Cuban celebrities are a big part of what makes Cuban culture so great. They’re some of the best actors, singers, and entertainers worldwide. And since there are so many Cuban celebrities, we’ve compiled a list of 50 for your use. They’re listed in order of their prominence.
1. Fidel Castro
| Fidel Castro | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Fidel Alejandro Castro Ruz |
| Birthdate | August 13, 1926 |
| Birthplace | Birán, Oriente, Cuba |
| Death | November 25, 2016 (aged 90) |
| Political Party | PCC (from 1965) |
| Spouses | Mirta Díaz-Balart (m. 1948; div. 1955) Dalia Soto del Valle (m. 1980) |
| Children | 11, including Alina and Fidelito |
| Parents | Ángel Castro y Argiz (father) |
| Alma Mater | University of Havana |
| Profession | Lawyer |
| Nicknames | El Caballo, El Comandante, Bola de Churre, El loco, Pistolita, El guajiro, Fifo |
| Military Service | 1953–2016 |
| Rank | Comandante en Jefe |
| Unit | 26th of July Movement |
| Battles/Wars | Cuban Revolution, Bay of Pigs Invasion, Cuban Missile Crisis, Angolan Civil War |
| Leadership Positions | Prime Minister of Cuba (1959-1976) President of Cuba (1976-2008) First Secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba (1961-2011) |
| Ideology | Marxist-Leninist, Cuban nationalist |
| State Transformation | Cuba became a one-party communist state Nationalization of industries and businesses Implementation of socialist reforms |
| Cuban Revolution | Led the guerrilla war against Batista’s forces from the Sierra Maestra Overthrew President Fulgencio Batista in 1959 |
| Cold War | Aligned with the Soviet Union and allowed placement of nuclear weapons in Cuba, resulting in the Cuban Missile Crisis |
| Domestic Policies | Central economic planning Expansion of healthcare and education State control of the press Suppression of internal dissent |
| International Influence | Supported anti-imperialist revolutionary groups in Chile, Nicaragua, and Grenada Provided military aid in various conflicts Leadership of the Non-Aligned Movement (1979-1983) |
| Later Years | Led Cuba through the economic downturn of the “Special Period” Embraced environmentalist and anti-globalization ideas Forged alliances in the Latin American “pink tide” |
Fidel Alejandro Castro Ruz, a Cuban revolutionary and politician born on August 13, 1926, and passed away on November 25, 2016, led Cuba from 1959 to 2008, serving as president from 1976 to 2008. Marxist-Leninist and Cuban patriot by ideology, From 1961 to 2011, he also served as the Communist Party of Cuba’s first secretary. State socialist reforms were introduced throughout society, business and industry were nationalized, and Cuba became a one-party communist state during his presidency.
Despite his death in 2016, Fidel Castro remains a controversial figure, with his legacy still impacting Cuba and the world. Learn more about the life of this revolutionary and political leader by checking out the list of oldest living celebrities.
2. Andy García
| Andy Garc a | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Andy García |
| Birthdate | April 12, 1956 |
| Birthplace | Havana, Cuba |
| Citizenship | United States |
| Education | Miami Beach Senior High School, Florida International University |
| Occupations | Actor, Director, Musician |
| Years Active | 1978–present |
| Spouse | Marivi Lorido García |
| Children | 4, including Dominik García-Lorido |
| Notable Works | The Untouchables, The Godfather Part III, Ocean’s Eleven |
| Awards | Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor, Primetime Emmy Award nomination, Golden Globe Award nomination, Latin Grammy for Best Traditional Tropical Latin Album |
| Key Facts | Andy García rose to prominence with his role in The Untouchables (1987). He earned an Academy Award nomination for his performance in The Godfather Part III (1990). García’s notable works also include Ocean’s Eleven (2001) and The Lost City (2005). He has received recognition for his talents in acting, directing, and music. |
Andy García is the stage name of Andrés Arturo Garcia Menéndez, an American actor, director, and singer born in Cuba on April 12, 1956. Alongside Kevin Costner, Sean Connery, and Robert De Niro, he made his acting debut in Brian De Palma’s The Untouchables (1987). He performed in movies like Stand and Deliver (1988) and Internal Affairs (1990). Alongside Al Pacino, Diane Keaton, and Eli Wallach, he then played Vincent Mancini in Francis Ford Coppola’s The Godfather Part III (1990). In 2005, he was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor and received a Latin Grammy for his performance.
3. Christina Milian
| Christina Milian | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Christina Milian |
| Birthdate | September 26, 1981 |
| Birthplace | Jersey City, New Jersey, U.S. |
| Other Names | Christine Flores-Nash |
| Occupations | Actress, Singer, Songwriter |
| Years Active | 1996–present |
| Spouse | The-Dream (m. 2009; div. 2011) |
| Children | 3 |
| Origin | Waldorf, Maryland, U.S. |
| Genres | R&B, Pop, Hip Hop, Dance |
| Instrument(s) | Vocals |
| Labels | Milianheiress Music, Cash Money, Def Soul, Murder Inc., |
| Notable Film Roles | Love Don’t Cost a Thing (2003), Be Cool (2005), |
| Entrepreneurship | Co-founded and co-owns Beignet Box, a dessert shop |
| Philanthropy | Worked with Children Uniting Nations charity, |
| Ethnicity | Black-Cuban descent |
Christina Milian is the stage name of Christine Marie Flores, an American actress, and singer born on September 26, 1981. Milian, who is of Afro-Cuban ancestry, was born in Jersey City, New Jersey. M Don Flores and Carmen Milian are her parents. At 19, she agreed to a deal with Murder Inc. Records. The singles “AM to PM” and “When You Look at Me,” included on Milian’s self-titled debut album, peaked in the top three of the U.K. Singles Chart and the Top 40 of the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, respectively, in 2001. It’s About Time, Milian’s second studio album, featured her first significant American hit, “Dip It Low,” which peaked at number five on the U.S. Billboard chart and was released in 2004. The second single off the album was “Whatever U Want.” Both singles appeared on the U.K. chart’s Top 10 list.
Check out our list of most beautiful pregnant celebrities which features Christina Milian, among other famous mothers-to-be. Watch how Christina’s pregnancy journey went throughout the photoshoot that shows off her undeniable beauty with her baby bump.
4. Gloria Estefan
| Gloria Estefan | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Gloria Estefan |
| Birth Name | Gloria María Milagrosa Fajardo García |
| Born | September 1, 1957 (age 65) in Havana, Cuba |
| Origin | Miami, Florida, U.S. |
| Genres | Latin pop, dance-pop, tropical |
| Occupation(s) | Singer, songwriter, actress, businesswoman |
| Years Active | 1975-present |
| Labels | Epic, Burgundy, Crescent Moon, Sony Latin, Verve Forecast, Sony Masterworks |
| Spouse(s) | Emilio Estefan (since 1978) |
| Grammy Awards | Eight-time Grammy Award winner |
| Presidential Medal | Recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom |
| Top 100 Greatest Artists | Named one of the Top 100 greatest artists of all time by VH1 and Billboard |
| Record Sales | Record sales exceed 100 million worldwide, making her one of the best-selling female singers of all time |
| Chart-Topping Hits | International chart-topping hits including “1-2-3”, “Don’t Wanna Lose You”, and “Turn the Beat Around” |
| Breaking Barriers | Opened doors for Latin musicians, including Selena, Jon Secada, Shakira, and Ricky Martin |
| Comeback | Successfully returned to the music scene after a life-threatening accident in 1990 |
| Awards and Honors | Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Kennedy Center Honors recipient, and recipient of multiple awards |
| Queen of Latin Pop | Recognized as the “Queen of Latin Pop” by the media |
| Number One Hits | Amassed multiple number one hits across Billboard charts |
| Personal Background | Cuban-American singer, songwriter, actress, and businesswoman |
| Education | Graduated from the University of Miami with a B.A. in psychology and a minor in French |
| Relationship with Emilio | Married Emilio Estefan in 1978 and collaborated professionally with him throughout her career |
Gloria Estefan, a Cuban-American singer, actress, and businesswoman, was born on September 1, 1957. Estefan has won seven Grammy Awards, is a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, and is one of VH1 and Billboard’s list of the Top 100 artists of all time. With more than 75 million albums sold worldwide, Gloria Estefan is one of the best-selling female singers of all time and the second-best-selling female Latin artist in history. Estefan, a contralto, began her career as the lead vocalist of Miami Latin Boys, later known as Miami Sound Machine.
5. Yoel Romero
| Yoel Romero | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Yoel Romero |
| Birthdate | April 30, 1977 |
| Age | 46 |
| Nationality | Cuban-American |
| Residence | Miami, Florida, U.S. |
| Division | Light Heavyweight (Bellator MMA) |
| Height | 5 ft 10 in (178 cm) |
| Weight | 205 lb (93 kg; 14 st 9 lb) |
| Wrestling Style | Olympic Freestyle Wrestling |
| Notable Achievements | Former UFC Middleweight Championship Challenger |
| MMA Record | Total Wins: 15 |
| Rank | Current Rank: #3 in Bellator Light Heavyweight Rankings |
Yoel Romero Palacio, On April 30, 1977, a professional mixed martial artist from Cuba and former freestyle wrestler was born. He currently fights for Bellator MMA in the Light Heavyweight division. Romero previously competed for the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) in the Middleweight division and was a four-time contender for the Middleweight Championship. At 85 kilograms, Romero competed in freestyle wrestling. He won the 1999 World Championship (five World Championship medals), the 2000 Olympics (silver), three World Cup titles (six medals), the 2003 Pan American Games gold medal (bronze in ’99), and five Pan American titles. He is currently ranked #4 in the Bellator Light Heavyweight Rankings as of September 27, 2022.
