Dana Michelle Gourrier is an accomplished American actress, singer, writer, and director. She is recognized for her dynamic performances in film and television. Born and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana, she built an extensive screen career featuring memorable collaborations with legendary directors like Quentin Tarantino. From her breakout role in Django Unchained to recurring television appearances in True Detective, P-Valley, and Raising Dion, Gourrier has established herself as a versatile and enduring creative force in the entertainment industry.
Dana Gourrier Wiki & Quick Facts
- Full Name: Dana Michelle Gourrier
- Stage Name: Dana Gourrier
- Date of Birth: July 31, 1979
- Age: 47 years old
- Place of Birth: New Orleans, Louisiana, United States
- Nationality: American
- Ethnicity: African American with French ancestry
- Zodiac Sign: Leo
- Religion: Christianity
- Height: 5 ft 7 in (170 cm)
- Marital Status: Married
- Husband: Brent Schaefer
- Children: 1 son (Brixton, born 2021)
- Parents: Mr. Gourrier and Mrs. Gourrier
- Siblings: Two brothers
- Profession: Actress, Singer, Writer, Director
- Net Worth: Estimated at $2 million
Early Life, Parents, and Education
Dana Gourrier was born on July 31, 1979, in New Orleans, Louisiana, where she spent her formative years. Growing up in a rich cultural environment, she developed an early passion for the performing arts. She comes from a musical household. Both she and her father are accomplished singers, songwriters, and pianists. She grew up alongside two brothers.
Her early life in New Orleans was profoundly impacted by Hurricane Katrina. This historic storm destroyed her family’s home and shaped an important part of her personal resilience and history. Academically, she attended Ursuline Academy, graduating in 1997. She initially studied psychology at the University of New Orleans. She then transferred to the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, where she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Performance Art. Demonstrating a deep commitment to mastering her craft, she later earned a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Acting from the prestigious California Institute of the Arts (CalArts).
Career Beginnings and Breakthrough
Gourrier began her professional journey in the theater before transitioning to screen acting. Her early television and film credits included projects like Worst. Prom. Ever. (2011), Treme, Memphis Beat, and Haunted High (2012).
Her major career breakthrough occurred in 2012 when she was cast as Cora in Quentin Tarantino’s critically acclaimed revisionist Western, Django Unchained. Starring alongside Jamie Foxx, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Christoph Waltz, Gourrier delivered a standout performance. This role introduced her to an international audience and opened doors to major studio productions.
Notable Movies and TV Shows
Following her success in Django Unchained, Gourrier maintained a steady presence in film and television. In 2013, she appeared in Lee Daniels’ historical drama The Butler. She subsequently joined the cast of HBO’s critically acclaimed anthology series True Detective in 2014 and took on a role in FX’s hit series American Horror Story.
In 2015, she reunited with Quentin Tarantino to portray Minnie Mink in the mystery Western The Hateful Eight. Her expansive television portfolio also features recurring and guest roles in popular series. These include The Astronaut Wives Club, Togetherness, Superstore, GLOW, Netflix’s sci-fi series Raising Dion as Tessa, and Starz’s hit drama series P-Valley as Lauren “The Jukebox” Hawkins.
Beyond live-action film and television, Gourrier has lent her talents to voice acting. She voiced the character Rose Chapman in the critically acclaimed video game Detroit: Become Human (2018). Other notable screen credits include The United States vs. Billie Holiday (2021), The Good Fight, Ghosts, Interview with the Vampire, and To Live and Die and Live (2023).
Husband, Son, and Personal Life
Dana Gourrier keeps much of her private life guarded away from the entertainment press. However, she shares key milestones with her supporters through official social media profiles. She married Brent Schaefer, and the couple welcomed a son named Brixton in 2021. Gourrier has frequently expressed joy regarding motherhood, embracing it later in life after establishing her professional foundation.
Describing herself publicly as a faithful daughter, sister, friend, actor, singer, writer, and director, she maintains strong emotional ties to her New Orleans roots, faith, and family heritage.
Height and Body Measurements
Standing at a height of 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm), Dana Gourrier maintains a fit and healthy physique. She possesses striking dark brown hair and warm brown eyes that complement her natural complexion.
Net Worth and Income Sources
As of recent estimates, Dana Gourrier holds an estimated net worth of $2 million. Her wealth has been accumulated through decades of dedicated work in film, television, voice acting, writing, directing, and her ongoing pursuits as a professional singer and songwriter.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dana Gourrier
How old is Dana Gourrier?
Dana Gourrier was born on July 31, 1979. She is 47 years old.
Who is Dana Gourrier’s husband?
She is married to Brent Schaefer.
Does Dana Gourrier have children?
Yes, she has a son named Brixton, who was born in 2021.
What are Dana Gourrier’s most famous movies and TV shows?
She is best known for her roles in Django Unchained, The Hateful Eight, True Detective, Raising Dion, and P-Valley.
What is Dana Gourrier’s educational background?
She holds a BFA in Performance Art from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette and an MFA in Acting from the California Institute of the Arts (CalArts).
What is Dana Gourrier’s net worth?
Her net worth is estimated to be around $2 million.
