By Tiffany N. Ramsey

If you’re a fan of CW’s Gossip Girl or BET’s The Game, like me, then chances are you have seen the beautiful, brown-skinned newcomer, that has taken over, and wondered: just who is she? Well, I’ve got the answer for you (exciting, I know)! Tika Sumpter, has been appearing all over the small screen lately and making our favorite shows a bit juicier, and needless to say, I’m a fan.

I’ll admit, I’ve never been a watcher of daytime soaps, for those of you who are, you may recognize Tika from One Life to Live, where she played, Layla Williamson. She has also made an appearance on Law and Order: SVU and has been featured in an array of TV commercials ranging from; Hewlett-Packard, to Liz Claiborne’s Curve, to an Aids Awareness campaign (with rapper Common).

While, Ms. Sumpter is no newbie to acting, she manages to bring a breath of fresh air to shows such as; Gossip Girl, which aren’t exactly known for having a diverse cast. On the show Tika plays, Raina, a socialite and the object of desire for bad boy charmer, Chuck Bass (Ed Westwick). Tika’s character on the show is refreshing not only because of her beautiful outward appearance, but also because she plays a strong female that isn’t afraid to speak her mind and play by her own rules. Tika has become an integral part of the storyline this season and we can only hope we see much more of her in future episodes. It’s great to see a strong black woman making her mark. Most importantly, I love a good love triangle...don’t you?

As if this wasn’t enough, I was very pleased when I tuned in to watch The Game, and again saw Ms. Sumpter. This time playing, Jenna Rice, a model that Malik Wright (Hosea Chanchez) meets while doing a stint in rehab. Jenna (Tika) seems to be just what the doctor ordered for Malik, even though our girl Meagan Good isn’t going to go down without a fight. Loves it...all of it!

Whether seducing Chuck or making touchdowns with Malik, one thing we can’t deny, the girl is talented and fun to watch. Tika is able to morph into her characters with ease and sophistication. I also love the fact that she has bridged the gap for other African American actors seeking success on mainstream television, and in the entertainment industry period. It goes without saying, it is wonderful to see a variance of shades and skin tones being represented. As Tika demonstrates, black is beautiful and it comes in all hues. One can only hope this trend continues.

Trendy Tidbits about Tika Sumpter:

*Tika was born, Euphemia Latique Sumpter, in Queens, NY and was given the nickname Tika by her Grandmother.

**She studied Communications at Marymount Manhattan College and studied acting with Larkin Malloy at Grayson Studios, and also at The Weist Barron Acting Studio.

***Tika is not only a model/actress, but also a singer and was signed to the Divine Mills label, which is owned by KG of Naughty by Nature.