Brief Introduction of Drea De Matteo
Drea De Matteo is an acclaimed American actress, widely recognized for her compelling and often gritty portrayals across various television dramas and films. She gained significant prominence and critical acclaim for her Emmy Award-winning performance as Adriana La Cerva in the iconic HBO series, the sopranos, a role that cemented her status in Hollywood. Beyond her breakthrough on the mob drama, De Matteo has left an indelible mark with notable roles as Gina Tribbiani in the sitcom Joey, Wendy Case in the FX motorcycle club saga Sons of Anarchy, Angie Bolen in ABC’s Desperate Housewives, and Detective Tess Nazario in NBC’s Shades of Blue. An actress of Italian descent, Drea De Matteo is known for her distinctive voice and powerful screen presence, making her a memorable figure in the entertainment industry.
Drea De Matteo Overview
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Andrea Donna de Matteo |
| Date of Birth | January 19, 1972 |
| Birthplace | Queens, New York City, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Italian descent |
| Parents | Donna De Matteo (playwright, playwriting teacher), Albert De Matteo (furniture manufacturer) |
| Height | Approximately 5 feet 6 inches (168 cm) |
| Profession | Actress |
| Net Worth | Approximately $4 million (as of recent estimations) |
| Children | 2 (daughter Alabama Gypsyrose Jennings, son Waylon Albert “Blackjack” Jennings) |
| Marital Status | Not married (previously engaged) |
| Partner | Reportedly dating Robby Staebler |
Early Life and Education of Drea De Matteo
Andrea Donna de Matteo, known professionally as Drea De Matteo, was born on January 19, 1972, in Queens, New York City, U.S.. She grew up in an affluent, Catholic family of Italian descent, the youngest of three children and the only girl. Her mother, Donna De Matteo, is a playwright and a playwriting teacher at HB Studio, while her father, Albert De Matteo, was a furniture manufacturer, serving as the owner and CEO of Avery Boardman and Carlyle.
De Matteo spent her early childhood in Queens before her family relocated to the Upper East Side of Manhattan, residing in what was once Aretha Franklin’s townhouse. She attended the prestigious Loyola School in Manhattan. Although initially drawn to a career in film directing, she pursued her education at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts, where she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in film production. During her time at NYU, she also took acting classes, reportedly to gain a director’s perspective, but received positive feedback that eventually shifted her career aspirations towards acting. She further honed her craft by studying acting at the HB Studio. This foundational training laid the groundwork for her distinctive acting style, combining method acting techniques with her natural flair for character development.
Drea De Matteo’s Career
Drea De Matteo’s career journey began with a path not originally intended for acting, as she initially aspired to be a film director. However, fate intervened, and her talent for performance soon became evident. After a few uncredited and small roles in independent films and guest appearances in television in the late 1990s, her career took a monumental turn.
Breakthrough with The Sopranos
In 1999, De Matteo landed the role that would define a significant part of her career and earn her widespread recognition: Adriana La Cerva in HBO’s critically acclaimed drama, The Sopranos. Initially, she was cast in a minor role as a hostess in a restaurant, a part she secured despite the show’s creators initially thinking she “didn’t seem Italian enough”. However, her memorable performance led David Chase, the show’s creator, to expand her character into the complex and fiery girlfriend of mobster Christopher Moltisanti. Adriana La Cerva quickly became a pivotal figure, navigating the dangerous and often tragic realities of the mafia world. De Matteo’s portrayal of Adriana was lauded for its depth, vulnerability, and raw emotion, showcasing her versatility as an actress and earning her a cult following. Her work on The Sopranos helped launch her into mainstream success.
Subsequent Television Roles
Following her impactful run on The Sopranos, De Matteo continued to secure prominent roles in other major television series. From 2004 to 2006, she starred as Gina Tribbiani, the outspoken sister of Joey Tribbiani, in the NBC sitcom Joey, a spin-off of the highly popular series Friends. She later joined the cast of the FX drama Sons of Anarchy, portraying Wendy Case, the ex-wife of protagonist Jax Teller. She began as a recurring character and was eventually promoted to a series regular for the final season (2008–2014).
