She may be a mere mortal on hbo’s vampire hit True blood but this las vegas native is starting to make a bloody good name for herself in the  Thespian World.  

Tara Thornton might have been shot in the head in the fourth season finale of HBO’s True Blood, but the actress who plays her was alive and well on Broadway in October. Rutina Wesley returned to the stage to star in The Submission, a sharp play about subtle racism from the people you’d least expect. Born into a family of performers (her father was a tap dancer, her mother a Vegas showgirl), Rutina seeks refuge in straight talk about chi, body shape, and what makes her happy.

What’s your greatest personal achievement to date?

Graduating from college. Twice!

What traits do you and your character Tara Thornton share?

We are both fierce and fragile.

First thought when you looked in the mirror this morning?

I’m up and I’m alive. Thank God. 

Your Character is always so intense. How do you build up your inner intensity?

I listen to music. I like Lil Wayne, Lil Jon, stic.man and Young Noble. 

What’s your guiltiest pleasure?

In-N-Out Burger.

Beauty products you never leave home without?

Lip gloss, mirror, lipstick, and Bulgari hand lotion.

What is your morning beauty routine?

After a shower, I put on facial toner, moisturizer with sunscreen, eye cream, lots of body lotion, and my favorite Jo Malone perfume.

Who do you take fashion tips from, past or present? 

Audrey Hepburn. She is so darn classy. I would also get some acting tips. 

Favorite item in your closet?

My brand new Prada platform heels with black suede on top and violet purple on the bottom.

Favorite Designers?

Prada because it’s oh 

so chic. Black Halo because I love the 

way it fits the body. I’m also secretly longing to wear some Versace and [Alexander] McQueen because their dresses are to die for and I think my body type is right for them. 

Your Must-visit indie clothing stores when you are in New york or los angeles?

Bleu in LA and Trunk in Brooklyn. 

Fill in the blank:

My husband makes me happy.  

-OJ Williams

@OJWilliams4