6. Joey Diaz
| Joey Diaz | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Joey Diaz |
| Born | José Antonio Díaz (February 19, 1963) |
| Birthplace | Havana, Cuba |
| Citizenship | United States |
| Occupations | Stand-up comedian, actor, podcaster |
| Years Active | 1991–present |
| Spouse | Terrie Clark (married in 2009) |
| Children | 2 |
| Notable Roles | My Name Is Earl, The Longest Yard, Spider-Man 2, Grudge Match, The Many Saints of Newark |
| Rise to Prominence | The Joe Rogan Experience podcast, The Church of What’s Happening Now podcast |
| Documentary | Where I Got My Balls From (2012) |
| Comedy Specials | It’s Either You or the Priest (2012), Sociably Unacceptable (2016) |
| Film and TV Career | Bronx County (unaired pilot), Spider-Man 2, Taxi, The Longest Yard, Grudge Match, etc. |
| Podcasts | The Church of What’s Happening Now, Uncle Joey’s Joint |
Joey “CoCo” Diaz, born José Antonio Diaz on February 19, 1963, is an American stand-up comedian, actor, and podcaster. After dedicating himself to stand-up comedy in the Denver and Seattle areas in 1991, Diaz moved to Los Angeles in 1995 and started acting. In addition to other films and television shows, he was cast in My Name Is Earl, The Longest Yard, Spider-Man 2, Grudge Match, and The Many Saints of Newark.
7. Mario Cimarro
| Mario Cimarro | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Mario Antonio Cimarro Paz |
| Date of Birth | June 1, 1971 |
| Place of Birth | Havana, Cuba |
| Nationality | Cuban |
| Occupation | Actor |
| Years Active | 1992-present |
| Height | 1.88 m (6 ft 2 in) |
| Spouse | Natalia Streignard (m. 1999; div. 2006) |
| Partner(s) | Vanessa Villela (2009-2013) |
| Children | Briana |
| Family | Father: Antonio Luis Cimarro |
| Notable Theatrical Role | Romeo y Julieta (1996) |
| Notable TV Series | Pasión de Gavilanes (2003-2004) |
| Jury Appearance | Baila conmigo Paraguay (Season 8) – August 2019 |
| Upcoming Project | Pasión de Gavilanes (Season 2) – 2021 |
| Dance Competition | Let’s Dance (Slovak rendition of Dancing with the Stars) – 2023 |
Actor Mario Antonio Cimarro Paz was born in Cuba on June 1, 1971. In 1995’s Acapulco, cuerpo y alma, he made his big-screen debut. He produced the Romeo and Julieta theatrical seasons in 1996. In the Colombian television series Pasión de Gavilanes, which aired from 2003 to 2004, he played the lead role alongside Natasha Klauss, Michel Brown, Juan Alfonso Baptista, Danna Garcia, and Paola Rey. He repeatedly appeared in Jesus Cristo de Nazaret and Necessary Roughness on the USA Network between 2011 and 2013.
8. Eddie Cibrian
| Eddie Cibrian | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Edward Carl Cibrian |
| Date of Birth | June 16, 1973 (age 50) |
| Place of Birth | Burbank, California, U.S. |
| Occupation | Actor, Singer (former member of the boy band 3Deep) |
| Notable TV Roles | Cole Deschanel in “Sunset Beach,” Jimmy Doherty in “Third Watch,” Jesse Cardoza in “CSI: Miami” |
| Notable Films | “But I’m a Cheerleader,” “The Best Man Holiday,” “The Cave” |
| Marital Status | Married to LeAnn Rimes since April 22, 2011 |
| Children | Two sons with ex-wife Brandi Glanville: Mason and Jake |
Edward Carl Cibrian was born in the United States on June 16, 1973 although his parents are both from Cuba. He is most recognized for his appearances as Cole Deschanel and Jimmy Doherty on Sunset Beach and Third Watch, respectively.
Matt Clark in The Young and the Restless, Russell Varon in Invasion, Jesse Cardoza in CSI: Miami, and Eddie Valetik in Take Two are among his other significant television performances. But I’m a Cheerleader and The Best Man Holiday are two of his most recognizable flicks.
If you’re looking for male Latin celebrities who are not only talented but also handsome, you should definitely check out the “25 Most Handsome Latin Men: Attractive Stars” list on Hood MWR. The list features Eddie Cibrian and other attractive stars who have captured hearts with their looks and charm. Don’t miss out on this list if you want to see some of the most good-looking Latino men in the entertainment industry. Check it out here: most handsome Latin men.
9. César Évora
| C sar vora | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | César Évora |
| Birthdate | November 4, 1959 |
| Birthplace | Havana, Cuba |
| Nationality | Cuban-Mexican |
| Occupation | Actor |
| Years Active | 1982-present |
| Notable Roles | Si Dios Me Quita La Vida, Luz Clarita, El Privilegio de Amar |
| Citizenship | Cuban (prior to 1999), Mexican (since 1999) |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Vivian Domínguez |
| Children | 3 |
César Évora Daz was born in Havana, Cuba, on November 4, 1959. He is a Cuban actor. Before relocating to Mexico in the early 1990s, Évora appeared in more than ten films in Cuba. In 1993 and 1994, he became well-known for his supporting parts in the landmark films Corazón Salvaje and Agujetas de hue rosa. In the 1995 film Si Dios Me Quita La Vida, Évora received his first starring role opposite Daniela Romo. Évora starring roles in Luz Clarita, Gente Bien, and especially El Privilegio de Amar made him one of the most popular leading men in the industry.
10. Yvette Prieto
| Yvette Prieto | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Yvette Prieto |
| Birthdate | March 26, 1978 (age 45) |
| Birthplace | Cuba |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Model |
| Notable Collaborations | Worked as a model for designer Alexander Wang |
| Documentary Appearance | Featured in the documentary “Cuba: An Island Apart” |
| Family Background | Daughter of Carlos and Maria Prieto, grew up in Miami |
| Relationship History | Married basketball legend Michael Jordan in 2013 |
| Professional Experience | Worked for parents’ company, in a hospital, and in real estate |
| Children | Mother of twin daughters (born February 9, 2014) |
| Stepchildren | Step-mother to Michael Jordan’s three children from previous marriage |
| Sibling | Brother Carlos Prieto runs a sneaker store in Miami |
Yvette Prieto via caknowledge
Yvette Prieto, was born in Cuba on March 26, 1978 and grew up in Miami. She is an American model. She has modeled for designer Alexander Wang and portrayed herself in the documentary Cuba: An Island Apart. Julio Iglesias Jr. was Yvette’s boyfriend in the early 2000s. She also worked for her parent’s company, at a hospital, and in real estate, in addition to modeling.
Yvette Prieto is a Cuban American model who rose to fame after marrying NBA superstar, Michael Jordan. With her stunning looks and a successful modeling career, Prieto has been the envy of many. Speaking of Michael Jordan, have you wondered about his height? Check out our article on Michael Jordan height to find out if you’re curious!
11. Ernesto Daranas
| Ernesto Daranas | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ernesto Daranas Serrano |
| Birthdate | December 7, 1961 |
| Birthplace | Havana, Cuba |
| Nationality | Cuban |
| Occupation(s) | Filmmaker and screenwriter |
| Notable Work | Sergio & Sergei, Behavior, Fallen Gods, Bluechacha, Los últimos gaiteiros de La Habana |
| Academy Awards | Submitted three feature films for Best International Feature Film category |
| Latin Grammy Nomination | Nominated for Best Long Form Music Video |
| King of Spain Award | Recipient of the prestigious award |
| Father | Manuel Ángel Daranas Valdés, a renowned actor, teacher, and writer |
| Storytelling Beginnings | Started as a storyteller in radio while in college |
| Education | Bachelor’s degree in Geography from the Instituto Superior Pedagógico (now University of Educational Sciences) |
| Radio Soap Operas | Gained recognition for radio soap operas reflecting Cuban society during the Special Period |
| Directorial Debut | La tierra más hermosa, a series of 12 documentaries exploring Cuban ethnography, culture, nature, and history |
| International Journalism Award | Won the Premio Internacional de Periodismo Rey de España for Los últimos gaiteiros de La Habana |
| Film Directorial Debut | Fallen gods (Los dioses rotos), 2008, won Audience Award and Film Critics Association Award at the Havana Film Festival |
| Box-Office Hit | Fallen gods considered one of the best Cuban films after 2000 |
| Latin Grammy Nomination | Directed Bluechacha, nominated for Best Long-Form Music Video at the XIII Latin Grammy Awards |
| Widespread Recognition | Conducta (Behavior) gained international recognition and was widely acclaimed |
| Film Festivals | Behavior premiered at the Málaga Film Festival and screened at the Toronto International Film Festival |
| Goya Nomination | Behavior received a Goya nomination |
| Sergio and Sergei | Directed the comedy film set in Cuba, released in 2017 |
| Co-Production | Sergio and Sergei was a co-production between Cuba, Spain, and the United States |
| Documentary | Directed the documentary Natalia in 2019 about Cuban ethnographer and writer Natalia Bolívar Aróstegui |
Ernesto Daranas via wikipedia via wikipedia
Ernesto Daranas Serrano, a Cuban filmmaker, was born on December 7, 1961. The three feature-length films of Daranas were nominated for the Academy Award for Best International Feature Film due to their unprecedented success in Cuba. Daranas was nominated for a Latin Grammy for Best Long Form Music Video and was awarded the King of Spain Award. His filmography includes Sergio & Sergei (2017), starring Ron Perlman, and Behavior, widely regarded as the best Cuban film of the twenty-first century.
