Portia de

Portia Lee James DeGeneres (also known as Portia de Rossi) is a popular Australian and American actress, model, and an philanthropist. Her name was changed legally at age 15years old, adopting her name from the Shakespearean play 'The Merchant of Venice'. Then she adopted the Italian designation 'de-Rosi' which she considered to be elegant. Portia considers it the daringest decision she's made. The actress said her private struggle with sexuality was the reason that prompted her to take the leap. Her career in the film industry began by appearing in the romantic drama 'Sirens. It was a film in which she starred with Hugh Grant. In addition, she appeared in a variety of American films and television shows like Too Something, Nick Freno, Licensed Teacher, Arrested Development, and Better Off Ted. She made her name for herself with her portrayal in a Boston-based lawyer, named Nelle Porter in a television comedy show called Ally McBeal. Her character played the lead character in the show's comedy relief.