Actress Naomi Baker, a Dayton, Ohio native, is celebrating a major career milestone with a leading role in Tyler Perry’snew Netflix drama "Doing Life," now streaming worldwide.

A graduate of Northmont High School and The Ohio State University, Baker stars as Anika, a single mother whose life takes an unexpected turn after forming a powerful connection with a former inmate. The role marks the most significant of her acting career since relocating to Los Angeles four years ago. She previously appeared in the television series "All American: Homecoming."

The opportunity came after Tyler Perry watched Baker's performance in the upcoming film "Hard Feelings." Impressed by her work, Perry personally contacted the actress and sent her the screenplay.

In a TikTok video, Baker recalled receiving an unexpected message from the acclaimed filmmaker.

"He introduced himself, told me he enjoyed my work, and said he believed I was perfect for a role he was writing," Baker shared.

Still surprised by the experience, Baker described speaking directly with Perry as both an honor and an unforgettable moment.

Family Support Behind the Success

Naomi is the daughter of two well-known Dayton natives: former basketball standout Mark Baker and gospel singer Tonya Baker. From an early age, her parents encouraged her passion for acting while preparing her for the realities of the entertainment industry.

Tonya Baker said the family always supported Naomi's dream but reminded her that perseverance would be essential in such a competitive profession.

She encouraged her daughter to stay resilient through rejection and to remember that casting decisions are often based on a project's specific needs rather than personal ability.

Mark Baker echoed those sentiments, saying Naomi's success reflects years of hard work, faith and determination.

He praised her commitment to pursuing her goals and expressed pride in seeing her earn a major opportunity under Tyler Perry's direction.

"As parents, we're grateful to see her living out her purpose," Mark said. "Watching her work with someone like Tyler Perry on a global project is incredibly rewarding."

A Career on the Rise

Although "Doing Life" represents Baker's biggest project to date, her parents believe it is only the beginning of a promising career.

Tonya Baker said Naomi has always been determined to achieve her goals and believes her latest role is the first of many major opportunities ahead.

Mark Baker Reflects on Basketball Legacy

Beyond celebrating his daughter's success, Mark Baker also reflected on his own basketball journey.

A former Dunbar High School All-American, Baker helped lead the Wolverines to the 1987 Ohio Class AAA state championship before starring at Ohio State University, where he won two Big Ten titles and remains among the school's all-time assist leaders. He later played professionally and coached the Dayton Jets.

Looking back, Baker said basketball opened doors that extended far beyond the court, giving him opportunities and experiences that began with his upbringing in Dayton.

Today, he says he is equally proud to watch his daughter build her own legacy in the entertainment industry, supported by the same values of faith, dedication and perseverance that shaped his own career.