Possessing a sweet, soulful voice and innocent good looks, singer-turned-actress Ashanti (born Ashanti Douglas) exploded onto the music scene in 2002 and quickly became one of the top selling R&B artists in the industry. Originally from Glen Cove, Long Island, NY, Ashanti was raised in a musical family—her dad used to sing and her mom was a dance instructor. At six years-old, she began singing gospel in her church choir, and in 1994, while performing at a local talent show, she attracted the attention of industry players.

Before the public knew her name was Ali Larter, it was familiar with the face of Allegra Coleman. As the fictitious Hollywood bombshell, Larter became an “It Girl” sensation to smitten admirers everywhere long before she would become a hero to primetime NBC viewers on “Heroes” (2006- ). Her engaging appearances in projects often dovetailed with their moment of cultural impact, in a career that would come to reflect a remarkable “right time, right place” showcase for her abilities.