Hispanic Actors Who Deserve Way More Attention

The landscape of modern cinema and television is shifting to include more diverse voices from around the globe. Hispanic actors are increasingly taking center stage in major productions while delivering powerful performances that resonate with audiences worldwide. Many of these talented performers have built impressive filmographies yet still fly under the radar of mainstream recognition. Highlighting their work showcases the depth of talent available in the industry today.

Alfonso Herrera

Alfonso Herrera has successfully transitioned from a pop sensation to a serious dramatic actor with international appeal. He delivered a chilling performance as the antagonist in the final season of ‘Ozark’ that showcased his ability to play menacing characters. His work in ‘The Exorcist’ television series demonstrated his capacity to lead a major network drama with intensity and grace. He consistently chooses complex roles that challenge stereotypes often associated with Latino characters in Hollywood.

Tony Dalton

Tony Dalton captured the attention of global audiences with his charismatic yet terrifying portrayal of Lalo Salamanca in ‘Better Call Saul’. His ability to switch between charm and menace in a split second made him a standout in the ‘Breaking Bad’ universe. He later displayed his comedic timing and action skills in the Marvel series ‘Hawkeye’ as Jack Duquesne. Dalton brings a unique energy to every project he joins and steals scenes from even the most established co-stars.

Manuel Garcia-Rulfo

Manuel Garcia-Rulfo has solidified his status as a leading man through his starring role in ‘The Lincoln Lawyer’ on Netflix. He brings a rugged charm and intellectual weight to the character of Mickey Haller that distinguishes his interpretation from previous versions. His filmography includes significant parts in action films like ‘The Magnificent Seven’ and ‘6 Underground’. Garcia-Rulfo possesses a classic screen presence that harkens back to the golden age of cinema.

Diego Calva

Diego Calva made a massive splash in Hollywood with his breakout role in the Damien Chazelle film ‘Babylon’. He held his own alongside superstars like Brad Pitt and Margot Robbie while delivering a heartfelt and tragic performance. Before his major motion picture debut he garnered acclaim for his work in the series ‘Narcos: Mexico’. Calva represents a new generation of Mexican talent capable of crossing over into prestige American filmmaking.

Harvey Guillén

Harvey Guillén has become a fan favorite for his hilarious and endearing portrayal of Guillermo de la Cruz in ‘What We Do in the Shadows’. His comedic timing is impeccable and allows him to stand out in an ensemble cast of vampires. He has also lent his voice to major animated projects like ‘Puss in Boots: The Last Wish’ and appeared in DC Comics adaptations. Guillén consistently brings heart and humor to characters that might otherwise be overlooked.

Manolo Cardona

Manolo Cardona is a Colombian actor who has built a bridge between Latin American productions and Hollywood. He gained widespread recognition for his leading role in the mystery series ‘Who Killed Sara?’ which became a massive hit on Netflix. His earlier work in ‘Narcos’ and ‘Beverly Hills Chihuahua’ displays his range across different genres and tones. Cardona continues to produce and star in projects that highlight high-concept storytelling from Latin America.

Laz Alonso

Laz Alonso delivers a powerhouse performance as Mother’s Milk in the hit superhero satire ‘The Boys’. He balances the grit and violence of the show with a grounding moral center that makes his character essential to the team dynamic. His extensive career includes memorable roles in ‘Avatar’ and the ‘Fast & Furious’ franchise. Alonso brings a commanding physical presence and emotional intelligence to every role he inhabits.

Clayton Cardenas

Clayton Cardenas became a breakout star through his intense portrayal of Angel Reyes in the series ‘Mayans M.C.’. He infused the character with a deep sense of loyalty and tragedy that evolved over the course of the show. Before his major break he appeared in the critically acclaimed anthology ‘American Crime’. Cardenas utilizes his background in art and spoken word poetry to bring a unique sensitivity to his rugged on-screen personas.

Danny Ramirez

Danny Ramirez is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after young actors in the action and drama genres. He impressed audiences and critics alike with his role as Fanboy in the blockbuster ‘Top Gun: Maverick’. His performance in ‘The Falcon and the Winter Soldier’ set him up for a significant future in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Ramirez brings a natural charisma and relatable quality to high-stakes narratives.

David Castañeda

David Castañeda gained a massive following for his role as Diego Hargreeves in ‘The Umbrella Academy’. His portrayal of the knife-throwing vigilante balances tough action sequences with deep-seated emotional vulnerability. He has expanded his range with roles in films like ‘The Guilty’ and ‘Sicario: Day of the Soldado’. Castañeda excels at playing characters who mask their pain with bravado and aggression.

Brandon Larracuente

Brandon Larracuente captivated audiences with his lead role in the medical drama ‘The Good Doctor’ before moving to other projects. He recently starred in ’13 Reasons Why’ and the reboot of ‘Party of Five’ where he tackled difficult social issues. His work often involves playing characters forced to grow up too fast in challenging circumstances. Larracuente brings a raw sincerity to his performances that resonates with younger demographics.