12. William Levy
| William Levy | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | William Gutiérrez-Levy |
| Birthdate | August 29, 1980 (age 42) |
| Birthplace | Cojimar, Cuba |
| Nationality | Cuban-American |
| Occupation | Actor, Former Model |
| Education | Studied Business Administration |
| Partner | Elizabeth Gutiérrez |
| Children | Son: Christopher Alexander Levy |
| Citizenship | United States |
| Religion | Catholic |
| Notable Works | – Pasión |
| Dancing with the Stars | Season 14 Contestant (partnered with Cheryl Burke) |
| Philanthropy | “Alianzas que Construyen” Televisa Foundation |
William Gutiérrez-Levy was born in Cojimar, Cuba, on August 29, 1980, and is a Cuban-American actor and former model. Levy was a model for Next Models and appeared on two Telemundo reality television programs: Isla de la Tentación and Protagonistas de Novela 2. In 2005, he performed La Nena Tiene Tumbao at the Centro de Bellas Artes in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
The Venevision International production Olvidarte Jamás marked his debut on Univision’s Spanish-language channel. After Mi Vida Eres Tu, he appeared in Acorralada.
13. Carlos Acosta
| Carlos Acosta | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Carlos Yunior Acosta Quesada |
| Birthdate | 2 June 1973 |
| Birthplace | Havana, Cuba |
| Nationality | Cuban-British |
| Occupation | Ballet Director and Retired Dancer |
| Current Position | Director of Birmingham Royal Ballet |
| Former Groups | English National Ballet, National Ballet of Cuba, Houston Ballet, American Ballet Theatre |
| Career Highlights | Principal Guest Artist at The Royal Ballet |
| Notable Achievements | Laurence Olivier Award for Outstanding Achievement in Dance |
| Autobiography | “No Way Home: A Cuban Dancer’s Story” |
| Film Appearance | “Yuli: The Carlos Acosta Story” |
| Spouse | Charlotte Holland |
| Children | Three |
Carlos Yunior Acosta Quesada was born on June 2, 1973. He is a Cuban-British ballet director and retired dancer who serves as the Birmingham Royal Ballet’s artistic leader. He performed with the English National Ballet, National Ballet of Cuba, Houston Ballet, and American Ballet Theatre, among others. From 1998 through 2015, he was a permanent member of The Royal Ballet. In 2003, he was moved to the position of significant guest artist, which decreased his responsibilities and allowed him to focus on an expanding schedule of worldwide guest appearances and tours. In November 2015, after 17 years at The Royal Ballet, he danced his final performance in Carmen, which he choreographed and performed in.
14. Aroldis Chapman
| Aroldis Chapman | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Albertín Aroldis Chapman de la Cruz |
| Birthdate | February 28, 1988 |
| Birthplace | Holguín Province, Cuba |
| Nationality | Cuban-born American |
| Team | Texas Rangers (MLB) |
| Position | Relief Pitcher |
| Bats | Left |
| Throws | Left |
| Nicknames | Cuban Missile, Cuban Flame Thrower |
| MLB Debut | August 31, 2010, for the Cincinnati Reds |
| Teams | Cincinnati Reds (2010–2015) |
| Career Highlights | 7× All-Star |
| and Awards | World Series champion (2016) |
| MLB Statistics | Win–loss record: 48–37 |
| (through July 3, 2023) | Earned run average: 2.47 |
| Medals | Representing Cuba |
| Early Life | Birthplace: Holguín, Cuba |
| Defection and MLB | Defected from Cuba |
| Career | Signed with Cincinnati Reds in 2010 |
| Notable Records | Fastest recorded pitch in MLB history: 105.1 mph |
| Personal Life | Father was a boxing trainer, mother was a homemaker |
Albertn Aroldis Chapman de la Cruz was born on February 28, 1988 in Havana, Cuba. He is a free-agent bullpen pitcher in the MLB. He has participated in MLB games for the Cincinnati Reds, the New York Yankees, the Chicago Cubs, and the Cuban National Series for the Holguin team. Chapman bats and throws left-handedly, earning him the monikers “Cuban Missile” and “Cuban Flame Thrower.” Chapman threw domestically and internationally for Holguin and the Cuban national team. In 2010, he signed a contract with the Cincinnati Reds, emigrating from Cuba in 2009. That season was Chapman’s MLB debut. From 2012 to 2015, he was selected to four consecutive National League All-Star teams. In addition, he won the MLB Delivery Man of the Month Award for July 2012 as the best reliever.
15. Jose Canseco
| Jose Canseco | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jose Canseco |
| Nickname | Parkway Jose, Mr. 40-40, El Cañonero Cubano |
| Birthdate | July 2, 1964 |
| Birthplace | Havana, Cuba |
| Nationality | Cuban-American |
| Position | Outfielder / Designated hitter |
| MLB Debut | September 2, 1985, for the Oakland Athletics |
| Last MLB Appearance | October 6, 2001, for the Chicago White Sox |
| Batting Average | .266 |
| Home Runs | 462 |
| Runs Batted In | 1,407 |
| Teams | Oakland Athletics (1985–1992) Texas Rangers (1992–1994) Boston Red Sox (1995–1996) Oakland Athletics (1997) Toronto Blue Jays (1998) Tampa Bay Devil Rays (1999–2000) New York Yankees (2000) Chicago White Sox (2001) |
| Career Highlights and Awards | 6× All-Star 2× World Series champion AL MVP (1988) AL Rookie of the Year (1986) 4× Silver Slugger Award 2× MLB home run leader MLB RBI leader |
| Additional Information | First player in MLB history to hit 40 home runs and steal 40 bases in one season Ranks fourth all-time in home runs for the Oakland A’s (254) One of 14 players in MLB history with 400 home runs and 200 stolen bases Admitted to using performance-enhancing drugs during his career Author of the book “Juiced: Wild Times, Rampant ‘Roids, Smash Hits & How Baseball Got Big” Competed in boxing and mixed martial arts after retiring from MLB Twin brother, Ozzie Canseco, is also a former MLB player |
José Canseco Capas Jr. on July 2, 1964, was born. He is a Cuban-American former Major League Baseball (MLB) outfielder and designated hitter. His nicknames include Parkway Jose, Mr. 40-40, and El Canonero Cubano (The Cuban Cannon). He made a name for himself as one of the most powerful power hitters in the game while playing with the Oakland Athletics. He was a six-time All-Star and won the Rookie of the Year and Most Valuable Player awards in 1986 and 1988, respectively. With the Oakland Athletics (1989) and the New York Yankees, Canseco won two World Series.
16. Oscar Nunez
| Oscar Nunez | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Oscar Nunez |
| Birthdate | November 18, 1958 |
| Birthplace | Colón, Matanzas, Cuba |
| Other Names | Oscar Núñez |
| Occupation | Actor, comedian |
| Notable Role | Oscar Martinez on NBC’s The Office |
| Education | Magna Institute of Dental Technology, Warner Brothers Comedy Writer’s Workshop |
| Language | Bilingual (English and Spanish) |
| Career Highlights | Co-starred in Comedy Central series Halfway Home, appeared in State Farm commercials |
| Television Credits | Malcolm in the Middle, 24, Curb Your Enthusiasm, Reno 911!, The District, Mad TV |
| Film Credits | The Italian Job, Reno 911!: Miami, When Do We Eat?, The Proposal, Prosecuting Casey Anthony |
| Stage Performances | Co-starred in “Smooth Down There,” played Desi Arnaz in I Love Lucy: A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Sitcom |
| Current Project | Portraying Assistant Principal Carlos Hernandez on Netflix’s Mr. Iglesias |
| Marital Status | Married to actress Ursula Whittaker |
| Children | 1 child |
Oscar Nunez, sometimes known as Oscar Nuez, is a Cuban-American actor born November 18, 1958. Oscar Martinez, the Dunder Mifflin accountant, is his most recognizable role from The Office on NBC.
He was a member of The Groundlings before being cast as a regular on The Office. In 2007, he co-created and co-starred in the Comedy Central series Halfway Home, and in 2014, he co-starred in the short-lived USA Network sitcom Benched. He has appeared in several State Farm advertisements since 2018.
