This Australian stunner first made waves as a virginal nude model in the 1994 big-screen comedy
Sirens. After a succession of small parts in mostly forgettable films, the actress joined the cast of the hit dramedy
Ally McBeal in 1998 and stayed with the series until it ended. Although she continued to take occasional movie parts, the small screen remained her primary medium, and in 2003 she signed on as part of the ensemble screwball sitcom
Arrested Development. Off screen de Rossi has enjoyed a high-profile love life. After a short-lived marriage to a sound engineer, she began dating singer Francesca Gregorini, whom she eventually left for comedian Ellen DeGeneres.
Portia De Rossi Fast Facts:
- Officially changed her name when she was 15.
- Studied law for several years at the University of Melbourne before dropping out to pursue acting.
- Turned down a starring role in the 1998 film Gia because of nude lesbian scenes.
- Plays the guitar.
- Underwent laser treatment to remove the tatooed initials of ex-girlfriend Francesca Gregorini from her wedding finger.
- Portia De Rossi Relationships:
- Barry Rogers - Father
- Ellen DeGeneres - Wife
- Margaret Rogers - Mother
- College:
- Attended Melbourne University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
