Though most pundits refer to Eva Longoria's rise to stardom on the hit series "Desperate Housewives" (ABC, 2004-12) as a textbook case of overnight success, the actress-producer had actually been working in the industry for a decade prior to her award-winning turn as the sultry Gabrielle Solis. A former beauty pageant winner, Longoria toiled in bit parts before landing a meaty turn as a crazed seductress on "The Young and the Restless" (CBS, 1973- ). But it would take a few more years before the runaway popularity of the soap-styled "Desperate Housewives" turned the spotlight squarely on her. When it did, Longoria's knack for light comedy and on-screen sensuality made her a favorite among television viewers, though she struggled to bring that same appeal to her feature work. While her career had its share of ups and downs - including a high-profile marriage to and divorce from NBA star Tony Parker - Longoria succeeded both behind and in front of the television camera after "Desperate Housewives" folded, producing the comedy-drama "Devious Maids" (Lifetime 2013-16) and starring in the comedy "Telenovela" (NBC 2015-16).
