Ariana DeBose

Who is Ariana DeBose?

Ariana DeBose is a renowned American actress and singer, born on January 25, 1991, in Wilmington, North Carolina. DeBose rose to prominence for her exceptional performances across Broadway, film, and television. She won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Anita in Steven Spielberg’s 2021 film West Side Story. Additionally, she has earned a Golden Globe Award, a British Academy Film Award, and several Emmy nominations. Recognized as one of Time’s 100 most influential people in 2022, DeBose is also an advocate for inclusivity and representation in the arts.

Early Life and Education

Ariana DeBose was born on January 25, 1991, in Wilmington, North Carolina, to a Puerto Rican mother, Gina DeBose. Raised in a multicultural environment, Ariana was exposed to a rich blend of music, dance, and performance from an early age. Her mother, a single parent, encouraged her to pursue the arts, and Ariana began taking dance classes at the age of 3.

Growing up, DeBose attended the prestigious Raleigh School of Dance and later enrolled in the Western Carolina University to further hone her skills in theater arts. During her time there, she was recognized for her exceptional talent, and it was clear that she was destined for a career in performing arts. Ariana later moved to New York City to study at The American Musical and Dramatic Academy (AMDA), where she refined her craft and made connections that would ultimately help her break into the professional world.

Personal Life

Ariana DeBose is known not only for her incredible talent but also for her advocacy for inclusivity and LGBTQ+ rights. She is openly queer and has spoken in interviews about how important it is for young people to see diverse representations of gender and sexual identities in the media. DeBose is particularly passionate about the need for more visibility for people of color and LGBTQ+ individuals within the entertainment industry.

Her personal life has been a subject of interest to fans, especially in terms of her romantic relationships. Ariana has been open about her partner, writer and activist, and the couple frequently shares moments together on social media. Ariana’s openness about her identity and her advocacy for social change have made her a role model for many aspiring artists and young people in the LGBTQ+ community.

Family

Ariana was raised in a close-knit family, with her mother, Gina DeBose, being a crucial part of her support system. Gina, a former singer, recognized her daughter’s talent early on and made sure that Ariana had access to the right training and opportunities to nurture her love for performing arts. Although Ariana’s father is not as publicly known, her relationship with her mother has always been the central pillar of her personal life.

Her family background, which includes Puerto Rican heritage, has been an influential factor in her identity and performances. Ariana has often expressed pride in her roots, seeing them as a key source of strength in her career. Her diverse background also informs the roles she takes on in both theater and film, ensuring that she brings depth and authenticity to her work.

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Career

Ariana DeBose’s career began in theater, where she quickly made a name for herself as a versatile and dynamic performer. She first rose to national attention as a contestant on the reality show So You Think You Can Dance in 2009, although she did not win, her performance captured the attention of major industry figures. Following her appearance on the show, DeBose landed various roles in Broadway productions, including Hamilton where she played the iconic role of The Bullet. Her work in the musical earned her recognition from both critics and audiences alike.

Ariana’s career truly exploded when she was cast in the 2021 film West Side Story, directed by Steven Spielberg. She took on the role of Anita, originally portrayed by Rita Moreno in the 1961 film. Her portrayal was universally praised, with many critics calling her performance the heart of the film. This role earned her several accolades, including the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, a Golden Globe, and a BAFTA Award. Her achievement marked a historic moment as she became one of the few women of color to win an Academy Award in a supporting category.

In addition to her film career, Ariana has made notable appearances on television, with her performances in shows like The Prom and Sesame Street. She also made history by becoming the first openly queer woman of color to host the Tony Awards in 2022, further solidifying her position as a trailblazer in the entertainment industry.

Beyond acting and singing, DeBose is also known for her work as a dancer and choreographer. She often incorporates her dance background into her performances, delivering high-energy, moving routines that captivate audiences. Her role as a dancer in Hamilton helped her transition into other performing arts, such as acting and singing, which she continues to excel at today.

Throughout her career, DeBose has made it a point to use her platform to advocate for greater representation in Hollywood and the theater world. Her speeches, performances, and public appearances often touch on themes of diversity, inclusion, and the importance of giving marginalized communities a voice. Ariana’s ability to use her craft for advocacy has made her a beloved figure not just for her talent, but also for her social impact.

As of 2025, Ariana DeBose continues to be one of the most sought-after performers in Hollywood, with several upcoming projects that promise to showcase her immense talent. With a growing portfolio of accomplishments and a determination to break barriers in the entertainment industry, Ariana DeBose is an inspiring figure for future generations.

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Latest News About Ariana DeBose

Ariana DeBose continues to make waves in the entertainment industry. Recently, she made headlines for her role as Asha in Disney’s animated musical Wish, which released in 2023. She is also gearing up to host the 2024 Tony Awards, where her influence in both the theater and film industries is celebrated. Her career trajectory is on an upward path, with a focus on diverse roles and advocacy for inclusion.

Ariana DeBose’s Physical Appearance

Ariana DeBose stands at a height of 5’5″ (165 cm) with an athletic build that reflects her extensive background in dance. Her appearance is often noted for its radiance and striking features, with dark brown hair and captivating eyes. She carries herself with a blend of elegance and charisma, making her a standout presence on screen and stage.

Ariana DeBose’s Net Worth as of 2025

As of 2025, Ariana DeBose’s estimated net worth is around $6 million. This wealth comes from her successful career in Broadway, film, and television. DeBose’s breakthrough role as Anita in West Side Story significantly contributed to her financial success. In addition to her acting career, her work as a host for major award shows and her musical performances further bolster her income. With upcoming projects and her continued influence, her net worth is expected to grow.

FAQs

• Why is Ariana DeBose famous?
  Ariana DeBose is famous for her award-winning performance as Anita in West Side Story (2021) and for her work on Broadway, television, and film.
• Who plays the Bullet in Hamilton?
  Ariana DeBose plays the Bullet in the original Broadway production of Hamilton.
• Is Ariana DeBose LGBTQ?
  Yes, Ariana DeBose is openly queer and advocates for LGBTQ+ representation.
• What nationality is Ariana DeBose?
  Ariana DeBose is American, born in Wilmington, North Carolina.

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