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The Woman Behind The Oscar: Who Is Ariana DeBose's Long-Term Partner, Sue Makkoo?

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As of December 2025, the relationship status of Academy Award-winning actress and Broadway powerhouse Ariana DeBose remains happily settled and private. Her long-term partner is Sue Makkoo, a highly respected figure in the theatrical world who prefers the spotlight to shine on her work behind the scenes. This dynamic duo represents a powerful, yet low-key, partnership built on shared roots in the demanding world of Broadway and a mutual appreciation for artistic excellence. The couple’s commitment to privacy has only fueled public curiosity about the woman who shares the life of one of Hollywood’s most exciting "triple threats."

The story of Ariana DeBose and Sue Makkoo is a testament to finding love where you work, though not always at first sight. Their professional connection, which began years before their romantic relationship, has provided a stable and creatively supportive foundation for DeBose as she navigated her historic rise from a Broadway star to an Oscar winner for her unforgettable role in Steven Spielberg’s *West Side Story*.

Ariana DeBose: A Comprehensive Profile and Career Timeline

Before diving into her personal life, it is essential to understand the remarkable career that has made Ariana DeBose a global name. She is a true Hollywood and Broadway anomaly, celebrated for her versatility across acting, singing, and dancing—a rare "triple threat."

  • Full Name: Ariana Nicole DeBose
  • Born: January 25, 1991
  • Birthplace: Wilmington, North Carolina, U.S.
  • Nationality: American
  • Occupations: Actress, Singer, Dancer
  • Education: Attended Western Carolina University (briefly)
  • Historical Significance: First openly queer woman of color to win an Academy Award (Best Supporting Actress for *West Side Story*).
  • Key Career Milestones:
    • 2009: Television debut as a contestant on *So You Think You Can Dance* (Season 6).
    • 2012–2014: Broadway roles in *Bring It On: The Musical* and *Motown: The Musical*.
    • 2015–2016: Part of the original cast of the cultural phenomenon, the Broadway musical *Hamilton*, playing The Bullet and performing in the ensemble.
    • 2016–2017: Starred as Jane in *A Bronx Tale*.
    • 2017–2018: Received Tony Award and Drama League Award nominations for her performance as Disco Donna in *Summer: The Donna Summer Musical*.
    • 2020: Appeared in the Netflix film adaptation of *The Prom*.
    • 2021: Achieved global acclaim for her portrayal of Anita in Steven Spielberg’s film adaptation of *West Side Story*, winning an Academy Award, a BAFTA, a Golden Globe, and a Screen Actors Guild Award.
    • 2022–Present: Continues to host the Tony Awards, solidifying her status as a major industry figure.

Sue Makkoo: The Broadway Costume Designer and Director

Ariana DeBose’s partner, Sue Makkoo, is an equally accomplished professional, though her work is largely done behind the curtain. Makkoo has carved out a highly successful 25-year career as a renowned costume designer, costume director, and educator.

Born on February 16, 1971, in New York City, Makkoo’s expertise spans both the international fashion industry and the demanding world of Broadway theatre.

Over the last two decades, she has been instrumental in the creation of over 375 shows, a staggering number that underscores her foundational role in live theatre. Her extensive resume includes working as the Costume Associate for the Broadway production of *Summer: The Donna Summer Musical*, which is where her professional path crossed with DeBose’s in a significant way.

How the Relationship Between Ariana and Sue Began

The relationship between the actress and the designer is a classic Broadway love story, but with a modern, slow-burn start. They first met while working on the 2013 production of *Motown: The Musical*, where DeBose was a cast member and Makkoo was part of the design team.

However, it wasn't until they collaborated again on *Summer: The Donna Summer Musical* in 2017–2018 that their professional respect blossomed into a romantic connection. DeBose earned a Tony nomination for her lead role, while Makkoo was working behind the scenes as the Costume Associate, a role that brought them into frequent contact.

The couple has been consistently linked since approximately 2018, maintaining a relationship that is supportive yet fiercely private.

A Private Life in Upstate New York

Despite their high-profile careers, Ariana DeBose and Sue Makkoo have chosen a life away from the hustle of Manhattan. The couple reportedly shares a quiet, country cottage in upstate New York.

This setting provides a tranquil environment, offering a necessary retreat from the red carpets, film sets, and Broadway stages that define their professional lives. This intentional choice for a more grounded home life highlights their shared priority for stability and privacy.

Makkoo has been a pillar of support for DeBose, particularly throughout her historic Oscar campaign for *West Side Story*. While DeBose often attended major events with her mother, Gina DeBose, or close friends, Makkoo was frequently seen celebrating with her partner at after-parties, such as the high-profile Vanity Fair event following the Academy Awards.

The Importance of Privacy and Support

For a star whose career has been built on public performance, DeBose has been vocal about the importance of keeping her personal life sacred. Her relationship with Makkoo is a private sanctuary that allows her to focus on her demanding artistic endeavors.

Makkoo’s own background in the intense environment of professional theatre means she uniquely understands the pressures DeBose faces. This mutual understanding—of the long hours, the creative demands, and the need for a strong support system—is a key element in the longevity of their partnership.

Ariana DeBose’s Dating History: Before Sue Makkoo

While Sue Makkoo is DeBose’s most recognized and current partner, her dating history includes other significant relationships rooted in the theatre community, underscoring her commitment to individuals who understand her world.

Prior to her relationship with Makkoo, Ariana DeBose was in a relationship with Jill Johnson. Johnson is a theatre professional, known for her work as a props master.

Like her relationship with Makkoo, the partnership with Johnson was also a private affair, though a few details emerged over time, confirming DeBose’s consistent dating life within the creative circles of Broadway.

The transition from a Broadway star to an Academy Award winner has placed a new level of scrutiny on DeBose's life. However, her enduring relationship with Sue Makkoo provides a clear picture: a successful, grounded, and private partnership that continues to flourish away from the glare of the Hollywood spotlight.

ariana debose partner
ariana debose partner

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