7 Things You Need to Know About Monica Barbaro Movies & TV Shows

Why Monica Barbaro’s Rising Career Matters for Entertainment Fans

Monica Barbaro movies and tv shows have captured audiences worldwide, showcasing the versatility of this San Francisco-born actress who has quickly become one of Hollywood’s most promising talents. From her breakout role as Lt. Natasha ‘Phoenix’ Trace in Top Gun: Maverick to her leading performances in Netflix’s FUBAR and other acclaimed series, Barbaro has proven her range across multiple genres.

Monica Barbaro’s Most Notable Movies:

• Top Gun: Maverick (2022) – Lt. Natasha ‘Phoenix’ Trace
• The Cathedral (2021) – Lydia Damrosch
• At Midnight (2023) – Sophie Wilder
• A Complete Unknown (2024) – Joan Baez

Monica Barbaro’s Key TV Shows:

• FUBAR (2023) – Emma Brunner
• Chicago Justice (2017) – Anna Valdez
• UnREAL (2016) – Yael
• The Good Cop (2018) – Cora Vasquez
• Splitting Up Together (2018-2019) – Lisa Apple

The Bay Area native has accumulated 3 wins and 12 nominations throughout her career, appearing in films that have earned Oscar nominations for Best Picture. Her dance background from NYU Tisch School of the Arts has improved her physicality on screen, while her ability to seamlessly transition between action blockbusters, romantic comedies, and dramatic roles has made her a sought-after performer.

What makes Barbaro’s career particularly compelling is her rapid rise from viral comedy sketches to major studio films in just over a decade. Her journey from a trained dancer to a versatile actress demonstrates the power of persistence and skill development in Hollywood.

Monica barbaro movies and tv shows terms you need:

• linda cardellini
• kelly reilly
• sarah snook

1. Her Breakout Role in a Major Blockbuster Put Her on the Map

There’s a moment in every actor’s career when everything changes. For Monica Barbaro, that moment came when she strapped into a flight suit as Lt. Natasha ‘Phoenix’ Trace in Top Gun: Maverick. This wasn’t just any role – it was her ticket to Hollywood’s A-list and the performance that made monica barbaro movies and tv shows a must-watch topic for entertainment fans everywhere.

The 2022 blockbuster didn’t just soar at the box office with over $1.5 billion worldwide – it launched Monica’s career into the stratosphere. Playing Phoenix, she brought a perfect blend of confidence, skill, and authenticity to the role of a naval aviator. What made her performance so compelling wasn’t just her natural screen presence, but the intense training she underwent to prepare for the role.

Monica didn’t take any shortcuts. She committed to rigorous preparation that included extensive flight training and physical conditioning. This dedication showed in every scene, making Phoenix feel like a real pilot rather than an actress playing one. Her chemistry with Tom Cruise and the ensemble cast was electric, proving she could hold her own alongside Hollywood legends.

The critical acclaim was immediate and overwhelming. Top Gun: Maverick earned a remarkable 96% approval rating from critics and landed an Academy Award nomination for Best Picture. For this Bay Area actress, stepping into such an iconic franchise was both a dream come true and a massive responsibility – one she handled with grace and skill.

This breakout role didn’t just put Monica on the map; it established her as a versatile performer capable of handling big-budget action films. The success of Top Gun: Maverick opened doors to new opportunities and proved that monica barbaro movies and tv shows were worth watching for audiences seeking authentic, compelling performances.

2. She Has a Diverse Range of TV Roles, From Drama to Comedy

While Top Gun: Maverick introduced many to Monica Barbaro, her television career is where she truly honed her craft and showcased her remarkable versatility. Over the past decade, she has starred in an impressive 12 television series, taking on both leading and recurring roles that span the spectrum from intense dramas to lighthearted comedies. This diverse portfolio demonstrates her ability to inhabit a wide array of characters, making her a captivating presence on the small screen.

Her work in television has been a masterclass in character analysis. Whether she’s portraying a tough cop, a reality TV contestant, or a CIA operative, she consistently brings depth and nuance to her performances. We’ve watched her steer complex emotional landscapes in dramas and deliver sharp comedic timing in sitcoms, proving that she’s far more than just an action star.

Key Characters She’s Played on Television

Monica Barbaro has taken on several memorable roles in television that have allowed her to explore different facets of her acting prowess.

