New Yorker Nyle DiMarco turned what many might see as a disadvantage into a strength. Born deaf, he has reached remarkable heights in the world of show business. As a model, actor, and activist, he has proven that a voice is not necessary for effective communication. He has become a face not only for the deaf community but for all people with disabilities. The story of this strong-willed celebrity continues at queenski.com.
Education
Nyle DiMarco (born Nyle Thompson) was born on May 8, 1989, in Queens. He has English, Scottish, Italian, and German roots. At a young age, Nyle and his brothers changed their surname from Thompson to DiMarco, their mother’s maiden name. Nyle grew up in Frederick, Maryland, where he attended a school for the deaf. His deafness is hereditary; 25 members of his extended family—including siblings, parents, and grandparents—are deaf. Interestingly, Nyle has a twin brother who is also deaf and works as a DJ.
In 2013, DiMarco graduated from Gallaudet University with a degree in mathematics. This private, federally chartered institution in Washington, D.C., is the only liberal arts university in the world (as of January 2025) where all programs and services are specifically designed for deaf and hard-of-hearing students. The university was named after Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet, an advocate for the education of the deaf. Studying at Gallaudet was crucial for DiMarco, not only for his academic growth but also for his personal development. Like most deaf people, he considers sign language a complete language to express his thoughts. He uses American Sign Language (ASL) and is also fluent in written English. Additionally, DiMarco is skilled at lip-reading.
Modeling
Nyle DiMarco worked as a freelance model for about a year until producers from the reality TV show America’s Next Top Model discovered him on social media in 2015. He went on to become the second male winner and the first-ever deaf winner in the show’s history. After his victory, the Queens native signed a contract with Wilhelmina Models, a modeling agency headquartered in New York City. In June 2016, DiMarco walked in Milan Fashion Week for the Italian brand Giorgio Armani.
Acting Career
In 2013, Nyle DiMarco starred in the independent film In the Can, a story about a young director named Nicky dreaming of success in Hollywood. In 2014 and 2015, DiMarco had a recurring role as student Garrett Banducci in the teen and family drama series Switched at Birth, which is set in the Kansas City metropolitan area and revolves around two teenagers who grew up in completely different environments—one in a wealthy suburb, the other in a working-class neighborhood. The series features several deaf and hard-of-hearing characters and includes scenes filmed entirely in ASL. In 2016, the actor appeared in the comedy series Difficult People, about two aspiring comedians living in New York City who are jaded by everyone and everything except each other. Nyle played a character named Doug. Additionally, in 2018, he starred in the music video for the song “Tequila” by the country duo Dan + Shay.
Notably, Nyle DiMarco competed on season 22 of Dancing with the Stars. He was partnered with Peta Murgatroyd, an American-Australian professional Latin dancer. The pair won the competition, and DiMarco became the first deaf celebrity to win any version of the international franchise. The New Yorker stunned audiences with his ability to dance without hearing the music. His performances proved that deaf people can feel and interpret music and rhythm in their own unique way.
Activism and Advocacy
Nyle DiMarco uses his fame to raise public awareness about issues facing deaf people. He became a spokesperson for LEAD-K, a civil rights organization that promotes language acquisition in children through both English and ASL. In 2016, the New Yorker founded The Nyle DiMarco Foundation, a national philanthropic resource for organizations, institutions, and individuals working to improve the lives of every deaf person in the world. This organization places a strong emphasis on sign language acquisition. The model and actor also initiated the creation of The ASL App, designed to help people learn American Sign Language. Furthermore, he is actively involved with the United Nations, promoting improved education and accessibility for deaf people.
In 2016, DiMarco supported Hillary Clinton’s presidential campaign, criticizing Donald Trump for making intolerant remarks about deaf actress Marlee Matlin. The New Yorker stated that a significant number of people with disabilities live in the U.S., and it is unacceptable for a president to marginalize them.
In conclusion, Nyle DiMarco is a source of inspiration for all who feel limited or oppressed by their physical differences. DiMarco’s influence extends beyond his achievements in the entertainment industry. He has become a cultural icon in the deaf community and a role model for many. His life journey challenges traditional narratives about disability and success, proving that deafness is not a limitation but a unique aspect of one’s identity.