Daphne Maxwell Reid

About Daphne Maxwell Reid

Daphne Maxwell Reid is celebrated as an iconic actress, entrepreneur, and trailblazing cultural figure, best known for her beloved portrayal of Aunt Vivian Banks on the hit television series, "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air." Her extensive career reflects a profound commitment to artistic excellence, community service, and innovation.

Born in New York City, Daphne made history as the first African-American woman featured on the cover of Glamour magazine and the first Black homecoming queen at Northwestern University. Her career has spanned multiple artistic avenues, including acting, photography, fashion design, and writing. Daphne’s creative endeavors have been widely acclaimed, from her role in groundbreaking TV series and films to her distinctive photographic art and elegant custom fashion line, Daphne Style.

Together with her husband, actor and producer Tim Reid, Daphne co-founded New Millennium Studios in Petersburg, Virginia—Virginia's first Black-owned full-service film studio. Her extensive involvement with regional organizations such as the Petersburg Library Foundation, Petersburg Area Art League, and the Virginia Foundation for the Humanities has significantly impacted community growth and cultural enrichment.

As an author, her published works blend personal narratives, cultural reflections, and visual storytelling, further highlighting her multifaceted talent. Daphne's ongoing commitment to mentorship and advocacy continually inspires others to achieve their potential, making her an exemplary recipient of the Crescent Light Award at the Petersburg Crescent Foundation's 2025 Gala.