Mexico is a country rich in culture, history, and, undeniably, talent. While often celebrated for its stunning landscapes, delicious cuisine, and vibrant traditions, Mexico’s contribution to the global stage extends far beyond the typical tourist experience. It’s a nation brimming with individuals who have broken barriers and achieved international recognition in diverse fields, particularly in the entertainment industry.
When you think of Mexican figures in the limelight, perhaps telenovelas come to mind. However, the reality is that Mexican talent is woven throughout the fabric of global entertainment. From Hollywood blockbusters to internationally acclaimed music charts, Mexicans are making their mark as actors, producers, directors, singers, and artists of all kinds.
Mexico’s history is filled with remarkable figures, and this legacy of excellence continues to flourish in modern times. Let’s delve into the lives and achievements of ten Famous Mexican People who have captivated audiences worldwide and brought pride to their nation.
1. Guillermo del Toro (1964 -): The Visionary Filmmaker
Born in Guadalajara, Mexico in 1964.
Guillermo del Toro at the 2013 WonderCon in Anaheim, California on March 30, 2013. Source: Wikipedia Commons
Guillermo del Toro at WonderCon 2013, showcasing the acclaimed Mexican film producer and director.
Guillermo del Toro stands as a titan in the world of filmmaking, celebrated not just as a Mexican film producer but as a visionary storyteller with a unique artistic voice. His journey, beginning in Guadalajara, Mexico, has led him to become one of the most respected and awarded Hispanic figures in history.
Del Toro’s trophy cabinet is overflowing with accolades, including multiple Academy Awards, British Academy Film Awards, Golden Globes, and Critics’ Choice Movie Awards. These awards recognize his exceptional talent across various aspects of filmmaking, from directing to producing and writing.
In 2019, when receiving a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Guillermo proudly declared his Mexican identity, a testament to his deep roots and national pride. This moment underscored his commitment to representing his heritage on a global platform.
A pinnacle of his career was winning the Academy Award for Best Director and Best Picture for The Shape of Water in 2017. This film, a fantastical and poignant love story, resonated with audiences and critics alike, solidifying his status as a master filmmaker.
Beyond his individual triumphs, del Toro has fostered collaborations within the Mexican filmmaking community, notably with Alfonso Cuarón. Together, they produced Pan’s Labyrinth, a critically acclaimed dark fantasy film that has become the most-watched Spanish-language movie in the United States, demonstrating the broad appeal of Mexican cinema.
2. Salma Hayek (1966 -): From Telenovela Star to Hollywood Icon
Born in Coatzacoalcos, Mexico in 1966.
Salma Hayek at the 70th Berlin International Film Festival 2020. Source: Wikipedia Commons
Salma Hayek at the Berlinale Film Festival 2020, a celebrated Mexican actress and producer.
Salma Hayek is more than just an adored Mexican actress; she’s a global icon who has gracefully navigated from Mexican telenovelas to Hollywood stardom. Born in Coatzacoalcos, Mexico, to Lebanese and Spanish parents, Hayek’s journey to international fame is a story of talent, determination, and breaking through cultural barriers.
Her portrayal of Frida Kahlo in the 2002 biopic Frida was a watershed moment in her career. Not only did she star as one of the most famous Mexican painters, but she also produced the film. This role earned her a historic Academy Award nomination for Best Actress, making her the first Mexican actress to achieve this honor. The role also garnered nominations for Golden Globe, Screen Actors Guild, and British Academy Film Awards, cementing her place among the top actresses in the world.
Hayek’s acting career began in 1988 in Mexico. Her debut role in the Mexican TV series Un Nuevo Amanecer quickly earned her recognition with a TVyNovelas Award for Best Debut Actress. She followed this with another successful telenovela, Teresa, which brought her the TVyNovelas Award for “Best Female Revelation” in 1990.
Her crossover to the United States began with Desperado in 1995, where she co-starred with Antonio Banderas. This action-packed role opened doors to further Hollywood projects, including Once Upon a Time in Mexico and the Mariachi Trilogy, solidifying her presence in mainstream American cinema.
Expanding her influence beyond acting, Hayek ventured into production, notably with the hit TV series Ugly Betty. She continues to be a force in both acting and producing, while also actively engaging in advocacy work, using her platform to speak on important social issues.
3. Lucero (1969 -): Mexico’s Sweetheart and Multi-Platinum Singer
Born in Mexico City in 1969.
