Ruby Rose Langenheim, professionally known as Ruby Rose, is an Australian multi-hyphenate talent who has successfully navigated multiple entertainment industries. Born on March 20, 1986, in Melbourne, Australia, Ruby has established herself as an actress, model, television presenter, DJ, and activist. Her androgynous look, distinctive style, and outspoken advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights have made her a significant figure in contemporary popular culture.
Rising to prominence first in her native Australia as an MTV VJ and model, Ruby gained international recognition with her breakout role as Stella Carlin in the Netflix series "Orange Is the New Black." Her career trajectory has since included major action films, a groundbreaking superhero role as Batwoman, and continued influence in fashion and music spheres. This biography explores her multifaceted career, personal journey, and lasting impact on entertainment and social advocacy.
| Biography Details | |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ruby Rose Langenheim |
| Professional Name | Ruby Rose |
| Date of Birth | March 20, 1986 |
| Age | 39 years (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | Melbourne, Australia |
| Nationality | Australian |
| Height | 5'7" (170 cm) |
| Education | University High School, Footscray City College |
| Profession | Actress, Model, Television Presenter, DJ |
| Years Active | 2002-present |
| Net Worth | $4-6 million (estimated as of 2025) |
| Parents | Katia Langenheim (mother) |
| Relationship Status | Single (as of 2025) |
Early Life & Background
Ruby Rose Langenheim was born on March 20, 1986, in Melbourne, Australia. Her early life was shaped by unique circumstances, as she was raised by a young single mother, Katia Langenheim, who was just 20 years old when Ruby was born. Katia, an artist herself, became one of Ruby's most significant role models and influences.
Ruby's childhood was characterized by frequent movement and adaptation. As a young child, she lived in various locations throughout Australia, including rural Victoria, Tasmania, and Surfers Paradise, before eventually settling in Melbourne. This nomadic upbringing likely contributed to her adaptability and resilient personality traits that would later serve her well in the entertainment industry.
Ruby has notable family connections that link her to Australian history and sports. She is the god-daughter of Indigenous Australian boxer Lionel Rose and the great-granddaughter of Alec Campbell, who holds the distinction of being the last surviving Australian soldier from the Battle of Gallipoli during World War I. These connections to significant Australian historical and cultural figures have helped shape her understanding of her national identity.
For her education, Ruby attended University High School and later transferred to Footscray City College in Melbourne. While her formal education provided a foundation, it was her early exposure to creative fields through her mother's artistic career that would significantly influence her future professional trajectory.
Education & Early Aspirations
Ruby's formal education took place in Melbourne, where she attended University High School before completing her secondary education at Footscray City College. While details about her academic performance are limited, her subsequent career choices suggest early interests in creative expression, performance, and media.
Though she didn't pursue traditional higher education, Ruby's career path demonstrates a commitment to learning through experience and professional development. Her early aspiration to work in the entertainment industry manifested first through modeling, which provided an entry point into the broader media landscape.
Ruby's childhood was not without challenges. In interviews, she has spoken about experiencing bullying during her school years and struggling with her identity and sexuality. These experiences, though difficult, ultimately contributed to her development as an outspoken advocate for mental health awareness and LGBTQ+ rights.
Rather than following a conventional educational pathway, Ruby began building practical experience in the entertainment industry at a young age. This decision to pursue hands-on career development rather than academic credentials aligned with her creative talents and personality, setting the stage for her diverse professional journey.
Career Journey
Modeling Breakthrough
Ruby Rose's career in the public eye began in 2002 when she participated in the Girlfriend model search competition in Australia. She finished as the runner-up to Catherine McNeil (whom she would later briefly be engaged to). This early modeling success opened doors for her in the Australian fashion industry, establishing her distinctive look and style as marketable assets.
Her androgynous appearance and confident presence made her stand out in the modeling world. As her profile grew, she began working with major Australian brands and appearing in fashion publications. Her modeling career provided not just financial independence but also increased visibility that would lead to opportunities in other media sectors.
Television Presenting
Building on her modeling success, Ruby transitioned into television presenting, securing a role as a VJ for MTV Australia in 2007. This position significantly raised her public profile in Australia and showcased her charismatic on-screen personality and interview skills.
Her work with MTV allowed her to interview international celebrities and cover major music events, establishing her as a recognizable media personality in the Australian entertainment landscape. During this period, she also appeared on various Australian television programs, including "Australia's Next Top Model" and Network Ten's "The Project," further diversifying her television experience.
