Paula Brancati (born June 6, 1989) is a Canadian actress, producer, and director. She is best known for her roles on Degrassi: The Next Generation, Being Erica, and the horror anthology series Slasher. She is also the co-founder of BrancSeater Productions, through which she develops Canadian independent films and television projects.
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Early life
Brancati was born in Thornhill, Ontario, Canada.
She attended the regional arts program at St. Elizabeth Catholic High School and studied with the CharActors Theatre Troupe. She is of Italian descent.
Career
Brancati began acting at a young age and “got her first taste” of film while working on a commercial, which sparked her passion for performing. As a child actor, she appeared in television series such as Doc, Radio Free Roscoe, and Dark Oracle—for which she earned a Gemini Award nomination.
She gained national recognition for portraying Jane Vaughn on Degrassi: The Next Generation, a role that made her one of the show’s most prominent cast members. She later starred as Jenny Zalen on the CBC comedy-drama Being Erica and as multiple characters in Netflix’s horror anthology Slasher.
Brancati co-founded BrancSeater Productions, through which she has written, produced, and starred in several independent Canadian films. Her company’s debut feature, People Hold On, premiered at the Cinefest Sudbury International Film Festival and was later distributed by Mongrel Media.
She continues to appear on screen while producing projects that highlight contemporary Canadian stories. In 2022, she directed the short film Junior's Giant, and in 2025 she stars in Hell Motel for Shudder.
Brancati is also recognized for her theatre work, including her 2016 portrayal of Miss Honey in Toronto’s production of Matilda the Musical.
Beyond acting, she is a vocal advocate for Canadian arts education and has supported initiatives encouraging young people to pursue creative careers.
