Latino Actors Who Pursued Careers in Other Fields

Many talented performers from Latin American backgrounds have demonstrated versatility by succeeding in professions outside the entertainment industry. These men have expanded their influence into politics, sports, business, and specialized trades while maintaining their status as public figures. The following list highlights male Latino actors who dedicated significant time and effort to careers beyond the screen.

Rubén Blades

Rubén Blades is a celebrated figure who has achieved massive success as an actor and a salsa musician. He holds a law degree from the University of Panama and a master’s degree in international law from Harvard University. Blades stepped into the political arena when he ran for the presidency of Panama in 1994 and later served as the Minister of Tourism. His ability to balance a prolific acting career with serious political engagement makes him unique in the industry. He continues to influence both the arts and public policy in Latin America.

Frankie Muniz

Frankie Muniz became a household name as a child actor before shifting his primary focus toward professional auto racing. The actor began competing in various racing series and eventually joined the ARCA Menards Series. He demonstrated a genuine commitment to the sport by training extensively and competing against seasoned drivers. Muniz recently returned to the track full-time to pursue his dream of reaching the highest levels of NASCAR. His transition proves his dedication to athletics over the comfort of Hollywood stardom.

Danny Trejo

Danny Trejo is known for playing tough characters on screen but has established himself as a successful entrepreneur in the food industry. He launched a chain of restaurants known as Trejo’s Tacos that has expanded across the Los Angeles area. His brand grew to include a donut shop and a record label that promotes local artists. Trejo often visits his establishments to greet customers and oversee operations personally. The actor uses his business success to support second-chance hiring programs for the community.

Freddie Prinze Jr.

Freddie Prinze Jr. took a step back from major film roles to pursue his passion for culinary arts and professional wrestling. He attended culinary school and released cookbooks that showcase his Puerto Rican heritage and love for cooking. The actor also worked creatively behind the scenes as a writer and producer for WWE. He actively manages a wrestling podcast where he analyzes the industry with expert knowledge. His career shift highlights his desire to follow personal passions rather than traditional stardom.

Cheech Marin

Cheech Marin is widely recognized for his comedy and acting but is also a preeminent collector of Chicano art. He spent decades amassing one of the largest private collections of Chicano artwork in the world to preserve the culture. Marin partnered with the Riverside Art Museum to open The Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture. His advocacy ensures that Latino artists receive proper recognition in the fine art world. This dedication has established him as a major figure in the global art community.

Saúl Lisazo

Saúl Lisazo was a professional athlete long before he became a staple of telenovelas. He played professional soccer for several years in his native Argentina and later for clubs in Belgium and Brazil. An injury eventually led him to transition into modeling and acting where he found immense fame. Lisazo applies the discipline he learned on the soccer field to his lengthy career in television. He remains one of the few actors who reached the professional level in a major global sport.

Juan Soler

Juan Soler built a reputation as a leading man in melodramas after a career in professional sports. He was a rugby player in Argentina and represented his country on the national team before turning to acting. Soler utilized his physical athleticism to transition into modeling and eventually television roles in Mexico. The discipline required for international rugby helped him navigate the demanding schedules of television production. He continues to be a prominent figure in the entertainment industry today.

Fernando Colunga

Fernando Colunga is one of the most famous telenovela actors in history but also holds a degree in civil engineering. He graduated from the University of Mexico and worked in the field before finding his way into show business. Colunga initially worked as a stunt double and barman while pursuing his engineering profession. He eventually dedicated himself fully to acting and became an international superstar. His technical background remains a surprising fact given his dominance in the dramatic arts.

David Zepeda

David Zepeda is a recognizable face on television who also possesses a strong academic background in law. He earned a law degree from the University of Sonora in Mexico before moving into the entertainment sector. Zepeda practiced law briefly but decided that his true passion lay in the dramatic arts. He often credits his education with giving him the discipline and analytical skills needed for his career. The actor maintains his legal knowledge despite his primary focus on performing.

Sergio Mayer

Sergio Mayer transitioned from a career in pop music and acting to become a federal deputy in the Mexican congress. He served as the President of the Commission of Culture and Cinematography during his political term. Mayer has been involved in producing theater and television while simultaneously engaging in legislative duties. His move into politics was driven by a desire to advocate for animal rights and the entertainment industry. He remains a polarizing but active figure in both the political and artistic spheres.

