Briana Evigan, born on October 23, 1986, in Los Angeles, is an American actress, dancer, and singer best known for her breakout role in Step Up 2: The Streets and her strong presence in various horror films. Of Polish, Italian, and English descent, Evigan has a rich cultural background that includes Polish roots from her paternal grandmother, Barbara Koperski, whose parents were immigrants from Włocławek, Poland.
From Dance Prodigy to Hollywood “Scream Queen” – A Journey of Artistic Success
Evigan, the youngest daughter of actor Greg Evigan and dancer Pamela Serpe, grew up surrounded by the arts. She began dancing at the age of nine and quickly made her mark in Hollywood, starring in several high-profile music videos, including Linkin Park’s Numb in 2003. In 2008, her portrayal of Andrea “Andie” West in Step Up 2 catapulted her to fame, leading to a successful career in dance and film.
Over the years, Evigan gained a reputation as a “scream queen” through her performances in horror and thriller films such as Sorority Row, Mother’s Day, and S. Darko. She has also continued her dance career, reprising her role in the Step Up franchise and working on music and choreography projects. In her personal life, Evigan is married to Australian anti-poaching activist Damien Mander, with whom she shares a son.
Briana Evigan’s Polish Roots: A Glimpse into the Multicultural Heritage of a Hollywood Star
Briana Evigan’s heritage is a blend of cultures, including Polish roots from her paternal grandmother. Her grandmother, Barbara Koperski, was born in New Jersey to Polish parents who hailed from Włocławek, Poland. Through this lineage, Evigan connects with the rich Polish cultural legacy, which adds another layer to her identity. Evigan’s Polish ancestry, combined with her Italian, English, and American roots, reflects the multicultural tapestry of Hollywood, where stars often draw from diverse backgrounds to shape their unique artistic journey.
Check out Briana’s Instagram.