Latino Actors Who Are Atheists

Religion often plays a central role in Latin American culture, with Roman Catholicism deeply embedded in the history and traditions of the region. However, a significant number of prominent figures in the entertainment industry have moved away from these religious roots to embrace secularism. These men have openly discussed their lack of belief or their identification as atheists and agnostics in various interviews and public appearances. The following list highlights influential male actors of Latino heritage or origin who do not follow a religious faith.

Javier Bardem

This Academy Award-winning actor hails from Spain and has become one of the most recognized faces in international cinema. He is known for his intense roles in films such as ‘No Country for Old Men’ (2007) and ‘Skyfall’ (2012). During the promotion of ‘The Sea Inside’, a film about euthanasia, he notably stated that he does not believe in God but rather in Al Pacino. His declaration of atheism has been consistent throughout his career, even as he respects the cultural significance of religion in his home country.

Pedro Pascal

Born in Santiago, Chile, this actor gained massive popularity for his roles in ‘Game of Thrones’ and ‘The Mandalorian’. He has described himself as a complete agnostic when asked about his spiritual beliefs. He once mentioned in an interview that the concept of a deity can seem quite silly to him. Despite his family leaving Chile due to political unrest, he maintains a strong connection to his heritage while navigating his life without religious dogma.

Gael García Bernal

The Mexican actor and director is celebrated for his work in ‘Y tu mamá también’ (2001) and the series ‘Mozart in the Jungle’. He has described himself as culturally Catholic but spiritually agnostic, acknowledging the rituals that defined his upbringing without subscribing to the faith itself. He often engages in political and social activism, focusing on human rights rather than religious causes. His worldview is shaped more by philosophical inquiry and social justice than by theological doctrine.

Ricardo Darín

One of Argentina’s most acclaimed actors, he starred in the Oscar-winning film ‘The Secret in Their Eyes’ (2009). He has openly confessed that he is not religious and does not believe in God. In candid interviews, he has expressed a certain envy for those who do have faith because of the comfort it can provide, but he admits he cannot force himself to believe. His perspective is grounded in a realistic and often skeptical view of the world.

Guillermo del Toro

Although primarily known as a visionary director, this Mexican filmmaker has also acted and provided voice work in various projects. He has described himself as a lapsed Catholic who no longer practices the faith of his youth. He has stated that he believes in mankind rather than a higher power and often explores themes of monstrosity and humanity in his work. His artistic vision substitutes religious iconography with a dark, humanistic fantasy that challenges traditional moral binaries.

Oscar Nuñez

Best known for his role as Oscar Martinez on the hit sitcom ‘The Office’ (2005–2013), this Cuban-American actor has been vocal about his secular worldview. He has appeared on podcasts discussing skepticism and has identified as an atheist. His character on the show also displayed traits of rationality and skepticism, which mirrored his real-life stance. He approaches life with a focus on logic and scientific understanding rather than supernatural belief.

Fred Armisen

The comedian and actor, known for ‘Saturday Night Live’ and ‘Portlandia’, has Venezuelan heritage through his mother. He has publicly identified as an atheist in various interviews and discussions about his personal life. While he appreciates the cultural aspects of his background, he does not participate in religious practices. His comedy often reflects an observant and absurdist take on social norms, independent of religious influence.

Louis C.K.

This stand-up comedian and actor holds Mexican citizenship and spent part of his childhood in Mexico City. He is a vocal atheist who frequently incorporates his lack of belief into his comedy routines and stand-up specials. His material often deconstructs religious concepts with blunt humor and skepticism. He openly discusses the finality of death and the absence of a higher power as central themes in his worldview.

Alejandro Jodorowsky

A Chilean-French filmmaker, actor, and writer, he is a cult figure known for avant-garde films like ‘El Topo’ (1970) and ‘The Holy Mountain’ (1973). He describes himself as a mystical atheist, blending spiritual symbolism with a rejection of theistic religion. His work is heavy with religious imagery, yet he uses it to subvert traditional meanings and explore the human subconscious. He seeks enlightenment through art and psychomagic rather than through a god.

Joaquin Phoenix

Born in Puerto Rico, this Academy Award-winning actor lived in Latin America during his early childhood before moving to the United States. He was raised in a controversial religious group but left it with his family at a young age and has since identified as secular. He has stated in interviews that he does not believe in a god or an afterlife. His focus remains on animal rights activism and his craft, grounded in a strictly earthly moral compass.

Share your favorite performance by one of these actors in the comments.