You probably know her for that drum-heavy, high-octane anthem "1 Thing." Honestly, it’s one of the best R&B tracks of the 2000s—no debate. But Amerie (who often goes by Ameriie now) has a history with the camera that goes way beyond just high-budget music videos. If you’ve ever sat through a late-night cable re-run of a romantic comedy and thought, "Wait, is that Amerie?", you aren't imagining things.
Her time in front of the lens was brief but surprisingly impactful. Most singers try to jump into acting and end up in wooden, forgettable roles. Amerie didn't do that. She brought a specific kind of energy—part academic, part around-the-way girl—that felt refreshing.
The Breakthrough: Mia Thompson in First Daughter (2004)
The definitive entry in the list of Amerie movies and tv shows is undoubtedly the 2004 film First Daughter. Directed by Forest Whitaker, it stars Katie Holmes as the President’s daughter trying to have a "normal" college experience. Amerie plays Mia Thompson, the roommate.
Now, let's be real. Roommate roles in college movies are usually written as two-dimensional tropes. They're either the "nerdy one" or the "party one." Amerie’s Mia was different. She was a little sassy, sure, but she felt like a real person. She wasn't just there to serve the protagonist’s plot; she had her own vibe.
She reportedly got the role after Whitaker saw her in a music video and felt she had the "it" factor. And she did. She held her own against Katie Holmes and Michael Keaton. It makes you wonder why she didn't pursue a massive Hollywood career afterward. Maybe it was the music, or maybe it was the fact that she was already starting to focus on her literary passions.
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That Brief Moment on BET: The Center
Before she was Mia Thompson, Amerie was actually a TV host. In 2003, she helped develop and host a daily show on BET called The Center.
It was a youth-oriented talk show that tackled real issues. It wasn't just about music videos or celebrity gossip. They talked about things like education and social pressures. It only lasted a few months, but it showed a side of her that fans hadn't seen—the Georgetown University graduate. She wasn't just a singer; she was a thinker.
Hosting a daily show is grueling. It’s a lot of teleprompter work, quick thinking, and managing guests. Doing that while your music career is taking off is basically a masterclass in time management.
Soundtracks and "Acting" Through Music
In the world of Amerie movies and tv shows, we have to talk about her soundtrack contributions. Sometimes, a singer’s presence in a movie is felt more through the speakers than the screen.
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- Maid in Manhattan (2002): She did a cover of the Diana Ross classic "I'm Coming Out." It fit the Jennifer Lopez vibe perfectly.
- Honey (2003): This was the peak of the 2000s dance movie craze. Amerie’s track "When I Think of You" (produced by Rodney Jerkins) was a standout on the soundtrack.
- Hitch (2005): You can't talk about Will Smith movies without mentioning "1 Thing." It was the lead single for the movie's soundtrack and basically defined the energy of that film.
Guest Spots and the "Self" Credits
Amerie has appeared on a ton of shows as herself, from Live with Kelly and Mark to Jimmy Kimmel Live!. These aren't acting roles, but they contributed to her TV legacy. Most recently, in January 2026, she went viral for casually shooting hoops in heels during an NBA pregame warmup. People were shocked. They shouldn't have been. She’s always been more than just a "studio artist."
She also popped up in some unexpected places like Entourage (the "Aquamansion" episode) and even has writing credits for soundtracks in shows like Love Island and Black Mirror.
Why She Walked Away from the Screen
Honestly? Amerie seems to follow her heart rather than the "fame manual." While other artists were thirsty for more movie roles, she leaned into her love for books. She’s now a New York Times bestselling editor and author.
She’s basically traded the movie set for the writer’s room. Her YouTube channel is filled with book reviews and literary discussions. It’s a pivot that most people didn't see coming, but it makes total sense when you look at her background as an English major.
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What to Watch Right Now
If you want the full Amerie on-screen experience, here is your watchlist:
- First Daughter (2004): Watch it for the nostalgia. It’s a cozy, early-2000s comfort movie.
- The "1 Thing" Music Video: Directed by Amerie herself (along with Chris Robinson). It’s basically a short film in terms of its cultural impact and editing style.
- Amerie’s Book Club (YouTube/Instagram): If you want to see the modern version of her TV hosting skills, this is where she lives now.
Actionable Insights for Fans
If you're looking to dive deeper into her work today:
- Follow Amerie’s Book Club: She highlights diverse voices and unique perspectives. It’s a great way to find your next favorite read.
- Check out her books: Specifically You Will Do Great Things (her children’s book) or the anthology Because You Love to Hate Me.
- Keep an eye on the "Boys 4 Life Tour": She’s hitting the road in early 2026 with B2K and Bow Wow. If you want to see her perform live, this is your chance.
Amerie’s filmography might be small, but it’s a snapshot of a woman who refused to be put in a box. Whether she’s acting as a college student, hosting a talk show, or writing sci-fi, she’s always been the smartest person in the room.