Marina Sirtis was born to Greek parents, who didn't want her to become an actress. As soon as Marina completed high school, she secretely applied to the Guild Hall School of Music and Drama. After her graduation, she worked in musical theater, repertory and television. In 1986 she moved to L.A. For 6 months she tried to audition for parts, but was unsuccessful. Just as she planned to go back home, she got the part of Counselor Troi in "Star Trek: The Next Generation" (1987). In 1992 she married Michael Lamper, a rock guitarist.