17. Daisy Fuentes
| Daisy Fuentes | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Daisy Fuentes |
| Birthdate | November 17, 1966 |
| Birthplace | Havana, Cuba |
| Nationality | Cuban-American |
| Occupation | Actress, Comedian, Model, TV Host, Former Weather Presenter |
| Education | Bergen Community College, Paramus, New Jersey |
| Career Highlights | First Latina MTV VJ |
| Known For | Hosting MTV Internacional |
| Business Ventures | Successful clothing line |
| Current Projects | Co-presenter of La Voz Kids on Telemundo |
| Philanthropy | Supporter of breast cancer research and awareness |
| Personal Life | Considers Harrison, New Jersey, as her home |
| Marital Status | Married to Richard Marx |
On November 17, 1966, Daisy Fuentes was born in Havana, Cuba, and is a Cuban-American actress, comedian, model, television personality, and former weathercaster. Fuentes broke barriers as MTV’s first Latina VJ (signed simultaneously to MTV and MTV Latin America) and Revlon’s first Latina spokesperson with a worldwide contract. Daisy Fuentes Style Pro, an all-natural hair care line, was launched in March 2009 to mass retailers as her debut in the haircare market. Daisy Fuentes Pilates, her Wii fitness game, was published in August 2009.
18. Luis Ortiz
| Luis Ortiz | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Luis Ortiz |
| Nickname | King Kong |
| Weight | Heavyweight |
| Height | 6 ft 4 in (193 cm) |
| Born | March 29, 1979 |
| Birthplace | Camagüey, Cuba |
| Stance | Southpaw |
| Total Fights | 38 |
| Wins | 33 |
| Wins by KO | 28 |
| Losses | 3 |
| No Contests | 2 |
| Amateur Record | 343-19 |
| Notable Achievements | WBA Interim Heavyweight Champion (2015-2016) |
| Notable Fights | – Defeated Bryant Jennings via TKO |
| Notable Skills | Formidable punching power |
Born on March 29, 1979, Luis Ortiz. He is a professional boxer from Cuba. From 2015 to 2016, he held the WBA interim heavyweight title; in 2018 and 2019, he made two challenges for the WBC title. He won a silver medal as an amateur at the 2005 Boxing World Cup. He earned the nickname “King Kong” due to his formidable punching power and counterpunching abilities. The Ring magazine and the Transnational Boxing Rankings Board rank him as the eighth-best active heavyweight worldwide as of November 2021.
19. Vida Guerra
| Vida Guerra | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Vida Guerra |
| Birthdate | March 19, 1974 |
| Birthplace | Havana, Cuba |
| Nationality | Cuban-American |
| Occupation | Glamour Model, Actress |
| Notable Appearances | Featured in FHM magazine, Modeled for men’s magazines, Music video appearances, Spanish language television programs, Films and TV shows |
| Awards and Recognitions | FHM’s Model of the Year, Ranked in FHM’s Top 100 Sexiest Females, Winner of FHM’s Best Butt Award |
| Additional Information | Hosted the show Livin’ the Low Life, Vegetarian and supporter of PETA’s campaign for vegetarianism |
Vida Guerra is an American glamor model and actress born in Cuba on March 19, 1974. Her first notable appearance was in the December 2002 issue of the U.S. edition of FHM magazine; since then, she has modeled for numerous other men’s magazines. In December 2002, Guerra appeared in a lingerie spread for FHM, her first national exposure. Subsequently, the magazine reported that following the article’s publication, nearly one-third of all reader correspondence requested additional photos of her. In 2004, she became “FHM’s Model of the Year” after being requested for additional photo shoots.
20. Mayra Verónica
| Mayra Ver nica | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Mayra Verónica Aruca Rodríguez |
| Birthdate | August 20, 1980 |
| Birthplace | Havana, Cuba |
| Nationality | Cuban American |
| Occupations | Singer, Model, Actress, Television Personality |
| Parents | Arturo Aruca (father), Mayra Rodriguez (mother) |
| Height | 5 ft 3 in (1.60 m) |
| Labels | Syco |
Mayra Verónica Aruca Rodrguez, an American singer, model, actress, and television personality, were born on August 20, 1980. She is well-recognized for her Spanish-language television appearances. Verónica’s appearance on Univision’s Don Francisco Presenta drew the attention of the U.S. edition of FHM magazine. After being featured in FHM, she was featured in its 2004 calendar and went on to work for other magazines. She has appeared on numerous Spanish-language television programs, as well as in music videos and television advertisements.
21. Yasiel Puig
| Yasiel Puig | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Yasiel Puig Valdés |
| Nickname | The Wild Horse |
| Birthdate | December 7, 1990 |
| Birthplace | Cienfuegos, Cuba |
| Nationality | Cuban-born American |
| Position | Professional Baseball Right Fielder |
| MLB Debut | June 3, 2013, for the Los Angeles Dodgers |
| KBO Debut | April 2, 2022, for the Kiwoom Heroes |
| MLB Batting Average | .277 |
| MLB Home Runs | 132 |
| MLB Runs Batted In | 415 |
| KBO Batting Average | .277 |
| KBO Home Runs | 21 |
| KBO Runs Batted In | 73 |
| Teams Played for | Los Angeles Dodgers (2013–2018) Cincinnati Reds (2019) Cleveland Indians (2019) Kiwoom Heroes (2022) |
| Career Highlights | All-Star (2014) |
| Medals | Bronze Medal – 2008 World Junior Baseball Championship |
Yasiel Puig Valdés was born in Cuba on December 7, 1990. He now plays right field for the Kiwoom Heroes of the KBO League. In Major League Baseball, he has represented the Cleveland Indians, Cincinnati Reds, and Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB). Veteran Dodgers broadcaster Vin Scully gave him the moniker “The Wild Horse.”
In 2008, Puig won a bronze medal with the Cuban national baseball team in the World Junior Baseball Championship.
22. Miguel Díaz-Canel
| Miguel D az Canel | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Miguel Mario Díaz-Canel y Bermúdez |
| Birthdate | April 20, 1960 (age 63) |
| Birthplace | Placetas, Villa Clara Province, Cuba |
| Political Party | Communist Party of Cuba |
| Spouse | Lis Cuesta |
| Children | 2 |
| Alma Mater | University of Las Villas |
| Position | First Secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba |
Miguel Mario Daz-Canel y Bermdez was born on 20 April 1960. He is a Cuban politician and engineer who has served as the first secretary of the Cuban Communist Party since 2021 and as president of Cuba since 2019. Daz-Canel replaces Fidel and Ral Castro in all capacities, making him the first Cuban leader since the revolution who is not a Castro. Daz-leadership Canel thus reflects a non-dynastic mode of succession for the party and the state and the end of Castro’s rule in Cuba.
23. Raul Castro
| Raul Castro | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Raul Modesto Castro Ruz |
| Birthdate | June 3, 1931 |
| Birthplace | Birán, Cuba |
| Political Party | Popular Socialist Party (Before 1953) 26th of July Movement (1953–1965) Communist Party (1965–present) |
| Spouse | Vilma Espín |
| Children | 4, including Mariela and Alejandro |
| Parent(s) | Lina Ruz (mother) Ángel Castro y Argiz (legal father) Narciso Campos Pontigo (biological father) |
| Allegiance | Republic of Cuba |
| Branch/service | Revolutionary Armed Forces |
| Years of service | 1953–1959 |
| Rank | Comandante en Jefe (as President) General de Ejército |
| Unit | 26th of July Movement |
| Battles/wars | Cuban Revolution Bay of Pigs Invasion Cuban Missile Crisis |
| First Secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba | 2011-2021 |
| President of Cuba | 2008-2018 |
| Minister of the Armed Forces | 1959-2008 |
| Member of the Politburo of the Communist Party of Cuba | 1965-2021 |
| President of the Council of State and Ministers of Cuba | 2008-2018 |
| Secretary-General of the Non-Aligned Movement | 2006-2008 (acting) |
| President pro tempore of CELAC | 2013-2014 |
Raúl Modesto Castro Ruz was born on 3 June 1931. She was the first secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba from 2011 to 2021. She is a retired politician and military officer from Cuba, following his brother Fidel Castro in the highest post in the one-party communist state. From 1959 to 2008, Castro, one of the military commanders of the Cuban Revolution, served as minister of the armed forces. His ministerial tenure made him the armed forces minister with the longest tenure. From 1965 until 2021, Castro was also a member of the Communist Party of Cuba’s Politburo, the top decision-making body.
24. Ana María Polo
| Ana Mar a Polo | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ana María Polo |
| Birthdate | April 11, 1959 |
| Birthplace | Havana, Cuba |
| Nationality | Cuban-American |
| Occupation | Television Arbitrator, Lawyer, Singer |
| TV Shows | Caso Cerrado, Ana Polo Rules |
| Education | University of Miami School of Law (J.D., 1987) |
| Bar Association | Florida Bar |
| Breast Cancer | Survivor, Advocate, Fundraiser |
| LGBT Rights | Advocate |
| Awards | Daytime Emmy Award Nominee (2010) |
Ana Mara Cristina Polo González was born on 11 April 1959. She is a Cuban-American arbitrator for the television programs Caso Cerrado and Ana Polo Rules.
