Alfre is the youngest of three children born to her parents in Oklahoma. She was named by her godmother, who claimed she saw a vision of Alfre's name written out in gold letters. A former high school cheerleader and track star, Alfre got the acting bug after being pursuaded to audition for a school play by a nun at her school. She went on to study acting at Boston University and enjoyed a brief stint on Broadway before moving to L.A. She got her first break in "Remember My Name" (1978) which also starred Jeff Goldblum.

As of 2003, Alfre holds the record of being the most honored African-American actress in Primetime Emmy history, with 12 nominations and four wins. She was named one of the Most Beautiful People in America by People Magazine.

She lives in Santa Monica with her husband, writer Roderick Spencer, and their two adopted children, Mavis and Duncan. (Biographical info courtesy of IMDB.com.)

Alfre claims to be the godmother of Jonathan Frakes. To see why, click on the convention report link below.