Michael Cimino

Michael Cimino broke ground with his starring role in the series ‘Love, Victor’ on Hulu. He navigated the complexities of a young man discovering his identity with sensitivity and charm. His recent work includes comedic turns in films like ‘Senior Year’ and horror roles in ‘Annabelle Comes Home’. Cimino is a versatile performer who seamlessly transitions between heart-wrenching drama and lighthearted comedy.

Cristo Fernández

Cristo Fernández stole hearts around the world as the optimistic Dani Rojas in the acclaimed series ‘Ted Lasso’. His infectious energy and catchphrases became iconic elements of the show’s pop culture footprint. Before acting he played professional soccer which lends authenticity to his athletic roles. Fernández is expanding his career with voice work in ‘Transformers: Rise of the Beasts’ and other major studio films.

Juan Pablo Raba

Juan Pablo Raba is a Colombian actor who brings gravitas to action-heavy roles in both English and Spanish markets. He delivered a memorable performance as Gustavo Gaviria in ‘Narcos’ and starred in the action film ‘The Marksman’ alongside Liam Neeson. His lead role in the series ‘Distrito Salvaje’ showcased his ability to carry a complex political thriller. Raba possesses the physical imposition of an action star combined with the nuance of a dramatic actor.

Diego Boneta

Diego Boneta garnered critical acclaim for his transformative performance as Luis Miguel in ‘Luis Miguel: The Series’. He captured the mannerisms and vocal style of the legendary singer with startling accuracy. His Hollywood credits include key roles in ‘Rock of Ages’ and ‘Terminator: Dark Fate’. Boneta is a triple threat who can sing, act, and produce high-quality content for global audiences.

Santiago Cabrera

Santiago Cabrera has built a diverse resume that spans from historical dramas to futuristic sci-fi. He played the dashing Aramis in ‘The Musketeers’ and the complex Captain Rios in ‘Star Trek: Picard’. His ability to perform in multiple languages has allowed him to work extensively in both Europe and the United States. Cabrera brings a refined elegance and emotional depth to every character he portrays.

Raúl Castillo

Raúl Castillo is a dynamic actor known for his breakout role in the HBO series ‘Looking’. He has since become a fixture in independent cinema and major streaming movies like ‘Army of the Dead’. His performance in ‘The Inspection’ earned him praise for playing a sympathetic yet authoritative drill sergeant. Castillo consistently chooses roles that challenge traditional concepts of masculinity and identity.

Gabriel Luna

Gabriel Luna is best known for his intense portrayal of the Ghost Rider in ‘Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.’. He recently garnered praise for his role as Tommy Miller in the prestige adaptation of ‘The Last of Us’. His ability to convey deep emotion with minimal dialogue makes him a compelling screen presence. Luna brings a soulful quality to action-oriented roles that elevates the material.

Luis Gerardo Méndez

Luis Gerardo Méndez is one of Mexico’s biggest stars who is successfully crossing over into American productions. He starred in the mystery comedy ‘Murder Mystery’ alongside Adam Sandler and Jennifer Aniston. His lead role in ‘Club de Cuervos’ demonstrated his ability to handle rapid-fire dialogue and physical comedy. Méndez brings a unique wit and energy that translates well across cultural barriers.

Harold Torres

Harold Torres delivered a chilling and mesmerizing performance in the series ‘ZeroZeroZero’. His portrayal of a special forces soldier turned cartel enforcer was hailed as one of the best villain performances in recent years. He brings an unpredictable intensity to the screen that keeps audiences on edge. Torres is a master of non-verbal acting and uses his physicality to dominate scenes.

Joaquín Cosío

Joaquín Cosío is a legendary character actor known for his imposing presence and booming voice. He played the memorable General Medrano in ‘Quantum of Solace’ and the beloved Don Nieto in ‘The Suicide Squad’. His role as Cochiloco in the Mexican film ‘El Infierno’ remains iconic in Latin American cinema. Cosío effortlessly switches between terrifying antagonists and lovable father figures.

Juan Diego Botto

Juan Diego Botto is a distinguished actor with a long career in European and American cinema. He recently played the villain in ‘The Suicide Squad’ and has appeared in series like ‘Good Behavior’. His background in theater informs his commanding delivery and stage presence on camera. Botto often plays sophisticated and intelligent characters who hide darker motivations.

Álvaro Morte

Álvaro Morte became a global phenomenon as The Professor in the Spanish heist series ‘Money Heist’. His portrayal of the socially awkward mastermind captivated millions of viewers worldwide. He has since appeared in the fantasy series ‘The Wheel of Time’ as Logain Ablar. Morte excels at playing intellectual characters who must navigate high-stakes emotional situations.

Pedro Alonso

Pedro Alonso is best known for his charismatic and unpredictable role as Berlin in ‘Money Heist’. His performance was so popular that it spawned a spinoff series centered entirely on his character. He brings a dangerous charm and dark humor to the role that makes him impossible to look away from. Alonso is also a writer and painter which contributes to his artistic approach to acting.

Jaime Lorente

Jaime Lorente gained fame for his explosive roles in both ‘Money Heist’ and ‘Elite’. He plays volatile characters with a raw energy that often drives the conflict in his storylines. His laugh and physical mannerisms have become distinct trademarks of his acting style. Lorente captures the frustration and passion of youth in a way that feels authentic and urgent.

