Who Is Yaya DaCosta? Age, Biography and Wiki
Yaya DaCosta, an acclaimed American actress and model, was born on November 15, 1982. With a passion for the arts from an early age, she gained recognition after competing in America's Next Top Model in 2004, where her charismatic presence left a lasting impression. Over the years, Yaya has evolved from a promising model to a talented actress, showcasing her skills in several television series and films. By 2025, she is not only celebrated for her acting prowess but also as an influential figure in the entertainment industry.
| Occupation | Actress |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | November 15, 1982 |
| Age | 42 Years |
| Birth Place | New York City, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Scorpio |
| Country | U.S |
Popularity
Yaya DaCosta's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Yaya DaCosta stands tall at approximately 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm) and maintains a fit physique with a weight of around 135 pounds (61 kg). Known for her enchanting beauty, she has striking body measurements of 34-26-36 inches. Her dedication to fitness is evident as she consistently shares workout and wellness tips with followers across her social media platforms.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
As of 2025, Yaya DaCosta is reportedly in a committed relationship with an unnamed partner. Previously, she was married to Josh Beech from 2012 until their separation in 2015. The couple shares a son, who has often been the center of her affection. Yaya values her privacy when it comes to her personal life but has been known to express how important family and love are to her.
DaCosta was in a relationship with independent film producer and director Joshua Bee Alafia from 2012 to 2015. In September 2013, she gave birth to their son, Sankara. In November 2015, it was reported that DaCosta and Alafia broke up. Contrary to popular reports, DaCosta and Alafia were never officially married.
Net Worth and Salary
As of 2025, Yaya DaCosta's estimated net worth stands at around $1 million. This figure is derived from her successful career in acting and modeling, as well as various endorsements and brand collaborations. Her earnings fluctuate based on her roles in television series, films, and other projects, reflecting her growth and demand in the industry.
Career, Business and Investments
Yaya DaCosta's career trajectory has seen her rise to prominence through roles in popular television series like "Chicago Med" and "The Kids Are All Right." She has also appeared in films such as "The Watsons Go to Birmingham" and "Single Black Female." Beyond her acting career, DaCosta has ventured into business initiatives focused on health and wellness, reflecting her commitment to a balanced lifestyle. Her investments in various projects, particularly in the entertainment field, have further solidified her status as a savvy businesswoman.
After being the runner-up on Cycle 3 of America's Next Top Model, DaCosta went on to have a successful career. DaCosta appeared once in the bottom two during the competition. She appeared in advertisements for Garnier Fructis, Lincoln Townhouse, Oil of Olay, Radioshack, Seda, Sephora and Dr. Scholl's.
She graced the covers of numerous magazines, including W, Hype Hair, Splash and Global Modeling. In 2014, she landed a spot in Tom Ford’s Fall/Winter advertising campaign. DaCosta began acting in 2005 after guest-starring in an episode of the UPN sitcom Eve.
She starred opposite Rob Brown, Antonio Banderas and Alfre Woodard in the 2006 dance film Take the Lead. DaCosta had supporting roles in the independent films Honeydripper (2007) and The Messenger (2009).
Social Network
Yaya DaCosta actively engages with her fans on social media platforms, including Instagram and Twitter, where she shares snaps from her daily life, work projects, and advocacy for mental health awareness. Her online presence reflects her vibrant personality, and she uses these platforms to inspire others, promote positivity, and create a sense of community among her followers.
In 2010, she appeared in Lisa Cholodenko's film The Kids Are All Right, being nominated with the cast at the Critics' Choice Movie Award and at the Gotham Award. DaCosta starred in the Lifetime television film Whitney (2015) as singer Whitney Houston and received praise for her performance being nominated at the Black Reel Award for Outstanding Actress, TV Movie or Limited Series.
Education
Yaya DaCosta obtained her Bachelor of Arts degree in Drama from the prestigious Brown University. Her educational background has been instrumental in shaping her career, providing her with the necessary tools and experiences to excel in the dynamic world of acting and modeling.
She was raised in the Harlem neighborhood of New York City. She is an African-American with an Afro-Brazilian grandfather. In addition to English, she speaks Portuguese. She attended the elite Northfield Mount Hermon School during high school before attending Brown University, where she majored in Africana studies and international relations.
