OITNB Cast: Where Are They Now?
Hey guys! Remember Orange Is the New Black? The show that had us all hooked with its incredible storytelling and diverse characters? Well, let's dive back into the lives of our favorite inmates and see what the amazing cast has been up to since the show wrapped. This deep dive will not only refresh your memory about the unforgettable characters but also update you on the actors' careers and personal lives post-Litchfield. From comedy to drama, and even behind-the-camera ventures, the cast of OITNB has been making waves in the entertainment industry. So, grab your popcorn, and let's get started!
Taylor Schilling as Piper Chapman
Taylor Schilling, who played the protagonist Piper Chapman, has continued to shine in the acting world. Piper, the preppy Smith College graduate whose past catches up with her, was a character we loved to hate and hated to love. Schilling's portrayal of Piper's transformation from a naive newcomer to a more hardened inmate was truly captivating. Since OITNB, she has taken on a variety of roles that showcase her versatility as an actress. One of her notable projects includes the science fiction thriller film The Prodigy (2019), where she played a mother grappling with her son's disturbing behavior. This role allowed her to explore a darker, more intense character, a far cry from the often conflicted but relatable Piper Chapman. Additionally, Schilling has ventured into television with roles in series such as Monsterland (2020), an anthology horror drama, and Pam & Tommy (2022), where she portrayed Erica Boyer, adding another layer to her diverse filmography. These roles highlight her range and willingness to tackle complex characters across different genres. Beyond acting, Taylor is known for her grounded personality and commitment to her craft, often emphasizing the importance of storytelling in her career choices. Her post-OITNB journey reflects a conscious effort to explore different facets of her acting ability, making her a prominent figure to watch in the industry. She continues to captivate audiences with her talent and dedication, ensuring her place as a celebrated actress in both film and television.
Laura Prepon as Alex Vause
Ah, Alex Vause, the cool and enigmatic drug smuggler played by the amazing Laura Prepon. Her character's on-again, off-again relationship with Piper was one of the show's most compelling storylines. Prepon brought a certain edge and vulnerability to Alex, making her instantly memorable. But what has Laura been up to since donning those iconic glasses? Well, she's been quite busy! Beyond acting, Laura has dived into the world of directing, showcasing her talents behind the camera. She directed several episodes of OITNB, proving her keen eye for storytelling extends beyond her performance skills. This transition into directing is a testament to her comprehensive understanding of the filmmaking process and her desire to contribute creatively in multiple ways. In addition to directing, Laura has continued to act, appearing in the thriller film The Girl on the Train (2016), where she played a significant supporting role. This project allowed her to collaborate with other talented actors and further diversify her acting portfolio. Laura is also a passionate advocate for healthy living and has authored a cookbook, demonstrating her commitment to wellness and sharing her culinary expertise with others. Her multifaceted career showcases her as not just an actress but also a director, author, and health enthusiast, making her a true multi-hyphenate in the entertainment industry. Laura's post-OITNB journey reflects her passion for creativity and her dedication to exploring different avenues within and beyond the acting world.
Uzo Aduba as Suzanne "Crazy Eyes" Warren
Let's talk about Uzo Aduba, the actress who brought Suzanne "Crazy Eyes" Warren to life. Her portrayal was nothing short of phenomenal, earning her not one, but two Emmy Awards! Suzanne was a complex character, full of vulnerability and intensity, and Uzo played her with such depth and nuance. Since Orange Is the New Black, Uzo's career has skyrocketed, and rightfully so. She has taken on a variety of roles that showcase her incredible range and talent. One of her most notable post-OITNB roles is in the FX limited series Mrs. America (2020), where she portrayed Shirley Chisholm, the first African American woman to run for president. This role not only highlighted her acting prowess but also her commitment to telling important and impactful stories. Her performance in Mrs. America was critically acclaimed, further solidifying her status as a leading actress. Uzo has also appeared in films such as Miss Virginia (2019) and lent her voice to animated projects like Steven Universe. She has also starred in the HBO series In Treatment (2021), demonstrating her ability to tackle complex and emotionally demanding roles. Uzo's post-OITNB career is a testament to her versatility and her dedication to her craft. She continues to inspire audiences with her powerful performances and her commitment to meaningful storytelling, making her one of the most respected and sought-after actresses in the industry today.