• Emma Brunner in FUBAR (2023): In this Netflix action-comedy, she stars opposite Arnold Schwarzenegger as a CIA operative who finds her father is also a spy. Her character, Emma, is intelligent, resourceful, and often finds herself in hilarious situations while trying to balance her dangerous career with family dynamics. It’s a leading role that blends action, humor, and heart, proving her capability as a co-lead in a major series.
• Anna Valdez in Chicago Justice (2017): As a State’s Attorney Assistant in the popular “Chicago” franchise, Barbaro brought a grounded and earnest energy to her character. Anna Valdez was intelligent and driven, often struggling with the moral complexities of the legal system. She also made several appearances as Anna Valdez in Chicago P.D., further integrating her into the gritty world of Chicago law enforcement.
• Cora Vasquez in The Good Cop (2018): In this Netflix dramedy, she played an ambitious and by-the-book detective working alongside Tony Danza and Josh Groban. Cora was a no-nonsense character with a strong moral compass, often serving as the straight woman to the more eccentric personalities around her. Her performance highlighted her sharp comedic timing and ability to play a strong, independent woman.
• Yael in UnREAL (2016): This Lifetime series offered a satirical look at reality dating shows. Barbaro’s character, Yael, was a contestant who brought a compelling blend of vulnerability and ambition to the screen. This role was particularly notable for many critics, helping her gain widespread appreciation early in her career.
• Lisa Apple in Splitting Up Together (2018-2019): In this sitcom, she had a recurring role as Lisa Apple, adding a layer of comedic charm to the show’s exploration of modern relationships.

Notable Guest Appearances

Beyond her leading and recurring roles, Monica Barbaro has also made impactful guest appearances in several popular TV shows, showcasing her adaptability and ability to make a mark even in limited screen time. These roles often served as stepping stones, building her experience and visibility in the industry.

We’ve seen her pop up in:

• Chicago P.D. (multiple episodes) – As Anna Valdez, tying into her Chicago Justice role.
• Hawaii Five-0 – A classic procedural where she demonstrated her ability to fit into an established ensemble.
• Stitchers
• Cooper Barrett’s Guide to Surviving Life
• Notorious
• Lethal Weapon
• Stumptown – Where she appeared in 4 episodes as Liz Melero, further showcasing her range in crime drama.
• Crazy Ex-Girlfriend – Even dipping her toes into musical comedy!

These guest spots illustrate her journey through the television landscape, from smaller parts to the significant leading roles she commands today in Monica Barbaro movies and tv shows.

3. Her Dance Background Improves Her On-Screen Presence

What truly sets Monica Barbaro apart in Hollywood isn’t just her acting talent—it’s the unique foundation she built long before she ever stepped in front of a camera. This San Francisco native was a trained dancer first, dedicating years to perfecting her craft at the prestigious NYU Tisch School of the Arts, where she earned her BFA in Dance in 2010.

Her dance training wasn’t limited to just one style—she mastered ballet, modern dance, salsa, flamenco, and West African dance. This diverse physical vocabulary has become one of her greatest assets as an actress. When you watch her move on screen, there’s something captivating about her presence that goes beyond traditional acting training.

The physicality in roles that Monica brings is remarkable. Her body control and spatial awareness, honed through years of dance, translate beautifully into action sequences. In Top Gun: Maverick, her movements in the cockpit felt natural and confident—a testament to how her dance background helps her inhabit physical spaces with grace and precision.

But it’s not just action films where her dance training shines. In the romantic comedy At Midnight, Monica got to showcase her dance scenes in film and TV directly, performing captivating salsa and tango sequences that felt authentic and effortless. These moments weren’t just pretty to watch—they served the story, adding depth to her character’s charm and chemistry with her co-star.

As Monica has shared in interviews about her dance roots, the discipline she learned as a dancer has been invaluable to her acting career. Dance taught her how to express emotions through movement, understand rhythm and timing, and maintain the focus needed for long rehearsal sessions. These skills translate directly to memorizing lines, hitting emotional beats, and working with directors to find the perfect take.

What makes her dance background particularly special in Monica Barbaro movies and tv shows is how seamlessly it integrates with her performances. You might not always notice it consciously, but her training gives her an extra layer of expressiveness that sets her apart from other actors. It’s a unique foundation that continues to serve her well as she takes on increasingly diverse and challenging roles.

4. She’s Taking on Exciting New Projects, Including Portraying a Music Icon

Monica Barbaro’s career is reaching new heights with her most ambitious project yet – portraying the legendary folk singer Joan Baez in the highly anticipated Bob Dylan biopic A Complete Unknown. This isn’t just another acting role for the versatile performer; it’s a transformative experience that has pushed her into uncharted territory as both an actress and musician.

What makes this role particularly exciting is how Monica has fully acceptd the musical demands of portraying Baez. She’s not only acting in the film but also contributing as a guitarist and performer on the soundtrack. This demonstrates her commitment to authenticity – she’s literally learning to embody one of folk music’s most iconic voices. The preparation has been intense, requiring her to master both Baez’s distinctive vocal style and her guitar techniques.

