Ariana was the first guest on The Theatre Podcast in 2018
SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE, HAMILTON and THE PROM are only some of Ariana DeBose's amazing credits. Her portrayal of Alyssa Greene in Netflix's THE PROM really put her into the spotlight, but it's her upcoming portrayal of Anita in Spielberg's WEST SIDE STORY that has people excited.
"The biggest obstacle I have had to overcome is doubt, including the doubt from others and how that can make you doubt yourself..." (Ariana DeBose for People en Español)
DeBose calls the new WEST SIDE STORY movie "epic" and, honestly, I can't wait to see it. However, DeBose's work as an actor isn't the only epic thing about her. As a queer woman herself, Ariana teamed up with THE PROM co-star Jo Ellen Pellman to launch the Unruly Hearts Initiative aimed at helping other members of the LGBTQ+ community. Not only does she proudly represent the LGBTQ+ community, she is also proud of her Afro-Latina roots and hopes to see more people like her in a wide spectrum of roles and positions:
"Afro-Latinos have been underrepresented in our industry. I am excited to continue to be a part of moving the needle forward so we can reach a day where there is balance in how we represent the beautiful spectrum of Latinos, and not just one 'traditionally Latino' prototype." (Ariana DeBose for People En Español)
Between her skills on stage, on camera and her inspirational voice calling for change - it's no wonder that Ariana DeBose is one of People En Español's Most Powerful Women of 2021! What's your favorite thing about Ariana DeBose? Tell me below!