Is Vanessa Williams biracial? Williams, who basked in the limelight as the star of 'Ugly Betty' and 'Desperate Housewives', self-identifies as African-American. Her slated performance of the "Black national anthem" caused many fans and critics to wonder about her ethnicity, with thousands of Google queries about her blue eyes, and whether or not she is Black, White or biracial. According to author Ben Arogundade, Williams was born with light skin, straight hair, and blue eyes. This caused the public to wonder how the film and music celebrity could be referred to as "Black." Born in Millwood, New York, on March 18, 1963, Williams' parents are former high school music teachers Helen and Milton Williams, who reportedly have a mix of African and European heritage.