Jenny Gago is a highly acclaimed and versatile Latina actress in Hollywood, renowned for her powerful performances in a wide range of film and television productions. Her portrayal of Maria Sanchez in Gregory Nava's critically acclaimed film "My Family" (1995) was a highlight of her career, showcasing her exceptional acting abilities and dedication to her craft.
Throughout her illustrious career, Gago has appeared in numerous feature films, including "Coach Carter" (2005) alongside Samuel L. Jackson, "The Tie That Binds" (1995),"Blood In, Blood Out" (1993),"Under Fire" (1983),and "Nurse Betty" (2000) with Renée Zellweger. She has also received critical acclaim for her performances in television films such as "Grand Avenue" (1996),"Nowhere to Hide" (1994),and "Sweet 15" (1990).
Gago's impressive list of credits also includes series regular roles in several television shows, including "DEA" (1990),"Dangerous Minds" (1996),"Alien Nation" (1989),and "Freddie" (2005). She was also a part of the esteemed cast of the Golden Globe-nominated mini-series "American Family" (2002) on PBS. Some of her recent guest starring roles include "Crossing Jordan" (2001),"24" (2001),"The West Wing" (1999),"The Agency" (2001),"Alias" (2001),"Jack & Bobby" (2004),"Without a Trace" (2002),and "Lost" (2004).
In addition to her impressive acting credits, Gago has also earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theater Arts from UCLA and was personally awarded a scholarship by Lee Strasberg to attend his Institute.
Gago has been honored by numerous prestigious organizations, including the Association for the Advancement of Mexican Americans, the Image Awards, the National Council of La Raza, the TELACU Education Foundation, The Hispanic Women's Network of Texas, the BRAVO Awards, and the Alma Awards. She has also received awards from the County of Los Angeles and El Centro, and was recently acknowledged by the U.S. House of Representatives for her talents, portrayal of Latino characters, and dedication to pursuing nontraditional roles to pave the way for other Latinos.
In her personal life, Gago is a devoted mother to her 13-year-old son, Sean, and is passionate about family, friends, music, and dancing (especially salsa). She believes in the spiritual evolution of man towards one human family on earth and volunteers regularly in schools to support the importance of education.
