Reina Hardesty

Reina Hardesty is an American actress and cinematographer, born in Foothill Ranch, California, recognized for her versatile performances across television and film, as well as her contributions behind the camera. Her work spans genres, showcasing her ability to embody complex characters in both comedic and dramatic roles, establishing her as a rising talent in the entertainment industry.

Hailing from a diverse family with Japanese and American roots, Hardesty grew up in Orange County, the daughter of Greg Hardesty, a seasoned writer, and Manako Ihaya, a Japanese-to-English interpreter. Her multicultural background shaped her worldview, influencing her approach to storytelling. As a teenager, she gained local attention when her father, a reporter, chronicled her sending and receiving over 14,500 text messages in a month, a lighthearted anecdote that hinted at her vibrant personality. Hardesty pursued acting with determination, initially exploring cinematography, editing short films like Coming Out and Inspired before transitioning to on-screen roles.

Hardesty's acting career began in the mid-2010s, with early credits in short films and television. Her breakthrough came in 2017 with the role of Beth in the action-comedy series Brockmire, where her comedic timing earned praise. She gained wider recognition as Joss Mardon, also known as Weather Witch, in The CW's The Flash and DC's Legends of Tomorrow, portraying a compelling villain. Notable roles followed, including Aspen Fairchild in Greenhouse Academy, Molly Park in All Rise, and Brooke in Netflix's sci-fi dark comedy It's What's Inside. Hardesty also joined the cast of Amazon's The Boys spin-off Gen V and stars opposite Daniel Dae Kim in the upcoming spy thriller Butterfly. Her cinematography work on short films highlights her multifaceted skill set, though she has not yet received major industry awards.

In her personal life, Hardesty maintains her privacy, while focusing on her craft. She enjoys fostering connections within the AAPI community, inspired by milestones like Parasite's Best Picture win. Her influence lies in her authentic portrayals and advocacy for diverse representation, contributing to a more inclusive pop culture landscape.