Miguel Herrán

Miguel Herrán is another standout talent from the ‘Money Heist’ and ‘Elite’ phenomenon. He won the Goya Award for Best New Actor for his role in the film ‘Nothing in Return’. His performances often highlight vulnerability and the struggle to find one’s place in the world. Herrán brings a naturalistic approach to acting that grounds even the most melodramatic plotlines.

Enzo Vogrincic

Enzo Vogrincic delivered a haunting and beautiful performance in the survival drama ‘Society of the Snow’. His narration and portrayal of Numa Turcatti anchored the emotional weight of the tragic true story. He possesses a classic look and a quiet intensity that suggests a long career ahead. Vogrincic proved he can carry a major production with grace and dignity.

Matías Recalt

Matías Recalt earned critical praise and awards for his role as Roberto Canessa in ‘Society of the Snow’. He captured the physical and mental determination required to survive impossible odds. His chemistry with the ensemble cast was essential to the film’s success. Recalt is a rising talent from Argentina who brings raw emotion to his performances.

Carlos Cuevas

Carlos Cuevas is best known for his role as Pol Rubio in the philosophical drama series ‘Merlí’. He successfully led the spinoff ‘Merlí: Sapere Aude’ which followed his character’s university years. His work often explores themes of bisexuality and intellectual growth with sensitivity. Cuevas has a natural charm that makes him an engaging lead in romantic and dramatic narratives.

Alejandro Speitzer

Alejandro Speitzer transitioned from child acting to become a leading man in steamy thrillers like ‘Dark Desire’. He brings a brooding intensity and physical presence to his roles in crime dramas. His work in ‘Someone Has to Die’ showcased his ability to handle period pieces and complex family dynamics. Speitzer creates tension on screen through silence and subtle facial expressions.

Jorge Lendeborg Jr.

Jorge Lendeborg Jr. has quickly become a familiar face in teen comedies and action blockbusters. He starred in the Netflix vampire thriller ‘Night Teeth’ and appeared in ‘Bumblebee’ and ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’. His performances are marked by a relatable awkwardness and genuine heart. Lendeborg Jr. has the versatility to play both the comic relief and the romantic lead.

Arturo Castro

Arturo Castro is a comedic force known for his sketch show ‘Alternatino with Arturo Castro’ and his role in ‘Broad City’. He showcased his dramatic range in ‘Narcos’ where he played a ruthless cartel son. His ability to switch between absurdity and terror is a testament to his skill. Castro uses humor to explore the Latino experience in the United States.

Kirk Acevedo

Kirk Acevedo is a veteran character actor with an impressive list of credits including ‘Oz’ and ‘Fringe’. He has a distinctive gravelly voice and intense stare that often lands him roles as tough law enforcement officers or hardened criminals. His work in ‘Band of Brothers’ remains a highlight of his extensive career. Acevedo brings a gritty realism to every project he touches.

Enrique Murciano

Enrique Murciano is best known for his long-running role as Danny Taylor in ‘Without a Trace’. He recently appeared in the hit series ‘The Night Agent’ as the head of the Secret Service. His career spans decades of consistent work in both television and film. Murciano brings a calm authority and reliability to his performances.

David Zayas

David Zayas created an iconic character with his portrayal of Angel Batista in the series ‘Dexter’. He recently returned to the role in the revival series ‘Dexter: New Blood’. His background as a former NYPD officer lends authenticity to his frequent roles in law enforcement. Zayas has a warmth and likability that makes him a fan favorite even in dark stories.

Amaury Nolasco

Amaury Nolasco became a household name playing Sucre in the massive hit series ‘Prison Break’. His character was the heart of the show and provided much-needed loyalty and friendship. He has since appeared in ‘Transformers’ and the crime drama ‘Hightown’. Nolasco brings an undeniable charm and emotional openness to his roles.

Rick Gonzalez

Rick Gonzalez played the vigilante Wild Dog in the long-running superhero series ‘Arrow’. He evolved the character from a reckless street fighter to a responsible hero and father. His earlier work includes memorable roles in ‘Coach Carter’ and ‘Old School’. Gonzalez brings a street-smart edge and emotional resilience to his performances.

Jon Seda

Jon Seda has been a staple of American television for decades with major roles in ‘Homicide: Life on the Street’ and ‘Chicago P.D.’. His portrayal of Detective Antonio Dawson anchored the ‘Chicago’ franchise for several seasons. He also delivered a celebrated performance as Chris Pérez in the biopic ‘Selena’. Seda brings a tough exterior and a compassionate heart to his characters.

Jesse Garcia

Jesse Garcia starred in the feel-good biopic ‘Flamin’ Hot’ directed by Eva Longoria. He captured the inspiring journey of Richard Montañez with humor and sincerity. His breakout role came years earlier in the acclaimed film ‘Quinceañera’. Garcia is a reliable actor who brings grounded humanity to stories about the working class.

Tell us which of these talented actors you think deserves the next big leading role in the comments.