De Matteo also took on the role of Angie Bolen in the sixth season of ABC’s hit series Desperate Housewives (2009–2010), a character that added a new layer of intrigue to Wisteria Lane. She departed the show for personal reasons at the end of the sixth season. More recently, she played Detective Tess Nazario in the NBC crime drama Shades of Blue from 2016 to 2018, starring alongside Jennifer Lopez. Her television work consistently demonstrates her ability to inhabit diverse characters across various genres, from intense drama to sharp comedy.
Film Appearances
In addition to her television success, Drea De Matteo has appeared in several films throughout her career. Her filmography includes roles in movies such as the thriller Swordfish (2001), the crime drama Deuces Wild (2002), The Perfect You (2002), and Prey for Rock & Roll (2003). She received positive reviews for her starring role in Abel Ferrara’s independent film R Xmas (2001). In 2005, she featured in the remake of John Carpenter’s 1976 action film Assault on Precinct 13. She also had a supporting role in the 2015 film adaptation of Gillian Flynn’s novel, Dark Places. Her film roles often highlight her ability to bring intensity and authenticity to gritty or complex characters. In recent years, she has continued acting, with roles including Stella in Nonnas (2025) and Melissa in Power Book II: Ghost (2024), as well as reprising Wendy Case in Mayans M.C..
Recent Ventures
Beyond traditional acting, De Matteo has ventured into new forms of media. She co-hosts a The Sopranos rewatch podcast, initially titled “Made Women” and later retooled and renamed “Gangster Goddess Broad-Cast,” which commenced in 2020. In a significant and widely reported personal decision, De Matteo announced in September 2022 her intention to open an account on OnlyFans, which went live in August 2023. She stated that this decision was partly due to financial difficulties and a self-proclaimed loss of work stemming from her refusal to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.
Drea De Matteo Personal Life & Family
Drea De Matteo’s personal life has seen various relationships and significant life events. She is the youngest of three children and the only daughter, growing up in a supportive Italian-American Catholic family.
Early in her career, De Matteo was in a relationship with Michael Sportes, with whom she co-owned and operated an East Village clothing store called Filth Mart from 1997 until its closure in 2004.
She later began dating country musician Shooter Jennings, the son of country legend Waylon Jennings, in 2001. The couple became engaged on June 11, 2009, when Jennings proposed to her onstage during a concert in Utica, New York. Together, they have two children: a daughter named Alabama Gypsyrose Jennings and a son named Waylon Albert “Blackjack” Jennings. Despite their engagement and having children, De Matteo and Jennings eventually ended their relationship without marrying.
Following her separation from Jennings, De Matteo became engaged to Whitesnake bassist Michael Devin in July 2015, with Devin proposing to her onstage during a concert in Atlantic City, New Jersey. As of recent reports, De Matteo is reportedly dating musician Robby Staebler of the band UVWAYS.
De Matteo has faced personal challenges, including the loss of her New York City apartment of 22 years in a gas explosion and fire that destroyed three buildings in Manhattan in March 2015. She has also openly discussed facing financial hardships and caring for a parent with dementia. De Matteo has maintained a private approach to her lifestyle, stating that she has not typically embraced the high-profile Hollywood social scene, preferring not to “mingle with famous people”.
Awards and Achievements of Drea De Matteo
Drea De Matteo has garnered critical acclaim throughout her career, particularly for her standout performances in television dramas. Her most significant recognition came for her role as Adriana La Cerva on The Sopranos.
- Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series: De Matteo won this prestigious award in 2004 for her portrayal of Adriana La Cerva in The Sopranos. This was her first and only Emmy nomination, solidifying her impactful performance.
