# What REALLY Happened to Valerie Pettiford: Her Shocking Hollywood Story
Valerie Pettiford, born on July 8, 1960, in Queens, New York, is a powerhouse triple threat in entertainment, excelling as a dancer, singer, and actress. Her journey from a culturally vibrant borough to the heights of Broadway and Hollywood is a testament to grit, talent, and resilience against an industry often eager to box performers into narrow roles.
Behind her glamorous career lies a story of discipline and survival, defying limitations for decades with a presence that commands attention.
Pettiford’s love for performing emerged early, leading her to the High School of Performing Arts, where she mastered ballet, jazz, and acting, graduating in 1978 at 17. While still a student, she landed a role in the ensemble of Sidney Lumet’s film *The Wiz*, alongside icons like Diana Ross and Michael Jackson. This marked the start of an electrifying career.
Her Broadway breakthrough came with Bob Fosse’s productions, including *Sophisticated Ladies* and *Dancin’* from 1981 to 1982, where she not only danced but served as dance captain, leading choreography and maintaining performance standards.
Her stage prowess shone in the 1983 musical review *Ladies and Gentlemen, Jerome Kern*, earning praise from the New York Times for her versatility as a dancer who could be both sexy and sweet.
Pettiford’s fiery portrayal of Anita in *West Side Story* (1987) and roles in off-Broadway shows like *Weird Romance* (1992) showcased her depth in complex characters. From 1995 to 1996, her lead role as Julie in a touring production of *Show Boat* highlighted her dramatic singing ability, cementing her as more than just a dancer. Her performance in *Fosse* (1998-1999) earned a Tony nomination, with critics lauding her elegant vocals and sultry dance moves.
On screen, Pettiford’s career began with *The Cotton Club* (1984) and included roles in films like *Glitter* (2001) and *Jumping the Broom* (2011). Television saw her shine as Big Dee Dee Thorne in the UPN sitcom *Half & Half* (2002-2006), earning three NAACP Image Award nominations.
She also starred in *House of Payne* (2008-2009) and had recurring roles in *The Blacklist* and the 2021 reboot of *The Equalizer*. In 2024, she joined *The Young and the Restless* as Amy Lewis, continuing to captivate audiences.
Beyond acting, Pettiford’s musical talents flourished with her 2005 jazz album *Hear My Soul* and the 2012 lullaby album *Velvet Sky*. She earned a Backstage Bistro Award for her 2007 solo debut at the Metropolitan Room and performed tributes to legends like Chita Rivera. Offstage, married to Tony Rader since 1991, she teaches at Broadway Dance Center, passing on her legacy.
Despite industry pressures and rumors, Pettiford avoided drama, refusing stereotypical roles and carving her own artistic space through cabaret and teaching. Her numerous awards, including NAACP Theater Awards, reflect a career built on respect and longevity, proving that versatility can redefine what a Hollywood career means.