Gianna was born in a town in Rhode Island and later relocated to Los Angeles to follow her passion for becoming a film star after finishing school. She found some success, landing a minor role in a movie in 1988, but when she wanted to elevate her career, she chose to pose for Playboy. After submitting some trial images, the editors were astounded by her looks. Gianna was hailed as Miss August 1989 after a popular pictorial shoot.