Lucero in 2017. Source: Wikipedia Commons
Lucero in 2017, a beloved Mexican singer and actress with a long-standing career.
Lucero, often called “La Novia de América” (America’s Sweetheart), is a Mexican multi-platinum singer and actress who has captured the hearts of audiences across Latin America. Born in Mexico City, her career began at a young age and has blossomed into a long-lasting and incredibly successful journey in both music and television.
As a singer, Lucero has achieved phenomenal success. She has sold over 30 million records worldwide, earning numerous platinum awards and consistently topping music charts in both the United States and Mexico. Her loyal fanbase and consistent musical output have established her as one of the most popular Mexican musicians of all time.
Beyond her musical achievements, Lucero is equally celebrated for her acting career. Her first foray into the entertainment industry was as the host of the children’s show Alegrías de Mediodía at just 13 years old, showcasing her natural charisma and talent from a young age.
Following her early success as a host, Lucero seamlessly transitioned into acting, starring in numerous telenovelas and movies. Her recent series, El gallo de oro, released in October 2023, has been met with widespread acclaim, reaffirming her enduring appeal and ability to connect with audiences.
4. Thalía (1971 -): The Queen of Latin Pop and Telenovela Royalty
Born in Mexico City in 1971.
Thalía at a TV commercial shoot in 2006. Source: Wikipedia Commons
Thalía during a TV commercial shoot in 2006, a renowned Mexican singer, songwriter, and actress.
Thalía, born Ariadna Thalía Sodi Miranda Mottola, is a true multi-hyphenate: a songwriter, singer, former actress, and businesswoman. Widely known as the “Queen of Latin Pop,” Thalía is one of the most influential and successful Mexican artists globally, having achieved remarkable fame and maintained relevance for over three decades.
Her musical talent extends beyond Spanish, as she has recorded songs in French, English, Tagalog, and Portuguese, demonstrating her global appeal and versatility. Thalía’s impact on Latin pop music is undeniable; she is a dominant force who has shaped the genre and inspired countless artists.
In addition to her singing career, Thalía is iconic for her roles in numerous telenovelas that have been broadcast worldwide, earning her the title of “Telenovela Royalty.” She has also ventured into the fashion industry with her own clothing line and continues to expand her business ventures.
Thalía’s sustained success in the entertainment industry is a rare feat. In a world often criticized for ageism, especially in the entertainment industry, Thalía has maintained her position at the top for over 30 years, constantly reinventing herself and connecting with new generations of fans.
As a solo artist, Thalía has sold over 50 million records globally. She also holds an impressive 12 Vevo Certified Awards, given to music videos exceeding 100 million views on Vevo, highlighting her digital popularity and enduring fanbase. Her accolades include 6 Billboard Latin Music Awards and 8 Premios Lo Nuestro Awards, with 7 Latin Grammy Award nominations, attesting to her critical and commercial success. In 2023, Billboard honored her with the Global Powerhouse Award, further cementing her legacy as one of the most famous people from Mexico.
5. Gael García Bernal (1978 -): The Acclaimed Actor with a Global Presence
Born in Guadalajara, Mexico in 1978.
Bernal at Festival Ambulante 2013: Photo by Delia Martínez
Gael García Bernal at Festival Ambulante 2013, a celebrated Mexican actor with international recognition.
Gael García Bernal is a highly acclaimed Mexican actor who has garnered international recognition for his compelling performances in both Spanish-language and English-language films and television. While many in the US might recognize his voice from the animated hit Coco, where he voiced Héctor, Bernal has been a prominent figure in Mexican cinema since childhood.
His acting career began remarkably early, at just one year old, and by the age of 14, he landed his first starring role in the TV series El abuelo y yo. This early exposure laid the foundation for a career that would span across borders and genres.
Bernal’s role in Coco was actually his second significant English-speaking role, following his success in the Amazon series Mozart in the Jungle. For his performance in Mozart in the Jungle, he won the Golden Globe Award for Best Actor in a Comedy Series in 2016, showcasing his range and appeal to English-speaking audiences.
His talent has been recognized with numerous awards and nominations from prestigious film festivals around the world, including the Cannes Film Festival, Venice Film Festival, Abu Dhabi Film Festival, and Cork International Film Festival. He received the Cannes Film Festival Chopard Trophy, Venice Film Festival awards, Abu Dhabi Film Festival awards, and the Cork International Film Festival awards.