Fashion Design & DJ Career
In 2010, Ruby expanded her creative portfolio by collaborating with Australian fashion label Milk and Honey to design a capsule clothing collection. The line, named "Milk and Honey Designed by Ruby Rose," featured her aesthetic sensibilities with items including washed jeans, leather jackets, and T-shirts, available in selected Australian retailers.
Parallel to her fashion ventures, Ruby developed a career as a DJ, performing at clubs and music festivals throughout Australia. This aspect of her career showcased her musical knowledge and ability to connect with audiences in yet another format, reinforcing her versatility as an entertainer.
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Acting Career Development
While Ruby had made brief appearances in Australian productions early in her career, her acting aspirations took a significant step forward with her 2014 self-produced short film "Break Free." The film, which explored gender roles, identity, and transformation, went viral online, garnering millions of views in a short period.
In a later interview with Variety, Ruby credited this project as instrumental to her acting career, explaining that prior to its success, she struggled to secure representation or auditions. The film's viral success demonstrated her capacity for creating compelling visual narratives and showcased her performance abilities to a global audience.
International Breakthrough
Ruby's defining career moment came in 2015 when she was cast as inmate Stella Carlin in the third season of Netflix's acclaimed series "Orange Is the New Black." Her character, introduced as a love interest for the show's protagonist, immediately captured audience attention and catapulted Ruby to international fame.
The role showcased not only her acting abilities but also her unique presence and charisma. Her portrayal of Stella resonated with viewers worldwide and established her as an emerging talent in the American entertainment industry. This breakthrough role facilitated her transition from Australian media personality to international actress.
Hollywood Career Expansion
Following her success on "Orange Is the New Black," Ruby secured roles in several major action films, marking her entry into Hollywood blockbusters. Her filmography expanded to include:
- "Resident Evil: The Final Chapter" (2016) as Abigail
- "xXx: Return of Xander Cage" (2017) alongside Vin Diesel
- "John Wick: Chapter 2" (2017) with Keanu Reeves
- "Pitch Perfect 3" (2017)
- "The Meg" (2018) with Jason Statham
These roles demonstrated her ability to perform in action-heavy productions and work alongside established Hollywood stars. Her distinctive look and physical capabilities made her particularly suited for action roles, establishing her as a unique presence in the genre.
Groundbreaking Superhero Role
In August 2018, Ruby achieved another career milestone when she was cast as Kate Kane/Batwoman in The CW's Arrowverse television franchise. Her casting as Batwoman was particularly significant as it marked the first openly gay superhero to headline a television series, a groundbreaking moment for LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream media.
Ruby first appeared as the character in a crossover event before starring in the "Batwoman" series that premiered in 2019. Though she departed the role after the first season citing multiple factors including an on-set injury, her portrayal of Batwoman remains a significant contribution to superhero representation and her career legacy.
Notable Works & Achievements
Throughout her multifaceted career, Ruby Rose has built an impressive portfolio across multiple entertainment domains:
Film & Television
- Orange Is the New Black (2015-2016): Her breakthrough role as Stella Carlin
- Resident Evil: The Final Chapter (2016): Playing Abigail in the action horror franchise
- John Wick: Chapter 2 (2017): Featuring as Ares alongside Keanu Reeves
- xXx: Return of Xander Cage (2017): Acting with Vin Diesel in the action sequel
- Pitch Perfect 3 (2017): Showcasing her range in the musical comedy franchise
- The Meg (2018): Starring in the science fiction shark film
- Batwoman (2019-2020): Leading as the titular character in the groundbreaking superhero series
- SAS: Red Notice (2021): Demonstrating her continued presence in action films
Modeling & Fashion
- Runner-up in the 2002 Girlfriend model search
- Face of Maybelline New York in Australia
- Collaborations with fashion brands including Milk and Honey
- Ambassador for JVC, Australian clothes company JAG, and Danish label Georg Jensen
- Featured in major fashion publications including Vogue Australia, InStyle, Marie Claire, and Nylon
- Face of Urban Decay Cosmetics (2016)
- Featured in Nike's "Kiss My Airs" campaign (2017)
- Face of Swarovski's "Urban Fantasy" FW17 Collection
Television Presenting
- MTV Australia VJ (2007-2011)
- Co-host of "Australia's Next Top Model"
- Presenter on Network Ten's "The Project"
Music & DJ Career
- Established presence as a DJ in Australian nightlife and festival circuit
- Released music-related content and performances
Personal Life
Ruby Rose has been open about her personal journey, particularly regarding her gender identity and sexuality, making her an influential figure in LGBTQ+ representation and advocacy.
