Ashley Versher is making waves as the character ‘Lena’ in Netflix’s top-rated drama series Beauty In Black. The show follows a stripper whose life spirals out of control after she strikes a dangerous deal with a wealthy family involved in a sex trafficking ring. Lena, Ashley’s character, is an assertive, no-nonsense attorney as well as an advocate for natural hair in the pursuit of justice.
Reflecting on her first read-through, Ashley described the script as a “page-turner, with drama oozing off the pages.” She’s thrilled that Lena embodies strength and beauty, especially in representing the natural hair journey. Ashley, a multi-talented artist, attributes her passion for filmmaking to her time in New York, where women and Black creatives were at the forefront of independent film.
“If you want to do something, you need to say it out loud,” she says, inspired by her own journey. This sentiment led her to create ‘Brief Exchanges’, a film exploring the microaggressions experienced by a Black woman in New York City. Her next role will be a supporting part in the Netflix film ‘Straw’ (set for release in 2025), starring alongside Taraji P. Henson and Teyana Taylor.
“I was enamored watching Taraji work—such an incredible gift you never imagine you’ll receive,” Ashley says of the experience.
Born in San Francisco, California, Ashley is a vibrant actress, filmmaker, and writer. She’s deeply committed to supporting young filmmakers of color and collaborates with Made In Her Image, a nonprofit that empowers young women, girls, and non-binary youth of color in film and media. Her life mantra, “Imagine the life you want to live.”
Photos: Jonny Marlow