Ana, born in Havana, Cuba, moved with her family to Puerto Rico when she was two years old. She also sang with the chorus of Jubilee, which Pope Paul VI invited to sing at St. Peter’s Basilica as part of the 1975 Holy Year celebrations. She is currently the arbitrator on the Telemundo program Caso Cerrado, which airs at various times throughout the day, and she has even performed the theme song.
For those looking for plus-size inspiration, look no further than Ana María Polo. This Cuban-born TV host and lawyer has been a trailblazer in the entertainment industry, and her confidence and beauty have made her a role model for many. Check out some other amazing plus-size models for 2022 at Hood MWR.
25. Cristina Saralegui
| Cristina Saralegui | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Cristina Saralegui |
| Birthdate | January 29, 1948 (age 75) |
| Birthplace | Miramar, Havana, Cuba |
| Nationality | Cuban American |
| Alma Mater | University of Miami |
| Occupation(s) | Journalist, Actress, Talk Show Host, TV Personality |
| Years Active | 1973–present |
| Spouse(s) | Tony Menendez (divorced), Marcos Avila (1982–present) |
| Children | 2 |
| Magazine | Editor-in-Chief of Spanish-language Cosmopolitan magazine (1979-1980s) |
| Television Show | Hosted “El Show de Cristina” on Univisión (1989-2010) |
| Books | Published several books |
| Radio Show | Host of “Cristina Radio” on Sirius XM (2012-present) |
| Endorsement | Endorsed President Barack Obama for a second term in 2012 |
| Advocacy | Collaborated with AARP to raise awareness within the Latino community |
| Family | Divorced from Tony, one daughter (Cristina Amelia); married to Marcos Ávila, one son (Jon Marcos) and a stepdaughter (Stephanie) |
Cristina Mariá Saralegui de Ávila was born in Miramar, Havana, Cuba, on January 29, 1948. She is an American journalist, television personality, actress, and host of the Spanish-language chat program El show de Cristina. Before pursuing a career in television, she spent ten years as the editor-in-chief of the Spanish-language version of the magazine Cosmopolitan, distributed throughout Latin America.
26. Danys Báez
| Danys B ez | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Danys Báez |
| Date of Birth | September 10, 1977 |
| Place of Birth | Pinar del Río, Cuba |
| Nationality | Cuban-American |
| Position | Pitcher |
| MLB Teams | Cleveland Indians, Tampa Bay Devil Rays, Los Angeles Dodgers, Atlanta Braves, Baltimore Orioles, Philadelphia Phillies |
| MLB Debut | May 13, 2001 |
| Last MLB Appearance | July 16, 2011 |
| Win-Loss Record | 40-57 |
| Earned Run Average (ERA) | 4.25 |
| Strikeouts | 505 |
| Saves | 114 |
| Career Highlights and Awards | All-Star (2005) |
| Additional Information | Danys Báez González is a Cuban-American former professional baseball pitcher. He played in Major League Baseball (MLB) for various teams, including the Cleveland Indians, Tampa Bay Devil Rays, Los Angeles Dodgers, Atlanta Braves, Baltimore Orioles, and Philadelphia Phillies. Known for his ability to accumulate saves, Báez had a career high of 114. He participated in the 1999 Pan American Games as a representative of Cuba before defecting to the United States. |
Danys Báez González was born on September 10, 1977. He is an ex-professional baseball pitcher of Cuban and American descent. Báez was a Major League Baseball (MLB) player with the Cleveland Indians, the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, the Los Angeles Dodgers, the Atlanta Braves, the Baltimore Orioles, and the Philadelphia Phillies. On February 27, 2012, Baez announced his retirement from baseball.
27. Yoenis Céspedes
| Yoenis C spedes | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Yoenis Céspedes Milanés |
| Nickname | La Potencia (The Power) |
| Birthdate | October 18, 1985 |
| Birthplace | Campechuela, Granma Province, Cuba |
| MLB Debut | March 28, 2012, for the Oakland Athletics |
| Last MLB Appearance | August 1, 2020, for the New York Mets |
| Batted | Right |
| Threw | Right |
| Height | 5 feet 10 inches (1.78 m) |
| Weight | 220 pounds (100 kg) |
| MLB Teams | Oakland Athletics (2012–2014), Boston Red Sox (2014), |
| Career Highlights | 2× All-Star (2014, 2016) |
| and Awards | Gold Glove Award (2015) |
| MLB Statistics | Batting Average: .273 |
| Medals | Baseball World Cup |
| Personal Life | Mother: Estela Milanés |
| Pre-MLB Career | Played eight seasons for Alazanes de Granma |
| MLB Accolades | Home Run Derby Champion (2013, 2014) |
Yoenis Céspedes Milanés was born on October 18, 1985, also known by his nickname “La Potencia” (The Power); he is a Cuban-born professional baseball outfielder. On March 28, 2012, he made his Major League Baseball (MLB) debut with the Oakland Athletics. He has also played for the Boston Red Sox, Detroit Tigers, and New York Mets. Early in his career, he was predominantly a left fielder, but on the Mets, he played both left and center field. A right-handed hitter and fielder, he measures 5 feet 10 inches (1.78 m) in height and weighs 220 pounds.
28. David Fumero
| David Fumero | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | David Fumero |
| Occupation | Actor, Former Fashion Model |
| Known For | Cristian Vega on One Life to Live |
| Birthdate | December 29, 1972 |
| Birthplace | Havana, Cuba |
| Spouse | Melissa Fumero |
| Children | 2 |
| Nationality | Cuban-American |
| Notable Works | One Life to Live, Power |
Joseph Sentielo-Fumero, the father of David Fumero, was born in Havana, Cuba, on December 29, 1972. He is an actor of Cuban descent and a former fashion model. Fumero is primarily recognized for his portrayal as Christian Vega on One Life to Live. Fumero married his One Life to Live co-star Melissa Fumero (née Gallo), who portrayed Adriana Cramer, on December 9, 2007. Together, they have two sons, one born in March 2016 and the other in February 2020.
29. Yuriorkis Gamboa
| Yuriorkis Gamboa | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Yuriorkis Gamboa Toledano |
| Nickname(s) | El Ciclon de Guantánamo (“The Cyclone from Guantánamo”) |
| Weight(s) | Featherweight, Super featherweight, Lightweight |
| Height | 5 ft 5½ in (166 cm) |
| Nationality | Cuban |
| Born | December 23, 1981 in Guantánamo, Cuba |
| Stance | Orthodox |
| Total Fights | 35 |
| Wins | 30 |
| Wins by KO | 18 |
| Losses | 5 |
| Olympic Gold Medal | 2004 Athens Olympics (Flyweight) |
| Featherweight Champion | WBA and IBF (2009-2011) |
| WBA Interim Champion | Super Featherweight, Lightweight |
| Bronze Medal | 2005 World Championships (Featherweight) |
Yuriorkis Gamboa Toledano was born on December 23, 1981, and is a professional boxer from Cuba. He held the WBA and IBF featherweight belts between 2009 and 2011 and the WBA interim titles in both the super featherweight and lightweight divisions. He achieved amateur success by winning a gold medal in the flyweight division at the 2004 Summer Olympics and a bronze medal in the featherweight division at the 2005 World Championships. Gamboa made his professional boxing debut on April 27, 2007, against Alexan Manvelyan in Hamburg, Germany. He trained with technical specialist Manny Masson for his pro debut and his next seven bouts.
30. Randy Arozarena
| Randy Arozarena | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Randy Arozarena González |
| Birthdate | February 28, 1995 (age 28) |
| Nationality | Cuban-Mexican |
| Team | Tampa Bay Rays (MLB) |
| Previous Team | St. Louis Cardinals |
| Position | Outfielder |
| MLB Debut | August 14, 2019, for the St. Louis Cardinals |
| Postseason Record | Holds MLB record for most home runs in a single postseason |
| Rookie of the Year | AL Rookie of the Year (2021) |
| Batting Average | .273 |
| Home Runs | 64 |
| Runs Batted In | 229 |
| Stolen Bases | 67 |
| International Career | Represented Mexico in the World Baseball Classic (2023) |
| All-Star Selection | Named to 2023 MLB All-Star Game |
| Personal Life | Mexican citizenship, has a daughter born in Mexico (2018) |
| Legal Incident | Arrested in 2020 but released without charges |
Randy Arozarena González was born on February 28, 1995. He is a Cuban-Mexican Major League Baseball outfielder for the Tampa Bay Rays (MLB). He formerly played for the St. Louis Cardinals. With ten home runs in a postseason game in 2020, Arozarena set a new MLB record. In the 2020 American League Championship Series, he hit four home runs against the Houston Astros, earning MVP honors. He was named A.L. Rookie of the Year the following season.
