Vanessa Williams stars as Wilhelmina Slater on "Ugly Betty," the glamorous and fiercely ambitious creative director of Mode magazine who believes she deserves to run the publication herself. Sophisticated, calculating, and endlessly determined, Wilhelmina navigates the world of high fashion with sharp intelligence and a relentless drive for power. Her rivalry with the Meade family and her manipulative schemes quickly establish her as one of the central forces shaping the world surrounding Betty Suarez and Mode magazine.
Before joining "Ugly Betty," Williams had already built a successful career in music, film, television, and theater. She gained international recognition as a singer with hit albums and singles while also establishing herself as a respected actress through projects such as "Soul Food," "Eraser," and numerous stage and television productions. By the time she joined the series, she was already a major entertainment figure with experience across multiple areas of performance.
In addition to her music and acting work, Williams became known for her commanding stage presence, sophistication, and versatility as a performer. Her background in both drama and comedy made her especially well suited for the heightened, stylish tone of "Ugly Betty" and the powerful personality of Wilhelmina Slater.
As "Ugly Betty" begins, Williams brings glamour, authority, and sharp comedic energy to the role of Wilhelmina Slater. On the series, she adds sophistication, rivalry, and theatrical flair to the fast-moving world of Mode magazine while creating one of the show’s most iconic and memorable characters.
