Novella Nelson

Novella Christine Nelson (December 17, 1939 – August 31, 2017) was an American actress and singer. She began her career as a singer, performing in off-Broadway and Broadway productions as well as in cabaret-style venues. Nelson had a successful stage career, with performances, directing, and producing primarily in New York starting in 1961. In 1970, she gained recognition for her role in the Broadway musical Purlie. Nelson also ventured into film, making her debut at the age of 39 in the movie An Unmarried Woman (1977). She went on to appear in various movies and television shows throughout her career. Notably, she played Mrs. Tate in the 2002 film Antwone Fisher. Nelson was born in Brooklyn, New York, and came from a family with a religious background.