Danielle Brooks's Biography

Danielle Brooks is an acclaimed American actress and singer best known for her powerful portrayal of Tasha 'Taystee' Jefferson on the groundbreaking Netflix series 'Orange Is the New Black.' Born on September 17, 1989, in Augusta, Georgia, and raised in South Carolina, Brooks discovered her love for acting at a young age, leading her to attend the prestigious Juilliard School. Her breakout role as Taystee earned her critical acclaim and made her a fan-favorite, thanks to her nuanced performance and natural charisma. Brooks has also made waves on Broadway, most notably originating the role of Sofia in the Tony-nominated revival of 'The Color Purple,' for which she received a Tony Award nomination. In addition to her acting career, Danielle Brooks is a passionate advocate for body positivity and diversity in entertainment. She shares her journey and inspires many through her vibrant social media presence. Brooks is married to Dennis Gelin and is a proud mother. Her talents have brought her several accolades, including a Screen Actors Guild Award and a Grammy for Best Musical Theater Album. With an estimated net worth of $1.5 million in 2024, Brooks continues to expand her horizons in both television and theater, making her one of the most respected performers of her generation.