Arnetia began her career shortly after entering high school. Only 16 years old she landed a part on Broadway in "The Sign In Sidney Brustein's Window", starring Hal Linden . A few years after graduation she assumed her best known stage role in Michael Bennett's hit musical, "Dreamgirls". Arnetia holds the distinction of being the only actress credited with portraying all three dreamgirls. This lead to television guest-starring parts and her feature film breakout role as To-bel, in Paul Bartel's offbeat comedy, "Scene's From The Class Struggle In Beverly Hills. In 1991, television viewers were introduced, to Arnetia when she created the role of head nurse Annie Roland, for the NBC comedy "Nurses". True to her musical roots, Arnetia continues to sing as well as write. She's just completed her first teleplay with her husband and continues to act in film and television.

Husband is ABC news anchor Elliott Francis . They have one son, Trevor.Mother died when she was an infant.Was a drama major at the School of Performing Arts when she earned a singing role on Broadway in 1972.Is the only actress who has played all three Supreme-like singing roles on stage in the smash musical hit "Dreamgirls."Was the original Dorothy standby to Stephanie Mills in the Broadway production of "The Wiz" (1975).Developed a gay following for her cabaret act.