Get ready to dive into the thrilling career of Amaury Nolasco, the actor who captured hearts as Fernando Sucre in “Prison Break.” But his story goes far beyond those prison walls. From blockbuster hits like “Transformers” to intense action flicks like “A Good Day to Die Hard,” Nolasco has carved a unique path in Hollywood. Join us as we explore his journey, his commitment to representing his Puerto Rican heritage, and the diverse roles that have made him a captivating presence on screen.
Beyond the Bars: Amaury Nolasco’s Rise to Fame
You probably know him best as the charming and loyal Fernando Sucre from “Prison Break,” and it’s true, that role launched Amaury Nolasco into the spotlight. But to define his career by that one iconic character would be a disservice to his talent. Nolasco has spent decades building a diverse resume, tackling roles that showcase his range and solidify his place in the entertainment industry.
Born in Puerto Rico in 1970, Nolasco’s passion for acting led him to Los Angeles, where he landed early roles in action films like “2 Fast 2 Furious” (2003) and the global phenomenon “Transformers” (2007). These films allowed him to flex his acting muscles in the fast-paced world of car chases and battles alongside giant robots.
Then came 2005, and “Prison Break” premiered. As Sucre, Nolasco brought a unique blend of humor, heart, and unwavering loyalty to the show’s high-stakes world. He wasn’t just a prisoner; he was a friend, a confidant, and a beacon of hope for viewers, solidifying his place as a fan favorite.
But Nolasco refused to be typecast. He went on to star in action thrillers like “Armored” (2009) and “A Good Day to Die Hard” (2013) proving he could handle intense action sequences with the best of them. He even returned to the “Transformers” franchise as Agent FIG, showcasing his impressive versatility.
His television work is just as impressive and diverse. He led the police procedural “Chase” (2010), tapped into his comedic timing in “Work It” (2012), and embraced gritty crime dramas like “Gang Related” (2014). His role as Detective Frankie Cuevas Sr. in “Hightown” (2020-present) demonstrated his dramatic depth and earned him critical acclaim.
What truly distinguishes Amaury Nolasco is his unwavering commitment to representation. As a proud Puerto Rican actor, he’s become a vocal advocate for diversity in Hollywood. Nolasco’s career trajectory paves the way for other Latino actors and serves as an inspiration to aspiring artists from all backgrounds. His commitment to using his platform for positive change cements his status as a role model on and off the screen.
Is Eva Longoria Related to Amaury Nolasco?
Many people wonder if Eva Longoria and Amaury Nolasco are related, given their frequent collaborations and shared prominence in the Latinx entertainment world. However, they are not related by blood or marriage.
Their connection is purely professional, stemming from their shared passion for increasing Latino representation in Hollywood. Their paths first crossed in 2014 for the documentary “El Voto Hispano,” which encouraged Latinx communities to vote. They later worked together on the Apple TV+ show “Land of Women” (2024), with Longoria starring and Nolasco in a recurring role.
Amaury Nolasco’s Notable Roles: A Look at His Filmography
While “Prison Break” remains a defining moment in his career, Amaury Nolasco boasts a diverse filmography that extends far beyond those prison walls. Here’s a glimpse at some of his most notable roles:
Movies:
- “2 Fast 2 Furious” (2003): Nolasco took on the fast-paced world of street racing as Orange Julius alongside Vin Diesel and Paul Walker.
- “Transformers” (2007): He joined the blockbuster franchise as ACWO Jorge “Fig” Figueroa, a U.S. Navy SEAL fighting alongside the Autobots.
- “Max Payne” (2008): Nolasco showcased his range in this gritty action flick as Jack Lupino.
- “Armored” (2009): He starred as Palmer in this intense action thriller about a group of armored truck guards planning a heist.
- “A Good Day to Die Hard” (2013): Nolasco shared the screen with Bruce Willis, playing a Russian terrorist in this high-octane action sequel.
TV Shows:
- “Prison Break” (2005-2008, 2017): His portrayal of Fernando Sucre, a loyal friend and cunning inmate, earned him global recognition and a devoted fan base.
- “Chase” (2010): Nolasco led this police procedural as Marco Martinez, demonstrating his dramatic acting chops.
- “Work It” (2012): He explored his comedic side as Angel Ortiz in this sitcom about two friends who pose as women to get jobs.
- “Gang Related” (2014): Nolasco embraced a darker role as Carlos Acosta in this crime drama about a Los Angeles gang task force.
- “Deception” (2018): He starred as Mike Alvarez in this series that blended crime drama with elements of magic and illusion.
- “Hightown” (2020-present): Nolasco’s performance as Detective Frankie Cuevas Sr. in this critically acclaimed crime drama has garnered significant praise.
The “Southland” Mystery: Why Did Amaury Nolasco Leave?
In 2009, Amaury Nolasco joined the critically acclaimed police drama “Southland” as Detective Rene Cordero, partnering with Detective Lydia Adams (played by Regina King). His arrival brought a surge of excitement, arriving on the heels of his “Prison Break” fame. However, after just three episodes, Nolasco’s character abruptly disappeared from the show, leaving fans bewildered.
To this day, no official explanation has been given for his departure. Some speculate that there were behind-the-scenes issues or contract disputes. Others believe that the producers may have decided that the character wasn’t the right fit for the show’s direction. Whatever the reason, Nolasco’s brief stint on “Southland” remains a curious footnote in his career.
Interestingly, Clifton Collins Jr. stepped in as Detective Ray Harper, a newly created character, to replace Nolasco. Collins’s performance was so well-received that it’s easy to forget that his character wasn’t part of the original plan. The “Southland” situation underscores the unpredictable nature of the television industry, where even the most promising collaborations can take unexpected turns.
Amaury Nolasco: A Legacy of Versatility and Representation
Amaury Nolasco’s journey is a testament to the power of dedication, versatility, and a commitment to making a difference. He’s proven himself capable of inhabiting a wide range of characters, from charming heroes to menacing villains. He hasn’t shied away from challenging roles, choosing projects that allow him to explore different genres and flex his acting muscles.
However, Nolasco’s impact extends far beyond entertainment. He leverages his platform to advocate for diversity and inclusion in Hollywood, using his voice to champion representation for Latino actors and inspire future generations of artists. His career serves as a powerful reminder that talent knows no boundaries and that embracing your heritage can be a source of strength and inspiration.
