Biography

Melanie Smith is an American former actress, born December 16, 1962, in Scranton, Pennsylvania. She is best known for her role as Tora Ziyal—the third and final actress to portray the character—on "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine," appearing in six episodes. Smith also gained recognition as Emily Stewart on "As the World Turns" from 1987 to 1992, and as Rachel Goldstein, Jerry Seinfeld’s girlfriend, in several episodes of "Seinfeld." Her career included appearances on "Melrose Place," "Beverly Hills, 90210," and "Curb Your Enthusiasm." After retiring from acting in 2009, she became a life coach and opened a yoga studio in New Hope, Pennsylvania, later authoring a book on healing and transformation. Smith is married to Michael Eidel and is the youngest of six siblings.