Essence Atkins is best known for her role as Yvette Henderson in "The Smart Guy" and her recurring role as Marnie on "Sabrina, The Teenage Witch." She was a regular in several television series, including "Smart Guy," "Malibu Shores" and "Under One Roof." Her many guest-starring roles include UPN's "Moesha," "For Your Love," "The John Larroquette Show," "The Wayans Brothers," "The Parent'Hood," "Family Matters" and "The Cosby Show."

Her film career includes the title role in the independent film "Nikita's Blues." In addition, she starred with singer Monica in the MTV film "Love Song," "How High," starring Redman and Method Man, and "Deliver Us from Eva," starring Gabrielle Union and LL Cool J.