Drea de Matteo, known for her iconic role in “The Sopranos,” has recently opened up about how joining OnlyFans has empowered her financially and provided her with a sense of independence. The actress, who joined the adult subscription platform in August, has candidly shared that the decision was born out of necessity during a period of economic hardship.
In an interview with the Daily Mail, Drea de Matteo, 52, revealed the dire circumstances that led her to OnlyFans. She was facing foreclosure, had only $10 in her bank account, and was on the brink of losing her home. Additionally, she was dealing with the recent loss of her mother and financial strains in caring for her other mother, who suffers from dementia. “OnlyFans saved my life, 100 percent,” she confessed. “I can’t believe I’m saying that, but it really did save us.”
De Matteo’s journey to OnlyFans was met with substantial backlash, but she has taken the criticism in stride. In the TMZ documentary “TMZ Presents: Famous & Naked,” she addressed the negativity head-on, stating, “Bring it the f*** on!!!” She emphasized that OnlyFans offers a safer and more autonomous environment compared to the often unpredictable and exploitative nature of Hollywood.
The actress’s financial struggles were exacerbated by her refusal to comply with COVID-19 vaccine mandates, which resulted in a lack of work opportunities in the entertainment industry. “I used to have a lot of money. And then, all of a sudden, I went from being allowed to work to never being allowed to work again,” de Matteo explained. Despite the industry’s ostracism, she remained steadfast in her beliefs and found a new path to support her family.
De Matteo’s success on OnlyFans was immediate. Within minutes of posting her content, she made enough money to pay off her home and even launch a streetwear brand as an additional income source. She expressed gratitude for the platform, despite the societal judgment, and defended her choice to join. “Anybody that wants to condemn me and put me down, go for it. I just hope you never find yourself in the position I was in to take care of two little kids,” she said.
The actress shares daughter Alabama Gypsyrose, 16, and son Waylon Albert “Blackjack,” 12, with her ex Shooter Jennings. She also disclosed her approach to creating content for OnlyFans, highlighting how it allows her to embrace her natural body. “For the most part, I look good, and the best part about it is I get to be heavier. I don’t look good in the pictures if I’m skinny. Before the photo shoot, I get to eat and eat. I get to bulk up to look better,” she shared, adding that her pre-photo shoot diet includes lots of pasta and steak.
De Matteo’s career includes memorable roles in “The Sopranos,” where she won an Emmy for her portrayal of Adriana La Cerva, as well as “Sons of Anarchy” and “Shades of Blue.” Despite her illustrious career, she faced significant challenges and had to reinvent herself in the wake of Hollywood’s changing landscape and her personal convictions.
She joins a growing list of celebrities who have turned to OnlyFans for financial independence and creative freedom, including Cardi B, Carmen Electra, Bella Thorne, Denise Richards, Amber Rose, Tyga, and Chris Brown. For Drea de Matteo, OnlyFans has been more than just a financial lifeline; it has been a platform for empowerment and a testament to her resilience in the face of adversity.