Is the world of reality television, particularly the often-sensationalized realm of "Mob Wives," a world where loyalty and family are perpetually tested, and where the lines between legal and illegal blur? Drita D'Avanzo, a prominent figure in this world, embodies this complex reality, navigating personal trials and public scrutiny with a resilience that has captivated audiences for years.
Born Drita Selmani on February 6, 1976, in Staten Island, New York, Drita D'Avanzo's journey began far from the glitz and glamour of television. Her family's migration from Albania shaped her upbringing, instilling a sense of strength and determination that would prove invaluable in the years to come. Her father, a professional soccer coach, initially envisioned a different path for her, one on the soccer field. Drita dedicated her childhood to rigorous training, but her own aspirations leaned towards the world of acting, a passion she would later explore.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Drita Selmani (D'Avanzo) |
| Date of Birth | February 6, 1976 |
| Place of Birth | Staten Island, New York |
| Known For | Reality TV Personality, Entrepreneur, Makeup Artist |
| TV Series | Mob Wives (2011-2016), Big Ang |
| Husband | Lee D'Avanzo (married since 2000) |
| Children | Two daughters (Aleeya and Gizelle D'Avanzo) |
| Net Worth | $1 million (estimated) |
| Other Ventures | Makeup artist, entrepreneur |
| Current Status | Active in public life, attends events, and pursues various ventures |
| Reference | IMDB Profile |
Drita's life took a significant turn when she became a cast member on the VH1 series "Mob Wives," which aired from 2011 to 2016. The show offered viewers an intimate look into the lives of women connected to the world of organized crime. Drita quickly emerged as a breakout star, her candid and fiery personality resonating with audiences. She wasn't afraid to speak her mind or defend her family, earning her both admiration and notoriety. Her presence on the show also extended to the "Mob Wives" spinoff "Big Ang".
The world that Drita inhabited, however, was one where the shadows of the past often dictated the present. Her husband, Lee D'Avanzo, a figure alleged by federal prosecutors to be a high-ranking member of the Colombo crime family, faced legal troubles that frequently cast a pall over their lives. In December 2019, a New York Police Department raid on their Staten Island home resulted in the arrest of both Drita and Lee. They were charged with possession of a firearm and drug paraphernalia. Though the charges against Drita were eventually dropped, the incident underscored the precariousness of her life.
The legal troubles surrounding Lee D'Avanzo continued to unfold. In August 2020, he was sentenced to 64 months in prison for felony possession of a gun. Drita was often seen leaving court in Brooklyn, her face etched with the strain of the situation. While her husband served his time, Drita remained steadfast in her support, proving that even when faced with adversity, she remained committed to her family. It was during this time that she revealed they had separated.
Drita's daughter, Aleeya D'Avanzo, also became a familiar face to the viewers of "Mob Wives," appearing on the show with her mother on multiple occasions. As of 2022, Aleeya seems to be charting her own course, embracing a more modest lifestyle compared to her mother's. She is a model, boasts a few thousand followers on Instagram, and is a fully qualified personal trainer, carving a career path of her own. She is currently in a relationship.
Drita has made appearances at various events. She attended the "Mafia Mamma" New York screening at the AMC Lincoln Square Theater on April 11, 2023, and also the 9th Annual Cristian Rivera Foundation Celebrity Gala on November 15, 2017, at Capitale in New York City, showing that even after all the tumult, Drita has remained active in public life.
The challenges of Drita's life have not been limited to legal battles. She has also publicly addressed the struggles of others within the "Mob Wives" community. When Renee Graziano revealed that she suffered an accidental fentanyl overdose, Drita did not hold back her feelings, stating, "I don't like her."
Drita's journey is a testament to her resilience. She has faced both public and private scrutiny, managed the difficulties that arise from her husband's legal troubles, and navigated the murky waters of reality television with a fierce determination. Throughout it all, she has remained a compelling figure, unwilling to back down from the drama and ready to face the next chapter with unwavering resolve.
Drita's story is a complicated one, filled with both triumph and adversity, but her ability to adapt and overcome, coupled with the fierce loyalty she demonstrates to her family, has ensured that she remains a fixture in the public eye.
