Rutina Wesley Biography: Rutina Wesley born December 21, 1978 is an American actress, widely recognized for her roles as Tara Thornton on HBO’s True Blood and Nova Bordelon on OWN’s Queen Sugar. She later attended the prestigious Juilliard School, where she further refined her craft. During her time at Juilliard, she also spent a summer studying at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London. Her career began on stage, where she was cast in the Broadway production.
Rutina Wesley Biography
Wesley gained widespread recognition for her role as Tara Thornton on the gritty Southern vampire drama True Blood (2008). Born in Las Vegas, Nevada, a city known for its vibrant entertainment scene, she was immersed in the arts from a young age—show business is in her blood. Her father, Ivery Wheeler, is a professional tap dancer, while her mother, Cassandra Wesley, was a showgirl who performed on the iconic Las Vegas Strip. Rutina studied dance extensively before earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Performance from the University of Evansville in Indiana.
Rutina Wesley Biography 2025 Details
| Born | December 21, 1978
Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S.
|
|---|---|
| Education | University of Evansville (BFA) Juilliard School (GrDip) |
| Occupation | Actress |
| Years active | 2005–present |
| Spouse |
Jacob Fishel
(m. 2005; sep. 2013)
|
| Category | Singers Bio |
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About Rutina Wesley
Rutina Wesley is an American actress. She is best known for her roles as Tara Thornton on the HBO television series True Blood, and Nova Bordelon on OWN’s Queen Sugar.
Rutina Wesley Wiki
- Born: 21 December 1978 (age 46 years), Las Vegas, Nevada, United States
- Spouse: Jacob Fishel (m. 2005–2014)
- Height: 1.66 m
- Parents: Cassandra Wesley, Ivery Wheeler
- Education: University of Evansville (BFA); Juilliard School (GrDip)
Early Life and Education
Wesley was born and raised in Las Vegas, Nevada. Her father, Ivery Wheeler, was a professional tap dancer, while her mother, Cassandra Wesley, worked as a showgirl. She attended the Las Vegas Academy of International Studies, Performing and Visual Arts, where she focused on developing her artistic skills. She also trained in dance at Simba Studios and the West Las Vegas Arts Center. Although Wesley missed several auditions for college performing arts programs during high school, she eventually chose to attend the University of Evansville in Indiana, where she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Performance in 2001.
Following graduation, her grandmother encouraged her to consider a more practical career in nursing. However, Wesley remained committed to acting and went on to study at the Juilliard School, enrolling in 2001 and graduating in 2005 as part of Group 34. Her education also included a summer program at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London.
Rutina Wesley Facts
Where does Rutina Wesley live? And how much money does Rutina Wesley earn?
| Birth Date | 21-12-1979 |
| Heritage/origin | American |
| Ethnicity | Afro-American |
| Religion – believes in God? | Non-religious |
| Residence | She owns a house in Los Angeles, California, United States. |
Rutina Wesley Net Worth 2025
| Estimated Net Worth | 4 million Dollar |
| Yearly Salary | N/A |
| Product Endorsements | Regard Magazine |
| Colleagues | Nelsan Ellis & Ryan Kwanten |
Rutina Wesley: Boyfriend, Dating, Family & Friends
| Relationship status | Dating |
| Sexuality | Straight |
| Partner | Currently in no confirmed relationship |
| Ex-boyfriends or ex-husbands | Jacob Fishel |
| More info | Was previously married and divorced |
| Expecting a baby? | She is not pregnant |
| Has any kids? | No |
Family
Names of father, mother, kids, brothers & sisters:
- Ivery Wheeler (Father)
- Cassandra Wesley (Mother)
Skin, Hair & Eye Color
This beautiful sexy cute actress originating from Las Vegas, Nevada, United States has a slim body & oval face type.
| Hair color | Black |
| Hair type | Straight |
| Hair Length | long hair (bra strap length) |
| Hairstyle | bangs |
| Distinct feature | eye color |
| Makeup Style | academic |
| Skin Tone/Complexion | Type VI: Black brown skin |
| Skin Type | Normal |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
| Does Rutina Wesley smoke? | No, never |
Height, Weight, Body Measurements, Tattoos & Style
| Height | 166 cm |
| Weight | 57 kilo |
| Clothing style | dressy |
| Favorite colors | black red |
| Feet size | 9 |
| Dress size | 6 |
| Bra-size | 34B |
| Does Rutina Wesley have a tattoo? | No |
FAQs
Where does Rutina Wesley live now?
Rutina Wesley resides in Los Angeles, California, where she owns a home reportedly valued at around $4 million.
Was Rutina Wesley ever married?
Yes, Rutina Wesley was previously married to actor Jacob Fishel. The couple later divorced and she is currently not in a confirmed relationship.
Does Rutina Wesley have any children?
No, Rutina Wesley does not have any children and is not currently expecting.
What is Rutina Wesley’s ethnicity?
Rutina Wesley is African-American. She was born and raised in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Did Rutina Wesley study at Juilliard?
Yes, Rutina Wesley attended the prestigious Juilliard School, graduating in 2005. She also studied for a summer at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London.
What is Rutina Wesley’s natural hair and eye color?
Rutina Wesley has naturally black hair and dark brown eyes. She often wears her hair long and straight with bangs.