Kirsten Vangsness was born on July 7, 1972, in Pasadena, California, United States. She is the daughter of Errol Leroy Vangsness and Barbara Mary Vangsness. An American by nationality, she is of mixed ethnicity, with Norwegian and Italian ancestry.
Vangsness attended Cerritos High School for her early education. She later enrolled at California State University, Fullerton, where she earned her college degree. Her academic path supported her growing interest in the performing arts and laid the foundation for her acting career.
Kirsten Vangsness began her professional career in theater, which helped her develop a strong foundation in acting. Her dedication and talent eventually led her to roles in television and film. She is best known for her longstanding role as Penelope Garcia on the CBS television series Criminal Minds, which gained her widespread recognition and critical praise.
In addition to her success on Criminal Minds, she appeared in the 2012 film Kill Me, Deadly, showcasing her versatility as an actress. Vangsness has also co-written multiple episodes of Criminal Minds, proving her skill as a writer in addition to her on-screen talent. Her contributions to the entertainment industry have earned her several awards and strongly established her reputation as a skilled and accomplished actress.
Vangsness has spoken candidly about her personal journey, particularly regarding her sexuality, identifying at various times as both lesbian and bisexual. She was previously in a relationship with editor Melanie Goldstein, and later became engaged to actor and writer Keith Hanson. Though very private about her relationships, she has shared that she values emotional connection above labels.
Her personal transformation has included weight-loss efforts and a broader emphasis on personal well-being, which she has occasionally addressed in interviews. Despite the pressures of public life, she has remained focused on her professional and personal goals.
Kirsten Vangsness maintains an active presence on social media platforms such as Twitter and Instagram. With over 438,000 followers on Instagram, she engages regularly with fans and offers insights into her professional work and personal passions. Her distinctive personality and commitment to authenticity have contributed to her popularity online.
Vangsness has achieved notable financial success through her television and film career. Her estimated net worth is $3 million, reflecting years of steady work in a competitive industry. Her role on Criminal Minds, along with other creative endeavors, has established her as a respected figure in Hollywood. For aspiring actors, she serves as an example of how commitment and creativity can lead to lasting success.
| Birth Date: | 7 Jul, 1972 |
| Age: | 47 yrs |
| Citizenship: | United States of America |
| Birth Place: | Pasadena |
| Education: | Cerritos High School California State University, Fullerton |
| Gender: | Female |
| Description: | American actress |
| Net Worth 2021: | 3 million |
