S. Epatha Merkerson is an American actress known for her prolific career in television, theater, and film. She achieved international fame for her portrayal of Lieutenant Anita Van Buren in the police procedural series *Law & Order* from 1993 to 2010, becoming one of the show's longest-serving cast members. She later solidified her popularity with the role of Sharon Goodwin in the medical drama *Chicago Med* and its spin-offs. Her stage career is highlighted by a 1990 Tony Award nomination for her performance in August Wilson's play *The Piano Lesson*. For her performance in the television film *Lackawanna Blues* (2005), she earned major industry accolades, winning a Golden Globe, an Emmy Award, and a Screen Actors Guild Award for Best Actress.