Rolonda Watts is a name that resonates with many who have watched television, listened to radio, or enjoyed animated shows. A multi-talented entertainer, she is best known for her time as a talk show host, actress, voice-over artist, and more. With a career spanning decades, Watts has made her mark in many areas of the entertainment industry, and her influence continues to inspire many.
Born July 12, 1959, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Rolonda’s journey into the world of entertainment and journalism began early. Growing up in a family with strong academic and artistic values, her parents fostered a love for education and the arts. Her mother was an associate dean at Wake Forest University, and her father chaired the Fine Arts Department at Winston-Salem State University. This rich background laid the foundation for her future career in media.
Rolonda Watts From Journalism to Talk Show Host
After completing her studies at Spelman College and earning a Master’s degree from Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism, Watts started her career in journalism. Her first professional role was as a reporter at WFMY-TV in Greensboro, North Carolina. From there, she moved to New York City, where she worked at prominent news stations such as WNBC and WABC-TV.
Her excellent reporting skills and ability to connect with the audience quickly led to a position as a senior correspondent and weekend anchor at the nationally syndicated news magazine Inside Edition. It was during this time that her ability to engage with the public and present news in an approachable way was solidified.
The Rise of “Rolonda” – A Talk Show for the Masses
In 1994, Rolonda Watts became a household name with the debut of her own talk show, Rolonda. The show ran until 1997 and quickly became a favorite among daytime viewers. Produced by King World Productions, the show covered a variety of topics, from celebrity interviews to social issues, providing a platform for Watts to showcase her journalistic expertise while engaging with everyday people. It was an exciting time in television, and Watts was able to carve out her niche as both a host and a producer.
The Rolonda show’s success was a testament to Watts’s ability to bring important social issues into the mainstream, all while maintaining a warm, engaging presence. Over 1,100 episodes aired, making her one of the few African American women to host a nationally syndicated talk show. This time was pivotal in the 1990s, a period when daytime talk shows were an important part of American culture.
Venturing Into Acting and Voice Work
After her talk show ended, Rolonda Watts ventured into acting and voice-over work, further showcasing her versatility in the entertainment industry. She appeared in television sitcoms and dramas, including roles in Sister, Sister and Days of Our Lives. Her ability to transform into diverse characters earned her a loyal following.
One of the most notable aspects of Watts’s career is her work in voice-over acting. She lent her voice to numerous animated series, including Curious George and The Penguins of Madagascar. She also voiced characters in the hit film Madea’s Tough Love, which further solidified her place in the entertainment industry as someone who could bring life to any character.
In addition to acting, Watts provided voice-over announcements for Judge Joe Brown and Sherri, contributing her signature voice to countless programs. Her voice became synonymous with reliable, authoritative, and approachable figures in television and radio.
Writing and Publishing A New Creative Chapter
In addition to her broadcasting and acting career, Rolonda Watts is also an accomplished author. Her novel Destiny Lingers blends romance and suspense, a testament to her storytelling ability. The book garnered positive attention, including praise from notable figures like Maya Angelou. It is a work that further demonstrates Watts’s versatility, as she successfully transitioned from the world of media to literature.
As an author, she continues to inspire many aspiring writers and offers a fresh perspective on the power of creativity. Watts is also involved in writing other works, including a web series and podcasts, where she shares stories and advice on personal growth, relationships, and creativity.
A Legacy in Entertainment and Beyond
Rolonda Watts’s legacy in entertainment is built on her contributions to television, radio, and the written word. She has earned numerous accolades over the years, including Emmy nominations, and continues to influence the entertainment industry, especially with her work as a voice-over artist and as a role model for aspiring journalists and media professionals.
She was honored in 2024 with induction into the Silver Circle by the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (NATAS), recognizing her lifetime achievements in television. This honor solidifies her place as a pioneer in the world of entertainment.
Rolonda Watts Personal Life and Family
While Watts has largely kept her personal life private, some information about her family is available. Her father, Roland Watts, was a prominent figure in the arts community and had a major influence on her career. Her mother, Velma Gibson Watts, served as an associate dean at Wake Forest University. Despite her public career, Watts has managed to keep her romantic life and family details mostly out of the spotlight.
There have been speculations about her relationships with certain famous personalities such as Al B. Sure and James Brown, but none of these claims have been conclusively verified, and much of her personal life remains a mystery.
Conclusion
Rolonda Watts is a multi-talented individual who continues to leave her mark in various areas of the entertainment industry. From her time as a talk show host to her diverse acting roles and voice work, Watts’s journey is one of hard work, dedication, and creativity. As she continues to write, create, and inspire, Rolonda Watts remains a significant figure in American pop culture, proving that versatility and talent can take you far in the entertainment world.
Her story is a reminder of the power of resilience, the importance of paving your own path, and the influence one person can have on an entire industry. Watts has certainly earned her place in the history of television and continues to inspire new generations of entertainers.