31. Iván Pedroso
| Iv n Pedroso | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Iván Lázaro Pedroso Soler |
| Date of Birth | December 17, 1972 |
| Place of Birth | Havana, Cuba |
| Nationality | Cuban |
| Sport | Athletics |
| Discipline | Long jump |
| Notable Athletes Coached | Nelson Évora, Yulimar Rojas, Ana Peleteiro |
| Achievements | Olympic Gold Medalist (2000, Sydney) |
| Best Jump | Officially 8.71 meters |
| Retirement | September 26, 2007 |
| Notable Coach | Teddy Tamgho, 2013 Triple Jump World Champion |
| Relationship | Cousin of hurdler Aliuska López |
Iván Lázaro Pedroso Soler was born on December 17, 1972, in Havana, Cuba, and is a retired track and field athlete specializing in the long jump. He is currently the coach of Nelson Évora, Yulimar Rojas, and Ana Peleteiro. In July of 1990, at 17, Pedroso made his first jump of over eight meters. Despite facing stiff competition from Carl Lewis, Mike Powell, and others in the early 1990s, he won multiple gold medals in international events.
32. Jon Secada
| Jon Secada | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jon Secada |
| Birthdate | October 4, 1961 |
| Birthplace | Havana, Cuba |
| Age | 61 |
| Occupation | Singer, Songwriter |
| Grammy Awards | 2 |
| Record Sales | 15 million records sold |
| Musical Style | Fusion of funk, soul, pop, and Latin percussion |
| Songwriting | Wrote songs for Gloria Estefan, Ricky Martin, and Jennifer Lopez |
| Collaborations | Luciano Pavarotti, Jim Brickman, Olivia Newton-John, Frank Sinatra |
| Performances | A Capitol Fourth concert (PBS), Broadway’s Grease |
| Education | University of Miami |
| Debut Album | Self-titled album (1992), sold 7 million copies |
| Philanthropy | Jon Secada Music Scholarship, charitable initiatives support |
| Residence | Coral Gables, Florida |
Juan Francisco Secada Ramrez, better known by his stage name Jon Secada, was born in Cuba on October 4, 1961. He is one of the most well-known Latin music artists, having won two Grammy Awards and sold 15 million C.D.s. His music combines funk, soul, pop, and Latin percussion. Secada has written songs for Ricky Martin, Jennifer Lopez, and Gloria Estefan. He has recorded duets with Jim Brickman, Olivia Newton-John, and Frank Sinatra and toured with Luciano Pavarotti.
33. Maykel Galindo
| Maykel Galindo | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Maykel Galindo Castañeda |
| Date of Birth | January 28, 1981 |
| Place of Birth | Villa Clara, Cuba |
| Nationality | Cuban |
| Position | Forward |
| Club | Villa Clara |
| Total Appearances | 201 |
| Total Goals | 56 |
| National Team | Cuba |
| Caps | 35 |
| Goals | 12 |
| Defection | Defected to the United States |
| Two-goal Performance | Scored two goals in a match against Real Salt Lake |
| Contributions | Made significant contributions to Chivas USA’s success |
| Visited Cuba | Visited Cuba for the first time in over 11 years |
Maykel Galindo Castaeda was born in Villa Clara on January 28, 1981. She is a former professional footballer from Cuba. A rising star in the Cuban national team’s youth ranks, he made his debut against Guatemala in January 2002. Galindo was subsequently named to the senior team for the 2005 CONCACAF Gold Cup, which was to be played in the United States. He has accumulated 35 caps and scored 12 goals. He played for his country in three FIFA World Cup qualifying matches and three CONCACAF Gold Cup finals.
34. Al Jourgensen
| Al Jourgensen | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Al Jourgensen |
| Birth Name | Alejandro Ramírez Casas |
| Also Known As | The Alien, Alien Jourgensen, Alain Jourgensen, Hypo Luxa, Dog, Alien Dog Star, Buck Satan, Buck Santa, Uncle Al, Enchanted Al, Al F***-ing Jourgensen |
| Birthdate | October 9, 1958 |
| Birthplace | Havana, Cuba |
| Nationality | Cuban-American |
| Occupation(s) | Singer, Musician, Music Producer |
| Genres | Industrial Metal, Industrial Rock, Synthpop, New Wave |
| Bands/Projects | Ministry, Revolting Cocks, Lard, Buck Satan and the 666 Shooters |
| Associated Labels | Wax Trax!, Arista, Sire, Warner Bros., Sanctuary, 13th Planet, Alternative Tentacles, Nuclear Blast |
| Significant Works | Ministry’s “The Land of Rape and Honey” and “Psalm 69: The Way to Succeed and the Way to Suck Eggs” albums |
| Record Label | 13th Planet Records |
| Autobiography | “Ministry: The Lost Gospels According to Al Jourgensen” |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
Alain David Jourgensen is a Cuban-American singer, guitarist, and music producer. He was born Alejandro Ramrez Casas on October 9, 1958. His musical career spans four decades, and he has close ties to the independent record company Wax Trax! Records. Being the vocalist and lyricist for the industrial metal band Ministry is his most well-known position, which he started in 1981 and is the only consistent member. He was the principal musician for several Ministry-related ventures, including Revolting Cocks, Lard, Buck Satan, and the 666 Shooters. He is considered to of the key figures in industrial music, having influenced several other groups and performers in alternative and industrial-related acts.
If you share an ENTP personality type with Al Jourgensen, check out this list of famous figures who share your characteristics. Explore how your type affects your communication style, career choices, and approach to life. From Abraham Lincoln to Leonardo da Vinci, you may find some unexpected role models amongst this diverse list.
35. Tony Plana
| Tony Plana | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | José Antonio Plana |
| Birthdate | April 19, 1952 |
| Nationality | Cuban-American |
| Occupation | Actor, Director |
| Notable Roles | Ignacio Suarez on “Ugly Betty”, Manny Calavera in “Grim Fandango” |
| Education | Loyola Marymount University, Royal Academy of Dramatic Art |
| Stage Career | Directed and acted in Shakespeare productions |
| Filmography | “An Officer and a Gentleman”, “Three Amigos”, “Goal!”, “Lone Star” |
| Television Career | “Hill Street Blues”, “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine”, “Resurrection Boulevard”, “Commander in Chief”, “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation”, “The West Wing”, “24”, “Cagney & Lacey” |
| Voice Acting | Voiced Manny Calavera in the game “Grim Fandango” |
| Teaching Career | Acting instructor at California State University, Dominguez Hills and Rio Hondo College |
| Advocacy | Spokesperson for comprehensive immigration reform |
| Recognition | Keynote speaker at the LULAC conference, Judge at the Noor Iranian Film Festival |
The Cuban-American actor and director José Antonio Plana was born on April 19, 1952. He is well-known for portraying Betty Suarez’s father, Ignacio Suarez, on the ABC television show Ugly Betty and for voicing Manuel “Manny” Calavera in the video game Grim Fandango. Plana is well-known for his roles in feature films and on television, but he is also recognized for his acting and directing abilities on the stage. He has created and directed several Shakespeare productions for minority audiences. He is active in the Los Angeles, Washington, D.C., and New York City theater communities, including leading appearances on Broadway and at New York’s Public Theater.
36. Guillermo Rigondeaux
| Guillermo Rigondeaux | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Guillermo Rigondeaux |
| Birthdate | September 30, 1980 |
| Birthplace | Santiago de Cuba, Cuba |
| Nationality | Cuban |
| Weight Classes | Bantamweight, Super bantamweight, Super featherweight |
| Height | 5 ft 4 in (163 cm) |
| Reach | 67+1⁄2 in (171 cm) |
| Stance | Southpaw |
| Boxing Record | Total fights: 26 |
| Amateur Achievements | Olympic Gold Medals: 2000 Sydney, 2004 Athens |
| Professional Career | Former unified WBA (Super), WBO, and Ring magazine |
| Notable Skills | Exceptionally fast hand speed |
Guillermo Rigondeaux Ortiz was born on September 30, 1980, and is a professional boxer from Cuba. He held the unified WBA (Super), WBO, and Ring magazine super bantamweight titles from 2013 to 2017 and the WBA (Regular) bantamweight titles from 2020 to 2021. In 2017, he also once competed for the WBO junior lightweight belt. In the bantamweight division, Rigondeaux won two consecutive gold medals in the Summer Olympics in 2000 and 2004. He has one of the best amateur records of all time.
37. Danay García
| Danay Garc a | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Danay García |
| Birthdate | July 5, 1984 |
| Birthplace | Havana, Cuba |
| Nationality | Cuban |
| Occupation(s) | Actress, Model |
| Notable Roles | – Sofía Lugo on Fox’s drama series “Prison Break” |
| First Public Role | Lead role in “Maria Antonia” theater production |
| English Studies | Studied English with teachers and dialect coaches |
| Ballet Studies | Trained at Debby Allen Dance Academy |
| Film Debut | Opposite Marisa Tomei in “Danika” |
| Television Roles | – “CSI: Miami” |
| Feature Films | – “From Mexico With Love” |
| Co-writing Career | Worked as a co-writer and co-creator for TV and |
| Notable Projects | – Coqui in “Liz en Septiembre” |
| Television Guest | Guest appearance in “Hawaii Five-0” (2017) |
Danay Aguilar Garca was born in Cuba on July 5, 1984. She is an actor and model. She is best known for playing Sofa Lugo on the Fox drama series Prison Break (2007–2009), and Luciana Galvez in the AMC horror drama series Fear the Walking Dead (2016–present). In a Havana theater performance of Maria Antonia by Eugenio Hernandez Espinosa, she played her first role for the audience at 17. Garcia began studying English with professors and dialect coaches in the United States.
