PS: You have two amazing but very different roles as part of Orange Is the New Black and Jane the Virgin. What's the experience like being in two very diverse sets?
DG: It's been a great experience. Being a Latina in Hollywood is certainly tough, but I think by working on these two shows, it reminds me that we have really good stories to tell. I think that people want to hear them. I think that this country is desperate to find a place where being of color or being of a different culture is celebrated. I don't think anybody wants to be in a position where you're just telling one side of the story. We want to see reflections of what is really happening on television. This is a melting pot. Why is it that we haven't seen that reflected in our media? It's been so challenging to try to break that and to be part of these two shows that are doing just that — breaking barriers so wonderfully — I think is great.
PS: I know you’re really close to OITNB's Jackie Cruz, and girlfriends seem to have played a big part in your life. What is the most important thing to keep a friendship strong?
DG: Honesty is so important. Not only that but vulnerability. My closest friends and the people who I hold dear to my heart can let their guard down and I can let my guard down with them. Being open, having the lines of communication open. If something is not right or bothering you, you talk about it. And also, you can’t be so f*cking sensitive all the time. Sorry!
PS: Is there anything you can tell us about the new season of OITNB?
DG: I have to keep so quiet about everything, but I will tell you that it's just going to be such a good season for Orange. I think that you are going to see a side of Maritza that you haven’t seen before, and I’m super excited for you guys to see it. I think every season we bring something totally different. This one is my favorite so far. I’ve had the best time shooting it, and I know that my fellow actors have as well.
