Candice Patton (born August 13, 1985) is an American actress. She is best known for portraying Iris West‑Allen on the CW television series The Flash (2014–2023). Patton has also appeared in a variety of television dramas and films since the mid‑2000s.
Early life and education
Candice Patton was born in Atlanta, Georgia. She attended Texas A&M University–Commerce, where she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in theater and also studied dance.
Career
Patton began her professional acting career with guest roles on series such as The Game (2007), Drop Dead Diva, and Murder in the First. In 2014, she was cast as Iris West, the love interest and later wife of Barry Allen (The Flash), in the CW's The Flash. The role became her most prominent, spanning nine seasons and earning her recognition within the superhero‑genre fan community.
Beyond The Flash, Patton has made recurring appearances on shows including The Vampire Diaries and The Walking Dead (as a guest). She has also acted in independent films, though the majority of her work remains in television.
Personal life
Candice Patton is married to actor James Carter. The couple resides in Los Angeles, California. Patton is involved in charitable initiatives, including advocacy for LGBTQ+ youth through organizations such as The Trevor Project.
Awards and recognition
Patton has received nominations for several fan‑based awards, including a Teen Choice Award nomination for Choice TV: Chemistry (shared with co‑star Grant Gustin) in 2015.
Filmography (selected)
- The Game (2007) – Guest role
- Drop Dead Diva (2009) – Guest role
- Murder in the First (2012) – Guest role
- The Flash (2014–2023) – Iris West‑Allen (main cast)
- The Vampire Diaries (2016) – Guest role
Patton continues to act in television and film projects and is recognized for her contributions to genre television.