DezBaa', a multifaceted individual of Basque, Spanish, and Mexican descent, belonging to the Diné Nation, proudly carries her unique heritage. A member of the esteemed Screen Actors Guild (SAG) and Writers Guild of America (WGA),she has worn various hats, including that of an actor, screenwriter, director, and indie film producer.
DezBaa's journey in the film industry began in New Mexico, where she started as a background actor. Her big break came in 2016 when she landed a significant role in Scott Cooper's period Western, "Hostiles". This breakthrough was soon followed by speaking roles in films like "Woman Walks Ahead" (2017),starring Jessica Chastain, and others opposite notable actors such as Julianne Moore, Michael Shannon, Christian Bale, and Ciarán Hinds.
For three seasons, DezBaa' took center stage as Helen Atcitty opposite Zahn McClarnon in AMC's gripping series "Dark Winds", also serving as a staff writer during Season 2.
Prior to her illustrious career, DezBaa' worked as a Navajo Nation employee for the Division of Natural Resources, earning a bachelor's degree in geology from Amherst College. She furthered her education with two Master of Fine Arts degrees, one in screenwriting and another in creative nonfiction, from the Institute of American Indian Arts (IAIA). Additionally, she has taught TV screenwriting and Indigenous Cinema courses at the college level and has presented to grade school students about the various aspects of the film industry.
The late Dr. Fred Begay, a family friend and the first Navajo physicist, bestowed upon DezBaa' the name DezBaa', which he explained means "She's Going on a Raid". This name has become an integral part of her identity.
When not working on her projects, DezBaa' can be found indulging in her fascination with the ankylosaurus, affectionately referring to it as "the living tank of the late Cretaceous".
Born in Santa Fe, DezBaa' was raised in Española, New Mexico, and currently resides in Santa Fe, proudly carrying her roots as a member of the Nooda'í Dine'e (Ute clan).
