July 2024

Shantel VanSanten returns as Special Agent Nina Chase in the sixth season of FBI: MOST WANTED.

VanSanten found her passion for the arts at a young age doing local theater, taking acting classes and writing plays in college. Eventually, she followed her calling by moving to Los Angeles. VanSanten first made an impression on audiences in the film “You and I,” directed by acclaimed filmmaker Roland Joffe. Shortly thereafter she landed her first major lead TV role as Quinn James on the hit series “One Tree Hill.”

VanSanten’s success has continued to grow with standout roles in several television series. She recently starred as Karen Baldwin for three seasons in the Apple TV+ critically acclaimed drama series “For All Mankind.” VanSanten also had a pivotal role in the Emmy-nominated series “The Boys,” where she played Becca Butcher for two seasons, and in “Shooter,” which she starred in for three seasons. Other series include “Gang Related,” “The Messengers,” and “The Flash” in which she played Patty Spivot. Some additional film credits include “American Murderer,” “The Final Destination” and “Remembrance.” VanSanten is also the voice of Wraith in the award-winning video game “Apex: Legends” and its subsidiaries.

When not focused on entertainment projects, VanSanten is a devoted philanthropist. She volunteers with several organizations, but her real passion is working with The American Lung Association’s Lung Force initiative after getting involved due to the unfortunate passing of her grandmother, Doris Dooyema. VanSanten has hosted several events, raised funds for research, visited Capitol Hill to fight for policy change and to lobby support for respiratory health, and now serves on The American Lung Association’s board. Giving a voice to the voiceless and carrying on her grandmother’s fight is part of the legacy she wishes to create.

VanSanten was born in Minnesota and grew up between the small farm town of Luverne, Minn., and the sprawling city of Houston, Texas. VanSanten currently resides in New York City. VanSanten’s birthday is July 25. Follow her on Instagram @therealshantel.