Maria Canals-Barrera

Maria Canals-Barrera (born September 28, 1966) is an American actress known for her roles in various TV shows and movies. She gained popularity for her portrayal of Theresa Russo in the Disney Channel series Wizards of Waverly Place (2007–2012), Connie Torres in Camp Rock (2008) and Camp Rock 2: The Final Jam (2010), and Daniela in the ABC comedy series Cristela (2014–2015). Canals-Barrera has also lent her voice to animated characters, including Shayera Hol/Hawkgirl in Justice League (2001–2004) and Justice League Unlimited (2004–2006), Sunset Boulevardez in The Proud Family (2001–2005), and Paulina in Danny Phantom (2004–2007). Born and raised in Miami, Florida, to Cuban parents of Catalan descent, Canals-Barrera is fluent in Spanish and started her acting journey by taking drama classes in junior high school. She received a theatrical scholarship to the University of Miami after graduating from Hialeah-Miami Lakes Senior High School.