We all know that the entertainment industry would be pretty bland without the influence of our beloved Hispanic and Latinx stars. Here we shared what some of our most beloved latinx celebrities looked back then and what they look like now.
Sofia Vergara in the 80s
The beautiful Sofia Vergara was born in Barranquilla, Colombia on July 10, 1972. She was icknamed “La Toti” by her big, lively family.
Sophia was actually studying to become a dentist when a photographer spotted her on the beach, just like that, boom! her modeling career kicked off.
Eventually, Vergara moved to the US in the 1990s, after gaining popularity in Colombia and hosting shows on Univision. She wanted to pursue bigger opportunities in entertainment.
Sofia Vergara now
After arriving in the Sophie got some Spanish TV gigs. Eventually, she became a global superstar when she landed the role of the hilarious Gloria on Modern Family.
Sofías charm, comedic timing, and fabulous accent made her an instant fan favorite. She became more than just an actress! She is a businesswoman with her own fashion and home lines!
Vergara was also a judge on America’s Got Talent and she got a more serious acting role playing the part of Griselda Blanco in Netflix’s hit tv show “Griselda.” Sofia’s unstoppable!
Young Ricky Martin as a Kid
Puerto Rico native Ricky Martin started out as a teen heartthrob in the boy band Menudo that’s how he quickly became a huge name in Latin America.
But Ricky had his sights set on bigger things! He moved to the US during the late 1990s to branch out, acting in telenovelas and eventually scoring roles on American TV.
His big music breakthrough came in 1999 with the smash hit “Livin’ la Vida Loca,” which made him an international superstar.
Ricky Martin now
Ricky’s electric performances and catchy tunes like “She Bangs” “La Copa de la Vida” and “Vuelve” brought Latin pop to the global stage.
His catchy blend of Latin pop and infectious energy made him a global sensation. On top of that in 2008, Ricky became a proud father to twin boys, Matteo and Valentino.
Then, in 2010, after years of speculation, he publicly came out as gay, sharing his truth with the world. Martin is more than a singer, he now is a true advocate for LGBTQ+ rights!
Pedro Pascal in the 1990s
Born in Chile in 1975, Pedro Pascal and his family moved to the US with his family when he was just a kid, escaping political unrest.
Pascal grew up loving movies and knew from a young age that acting was his passion. When he first started acting, he took on a lot of guest roles in TV shows.
During the 1990s and early 2000s, you could catch him popping up in series like Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Law & Order, NYPD Blue, and The Good Wife.
Pedro Pascal now
After many years of hard work, Pascal’s breakthrough came in Game of Thrones where he played Prince Oberyn Martell and he hasn’t looked back since.
He has been turning heads with some major roles in recent years! He has played main roles in The Mandalorian, and The Last of Us.
Currently, Pascal keeps his personal life pretty private, but he’s become a fan favorite for his charm, talent, and advocacy for causes like LGBTQ+ rights and immigrant issues.
Jennifer Lopez in the 1980s
Born in July 1969 to Puerto Rican parents in the Bronx, Jennifer Lopez started her career as a dancer on In Living Color.
After some small TV roles, her big break came when she starred in Selena in 1997. In the movie, she portrayed Selena Quintanilla, the late Tejano singer.
This role catapulted her to stardom, blending her Latin heritage with her growing Hollywood presence. From there, J.Lo became a global icon.
Jennifer Lopez now
After her big break on the big screen, Jennifer Lopez released massive music hits like “If You Had My Love,” “Jenny from the Block,” and “On the Floor.”
Her debut album On the 6 was a huge success. In movies, she shined in romantic comedies like The Wedding Planner, and Maid in Manhattan.
She also played action-packed roles in Out of Sight and Anaconda. Her mix of catchy tunes and memorable roles cemented her status as both a music and film superstar!
Rosario Dawson
Rosario Dawson was born on May 9, 1979, in New York City, to a Puerto Rican and Afro-Cuban family. She rose to fame after her breakout role in Kids (1995).
She was just 15 when she was spotted by director Larry Clark and writer Harmony Korine, while sitting on her front porch. They were the ones to cast her in Kids.
