Dawnn Jewel Lewis was born on August 13, 1961, in Brooklyn, New York City. She developed an early passion for performing, singing at the age of four and acting by eleven. She attended the High School of Music & Art in New York City and later graduated cum laude from the University of Miami with a Bachelor of Music degree in musical theatre.

     Lewis gained recognition for her role as Jaleesa Vinson-Taylor on A Different World (1987–1992), a spin-off of The Cosby Show. She co-wrote the show's theme song with Bill Cosby and Stu Gardner. After leaving A Different World, she starred as Robin Dumars in the first season of Hangin' with Mr. Cooper (1992–1993). She also appeared in I'm Gonna Git You Sucka (1988) and had guest roles in numerous television series.

    Beyond acting, Lewis has had a successful career in voice work, lending her voice to animated shows such as Spider-Man: The Animated Series, Futurama, and Star Trek: Lower Decks, where she plays Captain Carol Freeman. She has also performed on stage, including in Broadway productions.

     Lewis was married to former NBA player Johnny Newman from 2004 to 2006.