Who is the Best Actress in 'Orange Is the New Black'? An unbiased Critique

Introduction

'Orange Is the New Black' (OITNB) is known for its complex and diverse cast. Each actress brings her unique skills and characters to the show, making it hard to narrow down the best. However, based on a recent analysis, I've selected the top seven actresses that stand out to me. This article will explore my criteria and provide objective insights to help viewers make an informed opinion.

Criteria for Selection

The selection criteria for this list include acting versatility, performance quality, character depth, and overall engagement with the audience. However, as I am not a professional critic, my opinions are based on my personal viewing experience and emotional connection to the show.

Top Seven Best Actresses in 'Orange Is the New Black'

7. Kelly Macdonald (Sanjay)

Kelly Macdonald plays Sanjay, whose earlier version in the Freaks and Geeks sequel, "Undeclared," is quite different from the one in OITNB. While she is upbeat and pretty, her initial character in a different timeframe seems unrelated to her portrayal of Sanjay. The transformation and consistency in the character's personality and actions, despite the time gap, showcase her acting skills.

6. Kimiko Glenn (Betsy Dover)

Kimiko Glenn shines as Betsy Dover, showcasing impeccable comedic timing and a believable manner of being both funny and bitchy. Her ability to balance humor with character flaws and manipulate situations adds depth to her role and makes her a standout actress in the series.

5. Diane Guerrero (Yael Stone)

Diane Guerrero delivers an outstanding performance as Yael Stone in Season 2. The scene where she is on the phone with her sister, discussing Christopher’s wedding announcement, demonstrates her ability to convey complex emotions and reveal character depth. Her performance is convincing and memorable.

4. Taryn Manning (Pennsatucky)

Taryn Manning portrays Pennsatucky, a character that comes in three different versions over the series. Manning's ability to transform and maintain consistency despite the character's changes is remarkable. Her performance shows growth and development, making the character evolution believable and engaging for the audience.

3. Lorraine Touissant (Vee)

Lorraine Touissant's portrayal of Vee is unforgettable. She brings a strong presence and a compelling story to the character. Vee's character is not the focus of any list, yet Touissant's performance remains at the top of mine. Her ability to make an impact with a limited screen time is commendable, and she consistently delivers a powerful performance.

2. Uzo Aduba (Cicero/Red)

Despite the different characters she plays, Uzo Aduba's ability to act crazy and deliver continuous accolades is notable. Her performance in Season 5 when she goes off her medication is particularly striking. She manages to switch between different personas and maintain the authenticity required to portray such a complex character.

1. Kate Mulgrew (Red)

Arguably, Kate Mulgrew's portrayal of Red stands out as the best. Known for her impactful roles in film and TV, she steals the screen and turns a minor character into an unforgettable one. Her performance in OITNB is a testament to her acting prowess. Even someone who remembers her from movies like 'Throw Momma from the Train' will appreciate her dedication to this role.

Conclusion

Choosing the best actress in 'Orange Is the New Black' is subjective and depends on personal preferences. Each actress brings something unique to the show, but in my opinion, Kate Mulgrew's portrayal of Red stands out for its powerful and transformative nature. However, every actress mentioned in this list has contributed significantly to the success and depth of the show.

For viewers interested in exploring more of what 'Orange Is the New Black' has to offer, consider watching the entire series or revisiting your favorite scenes to appreciate the full range of performances. Remember, the best actress in a show is often the one who can make the most impact with a character, no matter how small or different the role may seem.