S. Epatha Merkerson is an American film, stage, and television actress who is best known for her role as NYPD Lieutenant, Anita Van Buren in TV show, Law & Order. She made her television debut as Mail Lady on Pee-wee's Playhouse. Her other acting credits include Terminator 2: Judgment Day, Lackawanna Blues, Chicago Fire (TV Series) and The Good Wife (TV Series).