Emilio Estevez

Emilio Estevez comes from a legendary acting dynasty but has carved out a quiet life as a vintner. He planted a vineyard in Malibu and launched his own label known as Casa Dumetz Wines. Estevez is hands-on with the agricultural process and focuses on creating high-quality artisan wines. He often balances his time between directing film projects and managing the demands of his vineyard. This agricultural pursuit allows him to maintain a grounded lifestyle away from the cameras.

Bad Bunny

Bad Bunny is a global music superstar who has pursued a legitimate secondary career in professional wrestling. He trained extensively to compete in WWE matches and earned respect from veterans for his in-ring performance. The artist appeared in major pay-per-view events and impressed audiences with his athletic moves. He also expanded his acting resume with roles in major motion pictures alongside established stars. His ability to perform at a high level in both music and wrestling is a rare feat.

Robi Draco Rosa

Robi Draco Rosa is a Grammy-winning musician and actor who transformed his life to become a coffee farmer. He purchased a plantation in Puerto Rico and dedicated himself to cultivating high-quality organic coffee. This agricultural pursuit became a central part of his life after he battled serious health issues. Rosa views farming as a therapeutic and essential connection to the land of his heritage. He successfully markets his coffee brand while continuing to create music.

Valentino Lanús

Valentino Lanús left a lucrative career as a telenovela protagonist to become a spiritual guide and yoga instructor. He traveled extensively throughout the world to study various spiritual disciplines and meditation techniques. Lanús settled in the jungle to live a lifestyle focused on wellness and connection with nature. He occasionally returns to the public eye but prioritizes his work as a guru and photographer. His drastic lifestyle change surprised many fans who knew him only as a romantic lead.

Pedro Infante

Pedro Infante is an icon of the Golden Age of Mexican cinema who had a profound passion for aviation. He accumulated nearly three thousand flight hours and was a co-owner of a commercial airline company. Infante piloted various aircrafts to transport goods and people across the country. His dedication to flying was as intense as his dedication to singing and acting. Tragically, his pursuit of aviation led to the plane crash that ended his life prematurely.

Jorge Negrete

Jorge Negrete was a legendary singer and actor who dedicated his later years to labor union leadership. He founded the National Association of Actors (ANDA) in Mexico to protect the rights of his fellow performers. Negrete spent significant energy fighting for better wages and medical benefits for artists. His work as a union leader often took precedence over his filming schedule during the height of his fame. He is remembered as much for his advocacy as for his baritone voice.

Eduardo Capetillo

Eduardo Capetillo is a well-known actor and singer who also pursued the traditional practice of bullfighting. He comes from a family with a deep history in the tradition and trained to perform in the ring. Capetillo participated in festivals and demonstrated skill in the controversial but culturally significant practice. He eventually focused more on his ranching lifestyle and television career. His involvement in bullfighting connects him to a specific aspect of his cultural heritage.

Ryan Guzman

Ryan Guzman worked as a mixed martial arts fighter before he was discovered as an actor. He trained intensely and competed in the octagon with hopes of a professional fighting career. Guzman utilized his fighting background to secure roles that required physical stunts and combat skills. The discipline he learned in MMA training helped him maintain the fitness required for action roles. He continues to practice martial arts as part of his lifestyle.

Oscar De La Hoya

Oscar De La Hoya is a world champion boxer who dabbled in acting and singing during the height of his fame. He released a Grammy-nominated studio album that showcased his vocal abilities to a global audience. De La Hoya also founded a massive promotional company that changed the business side of boxing. His ventures outside the ring demonstrated a desire to be a multifaceted entertainer. He remains primarily a sports figure who successfully crossed over into entertainment media.

Carlos Vives

Carlos Vives is an actor who became one of the most influential musicians in Colombian history. He started his career in telenovelas and used those platforms to launch his vallenato music projects. Vives revitalized traditional folk music and made it a commercial success around the world. He now focuses almost exclusively on his music career and cultural preservation efforts. His acting roles are now seen as the stepping stone to his true calling as a musical ambassador.

Ricky Martin

Ricky Martin began his career as a child actor in theater and television before conquering the global music scene. He starred in Mexican soap operas and even had a role on an American daytime drama. Martin eventually shifted his complete focus to music and became a pioneer of the Latin pop explosion. He continues to act occasionally but is primarily defined by his massive musical tours. His work opened doors for many other Latin artists in the English-speaking market.

Marc Anthony

Marc Anthony acted in films and on Broadway while building his reputation as the top-selling salsa artist in history. He appeared in serious dramatic roles that showcased his range beyond singing. Anthony eventually prioritized his music empire and touring schedule over film projects. He also established a business as a sports agent and philanthropist. His acting career remains a respected part of his diverse portfolio.