Gender Identity & Sexuality
Ruby has spoken candidly about her gender identity journey. At age 12, she questioned her gender identity and considered gender transition. She has since identified as gender fluid while typically using she/her pronouns. Her short film "Break Free" visually represented her personal journey with gender expression.
As a lesbian, Ruby has been an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and visibility. Her openness about her sexuality from early in her career, particularly at a time when such visibility was less common in mainstream media, has made her an important role model for many in the LGBTQ+ community.
Relationships
Ruby's relationship history has included several public relationships with women in the entertainment industry:
- She was briefly engaged to model Catherine McNeil in 2010
- She was in a relationship with fashion designer Phoebe Dahl (granddaughter of author Roald Dahl) from 2014 to 2015, becoming engaged before their amicable separation
- She dated singer Jessica Origliasso of The Veronicas from 2016 to 2018
- She has been linked to other relationships throughout her career, though maintains relative privacy about her current romantic life
Mental Health Advocacy
Ruby has been open about her struggles with mental health, including experiences with depression and bipolar disorder. She has discussed past suicide attempts as a teenager and her journey with mental health challenges. Through sharing her experiences, she has contributed to destigmatizing mental health discussions and encouraging others to seek help.
Lifestyle & Interests
While based in the United States for her acting career, Ruby maintained connections to her Australian roots. Prior to her Hollywood breakthrough, she lived in Brooklyn, New York, while pursuing her American acting career. Her interests outside of entertainment include activism, animal welfare, and maintaining a vegan lifestyle for ethical reasons.
Net Worth & Financial Success
As of 2025, Ruby Rose's estimated net worth ranges between $4-6 million. This figure reflects her success across multiple entertainment industries and various revenue streams:
Acting Income
Her transition to Hollywood films and television series, particularly her roles in major franchises like "John Wick," "Resident Evil," and her lead role in "Batwoman," represent significant sources of income. Leading roles in network television typically command substantial per-episode salaries.
Modeling & Endorsements
Throughout her career, Ruby has secured numerous endorsement deals and modeling contracts with major brands, including:
- Maybelline New York (Australia)
- Urban Decay Cosmetics
- Nike
- Swarovski
- Various fashion and lifestyle brands
These partnerships have provided substantial supplementary income beyond her performance work.
Fashion Ventures
Her collaborations with fashion brands, including her capsule collection with Milk and Honey and her work with street footwear brand Gallaz, have created additional revenue streams through design and royalty arrangements.
DJ Performances
Ruby's work as a DJ at clubs, events, and festivals has provided another income channel, with celebrity DJs often commanding premium appearance fees.
While her net worth is impressive, it's worth noting that Ruby has prioritized meaningful projects and representation over purely financial considerations in many career choices. Her decision to take on boundary-breaking roles like Batwoman demonstrates a commitment to cultural impact alongside financial success.
Notable Facts & Trivia
Ruby Rose's life and career feature several interesting facts that provide insight into her journey and character:
- Name Origin: Her middle name "Rose" honors her godfather, Indigenous Australian boxing legend Lionel Rose
- Historical Connection: She is the great-granddaughter of Alec Campbell, the last surviving Australian soldier from the Battle of Gallipoli
- Early Challenges: She experienced bullying in school and has been open about attempting suicide at age 12
- Viral Success: Her self-produced short film "Break Free" garnered over 50 million views online and helped launch her international career
- Injury History: She sustained serious injuries performing stunts for "Batwoman," which contributed to her decision to leave the series
- Unique Record: She was the first openly gay superhero to headline a television series when she starred in "Batwoman"
- Versatile Skills: Beyond acting, she is accomplished as a model, DJ, television presenter, boxer, and has some experience in music recording
- Visual Identity: She is known for her extensive tattoo collection, which has become part of her visual signature
- Philanthropic Interests: She has supported various causes including animal rights and LGBTQ+ youth support organizations
- Media Recognition: She was included in Stella Magazine's 25 Most Stylish Australians and has appeared on numerous "most beautiful" and "most influential" lists
Public Image & Media Presence
Ruby Rose has cultivated a distinctive public image characterized by authenticity, courage in challenging norms, and a willingness to use her platform for advocacy. Her androgynous appearance challenged traditional beauty and gender expectations in the entertainment industry, helping to expand representation and visibility.
