*Drea de Matteo*
Drea de Matteo is an American actress best known for her roles as Adriana La Cerva in the HBO series The Sopranos and Angie Bolen in the ABC series Desperate Housewives.
Early Life and Career
Born Andrea Donna de Matteo on January 19, 1972, in Queens, New York, Drea de Matteo grew up in a working-class Italian-American family. She discovered her passion for acting while attending New York University's Tisch School of the Arts. After graduating in 1994, she began her career with small roles in television and film.
Breakthrough Roles
de Matteo's breakthrough role came in 1999 when she was cast as Adriana La Cerva in The Sopranos. Her portrayal of the naive and vulnerable girlfriend of mob boss Christopher Moltisanti won her critical acclaim and two Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series.
After The Sopranos ended in 2007, de Matteo continued her success on television. She starred as Angie Bolen in Desperate Housewives from 2010 to 2012 and had recurring roles in shows such as Sons of Anarchy and Shades of Blue. She also returned to the big screen in films like Just Add Water (2008) and The Wannabe (2015).
Personal Life
de Matteo is known for her outspoken and down-to-earth personality. She has been a vocal advocate for social justice and LGBTQ+ rights. She is married to actor Shooter Jennings, and they have two children together.
Legacy
As one of the most versatile and talented actresses of her generation, Drea de Matteo has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Her ability to portray complex and flawed characters with honesty and empathy has made her a beloved figure among fans and critics alike. Her work continues to inspire and resonate with audiences worldwide.