For years, Kalita Smith stayed silent about her struggles and triumphs, but at age 56, the acclaimed actress is finally sharing her story with the world.

Best known for her unforgettable role as Wanda on “The Bernie Mac Show,” Smith’s life has been far from the glitz and glamour of Hollywood. Behind her success lies a journey marked by adversity, resilience, and unwavering determination.

Born in Chicago in 1969, Kalita’s early life was shaped by upheaval. After her father left for the Vietnam War, her parents’ marriage dissolved, and her mother raised Kalita and her twin brother alone in Oakland, California.

The family was deeply involved in the Black Panther Party, and Kalita attended a school founded by the Panthers, surrounded by political activism, social programs, and constant surveillance by authorities. Even as a child, Kalita stood out, landing an interview with Black Panther co-founder Huey P. Newton at just eight years old.

Despite these moments, her childhood was turbulent. She witnessed violence and instability, experiences that left a lasting mark on her self-image. In interviews, Kalita has spoken candidly about growing up without a father and being introduced to violence at an early age. These hardships became the foundation for her later resilience.

Kalita’s road to Hollywood was far from straightforward. She studied political science in college and worked a series of odd jobs—jazz dancer, saleswoman, administrative assistant—before discovering her passion for acting.

It was a boyfriend, a disciplined basketball player, who inspired her to pursue her dreams. Taking a leap of faith, she enrolled in an acting workshop. Though she struggled at first, her persistence paid off, and acting soon became both her career and her lifeline.

Her early days in Los Angeles were filled with small roles and hard-earned opportunities. Kalita made guest appearances on shows like “In Living Color” and “Living Single,” slowly building her reputation through talent and unrelenting work ethic. She refused to compromise her integrity, even when it meant losing roles.

Kalita’s big break came in 2001 when she landed the role of Wanda on “The Bernie Mac Show.” Her chemistry with Bernie Mac was electric, and the show became a critical and commercial hit, winning multiple awards.

Despite her success, Kalita faced challenges, including being overlooked by black media and suffering a near-fatal illness while filming.

The passing of Bernie Mac in 2008 was a devastating blow. Kalita has spoken about his immense work ethic and the impact he had on her career, recalling how he encouraged her to try stand-up comedy. His death deepened her resolve to honor her craft and continue evolving as an artist.

After “The Bernie Mac Show,” Kalita proved her versatility with roles in series like “Z Nation,” where she played Lieutenant Warren, showcasing her ability to lead in genres dominated by men.

Though she keeps her personal life private, Kalita has been open about her views on relationships, choosing independence and personal growth over traditional expectations.

Kalita Smith’s story is one of resilience, talent, and authenticity. By finally sharing her truth, she inspires others to persevere, reminding us all that adversity can be the foundation for greatness.