
Actress
Dascha Polanco
- Born: 3 December 1982, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
- Estimated net worth: $5 million
Dascha Polanco is an American actress known for her roles in television and film, particularly for her portrayal of Dayanara Diaz in the acclaimed series Orange Is the New Black. She has gained a reputation for her strong performances and ability to bring…
Dascha Polanco: best films and shows
About Dascha Polanco
Dascha Polanco is an American actress known for her roles in television and film, particularly for her portrayal of Dayanara Diaz in the acclaimed series Orange Is the New Black. She has gained a reputation for her strong performances and ability to bring depth to her characters. Polanco's distinctive voice and presence have made her a recognizable figure in the entertainment industry.
- Born
- 3 December 1982, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
- Known for
- Acting
- Height
- 5 ft 5 in (1.65 m)
- Children
- 2 children
- Parents
- Julio Polanco, Rafi Polanco
- Estimated net worth
- $5 million
Fun facts about Dascha Polanco
- Dascha Polanco initially studied nursing before pursuing a career in acting.
- She has a passion for fashion and has worked with various designers, showcasing her style on red carpets.
Famous Dascha Polanco quotes
“I’m not ashamed of who I am.”
“You have to find your own voice.”
“Sometimes you need to take a leap of faith.”
Dascha Polanco filmography
Cast (30)
| Year | Title | Character | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Stumble TV | Krystal's Mom-ager | 7.1 |
| 2025 | A Little Prayer Movie | Narcedalia | 5.6 |
| 2025 | Terror Comes Knocking: The Marcela Borges Story Movie | Marcela Borges | |
| 2024 | Air Force One Down Movie | Vice President Hansen | 6.1 |
| 2024 | Junction Movie | Dana | 4.8 |
| 2023 | Miguel Wants to Fight Movie | Mrs. Rodriguez | 5.9 |
| 2023 | The Walking Dead: Dead City TV | Lucia Narvaez | 7.9 |
| 2023 | Poker Face TV | Natalie | 7.4 |
| 2022 | Samaritan Movie | Tiffany Cleary | 6.6 |
| 2022 | DC League of Super-Pets Movie | Jessica Cruz / Green Lantern (voice) | 7.1 |
Show 20 more creditsShow fewer
| Year | Title | Character | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | In the Heights Movie | Cuca | 7.1 |
| 2021 | iGilbert Movie | Jana | 5.5 |
| 2019 | The Irishman Movie | Nurse | 7.6 |
| 2019 | Evil TV | Patti Hitchens | 7.8 |
| 2019 | The Tamron Hall Show TV | Self - Guest | 4.7 |
| 2019 | When They See Us TV | Elena | 8.2 |
| 2019 | Russian Doll TV | Beatrice | 7.4 |
| 2016 | VH1 Hip Hop Honors: All Hail the Queens Movie | Unknown character | |
| 2016 | The $100,000 Pyramid TV | Self | 7.0 |
| 2016 | Match Game TV | Self - Panelist | 6.5 |
| 2016 | Chelsea TV | Self | 5.1 |
| 2016 | The Perfect Match Movie | Pressie | 5.6 |
| 2016 | American Crime Story TV | Det. Lori Wieder | 7.6 |
| 2015 | Joy Movie | Jackie | 6.6 |
| 2014 | The Cobbler Movie | Macy | 5.9 |
| 2013 | Gimme Shelter Movie | Carmel | 6.6 |
| 2013 | Orange Is the New Black TV | Dayanara Diaz | 7.6 |
| 2011 | Unforgettable TV | Estella | 7.2 |
| 2005 | Made in Hollywood TV | Self | 4.6 |
| 2005 | American Dad! TV | (voice) | 7.0 |
Latest releases
- A Little Prayer2025 / TMDB 5.6
- Terror Comes Knocking: The Marcela Borges Story2025
- Air Force One Down2024 / TMDB 6.1
- Junction2024 / TMDB 4.8
- Miguel Wants to Fight2023 / TMDB 5.9
- Samaritan2022 / TMDB 6.6
Dascha Polanco in the news
Questions about Dascha Polanco
What is Dascha Polanco's most recognized role?
Dascha Polanco is best known for her role as Dayanara Diaz in the Netflix series Orange Is the New Black, which earned her critical acclaim and a strong fan base.
Has Dascha Polanco won any awards?
Dascha Polanco received a Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series for her work on Orange Is the New Black.
What was Dascha Polanco's first film?
Polanco made her film debut in the 2012 movie Gimme Shelter, where she played a supporting role alongside Vanessa Hudgens.
What are some of Dascha Polanco's successful films?
In addition to Gimme Shelter, Dascha Polanco has appeared in films such as The Perfect Match and The Irishman, showcasing her versatility as an actress.
Is Dascha Polanco involved in any charitable work?
Yes, Dascha Polanco is known for her advocacy work, particularly focusing on issues related to mental health and body positivity.
What is Dascha Polanco's estimated net worth?
Dascha Polanco's estimated net worth is approximately $5 million, reflecting her successful career in acting and endorsements.
Where did Dascha Polanco grow up?
Dascha Polanco was born in the Dominican Republic and later moved to New York City, where she grew up and began her journey in acting.
What is a defining characteristic of Dascha Polanco's acting style?
Dascha Polanco is known for her ability to portray complex characters with authenticity, often bringing a mix of vulnerability and strength to her roles.




