Dascha Polanco

Dascha Yolaine Polanco (born December 3, 1982) is a Dominican-American actress. She is best known for her role as Dayanara 'Daya' Diaz on the Netflix series Orange Is the New Black and for her role as Cuca in the 2021 movie In the Heights. Polanco was born in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, and moved to the United States at a young age. She was raised in Sunset Park, Brooklyn, and Miami. Polanco initially pursued a career in healthcare, studying nursing and working in hospital administration, but eventually decided to pursue her passion for acting. She has gained recognition for her talent and versatility in both television and film.