Cassidy Freeman is an American actress and singer, best known for her role as Tess Mercer in the television series Smallville. Born on April 22, 1982, in Chicago, Illinois, she graduated from Middlebury College with a degree in theater. In addition to her work on Smallville, Freeman has appeared in various television shows and films, including The Vampire Diaries and The Vampire Diaries: The Originals. She is also a member of the band The Wreckers, showcasing her musical talents alongside her acting career.