| Full Name: | Benicio Monserrate Rafael del Toro Sánchez |
| Age: | 56 |
| Birthday: | February 19, 1967 |
| Born: | San Germán, Puerto Rico |
| Net Worth: | $45 million |
| Social Media: | Instagram, Twitter |
Early Life and Family
Born in San Germán, Puerto Rico to lawyer Gustavo del Toro and museum director Fausta Sanchez Rivera, Benicio was the youngest of four children. When his mother tragically passed away from hepatitis at age 9, a profound event that influenced del Toro deeply, his family relocated to Pennsylvania where he attended prep school. During high school, del Toro‘s father encouraged his interest in acting, even driving him to New York for auditions.
Acting Career: Instant Recognition
After bit parts on television in the late 1980s, del Toro first grabbed attention with his riveting performance as the mumbling con artist Fred Fenster in The Usual Suspects (1995). The role earned him instant critical acclaim and his first Independent Spirit Award.
Just a few years later, del Toro reached the pinnacle of his profession, winning an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his layered, affecting portrayal of conflicted Tijuana cop Javier Rodriguez in Steven Soderbergh‘s Traffic (2000). Displaying remarkable range, del Toro gained 40 pounds for the part and immersed himself in the character‘s world. The role proved his transition from gritty character actor to leading man.
Critically Acclaimed Performances
Some of del Toro‘s most notable performances include:
- Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas (1998) – Unhinged lawyer Dr. Gonzo opposite Johnny Depp
- 21 Grams (2003) – Grieving father Jack Jordan, garnering his second Oscar nomination
- Things We Lost in the Fire (2007) – Recovering heroin addict Jerry Sunborne opposite Halle Berry
- Che (2008) – Iconic title role of revolutionary Che Guevara, winning Best Actor at Cannes
Recent Successes
Del Toro continues to shine in blockbusters and art house films alike:
- Sicario (2015) – Mysterious, principled Alejandro in Denis Villeneuve‘s crime thriller
- Star Wars: The Last Jedi (2017) – Shady hacker DJ
- Avengers: Infinity War (2018) – Taneleer Tivan/The Collector
The Mark of a Master: Critical Acclaim
Lauded for his craft and commitment, del Toro is considered one of the best actors of his time. Peter Travers of Rolling Stone calls him "the most rewarding actor in movies today." Director Sean Penn attests, "No one gives more." Del Toro elevates every film he‘s in with his beautiful character work and unwavering dedication.
Beyond the Screen: Artist and Family Man
Outside his acting, del Toro expresses his artistic spirit through painting, sculpture, and photography. He co-founded the production company Mirada and supports various political causes. The devoted dad of two children divides his time between Los Angeles and Puerto Rico. Known for guarding his private life, he lets his exceptional performances speak for themselves.
The Master Transformer
In a legendary career spanning over 30 years, Benicio del Toro has established himself as one of the most talented, committed actors around. His trademark intensity, extensive range, and complete immersion in his roles sets del Toro apart. I‘ve greatly enjoyed following his career and transformational performances over the years. He continues to choose challenging, thought-provoking projects and bring his singular gifts to every character. Benicio del Toro is truly one of our most gifted living actors.