Marina Sirtis

Biography

Marina Sirtis, born on March 29, 1955, is an acclaimed English-American actress renowned for her portrayal of Counselor Deanna Troi in the iconic television series Star Trek: The Next Generation, along with its subsequent film adaptations.

Hailing from the East End of London, Marina is the daughter of Greek immigrants Despina, a tailor's assistant, and John Sirtis. Raised in Harringay, North London, she moved to the United States in 1986 and later became a naturalized citizen. Despite her parents' disapproval, she pursued her passion for acting, gaining acceptance into the prestigious Guildhall School of Music and Drama. Marina has been married to rock guitarist Michael Lamper since June 21, 1992. Her younger brother, Steve, played football in Greece and was part of Columbia University’s team in the early 1980s. An avid supporter of Tottenham Hotspur F.C., she often shares her love for the team.

Sirtis began her acting career in 1976 with a repertory company at the Connaught Theatre in Worthing, West Sussex. She starred in various productions, including Joe Orton's What the Butler Saw and Hamlet. Prior to her breakthrough role in Star Trek, she appeared in several films including The Wicked Lady, where she had a memorable whip fight with Faye Dunaway, and Death Wish 3 as a rape victim. Additionally, she made guest appearances on various British television series and starred in the memorable 1979 Cinzano Bianco commercial alongside Leonard Rossiter and Joan Collins.