Kids was an indie film that soon became a cult hit and launched her acting career. She never stopped working after that.
Rosario Dawson now
Following her big break, Dawson starred in major films over the years, including Rent, Men in Black II, Sin City, and Clerks II.
Rosario also made waves in the superhero genre, appearing in Marvel’s TV series like Daredevil and Luke Cage.
Dawson is also a passionate activist and advocate for various social causes. She has become a standout star in both Hollywood and the world of activism!
Maluma in 2012
Maluma, born Juan Luis Londoño Arias on January 28, 1994, in Medellín, Colombia, showed his love for music from a young age.
However, before becoming famous, he was also an excellent soccer player, but his passion for music took over, and he started recording songs as a teen.
His stage name “Maluma,” was a tribute to his family, taking letters from his mom (MArlli), dad (LUis), and sister (MAnuela).
Maluma now
Maluma’s big break came with the hit single “Farandulera” in 2011, and he quickly rose to fame with songs like “Felices los 4,” “Borró Cassette,” and “Hawái.”
Maluma has teamed up with some of the biggest names in music! Some of his standout collaborations include “Chantaje” with Shakira and “Medellín” with Madonna.
These collabs helped him cement his place in Latin pop and reggaeton. In March 2024, he became a father to a little baby girl, Paris Londoño Gomez.
Shakira in 1997
Shakira was born Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll on February 2, 1977, in Barranquilla, Colombia. She started writing songs and performing from a young age.
Before becoming a global star, she released her first album at 13, but it wasn’t until 1995, when her album Pies Descalzos came out, that she gained recognition in Latin America.
Shakira’s international breakthrough came a few years later in 2001, when she released her album Laundry Service.
Shakira now
Some of the hits that catapulted the singer to stardom include “Whenever, Wherever” and “Underneath Your Clothes.”
Shakira solidified her superstar status with the iconic “Hips Don’t Lie” (2006) featuring Wyclef Jean. In 2010, her World Cup anthem “Waka Waka” became a global sensation.
Shakira became a mother in 2013 and 2015, welcoming two sons, Milan and Sasha, with Spanish soccer star Gerard Piqué. She currently lives with her children in Miami.
Mariah Carey back then
Mariah Carey has Afro-Venezuelan heritage on her father’s side. Her paternal grandfather, Francisco Núñez, was of Venezuelan descent.
Known for her five-octave vocal range and whistle notes, Mariah burst onto the scene with her self-titled debut album in 1990, featuring hits like “Vision of Love.”
Mariah dominated the ’90s with chart-toppers like “Hero” and “Fantasy.” Her holiday anthem, “All I Want for Christmas Is You” (1994), is a timeless classic.
Mariah Carey now
Throughout her entire career Mariah set records with 19 No. 1 hits on the Billboard Hot 100, including her iconic Butterfly era.
In 2005, her comeback album The Emancipation of Mimi re-established her as a powerhouse.
With Grammy wins and a lasting legacy, she’s solidified her status as the “Queen of Christmas” and one of the best-selling artists of all time!
Oscar Isaac in High School
Oscar Isaac, born Óscar Isaac Hernández Estrada on March 9, 1979, in Guatemala, moved to the US with his family when he was just five months old.
Isaac started acting as a child and pursued acting, starting with small roles in indie films and TV shows. He appeared in a variety of smaller roles.
Early in his career, he acted in films like All About the Benjamins (2002) and The Nativity Story (2006) He also had roles in Body of Lies (2008) and Robin Hood (2010)
Oscar Isaac now
Oscar Isaac’s big break came with Inside Llewyn Davis (2013), where his portrayal of a struggling folk musician earned him critical acclaim.
Since then, he’s starred in a range of high-profile films, including Ex Machina, A Most Violent Year, and Poe Dameron in the Star Wars sequels.
He’s also taken on the villainous role of Apocalypse in X-Men: Apocalypse, Duke Leto Atreides in Dune (2021), and dual roles in Marvel’s Moon Knight (2022).
