Latino Actresses Who Pursued Careers In Other Fields

Latino actresses often expand their professional horizons by entering diverse industries and achieving success outside of the entertainment world. These talented women leverage their platforms to build multimillion dollar corporations or lead global advocacy movements while maintaining active screen careers. Their ventures range from founding ethical consumer goods companies to authoring bestselling books and establishing educational foundations. This list highlights prominent stars who have excelled as entrepreneurs and activists and authors across various professional sectors. Their multifaceted contributions continue to influence global markets and social causes significantly.

Eva Longoria

Eva Longoria rose to fame on the hit series ‘Desperate Housewives’ before establishing herself as a powerhouse producer and director. She cofounded the production company UnbeliEVAble Entertainment to champion diverse storytelling in Hollywood. Her business interests include launching the premium tequila brand Casa Del Sol and investing in professional sports teams. Longoria also focuses on advocacy through her work with the Eva Longoria Foundation to empower Latinas through education and entrepreneurship. She has effectively transitioned from being a television star to a major player in international business.

Jessica Alba

Jessica Alba became a household name through films like ‘Fantastic Four’ but later shifted her primary focus to the business world. She cofounded The Honest Company which specializes in ethical and natural consumer goods for families. Her leadership helped the company reach a multibillion dollar valuation and a successful public offering on the stock exchange. While she still acts in projects such as ‘L.A.s Finest’ her time is largely dedicated to her role as a corporate executive. She is widely recognized as a pioneer for female celebrity entrepreneurs.

Jennifer Lopez

Jennifer Lopez is a global icon who has successfully navigated careers in acting and music and business simultaneously. She has built an expansive empire that includes fragrance lines and clothing collections and a skincare brand called JLo Beauty. Her work on films like ‘Hustlers’ often coincides with her massive concert tours and residency shows. Lopez also operates Nuyorican Productions to develop film and television projects for various networks. She remains one of the most influential figures in the entertainment and fashion industries today.

Sofía Vergara

Sofia Vergara became the highest paid actress on television for her work in ‘Modern Family’ while building a massive business portfolio. She cofounded Latin World Entertainment which has grown into a leading talent management and entertainment marketing firm. Her brand partnerships include successful clothing and furniture lines with major retailers like Walmart and Rooms To Go. Vergara also serves as a judge on ‘Americas Got Talent’ and continues to develop new television projects. Her entrepreneurial skills have made her one of the most successful women in the media landscape.

Rosario Dawson

Rosario Dawson is known for her roles in the ‘Star Wars’ universe and ‘Rent’ but she is also a dedicated political activist. She cofounded Voto Latino to encourage young Hispanic voters to participate in the democratic process. In addition to her civic work she cofounded the ethical fashion brand Studio 189 which promotes African craftsmanship. Dawson often uses her celebrity platform to support environmental sustainability and social justice initiatives. Her career reflects a deep commitment to integrating her artistic work with meaningful social change.

America Ferrera

America Ferrera became a breakout star in ‘Ugly Betty’ and has since expanded her career into directing and producing. She has been a lead producer for shows like ‘Superstore’ and directed episodes for multiple television projects. Ferrera is also a cofounder of the organization Harness which connects artists and activists to amplify social movements. She authored the book ‘American Like Me’ which explores the complexities of cultural identity in the United States. Her professional life is characterized by a strong dedication to advocacy and leadership within the entertainment industry.

Eva Mendes

Eva Mendes starred in major films such as ‘Hitch’ and ‘The Place Beyond the Pines’ before moving into the fashion industry. She launched her own successful clothing line in collaboration with New York and Company and focused on home decor products. Mendes also became the creative director for CIRCA Beauty which is a cosmetics brand sold in drugstores. She has taken a step back from acting to focus on her business ventures and her family life. Her career transition highlights her ability to find success in the competitive world of retail and design.

Cameron Diaz

Cameron Diaz was one of the biggest movie stars in the world with hits like ‘The Mask’ and ‘Charlies Angels’ before retiring from acting for several years. During her hiatus she wrote two health books titled ‘The Body Book’ and ‘The Longevity Book’ which became bestsellers. She also cofounded Avaline which is a brand of organic wines produced without synthetic additives. Diaz recently returned to the screen but she continues to prioritize her work in the wellness and beverage industries. Her professional journey shows a significant focus on lifestyle and health education.

