Born in Indio, California to a family which already had two girls, Tina and Sherry, and a boy Sammy. Named in honor of actress Vanessa Redgrave
During the course of her life has lived in various locations such as Anchorage, Alaska; Reno, Nevada; Rancho Penasquitas, California
Later returned to her birthplace Indio and then moving to Palm Desert where she finished her senior year in High School
Started acting at the age of eight.
Performed her own song at a 6th grade talent show and won.
After high school, she began to study law.
Later decided to pursue an acting career, and starred in several plays such as Simon's "Fools,", "Cat On a Hot Tin Roof", "Pygmalion," "The Miracle Worker" and "Sweet Bird of Youth," among others.
Starred in a music video The Most Beautiful Girl in the World with the Artist formerly known as Prince.
Starred in the fantasy film 976-Wish while in college
Landed a role on General Hospital as Brenda Barrett in 1992
Became the first full-time host of ABC In Concert during its 5th season
Co-starred with country music star Dwight Yoakam and Oscar nominee Sally Kirkland in the stage play, "Southern Rapture," directed by Peter Fonda.
Co-starred with Nicolas Cage as his girlfriend, in the 1996 blockbuster hit, The Rock, now out on video.
Played her first lead role in the 1996 ABC tv-movie, To Love, Honor, and Deceive
Guest-starred in ABC's primetime cop show High Incident as Kerry Andrews.
Starred in her first tv-ad for Head and Shoulders
Filmed a pilot for a primetime ER-like drama, L.A Med, for ABC, but ABC has chosen not pick up the show.
About to film a new Disney Movie, in December or later depending on her General Hospital Schedule, A Matter of Trust.
Filmed two independent movies The Space Between Us and Nice Guys Sleep Alone
Scheduled to join the cast of Beverly Hills 90210 in the fall of 1998
Over the years Vanessa has also appeared on talkshows, gameshows, and specials. Known and documented appearances include on Live with Regis and Kathy Lee, Late Night with Conan O'Brien, Fox After Breakfast, The Rosie O'Donell Show, The Keenen Ivory Wayans Show, Wheel of Fortune, and ABC Nintendo Sports Special
RISE TO STARDOM
