Drea de Matteo stands as an inspirational model of innovation and perseverance in Hollywood. Her success as an actress stands as testament to both of these characteristics, being born on January 19, 1972 in Queens borough in New York City. Her Italian heritage and Roman Catholic education played an important role in her early years. She grew up in the busy streets of New York, along with her brothers Darren and Joe. Art and business always intertwined in the De Matteo family, with a playwright as mother and a successful furniture maker father.
Education and Early Ambitions
Drea’s academic journey led her first to the Loyola School of NYC and then to the prestigious Tisch School of the Arts at New York University. Few people know that Drea’s first ambition was to direct films. Drea also honed her acting skills at the HB Studio where her mother taught.
Filth Mart: A First Tryst at Entrepreneurship
Drea’s entrepreneurial spirit was on display long before she graced our TV screens. She co-founded Filth Mart, a clothing store in New York’s East Village. The store was a hit with its rock-music-inspired clothing, and Drea’s own line of custom-designed t-shirts. Publications like Elle took note. Filth Mart shut its doors in 2004, but as they say, not everything good lasts.
A Star is Born
Drea’s first roles in the entertainment business were brief appearances. However, destiny had bigger plans. She landed the role of Adriana la Cerva in HBO’s masterpiece The Sopranos, in 1999. It was a pivotal moment in her career. Drea quickly transitioned to other major series such as Joey, Desperate Housewives and Sons of Anarchy after winning an Emmy. Swordfish, Assault on Precinct 13 and other silver screen projects further cemented her place in Hollywood.
Drea’s Personal Odyssey: Triumphs and Tribulations
Drea’s life is a kaleidoscope of emotions. In her late 20s, Drea was in a relationship with Michael Sportes. He was her partner at Filth Mart. Later, the winds of love took her to musician Shooter Jnnings. They were blessed with two children. She embarked on her new chapter in 2015 when she got engaged to Michael Devin. He is the bassist of the legendary rock group Whitesnake.
Life wasn’t always perfect. In 2015, a devastating gas explosion destroyed her East Village apartment. She had lived there for more than 20 years. Drea, the ever-resilient phoenix rose from the ashes. She made a smart real estate decision in 2004, when she bought a home in Laurel Canyon, L.A. for just $2 million. By 2023, it was listed for a hefty $3.6 million.
Drea De Matteo Net Worth
Drea de Matteo has a legacy that is rich. Her net worth in 2023 is estimated at $10 million. It’s not only her wealth and fame that make her story so remarkable. Her journey is what inspires. It’s filled with dreams and determination. Drea continues to shine as an entertainment star, and she serves as a shining beacon for all aspiring musicians, proving with passion, persistence, and dedication, there is no limit.