- Golden Globe Award Nomination: In the same year, 2004, she was also nominated for a Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actress – Series, Miniseries or Television Film for her work on The Sopranos.
- New York International Independent Film & Video Festival Award: She received the Best Actress award at the 2002 New York International Independent Film & Video Festival for her leading role in Abel Ferrara’s film R Xmas.
- Maxim Hot 100 Women: De Matteo’s captivating presence also earned her recognition in popular culture, as she was ranked #42 on Maxim’s Hot 100 Women list in 2001 and #56 in 2002.
These accolades underscore her talent and the profound impact her characters have had on audiences and critics alike.
Drea De Matteo Net Worth and Income
Drea De Matteo has an estimated net worth of approximately $4 million as of recent estimations. Her income sources primarily include her acting career in television and film, as well as recent ventures into other platforms such as OnlyFans.
Despite a successful career with roles in iconic shows, De Matteo has publicly spoken about experiencing financial hardships. She revealed that her bank account reportedly dwindled to as low as $10 at one point. These financial challenges were attributed to several factors, including the loss of acting work which she claims resulted from her refusal to take the COVID-19 vaccine, as well as the responsibilities of caring for a parent suffering from dementia.
Her real estate activities have also contributed to her financial landscape. In 2022, she sold a 5,000-square-foot home in East Hampton, custom-built by her parents in 1992, for $3.1 million. Additionally, she owns a property in Los Angeles’ Laurel Canyon neighborhood, which she purchased in 2004 for $2.085 million. This home was listed for sale at $4 million in mid-2022 and later reduced to $3.6 million in mid-2023, though the listing was ultimately pulled, and she still retains ownership of the property. Her decision to join OnlyFans in 2023 was explicitly linked to needing financial support amidst these challenges.
Legacy and Influence
Drea De Matteo’s legacy in the entertainment industry is largely defined by her authentic and powerful portrayals, particularly of strong, often complex Italian-American women. Her role as Adriana La Cerva in The Sopranos remains her most iconic contribution, influencing perceptions of mob molls and earning her a place in television history. Adriana was a character that evolved from a seemingly superficial girlfriend into a deeply sympathetic figure, showcasing De Matteo’s ability to imbue roles with profound emotional depth and humanity.
Beyond The Sopranos, her versatility has been evident in her ability to transition between demanding dramatic roles in shows like Sons of Anarchy and comedic performances in sitcoms like Joey. This range has established her as a reliable and captivating actress capable of delivering memorable performances across genres. Her distinctive voice and “straight-talking, long-nailed tough girl” persona, cultivated through many of her characters, have also become a recognizable part of her public image.
In recent years, De Matteo has also become a figure in public discourse regarding personal liberties and career impact, having openly discussed how her stance on certain public health measures allegedly affected her opportunities in Hollywood. Her willingness to share her experiences and adapt her career path, including launching a successful podcast and joining platforms like OnlyFans, reflects a resilience and independence that has resonated with many. Through her work, Drea De Matteo has influenced discussions on character authenticity, the challenges faced by actors in a shifting industry, and the power of individual conviction.
Interesting Facts about Drea De Matteo
- Drea De Matteo’s first name, Drea, is pronounced “Dray”.
- She initially pursued a Bachelor of Fine Arts in film production from New York University with the intention of becoming a film director, not an actress. It was during acting classes taken to gain a director’s perspective that her career path began to shift.
- Her mother, Donna De Matteo, is an accomplished playwright and playwriting teacher at the renowned HB Studio in New York.
- During her childhood, her family lived in the former townhouse of legendary singer Aretha Franklin on the Upper East Side of Manhattan.
- In 1997, she co-founded and co-owned an East Village clothing store named Filth Mart with her then-boyfriend, Michael Sportes, which operated until 2004.
- Early in her career, she was reportedly advised to take opera lessons because some individuals found the sound or tone of her voice unappealing. Ironically, her distinctive voice became a signature element of her successful roles, particularly in The Sopranos.
