Choice Award and the Los Angeles Robbie Award.

 

Valerie Pettiford’s career exemplifies the power of versatility, resilience, and authenticity.

She has built a sustainable career through stage earnings, television residuals, album sales, and teaching income—achieving not only financial success but respect and creative control.

 

Her legacy goes beyond performance; she redefines what a career in entertainment can be when one refuses to accept limits.

Pettiford’s story inspires artists to embrace their full potential, remain true to themselves, and persist despite obstacles.

 

Though Hollywood has often failed to give her the spotlight she deserves, Valerie Pettiford remains a headline in the world of performing arts—a trailblazer who didn’t wait for permission to shine.

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