# Lana Parrilla

> American actress

**Wikidata**: [Q242155](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q242155)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lana_Parrilla)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/lana-parrilla

## Summary
Lana Parrilla is an American actress known for her work in television and film. She gained widespread recognition for her role as the Evil Queen/Regina Mills in the television series *Once Upon a Time*, which aired from 2011 to 2018. Her performance in the show established her as a prominent figure in modern fantasy drama.

## Biography
- Born: July 15, 1977
- Nationality: United States
- Education: Beverly Hills Playhouse, California State University, Northridge
- Known for: Portraying Regina Mills / the Evil Queen in *Once Upon a Time*
- Employer(s): ABC (Once Upon a Time), various film and television productions
- Field(s): Acting, Television, Film

## Contributions
Lana Parrilla is best known for her portrayal of Regina Mills/Evil Queen in the ABC fantasy drama series *Once Upon a Time*, which ran from 2011 to 2018. Her performance was central to the show's success, contributing to its longevity and cultural impact. She also appeared in other television series such as *Boomtown*, *The Shield*, *24*, *Burn Notice*, and *Unfabulous*. In film, she starred in projects like *Love & Basketball*, *I Dreamed of Africa*, and *The Perfect Man*. Parrilla has also worked in theater and voice acting, including roles in video games and animated features.

## FAQs
**What is Lana Parrilla most famous for?**  
Lana Parrilla is most famous for her role as the Evil Queen/Regina Mills in the ABC series *Once Upon a Time*. Her portrayal of the complex and morally ambiguous character was widely praised and became a defining role in her career.

**Where has Lana Parrilla worked?**  
She has worked in television, film, and theater. Notable TV credits include *Once Upon a Time*, *The Shield*, *24*, *Burn Notice*, and *Unfabulous*. In film, she appeared in *Love & Basketball*, *I Dreamed of Africa*, and *The Perfect Man*. She has also done voice work for video games and animated projects.

**What roles did Lana Parrilla play before *Once Upon a Time*?**  
Before *Once Upon a Time*, Parrilla played roles such as Rachel in *Boomtown*, Kim Zambrano in *The Shield*, and appeared in films like *Love & Basketball* and *I Dreamed of Africa*. She also had recurring roles in shows like *24* and *Burn Notice*.

**What education and training did Lana Parrilla receive?**  
Lana Parrilla studied at California State University, Northridge, and trained at the Beverly Hills Playhouse, a well-known acting school with locations across the U.S.

**Has Lana Parrilla won any awards?**  
Yes, she has received several nominations and awards, including a Saturn Award for Best Supporting Actress on Television for her role in *Once Upon a Time*. She has also been nominated for multiple awards from organizations like the Imagen Foundation and the ALMA Awards.

## Why They Matter
Lana Parrilla's portrayal of Regina Mills in *Once Upon a Time* redefined the role of the "villain" in modern fantasy television. Her nuanced performance helped elevate the show’s emotional depth and complexity, making it a cultural touchstone. Her work has influenced the genre by showing how morally ambiguous characters can be both compelling and empathetic. Parrilla’s contributions have also helped diversify representation in fantasy storytelling.

## Notable For
- Playing the Evil Queen/Regina Mills in *Once Upon a Time* (2011–2018)
- Saturn Award for Best Supporting Actress on Television (2012)
- ALMA Award nomination for Outstanding Actress in a Drama Series (2012)
- Imagen Foundation Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress (2013)
- Voice role in the video game *Disney Infinity: Marvel Super Heroes* (2014)
- Recurring role in *The Shield* and appearances in *24* and *Burn Notice*
- Training at the Beverly Hills Playhouse
- Alumni of California State University, Northridge

## Body

### Early Life and Education
Lana Parrilla was born on July 15, 1977. She pursued higher education at California State University, Northridge, where she studied theater and performance. She later trained at the Beverly Hills Playhouse, an acting school known for its rigorous programs and notable alumni in Hollywood.

### Career Beginnings
Parrilla began her career in the late 1990s, appearing in various television roles. Her early work included guest spots on shows like *Boomtown* and *The Shield*. She also took on film roles in projects such as *Love & Basketball* (2000), *I Dreamed of Africa* (2001), and *The Perfect Man* (2005), where she played supporting characters that showcased her dramatic range.

### Breakthrough Role: *Once Upon a Time*
Lana Parrilla’s most recognized role came in 2011 when she joined the cast of *Once Upon a Time* as the Evil Queen/Regina Mills. The ABC series, co-created by Edward Kitsis and Adam Horowitz, reimagined classic fairy tale characters in a modern setting. Parrilla’s performance was widely praised for its emotional depth and complexity, turning a traditional villain into a multifaceted character. Her work on the show spanned seven seasons, from 2011 to 2018, and made her a household name in the fantasy genre.

### Television Roles
In addition to *Once Upon a Time*, Parrilla appeared in several other television series:
- *Boomtown* (2002–2003) – Played Rachel, a recurring character in this police procedural.
- *The Shield* (2003) – Portrayed Kim Zambrano in a guest role.
- *24* (2005) – Guest-starred as Julia, a role that demonstrated her ability to handle high-stakes drama.
- *Burn Notice* (2010) – Appeared in an episode as a con artist.
- *Unfabulous* (2004–2007) – Had a recurring role as a rival character.

### Film Career
Parrilla’s filmography includes:
- *Love & Basketball* (2000) – Played Monica’s rival teammate, showcasing her early dramatic talent.
- *I Dreamed of Africa* (2001) – Featured alongside Kim Basinger in this biographical drama.
- *The Perfect Man* (2005) – Appeared in a supporting role in this family comedy.

### Theater and Voice Work
She has also worked in theater and provided voice acting for video games and animated features. Her voice work includes roles in *Disney Infinity: Marvel Super Heroes* (2014), where she lent her talents to a character in the interactive game series.

### Awards and Recognition
Lana Parrilla has received critical acclaim and industry recognition:
- **Saturn Award** – Won Best Supporting Actress on Television in 2012 for her role in *Once Upon a Time*.
- **ALMA Award Nomination** – Outstanding Actress in a Drama Series (2012).
- **Imagen Foundation Award Nomination** – Best Supporting Actress (2013).

### Public Presence and Advocacy
Parrilla is active on social media platforms, including Twitter (@LanaParrilla), where she engages with fans and shares updates on her work. She has also participated in various fan conventions and charity events, building a strong connection with her audience.

### Legacy and Influence
Lana Parrilla’s portrayal of Regina Mills remains one of the most iconic villain roles in modern television. Her performance influenced how complex female characters are written and received in fantasy dramas. Her work continues to inspire new generations of actors and storytellers in the genre.

### Personal Life and Identity
A U.S. citizen, Parrilla has maintained a strong connection to her cultural roots and has been recognized for her contributions to Latinx representation in Hollywood. Her roles often reflect a blend of strength, vulnerability, and resilience, resonating with diverse audiences.

### Ongoing Projects and Future Endeavors
While *Once Upon a Time* concluded in 2018, Parrilla continues to work in television and film. She remains active in the entertainment industry, taking on new roles and exploring opportunities in directing and producing. Her influence in fantasy storytelling and genre television ensures her legacy endures.

## References

1. general catalog of BnF
2. Virtual International Authority File
3. MusicBrainz
4. IMDb
5. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
6. Quora
7. The Movie Database
8. Cinemathèque québécoise Linked Open Data