The entertainment world has lost a powerhouse. Yolonda E. Lawrence, the brilliant mind behind hit shows like Empire and Riverdale, has passed away at just 56. Her unexpected death in Los Angeles on October 10th leaves a void in the industry and a legacy of storytelling that touched millions. But here's where it gets even more inspiring: Lawrence wasn't just a writer and producer; she was a trailblazer who paved the way for others.
A Brooklyn native and Syracuse University graduate, Lawrence chased her Hollywood dreams in the early 90s. Starting as a production assistant on shows like The Crew and 413 Hope St., she worked her way up, eventually becoming a mentee of showrunners Dawn Prestwich and Nicole Yorkin (Chicago Hope, Judging Amy). This mentorship proved pivotal, launching her writing career.
Her big break came in 2006 with the CBS drama Shark. From there, she penned episodes for a diverse range of shows, including Lincoln Heights, Reaper, Star-Crossed, The Nine Lives of Chloe King, and Witches of East End. But it was her work on Riverdale and Empire that solidified her place in TV history. As a writer and supervising producer on Riverdale (2017-18), she helped shape the show's dark, twisty narrative. Then, at Empire, she rose to co-executive producer, even co-developing a potential spinoff centered on Taraji P. Henson's iconic character alongside Danny Strong and Stacy A. Littlejohn.
And this is the part most people miss: Lawrence wasn't just focused on her own success. She was a dedicated mentor to countless young Black creatives and others striving to break into the industry. Her recent credits, including The First Lady, Bel-Air, and Sistas, showcase her versatility and commitment to telling diverse stories.
Yolonda E. Lawrence's impact extends far beyond the screen. She leaves behind a mother, Barbara Simon, and siblings Ayana and Craig Simon, as well as a community of colleagues and mentees who will carry her legacy forward. A memorial service is planned for later this month in Los Angeles.
But here's the question that lingers: How do we ensure that Lawrence's commitment to mentorship and diversity continues to shape the industry? Share your thoughts in the comments below. Let's honor her memory by keeping the conversation going.
