More Medavoy - Salli Richardson-Whitfield

Biography

Salli Richardson-Whitfield made Emmy history as the first Black woman nominated for Outstanding Directing Drama Series for her penultimate episode of the final season of HBO/Adam McKay's WINNING TIME: THE RISE OF THE LAKERS DYNASTY. Richardson-Whitfield has been in a multi-year overall deal with HBO commencing in 2020.

During her tenure at HBO, Richarson-Whitfield has served as Executive Producer and director on multiple series, traversing the worlds of '80s pro-basketball in WINNING TIME; the period drama exploring the conflict between old and new money in New York in Julian Fellows, THE GILDED AGE; and the upcoming TASK from creator Brad Ingelsby, a contemporary, gritty crime drama starring Mark Ruffalo and Tom Pelphrey shaped by class tension, moral ambiguity, and emotional weight.

Salli's other awards and nominations include a second Emmy nomination in 2024 for Outstanding Drama Series for her role as Executive Producer on THE GILDED AGE. Again in 2024 she received two Gracie Awards for both WINNING TIME and THE GILDED AGE, 2022 Hugo Award nomination for Best Dramatic Presentation, THE WHEEL OF TIME, 2019 Black Reel Award nomination for Outstanding Directing in a Comedy Series for BLACKISH, 2014 Black Reel Award for Outstanding Actress in a TV Movie or Limited Series for PASTOR BROWN, NAACP Image Award Nomination for Outstanding Actress in a Comedy Series.

Inspired by director Ava DuVernay, Salli transitioned from a celebrated acting career to directing, beginning with two episodes of "Queen Sugar." Her extensive directing portfolio includes notable projects such as Hulu's"Reprisal," Apple's "SEE," Netflix's "Dear White People," "The Punisher," and "Altered Carbon," as well as Starz' "American Gods," Showtime's "The Chi," and ABC's "Scandal."

Previously one of Hollywood's most sought-after leading ladies, Salli starred in over 20 major motion pictures alongside icons like Samuel L. Jackson in "The Great White Hype," Denzel Washington in "Antwone Fisher," and Will Smith in "I Am Legend." On television, she is known for her roles in the long-running Syfy series"Eureka," "Family Law," and the award-winning "The Newsroom."

When she's not behind the camera or in front of it, the Chicago native enjoys golfing and cherishes time on the green with her husband, actor/activist Dondre Whitfield, and their two children, Parker and Dre.

Salli resides in Los Angeles, California, where she continues to inspire and break barriers in the entertainment industry.