Ten fun facts about Vera Farmiga

1. Accomplished Actress of Ukrainian Descent

Vera Farmiga is the seventh child of Ukrainian immigrants Mykhailo and Luba. Her parents both had impressive careers; her mother was a school teacher and her father was a computer systems analyst. Growing up in a large family of Ukrainian heritage, Vera was exposed to a unique cultural background that has undoubtedly had an influence on her life and career.

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2. From Clifton to Hollywood

Vera Farmiga was born and raised in Clifton, New Jersey, where she attended a Ukrainian Catholic school in Newark. As a young girl, however, she and her family converted to Pentecostalism from the traditional Ukrainian Orthodox Church, a move that was highly significant to her upbringing and faith. Growing up in a Pentecostal household, Farmiga was exposed to a unique set of religious beliefs and practices that have since shaped her life and career.

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3. From Ophthalmology to Acting

Growing up, Vera Farmiga had no intention of becoming an actress; instead, she had her sights set on a career in ophthalmology. She was passionate about the field and dreamed of one day helping people with their vision. Despite her aspirations, she eventually found her way to the world of acting, and has since become a critically acclaimed star.

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4. From Schoolgirl to Actress

As a schoolgirl, Vera Farmiga was part of an exciting folk dancing ensemble called Syzokryli, which was made up of Ukrainians. She toured with the group, performing traditional Ukrainian dances and songs, and was able to experience the culture and customs of her heritage first-hand. This experience was formative for Vera, and she has since gone on to become an acclaimed actress, director, and producer.

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5. Syracuse U's Rising Star

Vera Farmiga, the talented young actress, honed her craft at Syracuse University's School of Visual and Performing Arts. There, she was able to take advantage of the university's renowned theatre program, which provided her with the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals and gain valuable experience in the performing arts. Farmiga was able to take part in a variety of productions, from musicals to plays, and develop her skills as an actress. Her time at Syracuse University was invaluable in helping her to become the successful actress she is today.

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6. From Understudy to Star

In 1996, Vera Farmiga made her Broadway debut as an understudy in the play Taking Sides. This was a major milestone in her career, as it marked the beginning of her journey to becoming one of the most acclaimed actresses of her generation. Farmiga's performance in Taking Sides was highly praised, and it set the stage for her to go on to star in numerous films and television shows, including The Conjuring, Bates Motel, and Up in the Air.

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7. Vera Farmiga's Marriage to Sebastian Roche Ends in 2004

Vera Farmiga's marriage to Sebastian Roche, whom she had met while filming the 1997 movie Roar, was sadly short-lived. The couple tied the knot that same year, but sadly their union was dissolved in 2004.

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8. A Strong Relationship Inspiration

In 2008, Vera Farmiga married Renn Hawkey, a former band member and carpenter. Renn is a multi-talented individual, having worked as a musician and carpenter, and is now happily married to the award-winning actress. The couple have been together for over a decade, and have two children together. Vera and Renn have been praised for their strong relationship, and have been an inspiration to many.

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9. A Mother of Two

In 2009, Vera Farmiga and her husband welcomed their first child, a son named Fynn, into the world in January. Just over a year later, in November 2010, the couple were delighted to add to their family with the birth of their daughter, Gytta Lubov.

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10. Sisters Vera and Taissa Farmiga are accomplished actors

Vera Farmiga is an accomplished actress, but she isn't the only one in her family. Her sister, Taissa Farmiga, is also an actress, and has been in a number of films and television shows, including American Horror Story, The Bling Ring, and The Nun. Taissa has been nominated for several awards, including a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited Series or Movie for her role in American Horror Story. Both sisters have made a name for themselves in the entertainment industry, and it's clear that talent runs in the family.

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