Dascha's Biography

Dascha Polanco is a Dominican-American actress best known for her breakout role as Dayanara Diaz in the critically acclaimed Netflix series 'Orange Is the New Black.' Born on December 3, 1982, in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, Polanco immigrated to the United States at a young age and was raised in Brooklyn and Miami. She attended Hunter College and initially pursued a career in healthcare, working as a hospital administrator, before following her passion for acting. Polanco's debut in 'Orange Is the New Black' marked a turning point in her career, earning her recognition for her authentic portrayal of complex characters and contributing to the show's ensemble Screen Actors Guild Award win. Since then, she has appeared in a variety of film and television projects, including 'The Irishman' and 'In the Heights.' Polanco is celebrated for her advocacy work surrounding body positivity, mental health, and the empowerment of women, often using her platform to challenge industry stereotypes and promote diversity. With a growing social media presence and an estimated net worth of $2.5 million, Dascha Polanco continues to inspire audiences both on and off the screen. She is known for her candidness, resilience, and unwavering commitment to representation in Hollywood.