Samira Wiley

Samira Wiley is an American actress celebrated for her roles in "Orange Is the New Black" and "The Handmaid's Tale." Her portrayal of Poussey Washington in the former and Moira in the latter have garnered her critical acclaim, including a Primetime Emmy Award. Beyond her acting career, Wiley is a strong advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, influencing both her personal and professional endeavors.

Born on April 15, 1987, in Washington, D.C., Samira Wiley was raised by her parents, Christine and Dennis W. Wiley, who were co-pastors at the Covenant Baptist United Church of Christ. The church is well-regarded for its progressive stance on social issues, including inclusivity and acceptance, which greatly influenced Wiley's upbringing. She grew up with two siblings, a brother named Joshua Wiley and a sister, Aiyana Ma'at. Wiley’s early environment emphasized inclusivity and justice, values that have both shaped her perspectives and inspired her career in acting and advocacy.

Wiley attended the esteemed Duke Ellington School of the Arts in Washington, D.C., where her passion for acting took root. She later pursued higher education at the distinguished Juilliard School in New York City. It was at Juilliard that Wiley honed her skills in drama, training rigorously alongside a cadre of gifted classmates who would also go on to enter the world of performing arts. The comprehensive and intensive education she received at Juilliard prepared her for the multifaceted career she would soon embark upon.

Wiley’s career gained early momentum with her role as Poussey Washington on the Netflix series "Orange Is the New Black" from 2013 to 2017. This role was a breakthrough, earning her national recognition and acclaim. Following this success, Wiley took on the defining role of Moira in the Hulu series "The Handmaid's Tale," commencing in 2017. Her exceptional performance in this series led to her receiving an Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series in 2018, solidifying her status as a leading figure in the television industry. Other projects include her role in the film "Nerve" in 2016 and her performance in "Social Animals" in 2018. Moreover, she became a narrator for the animated series "Drunk History" in 2020.

Samira Wiley's personal life is marked by her relationship with Lauren Morelli, whom she met while working on the set of "Orange Is the New Black." Morelli was a writer for the show, while Wiley portrayed the character Poussey Washington. The couple's engagement was announced in October 2016, and they were married on March 25, 2017, in a ceremony held in Palm Springs, California. In April 2021, Wiley and Morelli welcomed their first child, a daughter named George Elizabeth, into their family.

Samira Wiley has consistently articulated her ambition to undertake roles that challenge societal norms and emphasize diversity in storytelling. She is passionate about bringing attention to important social issues through her art and envisages expanding her career beyond acting into production and other creative roles. Wiley aspires to shape narratives from behind the camera and to ensure varied and representative stories are told within the industry. Her commitment to her craft and the causes she supports remains a driving force in her career.