Melissa Barrera by Christian Hogstedt for SBJCT Journal June 2021

Melissa Barrera (born 4 July 1990) is a Mexican actress and singer. Her career began with roles in the telenovelas Siempre tuya Acapulco (2013), Tanto amor (2015), and Club de Cuervos (2017). She gained further recognition for her lead role in the Starz drama series Vida (2018–2020). Barrera earned praise starring as Vanessa in the critically acclaimed musical drama film In the Heights (2021) based on the Lin-Manuel Miranda Tony Award winning stage musical. She is also set to appear in the upcoming slasher horror film Scream (2022) and to star in the title role of the musical film Carmen alongside Paul Mescal.