Zoe Saldaña

Zoe Saldana has starred in massive franchises like ‘Avatar’ and ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ while also becoming a media entrepreneur. She founded BESE which is a digital platform designed to share untold stories of the American experience and promote diversity. Saldana also runs her own production company called Cinestar Pictures with her sisters to create inclusive content. She is actively involved in philanthropic efforts that support children and the arts. Her work as a business leader complements her status as one of the highest grossing actresses of all time.

Christina Milian

Christina Milian is an actress and singer known for ‘Bring It On’ who has built a diverse business empire. She cofounded the Beignet Box food truck and cafe business which has locations across the United States. Milian also launched a jewelry line and has collaborated on several fashion collections with major online retailers. She continues to act in television movies and reality series while managing her various entrepreneurial projects. Her career path demonstrates a successful blend of entertainment and the hospitality sector.

La La Anthony

La La Anthony transitioned from a career as a radio and television host to becoming a successful actress and author. She has appeared in popular series like ‘Power’ and ‘The Chi’ while also launching her own clothing line called the La La Anthony Collection. Anthony has written multiple books including ‘The Love Playbook’ which reached the top of bestseller lists. She also produces television content through her production company and remains active in the beauty industry. Her multifaceted career spans across media and literature and fashion.

Melissa Fumero

Melissa Fumero is widely recognized for her role on ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’ but she has also moved behind the camera. She has directed episodes for television series including the sitcom ‘Grand Crew’ and other digital projects. Fumero often participates in advocacy for better representation of Latino stories in the mainstream media. She also lends her voice to various animated projects while continuing her work as a producer. Her expansion into directing shows her commitment to shaping the creative process from multiple angles.

Stephanie Beatriz

Stephanie Beatriz gained fame as Detective Rosa Diaz on ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’ and has since become a prominent voice actress and director. She made her directorial debut on the same sitcom and has expressed a strong interest in pursuing more leadership roles behind the scenes. Beatriz provided the voice for the lead character in the hit Disney film ‘Encanto’ which became a global phenomenon. She is a vocal advocate for the LGBTQ community and uses her platform to support diverse casting in Hollywood. Her career continues to grow as she takes on complex roles in both live action and animation.

Diane Guerrero

Diane Guerrero is an actress known for ‘Orange Is the New Black’ and ‘Doom Patrol’ who has become a powerful voice in immigration reform. She wrote the memoir ‘In the Country We Love’ which details her personal experience with family deportation. Guerrero has also written children’s books that address themes of identity and resilience for young readers. She serves as an ambassador for immigration legal resource centers and frequently speaks at national events. Her work as an author and activist has made her a key figure in the fight for social justice.

Justina Machado

Justina Machado starred in the acclaimed series ‘One Day at a Time’ and has expanded her career into producing and directing. She has been involved in the creative development of several projects that center on the Latino experience. Machado has also performed in numerous theatrical productions on Broadway and in regional theaters. She actively supports organizations that provide resources for the arts in underserved communities. Her professional life reflects a deep dedication to the craft of acting and the promotion of cultural storytelling.

Dascha Polanco

Dascha Polanco rose to prominence in ‘Orange Is the New Black’ and has since established herself in the fashion world. She is known for her bold style and has worked with various designers to promote body positivity on the runway. Polanco has also explored a music career and collaborated with several artists on Latin music tracks. She is a frequent speaker on the importance of mental health and personal acceptance within the entertainment industry. Her diverse interests allow her to connect with audiences through film and fashion and music.

Jackie Cruz

Jackie Cruz is an actress and singer who gained fame for her role on ‘Orange Is the New Black’ before launching her own production company. She founded Unspoken Maria to create opportunities for women and people of color in the film industry. Cruz is also an accomplished musician who has released her own albums and performed at various music festivals. She advocates for the inclusion of diverse voices in all aspects of media production. Her career combines her passion for performance with a drive to create a more equitable industry.

Sonia Manzano

Sonia Manzano is best known for her decades of work as Maria on ‘Sesame Street’ where she also served as a writer. She won multiple Emmy Awards for her writing on the show and helped shape educational content for generations of children. Manzano has authored several books including her memoir ‘Becoming Maria’ and novels for young adults. She also created the animated series ‘Almas Way’ for PBS Kids to showcase Latino culture and problem solving skills. Her career is a testament to the power of educational media and literature.

