Vanessa Ferlito Movies and TV Shows Life Vanessa Ferlito is an American actress, best known for her roles in television and film. Over the years, she has built a strong and varied career in both television and film, earning recognition for her dynamic acting talent. Here’s a complete guide to her most notable movies and TV shows.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Vanessa Ferlito was born on December 28, 1980, in Brooklyn, New York. She is of Italian descent and had an interest in acting from a young age. Before stepping into the world of acting, Ferlito worked as a model and appeared in various music videos. Her transition to acting came in the early 2000s, and she quickly gained a reputation for her talent and versatility.
| Movies | TV Shows |
|---|---|
| 1. Spider-Man 2 (2004) | 1. 24 (2001–2002) |
| 2. World Trade Center (2006) | 2. Graceland (2013–2015) |
| 3. Death Proof (2007) | 3. NCIS: New Orleans (2014–2016) |
| 4. The Tollbooth (2004) | 4. The Mindy Project (2013) |
| 5. Madea’s Family Reunion (2006) | 5. The Good Wife (2009) |
| 6. A Guide to Recognizing Your Saints (2006) | 6. CSI: NY (2005–2009) |
| 7. The Night Listener (2006) | 7. Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (2004) |
| 8. Julie & Julia (2009) | 8. L&O: Criminal Intent (2007) |
| 9. Road to Paloma (2014) | 9. Brooklyn Nine-Nine (2013–2014) |
| 10. The United States of Leland (2003) | 10. The Expanse (2017–2018) |
| 11. Nothing Like the Holidays (2008) | 11. Bones (2010–2011) |
Movies Starring Vanessa Ferlito
1. Spider-Man 2 (2004)
Role: Maria, the Nurse
Ferlito had a supporting role in the second installment of the Spider-Man franchise, directed by Sam Raimi. Her character, Maria, is a nurse who works at the hospital where Peter Parker (played by Tobey Maguire) receives medical attention. Although the role was brief, it helped her gain early exposure in Hollywood.
2. Man of the House (2005)
Role: Nancy
In this comedy film, Ferlito played Nancy, the girlfriend of a Texas Ranger (played by Tommy Lee Jones). The movie follows a group of college cheerleaders who are forced to help Jones’ character with a case while dealing with their own personal dilemmas. Ferlito’s role contributed to her comedic chops and made her more well-known in the industry.
3. Grindhouse (2007)
Role: Arlene
Ferlito appeared in Grindhouse, a double feature film directed by Quentin Tarantino and Robert Rodriguez. She played Arlene, a character in the segment Death Proof, directed by Tarantino. Her performance in this film earned her praise for her portrayal of a feisty, tough woman.
4. Death Proof (2007)
Role: Arlene
In this Tarantino-directed portion of Grindhouse, Ferlito’s role as Arlene showcases her ability to embody strong, fearless characters. Arlene is one of the women who become targets of the villainous stuntman Mike (played by Kurt Russell), and Ferlito’s portrayal adds a layer of depth to the ensemble cast.
5. The Call (2013)
Role: Leah Templeton
In The Call, Ferlito played Leah Templeton, a police officer who works with Halle Berry’s character in a tense thriller involving a 911 operator trying to save a kidnapped girl. The film was notable for its suspense and Ferlito’s compelling performance as part of the supporting cast.
6. Julia (2008)
Role: Social Worker
Julia is a drama film in which Ferlito had a supporting role. The movie tells the story of a woman named Julia (played by Tilda Swinton) who embarks on a path of self-destruction after kidnapping a child. The film is intense, and Ferlito’s role helps add emotional weight to the narrative.
7. The Taking of Pelham 123 (2009)
Role: Detective Camacho
Ferlito played Detective Camacho in The Taking of Pelham 123, a thriller starring Denzel Washington and John Travolta. She played an integral part in the investigation as a member of the police team trying to resolve the hostage situation in a New York City subway. The film’s intense atmosphere gave Ferlito the opportunity to showcase her dramatic acting abilities.
TV Shows Starring Vanessa Ferlito
1. CSI NY (2004-2006)
Role: Aiden Burn
One of Ferlito’s most well-known TV roles is that of Aiden Burn in CSI: NY. Aiden was a strong, no-nonsense forensic investigator working in the New York City Police Department. Her character was popular with fans, and she played an important role in the early seasons of the show. Ferlito’s performance on CSI: NY helped establish her as a capable and skilled actress in television dramas.
2. 24 (2007)
Role: Dana Walsh
Ferlito joined the cast of 24 in its eighth and final season, playing Dana Walsh, a CTU employee with a mysterious past. Her character was deeply involved in a significant conspiracy within the storyline. 24 was known for its high-intensity plots, and Ferlito’s performance helped elevate the drama in her scenes.
3. Graceland (2013-2015)
Role: FBI Agent Paige Arkin
In the USA Network drama Graceland, Ferlito starred as Paige Arkin, an FBI agent who is a part of an undercover group operating out of a beach house. The series focuses on the lives of law enforcement officers working undercover in various dangerous scenarios, and Ferlito’s performance as a strong-willed and intelligent agent earned praise. Graceland had a loyal fan base and ran for three seasons.
4. NCIS New Orleans (2014-2015)
Role: Special Agent Tammy Gregorio
In 2014, Ferlito joined the cast of NCIS: New Orleans as Special Agent Tammy Gregorio. She was brought in to replace another character and quickly became a key part of the show’s dynamic. As a skilled investigator and field agent, Ferlito’s character added new depth to the team of NCIS agents in the Big Easy. Her role as Tammy was met with a positive response, showcasing her ability to tackle more procedural roles.
5. Rosewood (2015-2017)
Role: Detective Villa
Ferlito played Detective Villa in the Fox series Rosewood, a police procedural show that starred Morris Chestnut. The series follows Dr. Beaumont Rosewood Jr., a private pathologist who works with the Miami Police Department to solve cases. Ferlito’s role as a tough but compassionate detective allowed her to work alongside Chestnut in a dynamic and engaging partnership.
Notable Guest Appearances
In addition to her major roles, Vanessa Ferlito has made guest appearances in various TV shows and films. Some of her guest spots include:
- The Sopranos (2004): Ferlito made a brief appearance in the iconic show as a young woman who briefly interacts with Tony Soprano.
- Law & Order: Criminal Intent (2004): She made a guest appearance in the long-running crime drama series in a significant episode that showed off her dramatic acting skills.
Conclusion
Vanessa Ferlito’s career is a testament to her versatility and talent as an actress. From strong roles in television procedurals like CSI: NY and Graceland, to her film appearances in Grindhouse and The Call, Ferlito has managed to carve out a niche for herself in both drama and action roles. With her dynamic acting range, she continues to be a respected presence in Hollywood and on television.