Lin Manuel Miranda as a Child
Born to Puerto Rican parents in New York City, Miranda’s Latin heritage has deeply influenced his work.
His upbringing and cultural roots have been central to his storytelling and musical style. Before his big break, he was already involved in theater and music.
He started writing In the Heights, his big break, while in college and worked on it for several years.
Lin Manuel Miranda now
Lin-Manuel Miranda’s big break came with his Broadway musical In the Heights (2008), where he wrote the music, and lyrics, and starred as the lead.
The play earned him critical acclaim and a Tony Award. His career skyrocketed with Hamilton (2015), the groundbreaking musical where he played Alexander Hamilton.
He won multiple Tonys and a Pulitzer Prize for these roles. Since then, he’s worked on Disney’s Moana (2016) and starred in Mary Poppins Returns (2018) among other things.
Young Mario Lopez
Born in Chula Vista, California on October 10, 1973, Mario Lopez always dreamed big! He got his start in showbiz as a young dancer and actor,
Mario landed small roles on shows like Kids Incorporated. But it wasn’t until his iconic role as the slick A.C. Slater on Saved by the Bell that he truly hit it big.
Mario Lopez’s family hails from Mexico, and his heritage played a big role in shaping his identity. He’s always been proud of his roots.
Mario Lopez now
After Mario’s Saved by the Bell days, he kept the momentum going! He’s done it allacting, hosting, and even writing.
From co-hosting Extra to competing on Dancing with the Stars, Mario’s always been in the spotlight. He’s hosted beauty pageants, The X Factor, and now Access Hollywood.
Along the way, he’s written fitness books, showing off his love for staying fit. He even reprised his role as A.C. Slater for the Saved by the Bell reboot!
Zoe Saldaña in 2003
Zoe Saldaña was born on June 19, 1978, in New Jersey, to a Dominican father and Puerto Rican mother, during her childhood she lived in the Dominican Republic for a time.
Her passion for dance led her to train in ballet, jazz, and modern dance, which helped land her early acting gigs.
She performed with a theater group called Faces, focusing on youth-oriented plays, before making her film debut in Center Stage (2003). After that, her life changed forever!
Zoe Saldaña now
After Saldaña’s big break in Center Stage, she rocketed to stardom! Her talent made her a standout in Hollywood. She went on to star in many blockbuster movies!
Salaña starred in Pirates of the Caribbean, then hit sci-fi gold as Uhura in Star Trek and Neytiri in Avatar. She didn’t stop there: Zoe became a Marvel icon!
For many Zoe played the iconic Gamora in Guardians of the Galaxy. Outside of film, she started a production company! Impressive, right?
Michelle Rodriguez in the Early 2000s
Michelle Rodriguez’s career started with a bang! Born on July 12, 1978, to a Puerto Rican mother and Dominican father, her fierce Latin roots shaped her tough-girl persona.
She exploded onto the scene with her first-ever movie role in Girlfight (2000), where she played a boxer Her raw performance won her critical acclaim and a ton of awards.
From there, she landed her iconic role as Letty in The Fast and the Furious, cementing her as an action star.
Michelle Rodriguez now
Over the last few years, Michelle Rodriguez has been all about action and adventure! She’s reprised her iconic role as Letty in multiple Fast & Furious films.
Aside from her Fast family, she’s been busy with roles in Resident Evil, Alita: Battle Angel, and Widows, showing off her versatility beyond action.
Michelle also voiced animated characters and stayed active behind the scenes, advocating for diversity in Hollywood. She truly has been all over!
Danny Trejo back in 1995
Danny Trejo’s career started most unexpectedly! Born on May 16, 1944, to Mexican-American parents in Los Angeles, Trejo had a tough early life.
Danny spent time in and out of prison and it was actually during a stint in rehab that he turned things around.
A chance meeting on a movie set, where he was working as a drug counselor, led to his first acting gig in Runaway Train (1985). So cool, right?
Danny Trejo now
Trejo’s big break came in 1995 with his unforgettable role as the menacing knife-wielding assassin, Navajas, in Desperado.
