Hailing originally from Cortlandt Manor, New York, Danielle began her Film and TV career at just 4 years old, Danielle’s career has spanned multiple mediums including roles on Broadway’s “The Lion King”, and credits on hit TV series’ including “This Is Us” and “Saturday Night Live”. In addition to her expansive career, Danielle passionately advocates for women’s empowerment, Latino charities, The Boys and Girls Club, civil rights, and various other causes. A motivating force behind Danielle’s aspirations for the future is her commitment to fostering a growing presence for the Latino community in the realms of TV and Film.

We caught up with the actress ahead of her return to her role in Amazon crime drama, “Bosch: Legacy” and with an exciting, coveted role in Jennifer Lopez’s upcoming film, “This Is Me… Now”, as her star continues to rise in 2024.

Hey Danielle! We’ve just entered 2024, what were your highlights from 2023?

One of my highlights of 2023 was definitively being able to work with one of my idols Jennifer Lopez. Also, my son, Benson, graduated kindergarten- so that was so huge for me.

How did growing up in Cortlandt Manor, New York, shape your early experiences and aspirations as a performer?

Growing up in Westchester allowed me the opportunity to explore and see that dreams were possible. However, it was a bit isolating as I was pretty much the only Latino in my class. Therefore, through my early experiences in acting, I felt a sense of pride that I could accomplish my aspirations and whatever I set my mind to as a Latino actor. My early experiences also included watching my mom break glass ceilings. So, I learned early on hard work and a positive attitude goes a long way!

Lastly, I grew up in a home with a backyard and got to play until the streetlights came on which really allowed me to be a kid.

You’ve had a varied and diverse career from Broadway to film and TV. Is there a specific project or moment that stands out as particularly impactful or memorable?

I would have to say being on Broadway. Playing young Nala in the Lion King was such a special honor for me and a pivotal time in my life as it set the tone for my career. It was magical. Not only because I was able to be a part of the Disney family, but it helped me realize that I can reach for the stars and achieve my goals.

Advocacy seems to be a significant part of your life, supporting causes such as women’s empowerment, Latino charities, civil rights and more. Can you share the causes that resonate most with you and the impact you hope to have with your work?

One of my strong passions I have is in civil rights. As my mother and stepfather are both Los Angeles civil rights attorneys. I get a first-hand look at the admirable work they do every day for the black and brown communities. In my industry, I want to fight that fight as well, giving us an equal opportunity to work and be seen in the entertainment field.

Your current projects include BOSCH: Legacy and the upcoming Jennifer Lopez film “This Is Me.. Now”. How do you choose your roles and what do you look for in a character?

My focus when choosing to play a character is if the character resonates with me and aligns with the type of career I am planning for myself. I love roles that are different and challenge me as an actor. As you can see, Officer Calderon from Bosch Legacy and “The fighter” from This is Me Now are such different roles.

What was it like working with a cultural icon like Jennifer Lopez?

It was everything you would ever imagine. She really is that beautiful inside and out! She was so open and kind to us actors and allowed us the opportunity to play and improv. I had such an amazing experience learning and watching how she commanded and embraced her role, yet did it with her graceful, amazing presence and talent.

Looking ahead, what aspirations do you have for the future, both personally and professionally?

Personally, I am actually really into real estate. So, I would love to keep learning and building my portfolio. In my acting career, I want to keep pushing the envelope and play as many different characters as I can to challenge myself and set the precedent for the Latinos who will come after me. The next thing I am eyeing which I think would be great for me is a period piece.