Life and career[edit]

Braxton was born and raised in Bronx, New York City and graduated from the High School of Performing Arts.^[3][4] She made her Broadway debut appearing as a replacement in the 1976-77 musical Guys and Dolls and later performed in But Never Jam Today, Reggae, Lena Horne: The Lady and Her Music, Dreamgirls, Cats, Legs Diamond, and Jelly's Last Jam.^[1] She made her screen debut appearing opposite Cleavant Derricks in the 1979 PBS filmed musical production of When Hell Freezes Over, I'll Skate.^[5] In 1981 she appeared in the television adaptation of Purlie.


In 1995, Braxton received Tony Award nomination for Best Featured Actress in a Musical for her performance in the Broadway musical Smokey Joe's Cafe.^[6] She was choreographer and director for 2001 and 2007 productions of Dreamgirls.^[7] In 2003, Braxton went to play Velma Kelly in Chicago. With eighth-time stint in the role, Braxton holds the record for having played 'Velma Kelly' on Broadway more than any other actress in the show's history with over 1,200 performances.^[8]


On television, Braxton guest-starred in The Cosby Show, Third Watch, Smash and Nurse Jackie. From 2019 to 2022, she had a recurring role as Madeline Gilford in the legal drama series, The Good Fight.^[4]


Braxton married fitness trainer Anthony Van Putten, as of 2006 they own a men's grooming salon in Harlem.^[9][10][11]