Age: 44
female
Born and raised in Cape Town, South Africa, Lesley-Ann Brandt has shot to stardom rapidly in New Zealand. She immigrated to Auckland with her parents and younger brother in 1999. Her unusual path to acting has seen her go from IT Recruitment Consultant to landing the lead role in the hit comedy series 'Diplomatic Immunity', starring alongside Craig Parker (of Spartacus, Lord of the Rings and Underworld: Rise of the Lycans), quickly moving her into the hearts of the nation. Lesley-Ann started her career as a model, booking prestigious national and international campaigns as well as big international TV commercials. She very soon drew the attention of Casting Directors who encouraged her to pursue acting. Whilst working full time, Brandt trained with various New Zealand and internationally based acting coaches. She has most recently appeared in guest roles on New Zealand's series 'Shortland Street', 'This Is Not My Life' and her current role as 'Naevia' in the Starz series 'Spartacus: Blood and Sand'. Lesley-Ann has just completed filming her first feature film 'Hopes and Dreams’. She is fluent in Afrikaans, and has in the past played competitive and social hockey. Brandt is currently based in Los Angeles.
Lesley-Ann Brandt
Maria Berry
for Maria Berry in Shattered Glass: Breaking Barriers
Suggested by kamsismith
"Shattered Glass: Breaking Barriers" is a groundbreaking TV series that delves into the untold stories of actresses of color who defied the odds and shattered barriers throughout the 20th and 21st centuries. From the early pioneers of the 1900s to the trailblazers of today, each episode will highlight the struggles, triumphs, and contributions of these remarkable women in the entertainment industry. Through captivating storytelling and archival footage, viewers will be transported through time, witnessing the challenges faced by actresses of color as they fought against discrimination, stereotypes, and limited opportunities. From Hollywood icons like Dorothy Dandridge and Lena Horne to modern-day stars such as Viola Davis and Lupita Nyong'o, "Shattered Glass" will celebrate their resilience, talent, and enduring legacy. The series will explore pivotal moments in history, from the Civil Rights Movement to the #MeToo era, and how these actresses used their platforms to advocate for change and pave the way for future generations. Interviews with industry insiders, historians, and the actresses themselves will provide insightful commentary and personal anecdotes, offering viewers a comprehensive look at the impact of their groundbreaking work.
