Vanessa Williams on AllMovie

Although prominent roles in 1991's New Jack City and 1992's Candyman did much to enhance her Hollywood profile, actress Vanessa Williams is primarily known for her work in television. She is often confused with former Miss America-turned-actress Vanessa L. Williams -- a confusion further fostered by the fact that both actresses appeared in two different productions of Soul Food: Where Vanessa L. Williams starred in the 1997 theatrical release, Vanessa Williams starred in the 2000 Showtime television series based on the film.