Selenis Leyva’s 5 Biggest Triumphs: From Litchfield’s Gloria Mendoza To Her 2024 Wedding

Selenis Leyva, the powerhouse actress best known for her unforgettable role as Gloria Mendoza on Netflix’s *Orange Is the New Black*, has cemented her status as one of Hollywood’s most versatile and influential Latina stars. As of late 2024 and heading into 2025, her career is thriving with a major network sitcom role, and her personal life just reached a beautiful new milestone with a recent wedding. This article dives into the most current updates, highlighting her ongoing projects, significant personal news, and the powerful advocacy work that defines her impact both on and off-screen.

The actress continues to captivate audiences with her raw emotional depth and comedic timing, currently starring in a hit NBC series while simultaneously using her platform to champion essential causes. From the correctional facility of Litchfield to the set of a multi-camera family comedy, Leyva’s journey is a testament to resilience, authenticity, and the power of Latinx representation in media.

Selenis Leyva: Full Biography and Profile

Selenis Leyva is an acclaimed American actress, author, and activist known for her compelling performances across film, television, and stage. Her career is marked by a dedication to authentic storytelling and a passionate commitment to social justice.

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• Full Name: Selenis Leyva
• Date of Birth: May 26, 1972
• Place of Birth: The Bronx, New York, U.S.
• Nationality: American
• Ethnicity: Dominican (Mother) and Cuban (Father)
• Spouse: Michael Rodriguez (Married October 2024)
• Notable Roles: Gloria Mendoza in *Orange Is the New Black*, Rosie in *Lopez vs Lopez*, Elena Cañero-Reed in *Diary of a Future President*, Ms. Warren in *Spider-Man: Homecoming*.
• Activism: LGBTQ+ rights advocate, anti-bullying campaigns, and champion for diversity and inclusion.
• Book: Co-author of the memoir *My Sister: How One Sibling's Transition Changed Us Both* (with her sister, Marizol Leyva).
• Awards: Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series (multiple wins for *OITNB*).

The Latest Chapter: A 2024 Wedding and Current TV Success

The latter half of 2024 brought a major personal celebration for Selenis Leyva. The actress officially tied the knot with her partner, Michael Rodriguez, in a dreamy celebration. The wedding, which took place in October 2024, was a beautiful capstone to a year of professional achievements, sharing glimpses of the joyous occasion on social media.

This personal milestone coincides with her high-profile role in the current television landscape, which keeps her front and center for audiences.

Starring as Rosie in NBC’s *Lopez vs Lopez*

Leyva’s most current and prominent television role is as Rosie in the NBC sitcom *Lopez vs Lopez*. The series, which stars George Lopez and his real-life daughter Mayan Lopez, features Leyva as Rosie, George's former wife and Mayan’s mother. Her character is a key component of the show's dynamic, navigating the complicated, yet loving, relationship of a modern, multi-generational Latinx family.

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The show’s success, which saw it renewed for a second season, underscores Leyva's ability to transition seamlessly from the intense drama of *Orange Is the New Black* to the lighthearted, multi-camera format of a network comedy. Her performance as Rosie is praised for bringing a sense of truth and relatability to the role, showcasing a strong, complex Latina woman.

Leyva’s presence on a major network comedy ensures her continued visibility and influence in the industry, making her one of the most consistently working Latinx actresses today.

Beyond Litchfield: A Career Defined by Diverse Roles

While Gloria Mendoza remains her most iconic character, Selenis Leyva has built a rich and diverse filmography that extends far beyond the walls of Litchfield Penitentiary. Her career is a masterclass in versatility, moving effortlessly between comedy, drama, and major studio blockbusters.

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• *Orange Is the New Black* (2013-2019): As Gloria Mendoza, Leyva became a fan favorite, portraying a powerful, maternal figure who was fiercely protective of her "prison family." The role brought her widespread critical acclaim and multiple Screen Actors Guild Awards.
• *Diary of a Future President* (2020-2021): She starred as Elena Cañero-Reed, the mother of the future president, in this Disney+ comedy-drama. This role allowed her to play a supportive, ambitious, and loving mother, showcasing a different dimension of her acting range.
• *Spider-Man: Homecoming* (2017): Leyva entered the Marvel Cinematic Universe with a supporting role as Ms. Warren, a teacher at Peter Parker's high school. This appearance solidified her presence in major Hollywood franchises.
• Early Career: Her extensive background in Off-Broadway productions and early television guest spots on shows like *Law & Order: Special Victims Unit* laid the foundation for her later success, demonstrating her commitment to the craft.

Powerful Advocacy: Her Work with Sister Marizol Leyva

One of the most compelling aspects of Selenis Leyva’s public life is her unwavering commitment to activism, particularly in the realm of LGBTQ+ rights and anti-bullying. This passion is deeply personal, driven by her relationship with her transgender sister, Marizol Leyva.

Together, the sisters co-authored the emotionally moving and powerfully impactful memoir, *My Sister: How One Sibling's Transition Changed Us Both*. The book, told in alternating chapters from both Selenis and Marizol’s perspectives, narrates their shared journey, challenges, and triumphs as Marizol transitioned.

This memoir and their joint advocacy work have positioned Selenis Leyva as a prominent voice for the transgender community and a powerful example of familial love and acceptance. She frequently speaks on college campuses and at events, discussing diversity, inclusion, and the importance of supporting one's loved ones through their transitions. By sharing their story, the Leyva sisters have made a significant contribution to increasing visibility and understanding for transgender Latinas.

Selenis Leyva’s career in 2025 is a vibrant mix of professional success and meaningful personal engagement. From her current starring role on a popular sitcom to her recent marriage and her ongoing, vital advocacy, she continues to be a dynamic and inspiring figure in entertainment and beyond.