Melina Kanakaredes

Melina Kanakaredes is a multi-talented actor, director and writer who has received critical acclaim for her work on television, film and Broadway. She is currently combining all of her talents as a writer, director and actor by producing various projects for the small and big screen.

She’s best known for her starring role as Stella Bonasera on CSI: New York. She also began writing for the show in 2009. Prior to that, she starred as Dr Sydney Hansen on NBC’s Providence. Ms. Kanakaredes’ previous television credits include a starring role on The Guiding Light (for which she received two Emmy nominations) and a recurring role on NYPD Blue. She starred in the drama series New York News and Leaving LA, and made guest appearances on The Practice and Oz. In February 2010, she appeared in the Fox 2000 fantasy adventure film Percy Jackson, in which she portrayed the goddess Athena. Other film credits include 15 Minutes, opposite Robert De Niro, Rounders, Dangerous Beauty and The Long Kiss Goodnight. Melina’s roots are in theatre and she’s continued to work on stage throughout her career, both in Los Angeles and New York City.

In February 2010, she starred in the Fox 2000 fantasy adventure film Percy Jackson, in which she portrayed the goddess Athena. Other film credits include 15 Minutes, opposite Robert De Niro, Rounders, Dangerous Beauty and The Long Kiss Goodnight. 

Ms. Kanakaredes is a second generation Greek-American born and raised in Akron, Ohio. She credits her grandparents and family for instilling in her an intense pride in her heritage.

Melina’s philanthropic causes are as diverse as her talents, from breast cancer to children with AIDS, she is someone who wants and needs to be involved. She is particularly passionate about supporting education – especially for women – and has been asked to speak at the United Nations on the subject.