Directed by Robert Rodriguez, this role catapulted him into the spotlight and marked the beginning of a long collaboration with Rodriguez.
From there, Trejo became a fan favorite, often playing tough-guy roles in films like Heat, Con Air, and From Dusk Till Dawn.
America Ferrera in the Early 2000s
Born on April 18, 1984, to Honduran parents in Los Angeles, America Ferrara embraced her Latin roots from an early age.
Ferrara’s big break came with her debut role in Real Women Have Curves (2002), where she played a strong-willed teen navigating cultural expectations and body image.
The film was a hit at Sundance and put America on the map. Soon after that, she starred in the iconic movie The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants.
America Ferrera now
America Ferrera’s career soared when she landed the lead role in Ugly Betty in 2006. Her portrayal of Betty Suarez, won her a Golden Globe, an Emmy, and a SAG Award!
This role made America a household name. After Ugly Betty, she continued to shine with roles in The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants sequels.
Ferrara has also played a starring role in the hit show Superstore and starred as Gloria on Greta Gerwig’s iconic Barbie (2024).
Pitbull back in 2004
Born Armando Christian Pérez on January 15, 1981, to Cuban parents, Pitbull’s career started in Miami’s vibrant music scene!
His big break came when he met rapper and producer Lil Jon, who featured Pitbull on his 2002 album Kings of Crunk.
This led to the singer releasing his debut album, M.I.A.M.I. (Money Is A Major Issue), in 2004, which included hits like “Culo.”
Pitbull now
After his big break, Pitbull followed up with hit albums and chart-topping singles. In 2009, his smash hit “I Know You Want Me (Calle Ocho)” put him on the global map.
He didn’t stop there. He dropped massive party anthems like “Give Me Everything” with Ne-Yo, “Timber” with Kesha, and “International Love” with Chris Brown.
Pitbull also became known for his collaborations with artists like Jennifer Lopez on “On the Floor” and Enrique Iglesias on “I Like It.” He definitely is Mr. Worldwide.
Aubrey Plaza in 2008
Born on June 26, 1984, with Puerto Rican roots on her father’s side, Aubrey Plaza grew up in Delaware. After studying improv she landed small roles in comedy sketches.
Her big break came in 2009 when she was cast as April Ludgate on Parks and Recreation, a role written specifically for her after she impressed the show’s creators.
After Parks and Rec, she’s taken on roles in films like The To Do List, Ingrid Goes West, and Black Bear,
Aubrey Plaza now
Over the years Plaza has shown her range from dark comedy to indie drama. She joined the Child’s Play reboot and shined in The White Lotus season 2.
She’s also been doing great on a personal level. In fact, Aubrey married her longtime partner, director Jeff Baena, in 2021.
She is currently starring on Disney’s hit tv show “Agatha All Along” where she plays the part of Rio VIdal.
Becky G in 2012
Born Rebbeca Marie Gomez on March 2, 1997, in Inglewood, California, to Mexican-American parents, Becky G began posting cover songs on YouTube as a teen.
These videos caught the attention of producers, and soon after, she was featured on songs like “Oath” with Cher Lloyd.
Becky’s big break came in 2014 with the catchy hit “Shower,” which became a summer anthem. From there, Becky G switched to her Latin roots, releasing reggaeton hits.
Becky G now
After her big break, Becky scored several massive hits. “Mayores” featuring Bad Bunny was a global smash in 2017, followed by “Sin Pijama” with Natti Natasha,
She’s also had hits like “Mala Santa,” “La Respuesta” with Maluma, and more recently, “Mamiii” with Karol G, which became another viral sensation.
Becky G has also been busy expanding her brand. She’s starred in films like Power Rangers, and launched her own makeup line!
Andy García in the 1980s
Born in Havana, Cuba, on April 12, 1956, Andy Garcia and his family moved to Miami when he was a child. He began acting in college and eventually moved to Hollywood.
His big break came in 1987 with a standout role in The Untouchables, where he played a cop alongside Kevin Costner and Sean Connery.
