Deena Nicole Cortese was born on January 12, 1987, in New Egypt, a small town in New Jersey. She is best known for her role on the MTV reality series Jersey Shore, which follows eight housemates spending their summer together in Seaside Heights. Known for her outgoing personality and energetic presence on the show, Deena became a familiar face to audiences during its run. Her full name is Deena Nicole Cortese.

After graduating from New Egypt High School, Deena briefly attended Brookdale Community College. She has one sister, Joanie Maiorella, who also made appearances on Jersey Shore. The Cortese family is of Italian-American descent, a cultural background prominently represented on the series.

Rise to Fame on Jersey Shore

Though Deena was initially not cast in the first season of Jersey Shore, she joined the series in its third season, thanks in part to the recommendation of original cast member Nicole "Snooki" Polizzi. At the time, Deena was relatively unknown and working as a dental assistant, a job she has admitted she did not enjoy due to its academic demands.

Deena appeared in 54 episodes of Jersey Shore, and her wild, fun-loving behavior quickly made her a fan favorite. Outside of the show, she has appeared as herself in over a dozen other reality television specials and series. Over time, Deena has expressed that she has evolved from her earlier reality TV persona, describing herself as more grounded and mature today.