Lana Parrilla

Lana Maria Parrilla (born July 15, 1977) is an American actress who has established a successful career in television, film, and theater. Born in Brooklyn, New York, to a Puerto Rican father and Italian-Jewish mother, Parrilla grew up in a multicultural household that influenced her artistic sensibility. She studied at Carnegie Mellon University's prestigious drama program and began her career with roles in television shows including "Boomtown" and "24." However, Parrilla achieved mainstream recognition through her role as Regina Mills/The Evil Queen in the ABC fantasy series "Once Upon a Time" (2011-2018), which ran for seven seasons and developed a devoted fanbase. Her portrayal of a complex, morally ambiguous character earned her critical acclaim and made her a household name. The character's development from villain to anti-hero was central to the show's narrative arc and showcased Parrilla's dramatic range. Beyond "Once Upon a Time," she has appeared in films, television movies, and guest roles on various series. She has also maintained an active presence in theater, returning to her roots in dramatic performance. Parrilla is known for her engagement with fans on social media and her advocacy for LGBTQ+ causes. Her career demonstrates the evolution of storytelling in television and the power of character development.