This role put him on the map, and soon after, he starred in Internal Affairs and earned an Oscar nomination for The Godfather Part III in 1990.
Andy García
Throughout the ’90s, García appeared in films like When a Man Loves a Woman (1994), Things to Do in Denver When You’re Dead (1995), and Night Falls on Manhattan (1997).
In the 2000s, Garcia joined the Ocean’s Eleven franchise as Terry Benedict, playing the slick casino owner.
Over the last few years, he has continued his career with roles in City Island and The Lost City, which he also directed.
Cardi B in 2016
Born Belcalis Marlenis Almánzar on October 11, 1992, in New York, to Dominican and Trinidadian parents, Cardi first gained fame through social media.
Initially, she rose to fame when her unfiltered videos went viral. Her breakout moment came when she joined the reality show Love & Hip Hop: New York in 2015,.
In 2017, her single “Bodak Yellow” blew up, hitting number one on the Billboard Hot 100. From there, Cardi became a rap superstar!
Cardi B now
After “Bodak Yellow” Cardi released her debut album, Invasion of Privacy (2018), which included hits like “I Like It” with Bad Bunny and J Balvin, and “Bartier Cardi.”
The album won her a Grammy for Best Rap Album, making her the first solo female rapper to win that category.
She’s since had more chart-toppers, like “WAP” with Megan Thee Stallion. Cardi has also expanded into acting, with roles in Hustlers (2019) and Fast & Furious 9 (2021).
Tessa Thompson as a Child
Born on October 3, 1983, in Los Angeles, Tessa has Afro-Panamanian and Mexican roots. She began her career in theater, performing in Shakespeare productions.
Eventually, Tessa landed her first TV role in Veronica Mars (2005), where she played Jackie Cook. Her breakout moment came with her role in Dear White People (2014).
The movie was an instance case and showcased her acting range and brought her critical attention. From there her career skyrocketed!
Tessa Thompson now
After her breakout in 2014, Thompson gained major attention with her role as Bianca in Creed (2015) and reprised the role in the sequels, Creed II and Creed III.
Her portrayal of Valkyrie in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, starting with Thor: Ragnarok (2017), solidified her as a fan favorite.
She became Marvel’s first LGBTQ+ superhero in Thor: Love and Thunder (2022). Beyond blockbusters, Tessa starred in films like Sorry to Bother You (2018) and Passing (2021).
Eiza Gonzalez in 2008
Born on January 30, 1990, in Mexico City, Eiza got her big break at 16, starring in the popular Mexican telenovela Lola, Érase Una Vez (2007).
This role made her a household name in Latin America. After her success on TV, Eiza pursued a music career and released two albums.
In 2013, she transitioned to Hollywood with her role in From Dusk Till Dawn: The Series. From there, she landed several major roles.
Eiza Gonzalez now
Gonzalez starred in Baby Driver (2017), Alita: Battle Angel (2019), and Godzilla vs. Kong (2021), becoming a rising star in Hollywood!
Lately, she’s been keeping busy with a string of high-profile projects! She starred in Ambulance (2022) alongside Jake Gyllenhaal.
She also took on the role of an art dealer in The Three-Body Problem, an upcoming sci-fi series from the creators of Game of Thrones. Impressive, don’t you think?
Ariana DeBose
Born on January 25, 1991, in North Carolina, with Afro-Puerto Rican roots, Ariana got her start as a dancer, appearing on So You Think You Can Dance in 2009.
Her Broadway debut came in 2011 as part of the ensemble in Bring It On: The Musical. She continued to shine in various productions.
Finally, in 2015 she landed a key role as “the Bullet” in Hamilton (2015). Her big break in film came in 2021 when she starred as Anita in Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story.
Ariana DeBose
Over the last few years, DeBose has been unstoppable! She’s taken on several exciting projects, including hosting the 2022 Tony Awards!
Ariana also starred in the action-thriller Argylle and the historical film I.S.S., showing her versatility beyond musicals. Pretty cool, right?
Debose also joined the cast of Kraven the Hunter, expanding her presence into the superhero genre. She also continues to advocate for diversity in Hollywood.