The Canadian Encyclopedia — neutral, cited, updated
July 27, 2026Sources cited
Canadianwire.
Canada’s encyclopedia & explainer
Home›Entertainment›Television›Melissa Fumero
Entertainment • Television

Melissa Fumero

Melissa Fumero is an American actress and television director best known for playing Amy Santiago on the comedy series Brooklyn Nine-Nine from 2013 to 2021.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Melissa Fumero is an American actress and television director best known for playing Amy Santiago on the comedy series Brooklyn Nine-Nine from 2013 to 2021. She began her screen career with a recurring role on One Life to Live and has also appeared in series such as Gossip Girl and One Day at a Time.

Early life and education

Fumero was born Melissa Gallo in 1982 in Lyndhurst, New Jersey, and is of Cuban descent. She studied drama at New York University and earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree.

Acting career

She began working professionally in 2004 with a recurring role on the soap opera One Life to Live. After several guest and supporting roles, she became widely known for playing Amy Santiago on Brooklyn Nine-Nine.

Directing and later work

Fumero expanded into directing with an episode of Brooklyn Nine-Nine. She has continued to work in television, including voice roles and recurring appearances in later series.

Key facts

  • Made her professional acting debut in 2004 as Adriana Cramer on One Life to Live.
  • Played Amy Santiago on Brooklyn Nine-Nine from 2013 to 2021.
  • Has appeared in other television projects including Gossip Girl, The Mentalist, CSI: NY, and One Day at a Time.
  • Made her directorial debut by directing an episode of Brooklyn Nine-Nine.
  • Graduated from New York University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in drama.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Melissa Fumero?
Melissa Fumero is an American actress and television director best known for Brooklyn Nine-Nine.
What is Melissa Fumero known for?
She is best known for portraying Amy Santiago on Brooklyn Nine-Nine from 2013 to 2021.
What was Melissa Fumero's first major role?
Her early recurring television role was Adriana Cramer on One Life to Live, which marked her professional debut in 2004.
Where did Melissa Fumero study?
She earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in drama from New York University.
Is Melissa Fumero also a director?
Yes. She has directed television, including an episode of Brooklyn Nine-Nine.
Is Melissa Fumero married?
Yes. She is married to actor David Fumero, and they have two children.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Melissa_Fumero
    Supports: Birth name, birth date, profession, debut role, and Brooklyn Nine-Nine lead role.
  2. Wikipedia (Spanish) — https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Melissa_Fumero
    Supports: American actress of Cuban descent, notable roles, and birthplace.
  3. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0303073/bio/
    Supports: Education, debut role, Brooklyn Nine-Nine role, and family details.
  4. Hulu Press — https://press.hulu.com/bios/melissa-fumero/
    Supports: Cuban descent, New Jersey upbringing, NYU drama degree, and television credits.
  5. Fandom — https://brooklyn99.fandom.com/wiki/Melissa_Fumero
    Supports: Directorial debut on Brooklyn Nine-Nine.
  6. Famous Birthdays — https://www.famousbirthdays.com/people/melissa-fumero.html
    Supports: Marriage, children, and early role details.