Nell Carter was an American actress and singer, best known for her role as Nell Harper on the television series Gimme a Break!, which aired from 1981 to 1987. Born on September 13, 1948, in Birmingham, Alabama, she began her career in theater, earning acclaim for her performances in various productions, including the Broadway musical Ain't Misbehavin'. Carter's talent extended beyond acting; she was also a skilled singer, winning a Tony Award for her work on stage. Throughout her career, she appeared in numerous films and television shows, becoming a beloved figure in the entertainment industry before her passing on January 23, 2003.