Harmony Santana is an American film actress who has gained recognition for her outstanding performance in the 2011 film Gun Hill Road, earning her a nomination for the prestigious Independent Spirit Award for Best Supporting Actress. This remarkable achievement marked a historic milestone, as she became the first openly transgender actress to be nominated for a major acting award in the United States.
At the time of her appearance in Gun Hill Road, Santana resided at Green Chimneys, a group home for LGBT youth in Manhattan, which played a significant role in shaping her passion for activism. Her experiences at Green Chimneys instilled in her a strong desire to advocate for crucial social issues, including HIV & AIDS, Homeless Youth, and Bullying. Her dedication to these causes is a testament to her compassion and commitment to making a positive impact.
Santana's journey to stardom began when she was discovered by director Rashaad Ernesto Green at the Queens Pride parade, after he struggled to find the perfect performer for the role. Green's persistence paid off, as Santana's talent and charisma ultimately won him over.
Born to a mixed Puerto Rican and Dominican heritage, Santana's diverse background has undoubtedly influenced her perspective and artistic expression. In addition to her notable performance in Gun Hill Road, Santana has also appeared in supporting roles in Eating Out 4: Drama Camp and Eating Out 5: The Open Weekend. Furthermore, she has expanded her repertoire by participating in short films such as Futurestates: The Living and You're Dead To Me, released in 2014.
Throughout her career, Santana has demonstrated her versatility as an actress, taking on a range of roles that showcase her remarkable talent. Her dedication to her craft, coupled with her tireless advocacy for social justice, has made her a standout figure in the entertainment industry.
