Renika Williams Spills Holiday Rules

Rising actress Renika Williams has proven to be one to watch in Hollywood. The rising star currently plays the breakout role of ‘Willow’ in the Mindy Kaling-directed HBO Max hit comedy-drama series The Sex Lives Of College Girls. Renika brings her charismatic charm to the hilarious, soccer-loving character whose best friends with ‘Whitney’ (played by Alyah Chanelle Scott). After receiving high praise from fans and critics alike for the first season of the series, the show quickly started up production for a second season. Season 2 will begin streaming on HBO Max this November 2022, with exciting storyline developments for Renika’s character (who is also in the LGBTQ+ community) and deepened friendships within each episode!

Renika’s acting journey began in her hometown of Dayton, Ohio, where she received a BFA in Acting from Wright State University. As an avid theatre lover, Renika is no stranger to the theatre and has been in regional productions at the Actors Theatre of Louisville, Repertory Theatre, The Arden Theatre, Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park, and Cincinnati Shakespeare Company. She got her start with theatre productions for her college playing Juliet in Romeo and Juliet and Myrtle May Simmons in Harvey. Since then, she has been cast in theatre productions such as All the Natalie Portmans, The Climb, and Sweet. Renika has since made the transition from on-stage to on-screen roles, but will always have a soft spot for the theatre.

Acting aside, Renika enjoys cycling, yoga, reading, and watching YouTube videos about black-owned hair product businesses. She loves watching Grey’s Anatomy with her miniature Dachshund. She is also passionate about getting involved with philanthropy work for Sickle Cell Anemia awareness.

When did you decide to become an actor?

I was young, about ten. Storytelling has always been a passion of mine since I was a kid. I’d write skits for my friends and I to perform at recess. I loved being the director and the lead at the same time. Pretty sure my friends didn’t always like that. I was also a huge fan of television. Moesha, Sister, Sister, Boy Meets World, and Full House were some of my favourites to watch reruns of. One day after watching a show, I asked my dad if being on tv was a job, and he replied “Yes.” Then I followed up by asking, “Can I do that?” and he said, “You can do whatever you want to do.” That’s the moment I decided I’d be an actor.

How have you transitioned from the stage to onscreen?

I wouldn’t call it a “transition”. I’d rather call it “an addition”. I have simply added on-screen work to my resume. I don’t see a world where I’m not working on stage and on camera. I love both for different reasons, but the addition honestly started from meeting my manager. She had the muscle I was looking for when it came to being able to get me into film and tv rooms and working with her changed everything for me.

Outside of acting, what are your interests and passions?

I’ve always been an avid reader. I love reading all kinds of books. Right now, I’m rereading Sula by Toni Morrison. I also have grown to enjoy riding my Peloton bike. The music helps me push through hard classes, and I always feel proud of myself when I finish.

Tell us what inspired you to get involved with philanthropy work for Sickle Cell Anemia awareness.

Unfortunately, one of my best friends passed away from complications related to Sickle Cell Anemia, and it was one of the toughest chapters in my life thus far. Sickle Cell Anemia is a genetic disease that many people, including some medical physicians, don’t know much about because it primarily affects African Americans. I believe if more people learned about Sickle Cell, there could be a push for further advancements in medications, medical care, helpful tips on how to healthfully live with the disease, and maybe even a cure. No one should have to lose a loved one to Sickle Cell Anemia.

What character would you love to play?

Camae in Katori Hall’s The Mountaintop. I’ve been a huge fan of Katori’s work since I started reading her plays in college, so getting to play Younger Merecedes in season two of P Valley on STARZ was a dream. I hope I continue to get the opportunity to bring her stories to life.

Tell us about your upcoming projects.

You can catch me on NBC’s NEW AMSTERDAM season 5 episode 9, “The Empty Spaces”! New Amsterdam is a great show with an important message. I’m so grateful I got to be a part of the legacy before it came to a close.

My Holiday Rules

What is your favourite aspect of travelling?

My favourite part about travelling is flying. Being in the sky reminds me of just how small I am. Being in the clouds also gives me a chance to reflect and sit in gratitude.

What is your favourite city?

My favourite city is probably Portland. I think Portland is one of the most beautiful cities in America.

Beach or mountains?

This is tough because I truly love both, but I’m going to say the beach. I love the water.

What is your favourite stamp on your passport?

Jamaica!

Where is next on your bucket list?

I’d love to travel to Greece soon.

Packing essentials?

I always have to pack my Trader Joe’s Tea Tree Face Wash. If I forget, I’ll hunt down a Trader Joe’s in whatever city I’m in and grab a bottle. Clear skin is the only option, especially when travelling!

Your packing advice?

A friend once taught me to pack heavier items like denim jeans in your carry-on size suitcase and not in your larger suitcase. Jeans hold a lot more weight than other clothing items and putting them in the smaller suitcase ensures that your larger one won’t be overweight!

What is your airport style?

My airport style is sporty chic. I hate being uncomfortable when travelling so I stick to joggers or tracksuits, especially ones with hoodies because I like to cover my eyes when I sleep.

For more, visit Renika’s Instagram or stream season 2 of The Sex Lives of College Girls on HBO Max!

Photo credit: Andrew Parsons