Alanna Ubach has captivated audiences for years, and many fans will recognize her as the outspoken Jo from Bravo’s hit series, “Girlfriends’ Guide to Divorce.” But her journey extends far beyond this iconic role. Ubach’s career is a testament to her versatility and talent, marked by memorable performances in blockbuster films and critically acclaimed television shows. From her early beginnings on children’s television to becoming a voice acting sensation and indie film darling, Ubach has consistently delivered compelling characters that resonate with viewers.
The ‘Girlfriends’ Guide to Divorce’ Star is Born
For many, Alanna Ubach is Jo from “Girlfriends’ Guide to Divorce.” This Bravo series, a groundbreaking venture into scripted content for the network, provided Ubach with a platform to showcase her comedic timing and dramatic depth. Her portrayal of Jo, a fiercely independent and often unfiltered friend navigating the complexities of divorce and life in Los Angeles, quickly became a fan favorite. However, even before stepping into Jo’s shoes, Ubach had already established herself as a force to be reckoned with in Hollywood.
From Romper Room to Blockbuster Films
Born and raised in California, Alanna Ubach’s acting career began in childhood, a path many aspiring actors dream of. Her first foray into television was on “Romper Room,” a children’s program that sparked her passion for performance. Recognizing her talent early on, Ubach’s parents enrolled her in the Lee Strasberg Institute’s Children’s Program, laying a solid foundation for her future success.
At just 15, Ubach’s ambition led her to New York City, where she landed a role in the Off-Broadway production of “Club Soda.” This early stage experience was followed by television roles, most notably as Josie on “Beakman’s World,” a popular science education show for kids. She also showcased her dramatic range in “Kindertransport” at the Manhattan Theatre Club, demonstrating her ability to tackle diverse roles across different mediums.
Ubach’s breakthrough into mainstream cinema came with a string of iconic supporting roles. She charmed audiences as the endearing sorority sister and Elle Woods’ confidante in “Legally Blonde.” Her comedic talents shone brightly as the family housekeeper-turned-caterer in “Meet the Fockers,” and she even embraced more provocative roles, such as the Israeli neighbor in “Hung.” These performances solidified her reputation as a versatile actress capable of stealing scenes in both comedy and drama.
Voice Acting and Beyond: A Multifaceted Career
Alanna Ubach’s talents extend beyond live-action roles. She has become a sought-after voice actress, lending her distinctive voice to a wide range of animated characters. Perhaps her most prominent voice role to date is Mama Imelda, the great-great-grandmother in Disney/Pixar’s Oscar-winning film “Coco.” Her performance, including her rendition of “La Llorona,” was a highlight of the film, celebrated for its emotional depth and cultural authenticity. Her voice work also includes roles in “Rango,” “Teamo Supremo,” and “El Tigre,” showcasing her commitment to diverse and groundbreaking Latino representation in animation.
In addition to her voice acting and comedic roles, Ubach has consistently pursued projects that showcase her dramatic range. She starred opposite Keanu Reeves in Marti Noxon’s “To the Bone,” a Sundance Film Festival favorite, and appeared in “The Last Word” and “Gloria.” Her television work includes recurring roles on “Men of a Certain Age,” for which she won a Peabody Award, and “Californication,” as well as memorable guest appearances on shows like “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” and “American Horror Story: Hotel.” More recently, she has been seen in AMC’s “Dietland,” reuniting with “Girlfriends’ Guide to Divorce” creator Marti Noxon, and Amazon’s “Hand of God.”
Behind the Scenes and Future Projects
Alanna Ubach is not only a talented actress but also a creative force behind the camera. She wrote, directed, and self-produced the short film “A Mi Amor Mi Dulce,” which premiered at Outfest. She also wrote and starred in her one-woman Off-Broadway show, “Patriotic Bitch,” garnering critical acclaim. Adding to her growing list of accomplishments, Ubach is also credited as a producer for the upcoming film “August Falls.”
From her memorable role as Jo in “Girlfriends’ Guide to Divorce” to her extensive and varied work in film, television, and voice acting, Alanna Ubach has proven herself to be a true Hollywood icon. Her dedication to her craft, her versatility, and her ability to connect with audiences make her a compelling and enduring presence in the entertainment industry. As she continues to take on new and challenging projects, fans eagerly anticipate the next chapter in Alanna Ubach’s remarkable career.