Angélica Vale

Angélica Vale is a legendary Mexican actress and comedian known for ‘La Fea Más Bella’ who has also excelled in radio. She has hosted successful radio shows in the United States that cater to Spanish speaking audiences. Vale is a versatile performer who has starred in numerous musical theater productions and provided voices for animated films. She continues to produce television content and remains a prominent figure in Latin American entertainment. Her long career spans television and radio and theater and music.

Gloria Estefan

Gloria Estefan is a music icon who has also built a successful career as an actress and a businesswoman. She has starred in films like ‘Music of the Heart’ and ‘Father of the Bride’ while maintaining a legendary recording career. Estefan and her husband own a hospitality empire that includes several hotels and restaurants such as Bongos Cuban Cafe. She has also written children’s books and a cookbook that celebrates Cuban cuisine. Her influence extends across the music and film and business sectors globally.

Paulina Rubio

Paulina Rubio is a pop superstar and actress who has ventured into the worlds of fashion and business. She has launched her own fragrance lines and worked as a model for international brands. Rubio has also served as a judge on reality competition shows like ‘The X Factor’ and ‘La Voz’ in multiple countries. She continues to release hit music while managing her various business partnerships and endorsement deals. Her career reflects a high level of versatility across the music and television and fashion industries.

Shakira

Shakira is an international music sensation who has also made significant contributions as a philanthropist and entrepreneur. She founded the Barefoot Foundation to provide quality education and nutrition to displaced children in Colombia. Shakira has also served as a global ambassador for UNICEF and an advisor to the White House on educational excellence. She has launched several fragrance lines and has been a judge on the singing competition ‘The Voice’ in America. Her commitment to social causes is as prominent as her legendary music career.

Eiza González

Eiza González transitioned from a successful career in Mexican telenovelas to becoming a major Hollywood actress in films like ‘Baby Driver’. She has also established herself as a fashion icon and has been the face of several high end luxury brands. González is involved in various skincare and beauty campaigns as a brand ambassador for international companies. She frequently uses her platform to discuss the importance of representation and breaking stereotypes for Latino actors. Her career continues to expand into new areas of the fashion and beauty industries.

Camila Mendes

Camila Mendes gained fame on the series ‘Riverdale’ and has quickly moved into the role of a producer. She executive produced and starred in films like ‘Música’ and ‘Upgraded’ to have more control over her creative projects. Mendes has also partnered with various fashion and beauty brands as a spokesperson and creative collaborator. She is active in supporting mental health initiatives and frequently shares her personal experiences to help others. Her career shows a focused effort to build a professional portfolio as both an actress and a creative executive.

Aimee Garcia

Aimee Garcia is known for her roles in ‘Lucifer’ and ‘Dexter’ but she is also an accomplished author and screenwriter. She has cowritten several comic books and graphic novels including titles for major publishers like DC Comics and IDW. Garcia also cofounded a production company to develop television and film projects with a focus on diverse narratives. She is an advocate for increasing the presence of women in the technology and gaming sectors. Her work as a writer and producer complements her extensive acting career.

Roselyn Sánchez

Roselyn Sánchez is an actress and singer known for ‘Without a Trace’ and ‘Devious Maids’ who has also become a director and author. She wrote a children’s book titled ‘Sebi and the Land of Cha Cha Cha’ to celebrate Latin dance and culture. Sánchez has directed several short films and episodes of television and has expressed a desire to lead more feature film projects. She also produces an annual triathlon to raise money for various charities in Puerto Rico. Her multifaceted career includes success in acting and writing and directing and philanthropy.

Cote de Pablo

Cote de Pablo is best known for her long running role on ‘NCIS’ but she is also a classically trained singer. She has performed on various soundtracks and in musical theater productions throughout her career. De Pablo has also moved into producing and served as an executive producer on projects that highlight Latin American history. She remains a private figure but continues to work on developing new content for television and film. Her professional life is marked by a blend of acting and music and production leadership.