The film has already generated significant Oscar buzz, earning a Best Picture nomination even before its wide release. This recognition speaks volumes about the quality of the project and Monica’s performance within it. For a San Francisco native like Monica, taking on such a culturally significant role represents a major milestone in her career trajectory.

But Joan Baez isn’t the only exciting project on Monica’s horizon. She’s set to return for season two of FUBAR on Netflix, where audiences fell in love with her chemistry opposite Arnold Schwarzenegger. The action-comedy series gave her the perfect platform to showcase both her dramatic chops and comedic timing as CIA operative Emma Brunner.

Looking ahead, Monica also has Crime 101 in production for 2026, though details about this project remain under wraps. Additionally, she’s returning to voice work with Army of the Dead: Lost Vegas, proving that animated projects remain an important part of her diverse portfolio.

These upcoming monica barbaro movies and tv shows showcase an actress who isn’t afraid to challenge herself across genres and mediums. From blockbuster action to intimate biographical drama, Monica continues to choose projects that push her boundaries and expand her already impressive skill set.

5. She’s Earned Praise Across Multiple Genres

What truly sets Monica Barbaro apart in Hollywood is her remarkable ability to earn critical acclaim across completely different genres. Whether she’s soaring through the skies in an action blockbuster, delivering heartfelt moments in an indie drama, or bringing laughs in a romantic comedy, she consistently impresses both critics and audiences alike.

Her track record speaks for itself. Both The Cathedral (2021) and Top Gun: Maverick (2022) earned her 96% approval ratings from critics – a rare achievement that showcases her ability to lift any project she touches. What makes this even more impressive is how different these films are: one an intimate independent drama, the other a massive action spectacle.

Even when working with challenging material, Monica shines individually. Take At Midnight, which received mixed reviews overall with a 42% critic score. Despite this, the San Francisco Chronicle specifically praised Monica Barbaro, noting that she “proves with seemingly effortless charm that she can carry a rom-com.” This kind of individual recognition, even in less successful projects, demonstrates her consistent screen presence.

Her television work has been equally celebrated. UnREAL served as her breakthrough performance, earning widespread appreciation from critics and helping establish her as a serious dramatic actress. Meanwhile, her action-comedy work in FUBAR has shown audiences a different side of her talents, blending physical comedy with genuine heart.

Throughout her career, she’s accumulated 3 wins and 12 nominations, reflecting growing industry recognition. What’s particularly noteworthy is how her audience scores often exceed critical ratings – At Midnight earned an 85% audience score despite its 42% critic rating, while Top Gun: Maverick achieved a near-perfect 99% audience approval.

Title	Year	Critics Approval Rating	Audience Score
The Cathedral	2021	96%	N/A
Top Gun: Maverick	2022	96%	99%
A Complete Unknown	2024	82% (projected)	95% (projected)
I’m Charlie Walker	2022	43%	70%
At Midnight	2023	42%	85%
FUBAR	2023	N/A	6.5/10 (IMDb)
UnREAL	2016	7.7/10 (IMDb)	N/A

This consistent positive reception across Monica Barbaro movies and tv shows in drama, action, and comedy proves she’s not just a one-genre wonder – she’s a genuinely versatile performer who connects with audiences regardless of the story she’s telling.

6. Her Career Started with Viral Comedy and Voice Work

Every successful actor has to start somewhere, and Monica Barbaro’s journey began in the most modern way possible – with a viral video. Back in 2013, she appeared in a comedy short called “It’s Not About the Nail” that perfectly captured the frustrations of couple communication. The sketch, which humorously depicted a woman complaining about pain while literally having a nail stuck in her forehead, resonated with audiences worldwide and quickly went viral.

This early comedic work showcased Monica’s natural timing and relatability – qualities that would serve her well throughout her career. It’s fascinating to think that the same actress who would later pilot fighter jets in Top Gun: Maverick first caught people’s attention through a simple, clever sketch about relationship dynamics.

But Monica’s early career wasn’t just about viral comedy. She also ventured into voice acting, a medium that has become increasingly important in today’s entertainment landscape. Her voice work includes lending her talents to Auden Keen in the highly anticipated video game Forspoken (2023), where she brought depth and personality to an interactive character. This role allowed her to explore storytelling in a completely different format, reaching gaming audiences who might not have encountered her live-action work.

Additionally, she’s involved in the animated TV series Army of the Dead: Lost Vegas, further expanding her voice acting portfolio. These projects demonstrate her willingness to accept new technologies and storytelling methods, showing that Monica Barbaro movies and tv shows span far beyond traditional film and television into the digital entertainment world.

