Marisa attended an all-girl private school in East Los Angeles, where her early life was marked by a sense of exclusivity and refinement. Her entry into the world of modeling began when a Polaroid picture of the 13-year-old girl somehow found its way into the hands of a Los Angeles modeling agency, setting in motion a chain of events that would propel her to international recognition.
By the time she was 15, Marisa had already begun to work as a print model and commercial actress, and it wasn't long before her talent and charisma had captured the attention of clients and casting directors from around the world. She went on to work in Singapore, Australia, South Africa, Hong Kong, and Italy, solidifying her status as a global model.
Despite her success in modeling, Marisa found that it was acting classes that ultimately helped her overcome her lifelong struggles with shyness. She began to make guest appearances on popular soap operas such as Days of our Lives and The Bold and the Beautiful, and it was during this time that she honed her craft and developed the confidence she needed to take on more substantial roles.
In July 2000, Marisa landed her big break when she was cast in the contract role of supermodel Gia Campbell on General Hospital. She went on to play the character for two years, earning nominations for both ALMA and NAACP Awards in the process. After leaving General Hospital, Marisa appeared in the short-lived ABC drama Miracles, and later joined the cast of The Young and the Restless as Jabot Cosmetics public relations consultant Carmen Mesta.
Although Carmen was eventually killed off, Marisa returned to the show in early 2007 as Carmen's cousin, Ines Vargas. She then moved to Colombia to film the FOX summer series Mental, opposite Chris Vance and Annabella Sciorra.
In 2011, Marisa was a series regular on Lifetime's "Against the Wall," playing the role of Detective Lina Flores. Despite respectable ratings, the series was not renewed for a second season. Prior to landing that role, Marisa had starred as Melitta on "Spartacus: Gods of the Arena," which was filmed in New Zealand.
Throughout her career, Marisa has demonstrated a remarkable range and versatility, effortlessly transitioning from modeling to acting and back again. With her striking looks, captivating personality, and undeniable talent, she has established herself as a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry.
