Elise Neal moved to New York after completing high school. She worked in musical theater, traveling the world with various touring companies, and later moved to Los Angeles to begin her television career.

Neil's first television role was in the soap opera "Loving." She later made the transition to prime time in "SeaQuest DSV," executive produced by Steven Spielberg. Her other television credits include a lead role in UPN's comedy "The Hughleys," for which she garnered two NAACP Award nominations, the made-for-TV movies "Brian's Song," "Chance of a Lifetime" and "Daddy's Girl."

Neal will next be seen in the independent film "Playa's Ball," opposite Allen Payne, and in the film "Sacred," opposite the rapper Nas. This summer, she will begin production in the John Singleton produced film "Hustle and Flow," starring Anthony Anderson. Neal's film debut was her starring role in John Singleton's "Rosewood." Her other film credits include "Scream 2," "Money Talks," "Mission to Mars" and "Restaurant," opposite Adrien Brody.

Neal returned to her musical theater roots by producing a cabaret show entitled "Godiva: Assorted Flavors."