Tasha Smith (born February 28, 1971 in Camden, New Jersey) is an acclaimed American actress, director, and producer whose dynamic career spans over three decades across film and television. Smith first gained notice with feature early roles including The Whole Ten Yards (2004) before becoming widely recognized for her unforgettable turn as Angela in Tyler Perry’s hit ensemble drama Why Did I Get Married? (2007) and its sequel Why Did I Get Married Too? (2010). Her portrayal of Angela led to the OWN comedy-drama For Better or Worse, in which she starred for six seasons and earned an NAACP Image Award nomination for Outstanding Actress in a Comedy Series.

Over the years Smith has demonstrated remarkable range in both comedic and dramatic roles. On television, she delivered critically praised performances as Carol Hardaway on Fox’s Empire (2015–2020) and as Marley on Netflix’s Survival of the Thickest (2023–2025). Her film work includes roles in Universal’s Couples Retreat (2009), Lionsgate’s Jumping the Broom (2011), Addicted (2014), and in the action-comedy Bad Boys: Ride or Die (2024). In 2025 she appeared in Twinless and Desire: A Temptation Story, showcasing her continued presence both in mainstream cinema and television film.

Off-screen, Smith has built a strong résumé as a director and producer. She made her directorial debut with the feature Boxed In and went on to helm the TV One film When Love Kills: The Falicia Blakely Story, which earned a NAACP Award nomination. Her TV directing credits span high-profile series including 9-1-1, The Equalizer, The Rookie, Harlem, Bel-Air, BMF, Black Lightning, Star, P-Valley, and The Ms. Pat Show—for which she won an AAFCA TV Honors Best Director Award. Additionally, she received a Black Reel Award nomination for Outstanding Directing in a Comedy Series for her work on Survival of the Thickest.

Known for her commanding presence, versatility, and commitment to authenticity, Smith also dedicates time to mentoring emerging talent through her Tasha Smith Actors Workshop (TSAW), making her one of the most influential Black women in contemporary Hollywood.