Jaime Camil

Jaime Camil initially pursued a career in radio broadcasting and administration before becoming a star actor. He worked as a radio host and considered a life in business before finding success on screen. Camil is also a recording artist who has released multiple albums throughout his career. He seamlessly transitions between hosting, acting, and singing in both English and Spanish markets. His background in media operations gives him a unique perspective on the industry.

Diego Boneta

Diego Boneta started as a child actor and singer but has expanded into business with his own tequila brand. He launched a premium tequila company that reflects his Mexican heritage and entrepreneurial spirit. Boneta remains very active in Hollywood while managing the marketing and distribution of his product. He combines his celebrity influence with hands-on management to grow the business. This venture establishes him as a serious contender in the spirits industry.

Jencarlos Canela

Jencarlos Canela is a successful actor who has always pursued a parallel career as a pop musician. He has released several albums and collaborated with major international artists. Canela often plays the lead role in projects that allow him to showcase his musical talents. He tours internationally and considers music to be equal in importance to his acting. His fan base supports both his dramatic work and his musical releases.

Don Omar

Don Omar is a reggaeton pioneer who pursued acting through the blockbuster Fast & Furious franchise. He played a recurring character that allowed him to explore action cinema. Beyond entertainment, he has shown a deep interest in drag racing and professional auto mechanics. He has even competed in racing events, aligning his real-life hobbies with his film persona. His career has always been a mix of urban music and high-speed automotive culture.

Daddy Yankee

Daddy Yankee is the King of Reggaeton but he also produced and starred in his own feature film. He has ventured into various business sectors including his own sneaker lines and cologne brands. Yankee also owns a baseball team in Puerto Rico, reflecting his lifelong passion for the sport. He originally aspired to be a professional baseball player before an injury shifted his path to music. His business acumen has made him one of the wealthiest figures in Latin music.

Romeo Santos

Romeo Santos is the King of Bachata who has taken roles in major Hollywood films. He appeared in the Fast & Furious series and voiced characters in animated features. Santos focuses heavily on the business side of the music industry as a CEO of his own division. He works to develop new talent and modernize the genre of bachata. His brief forays into acting demonstrate his desire to expand his brand globally.

Maluma

Maluma is a global music sensation who made his acting debut alongside Jennifer Lopez in a romantic comedy. He has expressed a strong desire to pursue acting further while maintaining his chart-topping music career. Maluma also has significant investments in tech startups and the fashion industry. He approaches his career as a diversified entrepreneur rather than just a performer. His brand extends into fragrance, clothing, and beverage markets.

Oscar Isaac

Oscar Isaac is an A-list actor who was the lead guitarist and vocalist for a ska-punk band. He performed in the band The Blinking Underdogs before his acting career took off completely. Isaac still performs music occasionally and has contributed songs to film soundtracks. His musical background informs his rhythm and performance style in movies. He proves that one can be a critically acclaimed actor while maintaining a rocker’s soul.

Michael Peña

Michael Peña is a versatile character actor who is also a skilled musician and songwriter. He formed the rock band Nico Vega and performed as their drummer and writer. Peña left the band to focus on his acting but continues to play and write music in his private time. He has occasionally showcased his musical skills in film roles. His passion for music remains a core part of his artistic identity.

Gabriel Soto

Gabriel Soto began his career as a fashion model and a member of the boy band Kairo before acting. He was the first runner-up in the Mr. World pageant, which launched his public profile. Soto continues to support boxing and mixed martial arts charities and foundations. He invests in businesses related to fitness and wellness. His career evolution moved from modeling to music and finally to leading roles in television.

Christopher von Uckermann

Christopher von Uckermann gained fame in the phenomenon RBD but has always been an experimental musician and skateboarder. He released solo albums that diverge significantly from pop into folk and alternative genres. Uckermann is also an avid skateboarder who integrates the culture into his lifestyle. He focuses on spiritual and futuristic themes in his creative projects. His post-RBD career has been defined by a search for artistic authenticity.

Christian Chávez

Christian Chávez is an actor and singer who has also worked as a sophisticated social communicator. He uses his platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and mental health awareness globally. Chávez has released solo music that explores personal and social themes. He participates in reality television and theater to maintain a connection with his audience. His career is a blend of activism, music, and performance art.

Tell us which of these career pivots surprised you the most in the comments.