Andrea Donna de Matteo, known professionally as Drea de Matteo, is an American actress celebrated for her dynamic roles in television and film. Born on January 19, 1972, in Queens, New York, she has built a diverse career marked by critical acclaim and audience admiration.
Early Life
De Matteo was raised in the Whitestone neighborhood of Queens. Her mother, Donna, was a playwright and playwriting teacher at HB Studio in New York, while her father, Albert A. De Matteo, was a furniture manufacturer. Growing up in a Roman Catholic household of Italian descent, she was the youngest of three children and the only daughter. De Matteo attended the Loyola School and later pursued studies at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts, initially focusing on directing before transitioning to acting.
Career
De Matteo’s acting career began with minor roles in independent films. Her breakthrough came with the role of Adriana La Cerva on HBO’s “The Sopranos” (1999–2006). Initially cast for a single episode, her performance impressed the producers, leading to an expanded role as a series regular. Her portrayal of Adriana, the girlfriend of mobster Christopher Moltisanti, earned her the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series in 2004.
Following “The Sopranos,” de Matteo starred as Gina Tribbiani in the NBC sitcom “Joey” (2004–2006), a spin-off of “Friends.” She continued to showcase her versatility with roles such as Wendy Case in FX’s “Sons of Anarchy” (2008–2014) and Angie Bolen in ABC’s “Desperate Housewives” (2009–2010). Her film credits include “Swordfish” (2001), “Prey for Rock & Roll” (2003), and “Assault on Precinct 13” (2005).
Relationships
De Matteo was in a long-term relationship with musician Shooter Jennings from 2001 to 2013. The couple became engaged in 2009 and have two children: daughter Alabama Gypsy Rose Jennings, born in 2007, and son Waylon Albert Jennings, born in 2011. After parting ways with Jennings, de Matteo became engaged to Whitesnake bassist Michael Devin in 2015.
Real Estate
In 2012, de Matteo’s apartment in New York City’s East Village was destroyed in a fire, leading to significant personal loss. Despite this setback, she has maintained residences in both New York and Los Angeles, balancing her professional commitments and family life.
Net Worth
As of 2024, de Matteo’s net worth is estimated to be around $4 million. This wealth primarily stems from her successful acting career, including her roles in acclaimed television series and films. However, she has faced financial challenges, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, which led her to join the subscription platform OnlyFans to support her family.
Age and Height
As of December 2024, Drea de Matteo is 52 years old. She stands at 5 feet 6 inches (1.68 meters) tall.
Personal Insights
De Matteo is fluent in Italian and Spanish, reflecting her rich cultural heritage. Known for her distinctive New York accent and multiple tattoos, she embodies a blend of urban toughness and artistic sensitivity. Beyond acting, she co-owned a vintage clothing store called Filth Mart in Manhattan’s East Village, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit and passion for fashion.
Throughout her career, de Matteo has demonstrated resilience and adaptability, navigating the entertainment industry’s evolving landscape while staying true to her artistic vision. Her performances continue to resonate with audiences, solidifying her status as a versatile and dedicated actress.