38. Yasmani Grandal
| Yasmani Grandal | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Yasmani Grandal |
| Birthdate | November 8, 1988 |
| Birthplace | Havana, Cuba |
| Nationality | Cuban-American |
| Position | Catcher |
| MLB Debut | June 2, 2012 |
| Current Team | Chicago White Sox |
| Bats | Switch |
| Throws | Right |
| Teams | San Diego Padres, Los Angeles Dodgers, Milwaukee Brewers, Chicago White Sox |
| Career Highlights | 2× MLB All-Star |
| College | University of Miami |
| Contract | Four-year, $73 million (Chicago White Sox) |
| Notable Achievements | 2× All-MLB Second Team (2019) |
| Family | Married to Heather |
| Residence | Chicago, IL |
Yasmani Grandal, born in Havana, Cuba, on November 8, 1988, is an American professional baseball catcher for the Major League Baseball Chicago White Sox (MLB). He once played for the San Diego Padres, the Los Angeles Dodgers, and the Milwaukee Brewers in Major League Baseball. Grandal has been an MLB All-Star twice. The Cincinnati Reds chose Grandal with the twelfth overall pick in the first round of the 2010 Major League Baseball draft. On August 16, 2010, he signed a four-year, $3.2 million contract with the Reds and was added to their 40-man roster. 2010 marked his debut as a professional baseball player with the Arizona League Reds. He got eight hits and four walks in 28 at-bats
39. Konnan
| Konnan | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Konnan |
| Birth Name | Carlos Santiago Espada Moises |
| Born | January 6, 1964 |
| Birthplace | Santiago de Cuba Province, Cuba |
| Nationality | Cuban-born American |
| Ring Name(s) | Konnan, El Centurión, The Latin Fury, Konnan the Barbarian, Max Moon, Speedy Gonzales, and more |
| Promotions | Major League Wrestling (MLW), Impact Wrestling, Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide (AAA) |
| Accomplishments | Held fifteen title belts in nine promotions |
| Notable Stables/Teams | nWo, The Filthy Animals, 3 Live Kru, Latin American Xchange (LAX) |
| Other Roles | Manager, color commentator, booker, creative consultant |
| Allegiance | United States |
| Service/Branch | United States Navy |
| Unit | USS Cape Cod (AD-43) |
Charles Ashenoff, better known by his ring name as Konnan, born Carlos Santiago Espada Moises on January 6, 1964. He is a professional wrestling personality, manager, and former professional wrestler. He is presently contracted with Major League Wrestling (MLW) and Impact Wrestling. In Impact, he managed The Latin American Xchange (LAX) and now serves as a creative team member. During his nearly 30-year career, He has competed for independent and important promotions in Mexico and the United States, holding fifteen title belts.
40. Lili Estefan
| Lili Estefan | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Lili Estefan |
| Birthdate | March 20, 1967 |
| Birthplace | Santiago de Cuba, Cuba |
| Nationality | Cuban American |
| Occupation | Model, Television Presenter |
| Known for | Co-host of El Gordo y la Flaca, Red Table Talk: The Estefans |
| Family | Niece of Emilio Estefan and Gloria Estefan |
| Spouse | Lorenzo Luaces |
| Children | 2 |
| Notable Shows | – El Gordo y la Flaca (1998-present) |
| Awards and Honors | – Lifetime Achievement Award at the Premios TVyNovelas |
Liliana Del Carmen Estefan was born on March 20, 1967. He is a Cuban-American model and television host, best known as the co-anchor of the Univision program El Gordo y la Flaca. Estefan became prominent in 1986 when Univision engaged her as a model for the television program Sábado Gigante. She rapidly became the audience’s and Don Francisco’s favorite performer. Numerous times, Estefan appeared on Francisco’s program Don Francisco Presenta. Estefan joined her aunt Gloria Estefan and paternal cousin Emily as co-hosts of Red Table Conversation: The Estefans, a spin-off of the Facebook Watch talk show Red Table Talk, in 2020.
41. Erislandy Lara
| Erislandy Lara | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Erislandy Lara Santoya |
| Nickname(s) | El Oro de Guantanamo, The American Dream |
| Weight(s) | Light middleweight, Middleweight |
| Height | 5 ft 9 in (175 cm) |
| Reach | 75+1/2 in (192 cm) |
| Nationality | Cuban (until 2017), American (since 2017) |
| Born | April 11, 1983, Guantanamo, Cuba |
| Stance | Southpaw |
| Boxing Record | Total Fights: 35 |
| Medal Record | Men’s amateur boxing |
| Professional Career | – Multiple world championships in two weight classes |
| Amateur Achievements | – Captain of the Cuban national amateur team |
| Notable Matches | – Defeated Olympic champion Bakhtiyar Artayev |
| Defection | – Defected from Cuba during the 2007 Pan American Games |
| Professional Debut | – Made his ESPN debut on January 1, 2009, with a first-round TKO win |
| Controversial Loss | – Controversial majority decision loss to Paul Williams |
| Dominant Performances | – TKO victory over Alfredo Angulo |
| Notable Matchup | – Split decision loss to Canelo Álvarez |
Erislandy Lara Santoya was born on April 11, 1983. He is a professional Cuban-American boxer. Since 2021, he has held the WBA (Regular) middleweight championship. Between 2014 and 2021, he held various versions (Regular and Super) of the WBA light middleweight title and the IBO light middleweight title twice between 2015 and 2021. As of May 2022, BoxRec ranks Lara as the fifth-best active middleweight in the world.
If you’re a boxing fan, you might know about Erislandy Lara, who is one of Cuba’s most celebrated boxers. Canelo Alvarez’s height and weight have been talked about a lot, but did you know that Lara has dominated in multiple weight classes? Despite facing challenges outside of the ring, including defection and family separation, Lara has continued to excel in his career and represent Cuba with pride.
42. Frank Sanchez
| Frank Sanchez | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Frank Sanchez |
| Nickname | The Cuban Flash |
| Weight Class | Heavyweight |
| Nationality | Cuban |
| Born | July 18, 1992 |
| Birthplace | Guantanamo, Cuba |
| Professional Debut | September 22, 2017 |
| Titles Held | NABO Heavyweight Title (since 2019) WBC Continental Americas Heavyweight Title (since 2020) |
| Boxing Record | Total Fights: 23 Wins: 22 Wins by KO: 15 No Contests: 1 |
| Notable Wins | – Efe Ajagba – Victor Bisbal – Joey Dawejko |
| Latest Fight | October 15, 2022, against Carlos Negron (won by 9th round TKO) |
| Trainer | Eddy Reynoso |
| Manager | Ralph Heredia |
| Residence | Guadalajara, Mexico |
| Stance | Orthodox |
| Active Years | 2017-present |
Frank Sánchez Faure was born on July 18, 1992. He is a Cuban professional boxer who has held the NABO heavyweight championship since 2019 and the WBC Continental Americas heavyweight championship since 2020. On September 22, 2017, Sánchez made his professional debut at the Mel Ott Recreation Center in Gretna, Louisiana, where he won a first-round technical knockout (TKO) against Justin Thornton. On May 4, 2018, he faced Lamont Capers for the first time after winning his first six bouts via knockout.
43. Steven Bauer
| Steven Bauer | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Steven Bauer |
| Birthdate | December 2, 1956 |
| Birthplace | Havana, Cuba |
| Other Names | Rocky Echevarría |
| Education | University of Miami |
| Occupation | Actor |
| Years Active | 1977–present |
| Famous Roles | Manny Ribera in Scarface |
| Notable Work | Scarface, Running Scared, Sword of Gideon, Wiseguy |
| Spouses | Melanie Griffith, Ingrid Anderson, Christiana Boney, |
| Children | 2 |
Steven Bauer was born on December 2, 1956, as Esteban Ernesto Echevarria Samson. He is an American actor of Cuban descent. Bauer began his career on PBS, portraying Joe Pea, the son of Cuban immigrants, on Qué Pasa, USA? (1977–1980). He is arguably best known for his performance as the Cuban drug kingpin Manolo “Manny” Ribera in the 1983 crime film Scarface, where he co-starred with Al Pacino and Michelle Pfeiffer. In Better Call Saul and Breaking Bad, he portrayed Eladio Fuente, the boss of a drug gang, and in Ray Donovan, he portrayed Avi Rudin, a retired Mossad agent (2013–2020).