- De Matteo has stated that her initial motivation for getting into acting was partly as a “revenge thing” against ex-boyfriends who aspired to be big actors.
- She famously joined OnlyFans in 2023, citing financial difficulties and claiming she lost work opportunities due to her refusal to get the COVID-19 vaccine.
- She was engaged twice on stage by two different musicians: Shooter Jennings in 2009 and Michael Devin in 2015.
Controversies
Drea De Matteo has faced some public controversies, primarily stemming from her outspoken personal beliefs and their perceived impact on her professional life.
A notable controversy arose from her public stance regarding the COVID-19 vaccine. De Matteo openly stated her refusal to receive the vaccine, claiming that this decision led to her being “blackballed” or prevented from securing mainstream acting roles in Hollywood. This assertion garnered significant media attention and sparked debates about vaccine mandates and their consequences for individuals in the entertainment industry. She explicitly linked her financial struggles and the decision to join OnlyFans in 2023 to this alleged loss of work.
Furthermore, De Matteo has voiced criticisms of Hollywood culture, particularly regarding its political leanings. In a 2024 interview, she stated that “the far left own Hollywood,” expressing her perspective on the industry’s ideological landscape. Such comments have positioned her as a figure in broader cultural discussions about artistic freedom and political alignment within the entertainment world.
Social Media Presence
Drea De Matteo maintains an active presence across various social media platforms, connecting with her fanbase and sharing updates on her life and career. Her online engagement provides insight into her personality and latest ventures.
- Instagram: As of recent checks, Drea De Matteo’s Instagram account (@dreadematteo) boasts a substantial following of over 590,000 followers. She frequently shares personal photos, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and promotional content related to her work and podcast.
- Twitter/X: On Twitter, where she is active under the handle @dreadematteo, she has a following of approximately 160,000 users. She uses this platform for sharing opinions, engaging in discussions, and posting updates.
- OnlyFans: De Matteo launched an OnlyFans account in August 2023, a platform she joined citing financial necessity and a perceived downturn in traditional acting opportunities. Her presence on this platform has been widely reported.
- YouTube: While not her primary platform, her podcast, “Gangster Goddess Broad-Cast,” has a presence on YouTube, featuring video versions of episodes and clips that contribute to her overall online footprint.
Her social media engagement offers fans a direct channel to her updates and perspectives, complementing her public persona as a straightforward and authentic individual.
Final Words about Drea De Matteo
Drea De Matteo has carved out a distinctive and memorable career in Hollywood, defined by her raw talent, powerful performances, and unwavering authenticity. Her portrayal of Adriana La Cerva in The Sopranos stands as an enduring legacy, a complex and tragically beautiful character that earned her an Emmy and cemented her place in television history. Beyond this iconic role, her work across diverse series such as Joey, Sons of Anarchy, Desperate Housewives, and Shades of Blue showcases her versatility and ability to inhabit a wide range of characters, from comedic to intensely dramatic.
In recent years, De Matteo has demonstrated remarkable resilience in navigating personal and professional challenges. Her candidness about financial struggles, coupled with her bold decision to explore new avenues like her “Gangster Goddess Broad-Cast” podcast and her OnlyFans presence, highlight her independent spirit and determination to adapt in an ever-evolving industry. Despite claiming to face setbacks due to her personal beliefs, she continues to pursue acting, with recent projects like Nonnas (2025) and Power Book II: Ghost (2024).
Drea De Matteo’s journey reflects not only her considerable talent but also her strength of character. Her legacy is one of a compelling actress who brings a unique blend of grit, vulnerability, and charm to every role, maintaining a genuine connection with her audience while remaining true to herself. Her future plans appear to include continuing her acting career, expanding her presence in digital media, and engaging in open dialogue about her experiences, ensuring her continued relevance and influence in popular culture.