In media appearances, Ruby presents as articulate, thoughtful, and genuine. She balances professionalism with personal candor, particularly when discussing issues of identity, mental health, and representation. This authentic communication style has earned her respect from both industry peers and the public.
Her social media presence, while fluctuating in activity levels, has provided a platform for connecting directly with fans and advocating for causes important to her. At various points in her career, Ruby has amassed millions of followers across platforms, demonstrating her cultural influence beyond traditional entertainment channels.
Media coverage of Ruby has evolved from primarily focusing on her appearance and sexuality to recognizing her multifaceted talents and contributions to representation. This evolution reflects both her career development and changing social attitudes about LGBTQ+ representation in media.
Legacy & Impact
Though still in an active career phase, Ruby Rose has already established a meaningful legacy in several areas:
LGBTQ+ Representation
As an openly gay woman who has been forthright about her gender journey, Ruby has provided vital visibility in mainstream media. Her casting as Batwoman represented a watershed moment for LGBTQ+ representation in superhero media, breaking barriers for future inclusive casting.
Gender Expression in Media
Ruby's androgynous style and fluid gender expression have helped expand conceptions of beauty and fashion in mainstream entertainment. Her visibility has contributed to broader acceptance of diverse gender expressions in modeling, acting, and public life.
Mental Health Awareness
Through sharing her personal struggles with mental health, Ruby has contributed to destigmatizing these discussions. Her openness about depression, bipolar disorder, and suicidal ideation has potentially helped others seek support and treatment.
Career Versatility Model
Ruby's successful navigation of multiple entertainment fields—from modeling to television presenting to Hollywood acting—provides a template for creative professionals seeking diverse career paths rather than singular specialization.
Philanthropy & Causes
Throughout her career, Ruby Rose has supported various charitable causes and social justice initiatives:
LGBTQ+ Advocacy
She has consistently used her platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, visibility, and acceptance. This advocacy has included supporting organizations focused on LGBTQ+ youth welfare and mental health.
Animal Rights
As a vegan and animal lover, Ruby has supported animal welfare organizations and used her platform to promote ethical treatment of animals and plant-based lifestyle choices.
Mental Health Initiatives
Drawing from her personal experiences, she has supported mental health organizations and initiatives aimed at increasing access to mental health resources, particularly for young people and LGBTQ+ individuals.
Anti-Bullying Campaigns
Having experienced bullying herself, Ruby has participated in anti-bullying campaigns and initiatives focused on creating safer environments for young people.
While Ruby's philanthropy tends to be less publicized than some celebrities, her consistent advocacy on these issues demonstrates a commitment to using her influence for positive social change.
FAQ
Q: What is Ruby Rose's real name?
A: Ruby Rose's full name is Ruby Rose Langenheim.
Q: How tall is Ruby Rose?
A: Ruby Rose stands at 5'7" (170 cm).
Q: Is Ruby Rose Australian?
A: Yes, Ruby Rose was born in Melbourne, Australia, and is of Australian nationality.
Q: What was Ruby Rose's breakthrough role?
A: Her breakthrough international role was as Stella Carlin in the Netflix series "Orange Is the New Black" (2015).
Q: Why did Ruby Rose leave Batwoman?
A: Ruby Rose left "Batwoman" after the first season due to a combination of factors, including physical injuries sustained on set, the demanding production schedule, and reconsideration of her career priorities.
Q: What is Ruby Rose's net worth?
A: As of 2025, Ruby Rose's estimated net worth is between $4-6 million.
Q: Did Ruby Rose have a role in John Wick?
A: Yes, Ruby Rose played the character Ares in "John Wick: Chapter 2" (2017).
Q: Is Ruby Rose a DJ?
A: Yes, Ruby Rose has worked as a DJ, performing at clubs and music festivals, particularly in Australia.
In conclusion, Ruby Rose represents a contemporary entertainment figure who has successfully navigated multiple creative industries while maintaining an authentic public persona. Her impact extends beyond her artistic accomplishments to include meaningful contributions to LGBTQ+ visibility, mental health awareness, and expanding conceptions of gender expression in mainstream media. As she continues her career, Ruby's legacy as a boundary-pushing, multifaceted talent who helped transform entertainment industry representation continues to grow.