Miriam Morales is quickly making a name for herself on the small screen. Her big break came when she landed the recurring role of Ramona “Pidge” Contreras, a feisty inmate who works at the nail salon, on the smash hit Netflix series ORANGE IS THE NEW BLACK, which has become a critical darling, earning recognition from the Screen Actors Guild Awards for “Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series”, a Critics’ Choice Television Award for “Best Comedy Series”, and a Satellite Award for “Best Cast – Television Series”. The series was also nominated for “Best Television Series” at the 2016 Golden Globe Awards. Other credits include guest roles on LAW & ORDER: SPECIAL VICTIMS UNIT and Amazon’s SNEAKY PETE. She also starred in the indie drama AN ORNAMENT OF FAITH and showcased her comedic talent in the webseries BUNNY & TAI.

Born in East Patchogue and raised in Brentwood, New York, Miriam discovered her passion for performing at an early age. The middle child in a family of three sisters, she spent her childhood performing in church plays and entertained herself by singing and dancing. As her passion for the arts continued to grow, a guidance counselor suggested that she apply for the American Academy of Dramatic Arts to hone her craft. After graduating from the two-year acting conservatory, Morales continued her studies at TVI Actors Studio in Los Angeles before returning to her East Coast roots. Following her return to New York, Morales enrolled at Fordham University at Lincoln Center, where she graduated with degrees in Communications/Media Studies as well as Latin American/Latino Studies. To utilize her degree, she worked in advertising, at a YouTube network, and as a social/digital media strategist as she continued to pursue acting.

When she is not busy acting, Morales enjoys watching movies, reading, and spending time with her friends and family. In addition, Miriam has been a lifestyle blogger for over 7 years creating content on personal style, beauty (#curlygirlsrock), and real life where she aims to inspire others by sharing her unfiltered journey. She has also begun writing a book in hopes of becoming a published author in the future. Morales currently resides in New York City.