Ruby Rose: How ‘Orange is the New Black’ Launched Her Into Stardom

A Glimpse Before Litchfield: Ruby Rose’s Early Years

Before wielding the Batarang as Batwoman or diving into the depths as a marine engineer, Ruby Rose captivated audiences as the alluring, enigmatic, and effortlessly cool Stella Carlin in the groundbreaking Netflix series, “Orange is the New Black.” While Ruby Rose had carved out a career as a model, VJ, and DJ in Australia, it was her time in Litchfield Penitentiary that catapulted her into mainstream consciousness, forever altering her trajectory and solidifying her status as a recognizable face. While “Orange is the New Black” boasted a stellar ensemble cast, Ruby Rose’s presence added a unique dynamic, creating a buzz that extended far beyond the confines of the prison walls. This is the story of how “Orange is the New Black” became the launchpad for Ruby Rose’s stratospheric rise to stardom.

Prior to donning the prison uniform, Ruby Rose was already a well-known personality Down Under. Starting her career as a model at a young age, she quickly transitioned to television, becoming a recognizable face as a presenter for MTV Australia. Known for her edgy style, tattoos, and outspoken personality, she quickly became a youth icon in her home country. She dabbled in acting with small roles in Australian productions, showcasing her potential as a performer. However, opportunities were limited, and her ambition extended beyond the Australian entertainment scene. Although the groundwork was laid, it was her appearance on a prominent American show that ultimately transformed her career, offering opportunities that would previously have been unattainable.

Stella Carlin: A Character That Captivated and Caused Controversy

Ruby Rose entered the “Orange is the New Black” universe in its third season as Stella Carlin, an inmate with a sardonic wit, a rebellious spirit, and an undeniable allure. Stella immediately stood out from the existing cast, her androgynous style and collection of tattoos creating a striking visual contrast within the often-drab setting of the prison. She was introduced as a new love interest for Piper Chapman, a relationship that quickly became a focal point of the season. Their on-screen chemistry was undeniable, sparking both excitement and debate among fans.

The character of Stella Carlin was far from simple. She was a complex individual shaped by a difficult past. Behind her tough exterior lay vulnerability and a desire for connection. She was shrewd, resourceful, and always looking for an advantage. While her relationship with Piper began as a passionate affair, it soon became entangled in a web of manipulation and betrayal. This complexity is what made Stella so captivating, and that’s what drew the audience to the show. Her actions, though often questionable, were motivated by survival, a theme that resonated throughout the entire series. The character added intrigue and served as an impetus for the narrative.

However, the character was not without controversy. Some critics and viewers questioned the authenticity of her portrayal, arguing that a cisgender actress playing a character with androgynous traits reinforced harmful stereotypes. Others criticized the storyline, feeling that it perpetuated negative portrayals of queer relationships. Yet, what no one could deny was the impact her appearance had on the show. The appearance sparked debate and broadened the show’s appeal, which in turn elevated Ruby Rose’s status as a star.

Orange is the New Black: The Catalyst for a Career Transformation

The impact of “Orange is the New Black” on Ruby Rose’s career was immediate and profound. The series, already a massive success, provided her with unparalleled exposure to a global audience. Before “Orange is the New Black,” Ruby Rose was relatively unknown in many parts of the world. Overnight, she became a household name, with her image plastered across magazines and websites. Her social media following exploded, and she quickly amassed a dedicated fanbase drawn to her unique style and charismatic personality.

This increased visibility translated into tangible career opportunities. She began receiving offers for roles in Hollywood films, paving the way for her transition from television personality to sought-after actress. Roles that had once been out of reach now became possibilities, and Ruby Rose seized the opportunity to prove her talent on a larger stage. The series essentially propelled her career forward by years, providing a level of recognition that most actors only dream of achieving.

Beyond the increased exposure, “Orange is the New Black” also solidified Ruby Rose’s status as a queer icon. Her portrayal of Stella Carlin resonated deeply with the LGBTQ+ community, who saw in her a reflection of their own experiences and identities. Ruby Rose herself has always been an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, and her role in “Orange is the New Black” further amplified her voice and platform. She became a role model for many young people struggling with their identity, demonstrating that it was possible to be successful and authentic.

Beyond the Bars: Ruby Rose’s Ascent to Action Stardom

The success of “Orange is the New Black” opened doors for Ruby Rose to explore a wider range of roles, leading her to the action genre, in which she has made a significant mark. Following her appearance in the show, she landed parts in high-profile action films such as “John Wick: Chapter Two,” “Resident Evil: The Final Chapter,” and “The Meg.” Her athleticism, combined with her strong screen presence, made her a natural fit for these roles, solidifying her reputation as a versatile actress.

While each of her roles is worthy of mention, one role stands out: Batwoman. As Batwoman, Ruby Rose once again portrayed a queer character, but this time with the additional challenges and rewards of a leading role. The series, while short-lived, was another example of the types of roles that were offered following “Orange is the New Black.” The character gave the actress a chance to portray the strength and beauty of the LGBTQ+ community.

These action-oriented roles represented a significant shift in her career trajectory, demonstrating her ability to transition seamlessly between different genres. Her time on “Orange is the New Black” honed her acting skills, while her newfound fame allowed her to explore more challenging and physically demanding roles. The series effectively prepared her for the rigors of action filmmaking, providing her with the confidence and experience necessary to succeed in this demanding field.

The Legacy of Litchfield: A Lasting Impact

Ruby Rose’s time on “Orange is the New Black” may have been relatively short, but its impact on her career is undeniable. The series provided her with the platform she needed to showcase her talent to a global audience, transforming her from a relatively unknown Australian personality into a bonafide star. The role of Stella Carlin not only increased her visibility but also solidified her status as a queer icon, allowing her to use her platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and representation.

She is often asked about her time on the show and always responds fondly. It was the type of show that changed the narrative, and allowed many to look at a group of people that may be overlooked.

From Litchfield Penitentiary to the streets of Gotham City, Ruby Rose’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. While she has achieved considerable success in other roles, her time on “Orange is the New Black” remains a pivotal moment in her career, a testament to the power of opportunity and the importance of representation. Where her career takes her is yet to be seen, but we can all agree that the start she got from “Orange is the New Black” was pivotal.