Danielle Brooks as Tasha "Taystee" Jefferson
Danielle Brooks as Tasha "Taystee" Jefferson was the heart and soul of OITNB, right? Her character's journey was one of the most heartbreaking and powerful in the series. Danielle brought so much warmth, humor, and raw emotion to the role, making Taystee a fan favorite. Since the show ended, Danielle has continued to shine, both on stage and on screen. She made a splash on Broadway, earning a Tony Award nomination for her performance in The Color Purple. This role showcased her incredible vocal talent and her ability to command the stage, solidifying her status as a versatile performer. Danielle has also appeared in films such as Sadie (2018) and Clemency (2019), where she delivered powerful performances that further highlighted her dramatic range. In addition to her acting work, Danielle is an advocate for body positivity and representation in the media, using her platform to inspire and empower others. She has also ventured into television, starring in series such as Social Distance (2020) and Peacemaker (2022), where she plays Leota Adebayo, adding another dimension to her acting repertoire. Danielle's post-OITNB career reflects her passion for storytelling and her commitment to using her talent to make a difference. She continues to captivate audiences with her performances and inspire with her advocacy, making her a true force in the entertainment industry.
Natasha Lyonne as Nicky Nichols
Natasha Lyonne, who played the quick-witted and fiercely loyal Nicky Nichols, stole our hearts with her sharp humor and vulnerability. Her character's struggles with addiction and her deep friendships in Litchfield were central to the show's emotional core. Since Orange Is the New Black, Natasha has continued to impress, both as an actress and as a creator. She co-created, wrote, directed, and starred in the Netflix series Russian Doll (2019-present), which has garnered critical acclaim and numerous awards. Russian Doll showcases her unique comedic timing and her talent for storytelling, solidifying her status as a creative force in the industry. Natasha has also appeared in films such as Honey Boy (2019) and Irresistible (2020), further demonstrating her range as an actress. Her work often explores complex themes and characters, reflecting her own experiences and perspectives. In addition to her acting and creating work, Natasha is known for her distinctive voice and her candid interviews, making her a compelling figure in Hollywood. She has also directed episodes of other television series, including Awkwafina Is Nora from Queens, showcasing her growing expertise behind the camera. Natasha's post-OITNB career is a testament to her creative vision and her dedication to authentic storytelling. She continues to challenge herself and push boundaries, making her one of the most exciting and innovative talents in the entertainment industry today.
The Ensemble Cast and Their Projects
Beyond these main characters, Orange Is the New Black boasted an incredibly talented ensemble cast. Let's take a quick look at what some of the other standout actors have been up to:
- Dascha Polanco (Dayanara Diaz): Dascha has appeared in films such as In the Heights (2021) and Samaritan (2022), showcasing her versatility in both musical and action genres.
- Selenis Leyva (Gloria Mendoza): Selenis has starred in series like Diary of a Future President and films like Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, proving her range in both comedy and animation.
- Adrienne C. Moore (Cindy "Black Cindy" Hayes): Adrienne has appeared in series such as Atlanta and Manifest, highlighting her dramatic and comedic talents.
- Yael Stone (Lorna Morello): Yael has taken on roles in theater and television, including the series High Maintenance, demonstrating her diverse acting skills.
- Taryn Manning (Tiffany "Pennsatucky" Doggett): Taryn has continued her music career and has appeared in various film and television projects.
This ensemble cast's continued success speaks to the depth of talent that Orange Is the New Black brought together. Each actor has carved their own path, contributing to a rich tapestry of storytelling in the entertainment industry.
The Legacy of OITNB
Orange Is the New Black was more than just a TV show; it was a cultural phenomenon. It brought diverse stories to the forefront, tackled important social issues, and introduced us to characters we'll never forget. The cast's post-show endeavors are a testament to the impact of OITNB and the talent it showcased. They have continued to inspire, entertain, and push boundaries in their respective careers. The show's legacy lives on through their work, reminding us of the power of storytelling and the importance of representation in the media. As they continue to evolve and take on new challenges, the cast of OITNB remains a group of actors to watch, each with their own unique contributions to the world of entertainment.
So, there you have it, guys! A glimpse into what the cast of Orange Is the New Black has been up to. It's amazing to see how they've all grown and evolved since the show ended. We can't wait to see what they do next!