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Katherine LaNasa: Biography, Cancer Battle, Career & Family

Henry Harry Howard Fletcher • 2026-08-06 • Reviewed by Ethan Collins

Most actors wait decades for a role that changes everything. Katherine LaNasa got hers at 58—a nurse in a gritty Pittsburgh ER who carries the same resilience LaNasa herself has been building her whole life. From ballet stages to a Critics Choice Award, her path has been anything but straight. And the story behind that win, shaped by a cancer diagnosis she kept private until she was ready, turns a familiar comeback narrative into something far more personal.

Born: December 1, 1966 ·
Place of Birth: New Orleans, Louisiana ·
Known For: Actress, former ballet dancer, choreographer ·
Recent Role: Nurse Dana Evans in The Pitt ·
Award: Critics Choice Award for Best Supporting Actress in a Drama Series

1
Early life
  • Born December 1, 1966 in New Orleans, Louisiana
  • Began ballet training at age 3
  • Studied at the School of American Ballet in New York City
  • Performed with the New York City Ballet as a teenager

2
Career beginnings
  • Transitioned from ballet to acting in her early 20s
  • First television appearance on Law & Order in 1992
  • Recurring role on One Life to Live (1993–1995)
  • Breakout film role in Celeste & Jesse Forever (2012)

3
Personal milestones

4
What’s next
  • Continuing role on The Pitt (2025–2026 season)
  • Potential future projects after award-winning breakout
  • Advocacy work around breast cancer awareness

Her resilience through that period is detailed in her cancer journey and career, which traces her path from diagnosis to the Emmy stage.

Frequently asked questions about Katherine LaNasa

What is Katherine LaNasa’s most famous role?

She is currently best known for playing Nurse Dana Evans in the medical drama The Pitt (2025–present).

How many children does Katherine LaNasa have?

She has two children, including a son born when she was 47.

Who is Katherine LaNasa married to?

She has been married to actor Grant Show since 2012.

Did Katherine LaNasa have breast cancer?

Yes, she underwent surgery and radiation for stage 1 breast cancer diagnosed in February 2023.

What awards has Katherine LaNasa won?

She won a Critics Choice Award for Best Supporting Actress in a Drama Series for The Pitt.

How old is Katherine LaNasa?

Born December 1, 1966, she is 58 years old as of 2025.

Where was Katherine LaNasa born?

She was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA.

Is Katherine LaNasa on social media?

She maintains a presence on Instagram, where she shares updates about her career and advocacy.


Henry Harry Howard Fletcher

About the author

Henry Harry Howard Fletcher

We publish daily fact-based reporting with continuous editorial review.