Maria Canals-Barrera

Maria Canals-Barrera is widely known for her role in ‘Wizards of Waverly Place’ and has a prolific career in voice acting. She has provided voices for iconic characters in animated series like ‘Justice League’ and various superhero films. Canals-Barrera also works as an acting coach and mentor to young performers entering the industry. She is a dedicated advocate for family values and educational initiatives within the Latino community. Her career spans television and animation and the education of future talent.

Constance Marie

Constance Marie starred in the series ‘George Lopez’ and ‘Switched at Birth’ while maintaining a strong presence in the wellness community. She is a certified yoga instructor and a vocal advocate for healthy living and environmental sustainability. Marie has also worked as a spokesperson for various organizations that promote early childhood education and literacy. She continues to act in television and film while sharing her expertise in lifestyle and health. Her career reflects a balance between her artistic work and her commitment to community wellbeing.

Adriana Barraza

Adriana Barraza is an Academy Award nominated actress who has built a world renowned reputation as an acting teacher. She founded the Adriana Barraza Acting Studio in Miami to train the next generation of performers in film and television. Barraza has also worked as a director and producer for various international projects. She continues to take on challenging roles in major films while remaining dedicated to her work as an educator. Her influence on the industry is seen through both her performances and the success of her students.

Ana de la Reguera

Ana de la Reguera has starred in international films like ‘Nacho Libre’ and ‘Army of the Dead’ while building a career as a philanthropist. She founded the organization Veracruzana to help revitalize the economy and culture of her home state in Mexico. De la Reguera has also launched several business ventures including her own line of accessories and beauty products. She created and starred in the series ‘Ana’ which explores her life and career in an autobiographical way. Her work as a humanitarian and entrepreneur adds significant depth to her acting career.

Kate del Castillo

Kate del Castillo is a major star in Latin American television who has expanded her career into business and producing. She launched her own tequila brand called Honor del Castillo and has been heavily involved in its production and marketing. Del Castillo also runs her own production company to develop content for both Spanish and English speaking audiences. She is a vocal advocate for animal rights and has collaborated with organizations like PETA on various campaigns. Her career is defined by her independence as an actress and a successful business leader.

Martha Higareda

Martha Higareda is an actress known for ‘Altered Carbon’ who has also become a successful screenwriter and producer. She has written and produced several of the highest grossing films in Mexican cinema history. Higareda also hosts a popular podcast where she discusses personal growth and business and entertainment. She continues to act in Hollywood projects while maintaining a significant influence on the Latin American film industry. Her ability to write and produce her own material has made her a prominent figure in modern cinema.

Yalitza Aparicio

Yalitza Aparicio gained international fame for her role in ‘Roma’ and has since become a global ambassador for indigenous rights. She was named a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for Indigenous Peoples and works to preserve native languages and cultures. Aparicio has also written for major publications like The New York Times to discuss issues of race and representation. She is a frequent guest at international fashion events and has been featured on the covers of numerous prestigious magazines. Her career has transitioned from teaching to being a leading voice for social change.

Alice Braga

Alice Braga is an acclaimed actress known for ‘Queen of the South’ who has also ventured into producing. She cofounded Losbraggas which is a production company that creates innovative content for international audiences. Braga is involved in environmental activism and supports organizations that protect the Amazon rainforest. She continues to take on diverse roles in both independent films and major blockbusters across the globe. Her work as a producer and activist demonstrates her commitment to using her platform for meaningful storytelling.

Morena Baccarin

Morena Baccarin is an actress known for ‘Deadpool’ and ‘Firefly’ who has also become a dedicated advocate for refugees. She serves as an ambassador for the International Rescue Committee and travels to various countries to raise awareness for displaced people. Baccarin has also explored roles in directing and has expressed an interest in expanding her work behind the camera. She is a frequent speaker at global summits on human rights and social justice. Her career reflects a strong blend of high profile acting and serious humanitarian work.

Gina Rodriguez

Gina Rodriguez won a Golden Globe for ‘Jane the Virgin’ and has since built a successful career as a director and producer. She founded I Can & I Will Productions to create content that features diverse casts and promotes social change. Rodriguez has directed several episodes of television and is working on developing feature films through her company. She is also an advocate for education and has established various scholarship programs for young women. Her professional life is focused on creating opportunities for others within the entertainment industry.

Please share your thoughts on which of these successful women inspires you the most in the comments.