Natasha Lyonne

Biography

Natasha Lyonne, born Natasha Bianca Lyonne Braunstein on April 4, 1979, is a multi-talented American actress, writer, director, and producer. Known for her distinctive raspy voice and tough persona, Lyonne has made a name for herself in the entertainment industry with her versatile performances that range from teen roles to mature characters in both film and television. Throughout her career, she has garnered critical acclaim, earning nominations for five Primetime Emmy Awards and two Golden Globe Awards. In 2023, she was recognized as one of the 100 most influential people in the world by Time Magazine.

Lyonne's journey in the world of acting began at a young age, with her first uncredited appearance in "Heartburn" (1986) and subsequent roles in popular shows like "Pee-wee's Playhouse" (1986) and "Dennis the Menace" (1993). She later transitioned to teen roles in independent films such as "Slums of Beverly Hills" (1998) and "But I'm a Cheerleader" (1999), showcasing her range as an actress. Additionally, she appeared in comedic hits like "American Pie" (1999) and its sequels, further solidifying her presence in the industry.

However, it was her roles in groundbreaking series like "Orange Is the New Black" (2013–2019) and "Russian Doll" (2019–2022) that brought Lyonne widespread acclaim and Emmy Award nominations. In these shows, she portrayed complex characters with depth and nuance, captivating audiences with her raw and authentic performances. Not only did she excel in front of the camera, but she also made significant contributions behind the scenes as a co-creator, writer, director, and executive producer.

Continuing her streak of compelling performances, Lyonne ventured into the crime comedy genre with the Peacock series "Poker Face" (2023–present), where she plays a woman gifted with the ability to detect lies. Her talent for bringing unique and intriguing characters to life has solidified her status as a powerhouse in the industry. In addition to her television work, she also starred in the Netflix drama film "His Three Daughters" (2024), further showcasing her versatility as an actress.

Natasha Lyonne's impact on the entertainment world extends beyond her on-screen presence. With her bold choices, strong work ethic, and undeniable talent, she has carved out a niche for herself as a respected and influential figure in Hollywood. As she continues to push boundaries and explore new creative endeavors, audiences can look forward to witnessing more of her exceptional performances and contributions to the industry for years to come.