Ariana DeBose Bio
Ariana DeBose (born January 25, 1991) is an American actress and singer known for her dynamic performances and significant contributions to film and theater. She has garnered numerous accolades, including an Academy Award, a British Academy Film Award, and a Golden Globe Award. In addition to her acting achievements, Ariana DeBose was named one of Time magazine’s 100 most influential people in the world in 2022, highlighting her impact on the entertainment industry and beyond.
Early Life and Background
Ariana DeBose was born in Wilmington, North Carolina. She was raised by her mother, Gina DeBose, who worked as a middle school teacher. Ariana has Puerto Rican heritage from her father and a mix of White, African-American, and Italian ancestry from her mother. She began her dance training at CC & Co. Dance Complex in Raleigh, North Carolina, where she developed her passion for performing arts. This early exposure to dance and theater laid the groundwork for her future career in entertainment.
Path to Hollywood
Ariana DeBose’s journey in the performing arts began when she competed on the sixth season of So You Think You Can Dance in 2009, finishing in the top 20. Following this, she made her Broadway debut in Bring It On: The Musical in 2011. DeBose continued to build her resume with notable roles in productions such as Motown: The Musical and Pippin. She was also part of the original ensemble cast of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s groundbreaking musical Hamilton, which further solidified her reputation in the theater community.
Ariana DeBose Career
Early Career (2009–2016)
Ariana DeBose’s early career was marked by her appearances in various television and theater productions. After her debut on So You Think You Can Dance, she appeared on the soap opera One Life to Live and played Little Inez Stubbs in a production of Hairspray. Her role in the Broadway production of Bring It On led to further opportunities, including performances in Motown and Pippin. These experiences helped her gain recognition and set the stage for her future success.
Breakthrough (2017–2022)
DeBose’s breakthrough came in late 2017 when she was cast as Disco Donna in Summer: The Donna Summer Musical. Her performance earned her a Tony Award nomination for Best Featured Actress in a Musical. In 2020, she starred in the film adaptation of The Prom, directed by Ryan Murphy, which showcased her versatility as an actress. However, it was her role as Anita in Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story (2021) that catapulted her to international fame. The film received critical acclaim, and DeBose’s performance garnered numerous awards, including the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, making her the first Afro-Latina and openly queer woman of color to win an Oscar for acting.
Notable Works and Milestones
Ariana DeBose’s signature work includes her portrayal of Anita in West Side Story, which earned her multiple prestigious awards. Her performance was widely praised, and she became a prominent figure in Hollywood, recognized for her talent and representation in the industry.
Ariana DeBose Award Nominations
Throughout her career, Ariana DeBose has received several nominations for her outstanding performances. Her work in theater and film has established her as a formidable talent in the entertainment industry.
Ariana DeBose Awards Won
Ariana DeBose has won numerous awards, including the Academy Award, BAFTA Award, and Golden Globe Award for her role in West Side Story. These accolades highlight her exceptional talent and contributions to film and theater.
Ariana DeBose Family
Ariana DeBose was in a long-term relationship with costume designer Sue Makkoo from 2017 to 2023. The couple met while working on Summer: The Donna Summer Musical. Prior to this relationship, DeBose was romantically linked to theater props master Jill Johnson.
Personal Life
Ariana DeBose identifies as queer and has been open about her sexuality. She came out to her grandparents in 2015 and has since been an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. In December 2020, she co-founded the Unruly Hearts Initiative with Jo Ellen Pellman, aimed at connecting young people with organizations that support LGBTQ+ advocacy.