What’s particularly impressive is how these early experiences – from viral comedy to voice work – helped shape her versatility as a performer. The skills she developed in these seemingly smaller projects would later contribute to her success in major blockbusters and acclaimed series.

7. The Complete Filmography of Monica Barbaro Movies and TV Shows

Monica Barbaro’s journey from a Bay Area dance enthusiast to a Hollywood leading lady is truly inspiring. Her filmography, spanning over a decade, tells the story of an artist who has carefully crafted her career through strategic choices and undeniable talent. Monica Barbaro movies and tv shows showcase an evolution from early guest spots to commanding roles in major blockbusters and popular streaming series.

What makes her career particularly fascinating is how she’s managed to maintain authenticity while growing her range. Each project seems to build upon the last, creating a body of work that’s both diverse and cohesive. Her San Francisco roots have clearly served her well in Hollywood, bringing a grounded sensibility to every role she takes on.

Where to Start with the Best Monica Barbaro Movies and TV Shows

If you’re new to Monica Barbaro’s work, we’ve got some perfect entry points based on what you love most. Think of this as your personal roadmap to finding why she’s become such a sought-after performer.

For Action Fans: Your journey absolutely must begin with Top Gun: Maverick (2022). Her portrayal of Lt. Natasha ‘Phoenix’ Trace isn’t just a breakout role—it’s a masterclass in holding your own alongside Hollywood legends. The film’s massive success and her standout performance make it essential viewing. Once you’ve experienced her in the cockpit, dive into FUBAR (2023) on Netflix, where she trades fighter jets for spy gadgets as a CIA operative working alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger. It’s the perfect blend of high-stakes action and sharp comedy.

For Comedy Lovers: We recommend starting with The Good Cop (2018), where her character Cora Vasquez brings both wit and heart to this Netflix dramedy. Her chemistry with the cast and natural comedic timing shine through every episode. For something more romantic, At Midnight (2023) showcases her ability to carry a rom-com with what critics called “effortless charm.” Don’t overlook her recurring role in Splitting Up Together (2018-2019), where she adds delightful energy to this relationship-focused sitcom.

For Drama Aficionados: The Cathedral (2021) represents her dramatic prowess at its finest. This critically acclaimed independent film earned a stunning 96% approval rating and demonstrates her ability to handle complex, emotionally demanding material. If you prefer your drama with a procedural twist, her work as Anna Valdez in Chicago Justice (2017) and Chicago P.D. offers compelling performances in the gritty world of law enforcement.

A Chronological List of Monica Barbaro Movies and TV Shows

Watching Monica’s career unfold chronologically reveals an artist who has consistently chosen projects that challenge and expand her abilities. Her journey began in 2013 with the viral comedy short It’s Not About the Nail, where she played simply “Woman” but already showed the natural presence that would define her career.

The television landscape became her training ground throughout the 2015-2019 period. She appeared in Stitchers as Brenda Lowen, made a brief but memorable appearance in Cooper Barrett’s Guide to Surviving Life, and landed her breakthrough television role as Yael in UnREAL (2016). This Lifetime series about reality TV production earned her widespread critical appreciation and opened doors to more substantial opportunities.

Her integration into the Chicago franchise began in 2016-2017, playing Anna Valdez across both Chicago P.D. and Chicago Justice. This role demonstrated her ability to anchor dramatic storylines while working within established television universes. Around the same time, she expanded her range with appearances in Notorious and Lethal Weapon.

The 2018-2019 period saw her taking on more substantial television roles. The Good Cop gave her a leading role as Cora Vasquez, while Splitting Up Together featured her as Lisa Apple. She also appeared in four episodes of Stumptown as Liz Melero, further establishing her television credentials.

2021 marked a turning point with The Cathedral, where she played Lydia Damrosch in this critically acclaimed independent film. This role showcased her dramatic depth and helped transition her from primarily television work to film prominence.

The 2022 breakthrough came with Top Gun: Maverick, where Lt. Natasha ‘Phoenix’ Trace became her most recognizable role. That same year, she appeared in I’m Charlie Walker as Peggy, continuing to diversify her film portfolio.

2023 proved to be a banner year with three major projects. At Midnight featured her as romantic lead Sophie Wilder, while FUBAR gave her another leading role as Emma Brunner. She also ventured into video game voice acting as Auden Keen in Forspoken.

Looking ahead, 2024 brings A Complete Unknown, where she portrays folk icon Joan Baez in this Bob Dylan biopic. The animated series Army of the Dead: Lost Vegas will feature her voice work, while Crime 101 is slated for 2026.