Bernal’s acting credits extend beyond Mexican and American productions. He has worked in South America, France, and Spain, solidifying his status as a truly global actor. He has starred in critically acclaimed Mexican movies such as The Motorcycle Diaries and Amores Perros, both of which brought him widespread recognition and established him as one of the most famous Mexican actors of his generation.
6. Verónica Falcón (1966 -): From Mexican Opera to Queen of the South
Born in Mexico City in 1966.
Veronica Falcon at the ATX Television Festival presentation of the TV show "Queen of the South". Source: iDominick
Verónica Falcón at the ATX Television Festival for “Queen of the South”, a Mexican actress and choreographer known for her role in the series.
Verónica Falcón is a versatile Mexican talent known for her work as both a choreographer and actress. Her career began in Mexico, where she honed her skills as an actress and choreographer with Mexico’s National Opera Company. Her early work in Mexican cinema earned her awards and established her as a respected figure in the Mexican entertainment industry.
In 2015, Falcón made a pivotal decision to move to the United States to further her career. This move quickly paid off when, in 2016, she landed the role of Camila Vargas in the hit TV series Queen of the South. Her portrayal of the powerful and complex drug cartel leader earned her widespread acclaim and the Outstanding Performance in a Television Series Impact Award in 2019. Queen of the South ran for three seasons and became a significant platform for Falcón to showcase her talent to an international audience.
Following her success in Queen of the South, Falcón has appeared in other well-received media, including Ozark, Perry Mason, and A Million Miles Away. These roles have further solidified her reputation as a talented and versatile actress capable of taking on diverse characters and projects.
7. Damián Alcázar (1953 -): A Pillar of Modern Mexican Cinema
Born in Jiquilpan, Mexico in 1953.
Damain Alcazar in January 2017. Source: Wikipedia Commons
Damián Alcázar in 2017, a prominent Mexican actor known for his extensive film and television career.
Damián Alcázar is considered a cornerstone of modern Mexican cinema, with a career marked by powerful performances and a vast range of roles in both film and television. Born in Jiquilpan, Mexico, Alcázar dedicated himself to acting, studying at prestigious institutions such as the National Institute of Fine Arts, the Theatrical Experimentation Center, and the Faculty of Theater at Veracruz University.
His dedication and talent have earned him multiple Ariel Awards, Mexico’s equivalent of the Academy Awards. Alcázar is celebrated for his ability to portray complex and diverse characters, making him one of the most important and respected actors in Mexican cinema today.
Known for his exceptional screen presence and commitment to his craft, Alcázar is regarded as one of the most talented actors of his generation in Mexico. His filmography includes notable Mexican projects such as La ciudad al desnudo, Lolo, Eddie Reynolds y los ángeles de acero, and El Infierno.
Internationally, Alcázar is recognized for his role as Gilberto Rodríguez Orejuela in the Netflix series Narcos. He also gained wider recognition for his portrayal of Lord Sopespian in The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian and more recently for his role in the superhero film Blue Beetle.
Beyond his acting career, Alcázar is known for his advocacy and philanthropy. He is outspoken on social and political issues and recently showed his support for the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes, standing in solidarity with fellow actors and writers.
8. Karla Souza (1985 -): From Mexican Box Office Hits to Hollywood Success
Born in Mexico City in 1985.
Karla Souza at FICM in 2022. Source: Arascon
Karla Souza at FICM 2022, a Mexican actress known for her roles in both Mexican and American productions.
Karla Souza is a Mexican actress who has seamlessly transitioned from a successful career in Mexico to making a significant impact in Hollywood. Born in Mexico City, Souza pursued her education in acting internationally, studying in France, London, and Moscow before moving to the United States in 2014.
Her entry into the American entertainment industry was remarkably swift and successful. Her first major role was as Laurel Castillo in the hit ABC legal drama How to Get Away with Murder. Her compelling performance in the series earned her the National Hispanic Media Coalition Impact Award for “Outstanding Performance in a Television Series” in 2017.
Since her American debut, Souza has continued to build her portfolio with roles in other shows and movies, including her current ongoing role as Marina in the TV series Home Economics. She has also explored other media, such as podcasts, showcasing her versatility as a performer.
