Samantha Walkes

Born and raised in Hamilton, Ontario, Canadian actress Samantha Walkes built her career on the stage before making a successful transition into television and film. A seasoned theater performer whose work took her across Canada and to Broadway, Walkes was appearing in the acclaimed production of The Book of Mormon in Brooklyn when the pandemic reshaped the entertainment industry and opened the door to a flourishing screen career. She first gained widespread attention with her breakout series-regular role as Rose King in the Oprah Winfrey Network and Warner Bros. drama The Kings of Napa, where her nuanced performance helped establish her as one of Canada’s rising talents.

Since then, Walkes has steadily built an impressive résumé across television and film, appearing in notable series including Murdoch Mysteries, Good Sam, Jane, and the Apple TV+ historical drama The Big Cigar. Her film work includes memorable roles in Orphan: First Kill, where she portrayed Dr. Segar, as well as The Holiday Switch and Deadly Estate. Her versatility has allowed her to move seamlessly between drama, thriller, mystery, and family-oriented projects while continuing to expand her profile within the North American entertainment industry.

In recent years, Walkes has become best known internationally for her recurring role as Elle Monteiro in the hit crime thriller Cross, based on the bestselling novels by James Patterson. The role significantly elevated her visibility with global audiences and showcased her ability to hold her own alongside an ensemble led by Aldis Hodge. As of 2026, Cross remains the centerpiece of her screen career, with Walkes continuing to appear in the series while expanding her work across television and film projects.

Samantha Walkes growing body of work, stage pedigree, and increasingly prominent television roles have positioned her as one of the industry’s emerging performers to watch. With a career that spans Broadway, network television, streaming platforms, and feature films, Walkes continues to establish herself as a versatile and dynamic talent whose profile is steadily rising both in Canada and internationally.