This comprehensive timeline reveals how Monica Barbaro movies and tv shows have evolved from guest spots to leading roles, creating a filmography that spans comedy, drama, action, and everything in between. Each project has contributed to her growth as a performer, building toward what promises to be an even more exciting future in Hollywood.

Frequently Asked Questions about Monica Barbaro

As Monica Barbaro’s star continues to rise, we’ve noticed more and more people asking about this talented San Francisco native. Let’s explore some of the most common questions we hear about her career and background.

What is Monica Barbaro’s most famous role?

When people think of Monica Barbaro movies and tv shows, one role immediately comes to mind: Lt. Natasha ‘Phoenix’ Trace in Top Gun: Maverick. This 2022 blockbuster wasn’t just a box office phenomenon – it was a cultural event that brought Monica into the spotlight like never before.

The film’s massive success, earning over $1.5 billion worldwide, introduced Monica to audiences who had never seen her previous work. Her portrayal of the confident, skilled naval aviator resonated with viewers and critics alike, making Phoenix one of the most memorable characters in the film. The movie’s critical acclaim and Oscar nomination for Best Picture certainly didn’t hurt either.

What makes this role so significant is how it showcased Monica’s ability to hold her own in a major ensemble cast alongside Tom Cruise. It’s the performance that truly launched her into Hollywood’s A-list and opened doors to bigger projects like her upcoming role as Joan Baez in A Complete Unknown.

Is Monica Barbaro a real pilot?

This is probably the question we get asked most after people watch Top Gun: Maverick! The answer is no – Monica Barbaro is not a licensed pilot. However, her performance was so convincing that it’s easy to see why people wonder.

The secret behind her authentic portrayal lies in the extensive flight training she underwent for the role. Along with her fellow cast members, Monica actually flew in real F/A-18 Super Hornets during filming. This wasn’t just a quick orientation – it was rigorous preparation that included learning about aviation, experiencing G-forces, and understanding what it truly feels like to be in a military aircraft.

This dedication to realism is something Monica brings to all her roles. Whether she’s learning dance choreography for At Midnight or preparing for her upcoming portrayal of folk legend Joan Baez, she commits fully to making her performances as authentic as possible.

What ethnicity is Monica Barbaro?

Monica Barbaro’s heritage reflects the beautiful diversity of her hometown, San Francisco. Her father, Nicholas Barbaro, brings Italian roots to the family, while her mother, Heidi Wagner, has a wonderfully mixed background that includes Mexican, German, English, and Welsh ancestry.

This multicultural heritage has likely contributed to Monica’s versatility as an actress. Growing up in the Bay Area’s diverse environment, particularly in Mill Valley where she was raised, exposed her to different cultures and perspectives that she now brings to her roles.

Her San Francisco roots run deep, and she’s often spoken fondly of her Bay Area upbringing. It’s fitting that someone from such a culturally rich city would go on to portray characters from different backgrounds, from Italian-American roles to her upcoming portrayal of Joan Baez, who also has a connection to California’s folk music scene.

Conclusion

Monica Barbaro’s remarkable journey from a passionate dancer in the Bay Area to one of Hollywood’s most promising talents is truly something special. Her impressive range across Monica Barbaro movies and tv shows demonstrates what happens when natural talent meets unwavering dedication and smart career choices.

What makes Monica’s story so compelling is her ability to reinvent herself while staying true to her roots. We’ve watched her transform from that viral comedy sketch performer to a fierce fighter pilot in Top Gun: Maverick, then seamlessly shift to a comedic CIA operative in FUBAR. Her dance background from NYU continues to improve every performance, giving her that unique physicality that sets her apart from other actors.

The San Francisco native has built something remarkable – a career that spans blockbuster action films, critically acclaimed dramas, and laugh-out-loud comedies. Whether she’s portraying the legendary Joan Baez in A Complete Unknown or bringing depth to Anna Valdez in the Chicago franchise, Monica consistently delivers performances that resonate with both critics and audiences.

As Bay Area locals, we couldn’t be prouder of Monica’s incredible achievements. Her success story represents the artistic spirit and creative excellence that our region is known for. From her early days in Mill Valley to commanding the screen alongside Tom Cruise, she’s proven that with talent and determination, dreams really can take flight.

Her upcoming projects promise even more exciting chapters in what’s already been an extraordinary career. We’re excited to see where her journey takes her next, and we encourage you to dive into her incredible body of work if you haven’t already.

Explore more of our resource guides for Bay Area entertainment and culture to find other local talents and trending stories that celebrate the vibrant creative scene in our community.