If you’ve ever tuned in to Ghosts on CBS, chances are you’ve laughed, cried, and fallen head over heels for Alberta Haynes—the bold, funny, and unforgettable Prohibition-era jazz singer. The woman behind the character? The insanely talented Danielle Pinnock, who has quickly become one of the most beloved stars of the hit comedy.
But who is Danielle Pinnock behind the laughter? And what’s it really like bringing Alberta to (after)life? Let’s dive into her world and discover how she’s turned a ghostly role into a breakout moment.
Who Is Danielle Pinnock?
Danielle Pinnock is a powerhouse of talent—an actress, writer, and comedian who brings heart, humor, and soul to every project. Born in Massachusetts and raised with a love for performance, Danielle studied theater and storytelling, which perfectly explains her magnetic screen presence.
Before Ghosts, she appeared in major shows like Young Sheldon, This Is Us, and Scandal, building a resume that radiates versatility. But Alberta Haynes? That’s where everything clicked.
The Magic Behind Alberta Haynes
A Ghost with Glamour and Grit
Alberta isn’t your typical ghost. She’s a vibrant 1920s jazz singer who was murdered in her prime—and she’s not about to let anyone forget it. From her glitzy costumes to her powerhouse voice, Alberta oozes charisma and charm.
Danielle has described Alberta as “bold, brassy, and unapologetically herself”—and honestly, that’s the perfect combo for a character who refuses to fade into history.
Danielle Pinnock’s Inspiration for the Role
When asked how she brought Alberta to life, Danielle credits a mix of historical research and personal passion.
She dug deep into the real-life stories of Black jazz artists who paved the way in the 1920s but rarely got the recognition they deserved. Icons like Bessie Smith and Ma Rainey influenced her portrayal, helping her build Alberta into a woman who’s both larger-than-life and deeply human.
In her own words, “Alberta’s story is really a love letter to Black women in music who were pioneers.”
Why Fans Connect So Deeply with Alberta
There’s something magnetic about Alberta—and fans can’t stop talking about it.
Maybe it’s her sass. Maybe it’s her style. Or maybe it’s the way she brings authenticity to every ghostly encounter. Whatever it is, Danielle Pinnock has managed to make a century-old spirit feel more alive than ever.
Her comedic timing and emotional depth balance perfectly, turning Alberta into a fan favorite and making Ghosts even more binge-worthy.
Danielle’s Journey to ‘Ghosts’
Every success story starts somewhere—and for Danielle, that “somewhere” was hard work and hustle.
Before Ghosts, she performed in theater and wrote one-woman shows, honing her craft across multiple stages. That background in storytelling shines through in every line she delivers as Alberta.
When she auditioned for Ghosts, Danielle didn’t just play the part—she owned it. The show’s creators immediately knew she was the perfect choice.
The Set Life: What It’s Like Filming ‘Ghosts’
A Family Behind the Scenes
Danielle often describes the Ghosts cast as a family. Between takes, you’ll find them cracking jokes, dancing between scenes, and keeping the energy light—even when filming those hauntingly funny moments.
She once said, “We laugh so much that sometimes we forget we’re at work.” That genuine chemistry translates beautifully on screen, making every episode sparkle with warmth and wit.
The Evolution of Alberta in Later Seasons
As Ghosts progresses, Alberta’s story only gets richer. We’ve learned about her mysterious death, her secret past, and the people she left behind.
Danielle teases that there’s more to come for Alberta—especially when it comes to her dreams, regrets, and relationships with the other spirits.
“Every season, Alberta becomes more complex,” Danielle shared. “She’s funny, yes—but there’s pain, passion, and purpose under all that glamour.”
The Impact of Representation
Why Alberta’s Story Matters
Representation isn’t just a buzzword for Danielle—it’s her mission.
By portraying a Black jazz singer with depth and dignity, she’s reclaiming a space in history that too many voices were erased from. Alberta isn’t a stereotype—she’s a fully realized woman with dreams, flaws, and power.
This kind of visibility matters. As Danielle put it, “We’re honoring the Black artists who came before us and showing that their stories deserve to be told.”
Danielle Pinnock’s Love for Comedy
It’s impossible to talk about Danielle without mentioning her killer comedic instincts.
Before Ghosts, she co-created #HashtagBookClub, a viral sketch comedy series that earned huge online buzz. That natural comedic energy now fuels Alberta’s one-liners and hilarious reactions.
But what makes Danielle truly special is how she blends humor with heart—something only the best comedians can do.
Beyond Acting: Danielle Pinnock as a Writer and Creator
Danielle isn’t just in front of the camera—she’s behind the pen, too.
She’s developing several projects that celebrate Black stories and women’s voices. Her dream? To create more shows that combine laughter, culture, and truth.
It’s clear that her creative fire burns bright, both on and off-screen.
How Danielle Balances Career and Self-Care
Fame can be draining, but Danielle makes it look effortless.
She’s open about prioritizing self-care, therapy, and joy. Her social media presence radiates positivity, encouraging fans to embrace their authentic selves—just like Alberta does.
“Rest is resistance,” she often says—a message that resonates deeply with her followers.
The Fan Community Around ‘Ghosts’
Ghosts has one of the most passionate fan bases on TV right now—and Danielle’s a big reason why.
Fans flood her DMs with fan art, theories, and love for Alberta’s sass. Danielle responds with gratitude, humor, and warmth, often calling her fans “the best community ever.”
It’s no wonder Ghosts has become not just a show, but a movement.
Danielle Pinnock’s Future Projects
So what’s next for this unstoppable star?
While Ghosts continues to soar, Danielle is working on writing projects and even exploring directing. She’s also passionate about advocacy, using her platform to uplift underrepresented voices in Hollywood.
In short—Danielle Pinnock isn’t slowing down anytime soon.
Why Danielle Pinnock Deserves All the Love
It’s rare to find an actress who can make you laugh out loud one minute and tear up the next. Danielle Pinnock is that rare gem.
Her portrayal of Alberta Haynes is both a celebration and a revolution—a reminder that even ghosts have stories worth telling.
She’s not just acting; she’s inspiring, empowering, and rewriting what representation looks like on screen.
Conclusion
Danielle Pinnock’s journey from stage storyteller to Ghosts superstar is nothing short of inspiring. Through her portrayal of Alberta Haynes, she’s revived a piece of history, amplified Black voices, and reminded us all that laughter and legacy can coexist beautifully.
She’s more than a ghost—she’s a force of nature, lighting up every scene with authenticity and heart.
FAQs
1. Who is Danielle Pinnock?
Danielle Pinnock is an actress, writer, and comedian best known for playing Alberta Haynes on CBS’s hit series Ghosts.
2. What inspired Danielle Pinnock’s character Alberta on Ghosts?
She drew inspiration from real-life 1920s jazz legends like Bessie Smith and Ma Rainey, crafting Alberta as a tribute to forgotten Black artists.
3. How did Danielle Pinnock start her acting career?
She began in theater and storytelling, performing one-woman shows before landing roles in major TV series.
4. What makes Alberta Haynes a fan favorite?
Her charisma, humor, and complex backstory make her one of the most compelling ghosts on TV.
5. What’s next for Danielle Pinnock?
She’s working on new writing and production projects while continuing to shine in Ghosts and beyond.