Before her Hollywood breakthrough, Souza was already a well-established actress in Mexico. She starred in numerous Mexican series and movies, including box-office hits like Nosotros los Nobles and Instructions Not Included. Her work in Mexico has also been recognized with awards, marking the beginning of her successful acting journey in 2009 (following a brief early role in the film Aspen Extreme in 1992).
Beyond acting, Karla Souza is also an entrepreneur and advocate. She offers an online course called “Unleashed: A Journey Back To Ourselves” and is a vocal advocate for ending violence against women, using her platform to promote positive change.
9. Alfonso Herrera (1983 -): From RBD Heartthrob to Acclaimed Actor
Born in Mexico City in 1983.
Alfonso Herrera in 2018. Source: Wikipedia Commons
Alfonso Herrera at an awards event in 2018, a Mexican actor and singer who gained fame with RBD and has continued a successful acting career.
Alfonso Herrera is a celebrated talent in Latin America who first captured hearts as a lead in the immensely popular series Rebelde. This series launched the globally successful band RBD, where Herrera was a key member. RBD became a phenomenon, winning over 89 awards, including “Best International Band” at the Billboard Latin Music Awards, and receiving two Latin Grammy Award nominations. The band sold more than 10 million albums worldwide, solidifying their place in Latin pop history.
Beyond his musical success with RBD, Herrera has built a distinguished acting career. He has starred in highly acclaimed films that have garnered awards, standing ovations, and box-office success. His transition from music to acting has been seamless, showcasing his versatility and dedication to his craft.
In the United States, Herrera is known for his roles in popular TV series such as Father Thomas Ortega in The Exorcist (2016), Hernando Fuentes in Sense8, Javier Jimenez in Queen of the South, and Javi Elizanndro in Ozark. These roles have demonstrated his ability to take on diverse characters and appeal to a broad audience.
Alfonso Herrera is also deeply committed to humanitarian work. He was appointed a Goodwill Ambassador for UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, in September 2020, and co-founded Fundación Sálvame with his RBD bandmates in 2006. Fundación Sálvame supports children in Mexico, Brazil, and Spain, reflecting Herrera’s commitment to giving back and making a positive impact.
10. Emilio Osorio (2002 -): The Rising Young Star
Born in Mexico City in 2002.
A still shot from Emilio Osorio's music video for Astronauta on YouTube
Emilio Osorio in a still from his music video “Astronauta”, a young Mexican actor, singer, and dancer on the rise.
Emilio Osorio is a young, dynamic talent rapidly making a name for himself in the Mexican entertainment industry. Despite his young age, this triple threat—singer, dancer, and actor—has already achieved significant recognition and is poised for a dazzling career.
Osorio made his screen debut in 2013 in the telenovela Porque el amor manda. This early exposure quickly led to more opportunities, allowing him to showcase his diverse talents.
His breakthrough role came in the 2014 telenovela Mi corazón es tuyo. He further expanded his role in a musical theater adaptation, Aristemo el musical, and a spin-off series centered on his character, ‘Aristotle Corsica’. This spin-off demonstrated his popularity and ability to connect with a younger audience.
In addition to his acting career, Osorio has released two studio albums and collaborated with his Aristemo co-star Joaquín Bondoni on three songs. His musical endeavors are adding another dimension to his burgeoning career.
Even in the early stages of his career, Osorio has already received several awards, including Premios Eres, TV Adicto Golden Awards, and Kids Choice Awards México. As he continues to develop his talents and take on new projects, Emilio Osorio is undoubtedly a Mexican celebrity to watch.
Discover More Mexican Culture
These ten individuals are just a glimpse into the vast pool of talent emanating from Mexico. Their global success highlights the rich cultural contributions of Mexico to the world stage. From film and television to music and beyond, famous Mexican people continue to inspire and entertain audiences worldwide.
If this exploration of famous Mexican figures has sparked your interest in Mexican culture, consider delving deeper into the Spanish language. Understanding Spanish can open doors to a richer appreciation of Mexican art, literature, music, and cinema. Learning Spanish can be an enriching journey, connecting you to a vibrant culture and a global community.
Consider exploring resources like Superprof to find a private tutor who can personalize your Spanish learning experience. Whether you’re interested in online or in-person lessons, Superprof offers a wide range of tutors to suit your budget and schedule. Immerse yourself in the language and culture of Mexico and discover even more about this fascinating country and its talented people.
