Last updated on: October 30, 2025
Ever seen an actor on screen and thought, Wow, she just owns every scene she’s in? That’s Teyonah Parris for you. If you have seen her on WandaVision or Empire, you will be completely aware of what I am talking about. She is the type of actress who can make you feel all the emotions that her character feels—without ever appearing as if she is trying too hard. In truth, seeing her work is like being let in on a secret: the larger story is unfolding, and she’s the heartbeat of it.
I wanted to go all the way into Teyonah’s 5 TV shows, not simply to name them, but to exhibit why each show was significant, how they contributed to her career, and why you need to definitely watch them—even if you’re not a TV crazy person. So, sit back, get your go-to beverage, and let’s embark on this adventure.
Who is Teyonah Parris?
Before we dive into the shows, take a step back. Teyonah Parris didn’t get handed a spotlight; she fought her way into it. Born in Hopkins, South Carolina, in 1987, she started out on Mad Men, as Dawn Chambers—the first African-American secretary at Sterling Cooper. Consider that for one moment. In a world that’s finally opening up on television, she was a part of a historic arc, and she made it look easy.
Since then, she’s played it all: drama, comedy, superhero action—name it. What I adore about Teyonah is that she doesn’t merely act out a role; she inhabits it. Every person she portrays feels lived-in, real, and relatable. And whereas some performers are remembered for one thing, Teyonah makes her impression wherever she goes.
1. WandaVision (2021)
Oh, WandaVision. If you haven’t watched it, do yourself a favor. Teyonah is Monica Rambeau, an agent of S.W.O.R.D. who becomes one of the most interesting new superheroes in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Seeing her grow from a determined, frustrated at times agent into a hero force to be reckoned with is actually thrilling.
What actually gets you about her performance is how real it is. There’s one scene where she’s struggling with grief and guilt, and I’m telling you, you feel it in your chest. She doesn’t recite lines; she experiences them. And seriously, in a show that lurches between 1950s sitcom feels and superhero mayhem, keeping the audience emotionally invested is no easy task. Teyonah does it in her sleep.
Also, think about this: Marvel has a massive global fanbase, and Monica became a breakout favorite. That’s not just luck. That’s talent, timing, and the ability to make a hero relatable. If you’ve been sleeping on WandaVision, now’s the perfect time to catch up.
2. Empire (2015–2020)
Alright, let’s discuss Empire. The music, the drama, the chaos—oh my! Teyonah had a recurring role here that truly allowed her to shine. In a show filled with over-the-top personalities and larger-than-life family drama, she was a grounded presence that made you sit up and take notice.
Her scenes are always textured. You witness the emotional give and take, the flashes of vulnerability beneath composure. It’s as if she leans in and tells you: “I’m here, and I matter.” That’s the level of subtle strength Teyonah possesses. You don’t require flashy stunts or grand monologues—her presence does the work.
Empire was a great demonstration of her skill with complicated characters. It wasn’t drama for the sake of drama; it was human stakes. Seeing her sort out those storylines proved to me how much of a chameleon she is, and how much she can make a show good just by being on it.
3. Survivor’s Remorse (2014–2017)
Here’s a hidden gem that’s not always given its due: Survivor’s Remorse. It has the perfect blend of humor, heart, and family drama, and Teyonah’s turn hits just the right chords. Her character is struggling with fame, family, and identity—real-life issues we can all imagine, even if we’re not pro athletes.
My favorite thing about her in this series is the balance of humor and emotion that she achieves. There’s one scene where she gives this spot-on sarcastic comment, then follows it up instantly with one that goes directly to the heart. That’s Teyonah in a nutshell: she can laugh you, cry you, and make you think—all within the span of a few minutes.
If you’ve ever fought to determine where you belong, seeing her character in Survivor’s Remorse somehow feels empowering. She makes you remember that growing, learning, and making mistakes along the way are all a part of it.
4. No Good Deed (TV Movie, 2014)
Yes, I used the words TV movie—and yes, it is worth noting. No Good Deed is a thriller, and Teyonah demonstrates just how much versatility she actually possesses. In a tense and perilous story, she conveys both vulnerability and toughness, so you find yourself caring about her character right away.
This part is a reminder that great acting isn’t just about long-running shows; sometimes it’s about doing impact in a brief period of time. And she does it perfectly. At the end of the movie, you’re hooked, and you can’t help but be thinking: “Wow, this actress is going places.”
It’s a smaller project, yes, but it’s a vital stepping stone that spotlights the beginnings of her ascendancy in television. And for viewers, it’s an opportunity to observe her versatility at work.
5. Mad Men (2009–2015)
Now, let’s circle back to where it all started: Mad Men. Dawn Chambers, the character Teyonah portrayed, might seem quiet at first glance, but she was revolutionary. Being the first African-American secretary at Sterling Cooper in the 1960s setting wasn’t just a role—it was a statement. And Teyonah played it with a subtle grace that made the character unforgettable.
I recall seeing her scenes and thinking: she doesn’t simply recite lines; she shifts the mood. Whenever she shows up, you take notice. It’s not showy, but it’s dynamic. And in a show with a lot of intricate, sometimes melodramatic characters, she stood out, making an impact that long outlasted the episode itself.
Mad Men was not just a stepping stone. It was a launching pad that allowed Teyonah to demonstrate her skill at making small moments monumental. If you haven’t seen her there, it’s like finding a hidden treasure that makes you understand the entirety of her talent.
Why Teyonah Parris Stands Out
So, why is she so special? Here’s the thing: Teyonah doesn’t act. She becomes her characters. Whether it’s a superhero, a young star in the music industry, or someone facing life’s true struggles, she makes all of it seem real. You can’t help but feel a connection to her characters because she feels one too.
And she’s consistent. No matter the genre, she elevates the story, making the audience feel the stakes. That’s rare. Most actors are memorable in one or two types of roles. Teyonah? She’s unforgettable everywhere she goes. Watching her, you’re reminded why great acting matters.
Where to Watch Teyonah Parris’ Shows
If you’re wondering where to catch all this brilliance, here’s the lowdown:
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WandaVision – Disney+
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Empire – Hulu, Amazon Prime Video
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Survivor’s Remorse – StarzPlay, Amazon Prime Video
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No Good Deed – Lifetime, Amazon Prime Video
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Mad Men – AMC, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video
Trust me, you begin and can’t help but keep going. Her acting draws you in, and before you know it, you’re binge-watching without noticing.
Final Thoughts
Here’s the point: Teyonah Parris is more than a credit-read name. She’s the type of performer who brings every show she works on to life, making an impression on your mind long after the episode is over.
WandaVision, Empire, Survivor’s Remorse, No Good Deed, and Mad Men are just a few moments of her art.
Each character speaks to a story, and each story is enriched because she’s at the center of it.
If you haven’t seen her work yet, consider this your personal invitation. Watch, feel, and perhaps even relate. Because Teyonah Parris isn’t merely acting—she’s demonstrating what it is to live fully in every single role. And honestly? That’s a superpower unto itself.
