Drea De Matteo is an Emmy Award-winning American actress who has captivated audiences with her versatile and compelling performances. Known for her breakout role as Adriana La Cerva on the iconic HBO series “The Sopranos,” De Matteo has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. But who is this talented actress, and how did she become a household name?
This article will take an in-depth look at Drea De Matteo’s life, from her early beginnings to her rise to fame, iconic television roles, and recent ventures. We will also explore her impact on the industry and the legacy she is building. As we delve into her story, get ready to discover the woman behind the characters and uncover the secrets to her success.
Early Life and Background
Drea De Matteo, born Andrea Donna de Matteo, first opened her eyes on January 19, 1972, in Queens, New York. Growing up in a tight-knit Italian-American family, she was the daughter of Albert de Matteo, a furniture manufacturer, and Donna de Matteo, a playwright and playwright instructor. With a creative and artistic upbringing, De Matteo developed a passion for acting and began pursuing it as a career. She started her journey by attending the prestigious and world-renowned Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute in New York City, where she honed her craft and laid the foundation for her future success.
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Full Name | Andrea Donna de Matteo |
Date of Birth | January 19, 1972 |
Place of Birth | Whitestone, Queens, New York |
Parents | Donna and Albert de Matteo |
Education | Loyola School; New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts |
Career Aspiration | Initially aspired to be a director, later switched to acting |
Notable TV Roles | Adriana La Cerva in “The Sopranos”, Gina Tribbiani in “Joey”, Wendy Case in “Sons of Anarchy”, Angie Bolen in “Desperate Housewives” |
Notable Film Roles | “The Perfect You”, “Swordfish”, “Prey for Rock & Roll”, “Assault on Precinct 13”, “R Xmas”, “The Good Life”, “Dark Places” |
Awards | Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series for “The Sopranos” |
Business Ventures | Co-owned a vintage clothing store called “Filth Mart” |
Personal Life | Dated Michael Sportes; Dated and engaged to Shooter Jennings, with two children; Engaged to Michael Devin |
Children | Alabama Gypsyrose Jennings, Waylon Albert “Blackjack” Jennings |
Significant Events | Lost her apartment of 22 years to a gas explosion in NYC on March 26, 2015 |
Personality | Describes herself as shy but wild and multi-tattooed |
Close Relationships | Considers actor Vince Vaughn as a brother figure |
Rise to Fame
De Matteo’s big break came when she landed the role of Adriana La Cerva in the groundbreaking HBO series “The Sopranos.” Playing the girlfriend and later fiancée of Christopher Moltisanti, portrayed by Michael Imperioli, De Matteo’s character navigated the complex world of the Mafia and struggled with addiction and her conscience. Her portrayal of Adriana was met with critical acclaim, and she quickly became a fan favorite. In 2004, her exceptional performance was recognized with a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series, solidifying her place in the industry and launching her into the spotlight.
Iconic Roles in Television
Following her success on “The Sopranos,” Drea De Matteo went on to star in several other notable television series, showcasing her range and versatility. She joined the cast of the popular sitcom “Joey” as Gina Tribbiani, the feisty and lovable sister of Joey Tribbiani (Matt LeBlanc). This role allowed her to explore a different side of her talent, as she infused the character with humor and charm. De Matteo also ventured into more dramatic territory, appearing as Angie Bolen in the hit series “Desperate Housewives.” Her character, a mysterious new neighbor with a dark past, added intrigue and depth to the show’s already complex dynamics.
Sons of Anarchy and Beyond
However, it was her role as Wendy Case in the FX drama series “Sons of Anarchy” that truly showcased her acting prowess. De Matteo portrayed a former porn star turned drug addict and the mother of Jax Teller’s (Charlie Hunnam) young son. Her character’s struggles with addiction and her attempts at redemption added a layer of complexity to the show’s gritty narrative. De Matteo’s performance was met with critical acclaim, and she became an integral part of the show’s success, appearing in a total of 45 episodes.
Notable Film Appearances
In addition to her television success, Drea De Matteo has also made her mark on the big screen. She has appeared in several notable films, including “The Taking of Pelham 123” alongside Denzel Washington and John Travolta, and “Assassination of a High School President” with Bruce Willis. She also lent her voice to the animated film “The Wild,” showcasing her versatility once again. De Matteo’s film career has allowed her to work with renowned directors and actors, further solidifying her place in the industry.
Awards and Recognition
Drea De Matteo’s exceptional talent has been recognized through numerous awards and nominations. In addition to her Emmy Award win for “The Sopranos,” she has also received a Golden Globe nomination for the same role. She was honored with the Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series for three consecutive years (2000, 2001, and 2002) for her work on “The Sopranos,” shared with her talented cast members. These accolades serve as a testament to her incredible talent and the impact she has had on the entertainment industry.
Personal Life and Family
Away from the glare of the spotlight, Drea De Matteo leads a life filled with love and family. She has a daughter, Alabama Gypsy Rose Jennings, born in 2004, from her previous relationship with rocker Shooter Jennings. In 2015, she found love again and tied the knot with Michael Devin, the bassist for the heavy metal band Whitesnake. De Matteo’s personal life has been a source of strength and inspiration, allowing her to bring depth and authenticity to her characters.
Recent Projects and Ventures
Always one to challenge herself, Drea De Matteo has ventured into new and exciting projects in recent years. She returned to her roots in 2020, reuniting with her “Sopranos” co-stars for the highly anticipated prequel film “The Many Saints of Newark.” De Matteo also explored the world of reality television, appearing in shows such as “Marriage Boot Camp: Reality Stars” and “The Celebrity Apprentice.” Additionally, she has delved into producing, serving as an executive producer on the documentary “Lady Boss: The Jackie Collins Story,” showcasing her passion for storytelling behind the camera.
Drea’s Influence in the Industry
Drea De Matteo’s impact on the entertainment industry cannot be overstated. As a talented and versatile actress, she has broken barriers and brought complex, layered characters to life. Her portrayal of strong, flawed, and multifaceted women has added depth to the small and big screens, challenging stereotypes and expanding the range of stories that can be told. Off-screen, De Matteo has also been an advocate for various causes, using her platform to raise awareness and support important issues. Her influence extends beyond her acting roles, as she continues to inspire and mentor the next generation of performers.
Conclusion
Drea De Matteo is an incredible talent who has left an indelible mark on Hollywood. From her breakthrough role in “The Sopranos” to her diverse range of characters, she has captivated audiences and critics alike. As an Emmy Award-winning actress, De Matteo has proven her skill, dedication, and passion for her craft. This article has explored her career highlights, personal life, and the impact she has had on the industry. As Drea De Matteo continues to take on new challenges and ventures, there is no doubt that she will continue to inspire and entertain audiences for years to come.
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