44. Rudy Sarzo
| Rudy Sarzo | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Rudy Sarzo |
| Birthdate | November 18, 1950 |
| Birthplace | Havana, Cuba |
| Nationality | Cuban American |
| Residence | Florida, U.S. |
| Genres | Hard rock, heavy metal |
| Occupation(s) | Bassist |
| Years Active | 1975–present |
| Notable Bands | Quiet Riot, Ozzy Osbourne, Whitesnake, Dio, Blue Öyster Cult, Geoff Tate’s Queensrÿche, Devil City Angels, The Guess Who |
| Notable Works | “Metal Health,” “Diary of a Madman,” “Slide It In” |
| Notable Award | Inductee of the “Hall of Heavy Metal History” |
| Notable Book | “Off the Rails: A Journey Through the Wild Ride of Ozzy Osbourne’s Band” |
Rodolfo Maximiliano Sarzo Lavieille Grande Ruiz Payret y Chaumont is a Cuban-American hard rock/heavy metal bassist born on November 18, 1950. His collaborations with Quiet Riot, Ozzy Osbourne, and Whitesnake are among the most well-known. Still, he has also performed with other notable heavy metal and hard rock bands, such as Manic Eden, Dio, Blue Oyster Cult, Geoff Tate’s Queensryche, Devil City Angels, and The Guess Who. He rejoined Quiet Riot in 2021 but has agreed to complete the remainder of his tour with The Guess Who until a replacement is found.
45. María Conchita Alonso
| Mar a Conchita Alonso | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | María Conchita Alonso |
| Birthdate | June 29, 1957 |
| Birthplace | Cienfuegos, Cuba |
| Citizenship | Cuba, Venezuela, United States |
| Occupations | Singer, actress |
| Years Active | 1971–present |
| Musical Career | Genres: Latin pop, adult contemporary, dance-pop, pop rock |
| Broadway Milestone | First Latin American actress born outside the U.S. to star in a Broadway musical |
| Awards and Nominations | Nominated for the Independent Spirit Award for Best Leading Actress (1996) |
| Film Career | Hollywood film debut in Moscow on the Hudson (1984) |
| Television Career | Portrayed Lucía on the ABC series Desperate Housewives (2006) |
| Activism | Spoke in support of LGBT rights and appreciated her LGBT fans |
María Concepción Alonso Bustillo, better known as Mara Conchita Alonso, was born on June 29, 1957. She is a singer, actress, and former beauty queen.
She has participated in film and television productions and was nominated for the Independent Spirit Award for Best Leading Actress for her performance in Caught in 1996. She has achieved multiple gold and platinum records as a singer and has been nominated for three Grammys. Alonso was the first Latina actress born outside of the United States to star in a Broadway musical.
46. Desmond Child
| Desmond Child | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Desmond Child |
| Birthdate | October 28, 1953 |
| Birthplace | Gainesville, Florida, U.S. |
| Background information | Child in 2019 |
| Birth name | John Charles Barrett |
| Genres | Pop rock, adult contemporary, hard rock, glam metal, disco, Latin pop |
| Occupation(s) | Songwriter, producer |
| Years active | 1975–present |
| Songwriters Hall of Fame | Inducted in 2008 |
John Charles Barrett, professionally known as Desmond Child, was born on October 28, 1953. He is an American songwriter and producer. In 2008, he was admitted to the Songwriters Hall of Fame. In 1975, Child formed the R&B-influenced pop-rock band Desmond Child & Rouge with singers Myriam Valle, Maria Vidal, and Diana Grasselli and hired musicians. “Our Love is Insane” peaked at No. 51 on the Billboard Hot 100. “Last of an Ancient Breed” was used on the 1979 soundtrack for The Warriors.
As a multi-talented songwriter and producer, Desmond Child has worked with some of the biggest names in music history. Interestingly, Child has also been open about his struggles with mental health. Check out this list of 50 famous celebrities who have opened up about BPD to read more about other celebs’ experiences with mental health.
47. William Levy
| William Levy | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | William Levy |
| Birthdate | August 29, 1980 |
| Birthplace | Cojimar, Havana, Cuba |
| Nationality | Cuban-American |
| Occupations | Actor, former model |
| Years Active | 2003–present |
| Partner | Elizabeth Gutiérrez |
| Children | 2 (Son: Christopher Alexander, Daughter: Kailey Alexandra) |
William Gutiérrez-Levy was born in Cojimar, Cuba, on August 29, 1980, and is a Cuban-American actor and former model. Levy was a model for Next Models and appeared on two Telemundo reality television programs: Isla de la Tentación and Protagonistas de Novela 2. In 2005, he performed La Nena Tiene Tumbao at the Centro de Bellas Artes in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
The Venevision International production Olvidarte Jamás marked his debut on Univision’s Spanish-language channel. After Mi Vida Eres Tu, he appeared in Acorralada. In 2008, he appeared in Viviana Cordero’s Retazos de Vida, his debut film.
48. Malena Burke
| Malena Burke | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Malena Burke |
| Birthdate | September 15, 1958 |
| Birthplace | Havana, Cuba |
| Residence | Miami, United States |
| Occupation | Cuban Singer |
| Education | Amadeo Roldan Conservatory (Violin, Guitar, Musical Writing) |
| Career Highlights | – Started at Casino Parisien, Hotel Nacional de Cuba |
| Move to the US | Came to the United States in 1995 |
| Discography | – “Salseando” |
| Family | Children: Flavia, Dulena, Osmel, Lena |
Malena Burke was born on September 15, 1958, in Havana, Cuba, and currently resides in Miami. She began her musical education at several art institutions at the age of eight and received certificates in violin, guitar, and musical composition from the Amadeo Roldan Conservatory. Her singing career was a happy accident. Malena received her initial proposal to perform at the Casino Parisien’s anniversary at the Hotel Nacional de Cuba, the most prestigious hotel in Havana. She agreed and performed beside her mother, the great Cuban vocalist Elena Burke, for the first time.
49. Lena Burke
| Lena Burke | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Lena Burke |
| Birthdate | February 18, 1978 |
| Birthplace | Havana, Cuba |
| Other Names | Lena Pérez |
| Occupation | Singer-songwriter, Pianist, Actress |
| Family Background | Daughter of Malena Burke, Granddaughter of Elena Burke |
| Early Musical Talent | Started writing songs at age 3, began guitar classes at age 5, and learned classical piano at age 7 |
| Career Highlights | Sang backing vocals for Gloria Estefan, Julio Iglesias, Jennifer Lopez, Thalía, Jaci Velasquez, Chayanne, and Alejandro Sanz |
| Debut Single | “Tu Corazón” (duet with Alejandro Sanz) received a Latin Grammy nomination for Song of the Year |
| Albums | “Lena” (2005), “La Mala” (2008), “Alex, Jorge y Lena” (2010) |
| Concert Participation | Featured in productions with Plácido Domingo, Chayanne, Alejandro Sanz, Jennifer Lopez, Gloria Estefan, Julio Iglesias, and others |
| Recognition | Nominated for Premio Lo Nuestro for Best Breakout Group or Duo (2011) with “Alex, Jorge y Lena” |
Lena Burke, sometimes known as Lena Pérez or simply Lena, was born in Havana, Cuba, on February 18, 1978. She is a singer-songwriter. As a child, Burke learned to play the guitar and classical piano. Burke began her career by providing background vocals on albums by Gloria Estefan, Julio Iglesia, Jennifer Lopez, Thala, Jaci Velasquez, Chayanne, and Alejandro Sanz. Sanz introduced Burke to label execs who signed her. Her debut single, “Tu Corazón,” a duet with Sanz, was nominated for Song of the Year at the Latin Grammys. In 2008, her second album, La Mala, was published.
50. Lourdes Gurriel Jr.
| Lourdes Gurriel Jr | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Lourdes Yunielki Gurriel Castillo Jr. |
| Team | Arizona Diamondbacks |
| Position | Left fielder |
| Date of Birth | October 10, 1993 |
| Birthplace | Sancti Spíritus, Cuba |
| Bats | Right |
| Throws | Right |
| MLB Debut | April 20, 2018 |
| Batting Average | .283 |
| Home Runs | 83 |
| Runs Batted In | 308 |
| Career Teams | Toronto Blue Jays (2018–2022), Arizona Diamondbacks (2023–present) |
| Career Highlights | All-Star (2023) |
| Medals | Represented Cuba in Central American and Caribbean Games (2014) and World Port Tournament (2015) |
| Defection | Defected from Cuba to pursue MLB career |
| MLB Contract | Signed a seven-year, $22 million contract with the Toronto Blue Jays |
| Historic Achievement | Made baseball history with brother by both hitting two home runs on the same day (September 21, 2018) |
| Citizenship | Became a United States citizen on May 8, 2023 |
| Family | Brother Yuli Gurriel plays for the Houston Astros; son of Lourdes Gourriel |
Lourdes Yunielki Gurriel Castillo Jr. was born on October 10, 1993, and is a Cuban Major League Baseball left fielder for the Toronto Blue Jays. Before fleeing Cuba, he played for Sancti Sprites and the Industriales of the Cuban National Series. Following his defection, Gurriel was regarded as one of the best international prospects. In 2010, at age 16, Gurriel made his debut in the Cuban National Series with Sancti Sprites. Gurriel batted.200 in 15 at-bats over 16 games as a pinch-hitter. The following year, Gurriel appeared in 55 games and hit.226 with three home runs and 16 RBIs. Gurriel batted 253 in 67 games for the Sancti Sprites in his final season, driving in 32 runs and hitting four home runs.