Salma Hayek

ABOUT

Salma Hayek Pinault is a renowned Mexican-American actress and producer, acclaimed for her dynamic performances and contributions to the film industry. She gained international recognition for her role as Frida Kahlo in the 2002 biographical film "Frida," for which she was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress. Hayek is also known for her roles in films such as "Desperado," "From Dusk till Dawn," "Dogma," and the romantic comedy "Fools Rush In." Beyond her acting prowess, Hayek has been influential as a film producer, with her production company Ventanarosa producing notable works including the television series "Ugly Betty."

BEFORE FAME

Salma Hayek was born on September 2, 1966, in Coatzacoalcos, Veracruz, Mexico. She is the daughter of Diana Jiménez Medina, an opera singer and talent scout, and Sami Hayek Domínguez, a Lebanese-Mexican businessman. Raised in a wealthy, devout Catholic family, Hayek was sent to the Academy of the Sacred Heart in Grand Coteau, Louisiana, at the age of 12, but later returned to Mexico to pursue her interest in acting. She studied International Relations at the Universidad Iberoamericana before deciding to fully commit to her acting career.

TRIVIA

Hayek made her Hollywood breakthrough with her role in the action film "Desperado" opposite Antonio Banderas, directed by Robert Rodriguez. She was among the early Latino actors to achieve significant success in Hollywood, breaking barriers and setting new standards for Latinx representation in the film industry. In addition to her acting and producing talents, Hayek is an advocate for various social causes, including domestic violence prevention and immigrant rights. Her collaboration with Revlon and Avon has also solidified her status as a fashion and beauty icon.

FAMILY LIFE

In 2009, Salma Hayek married French billionaire François-Henri Pinault, the CEO of Kering. The couple has a daughter named Valentina Paloma Pinault, born in September 2007. Hayek balances her time between family life, her acting career, and her numerous philanthropic efforts. She has often spoken about her close-knit family and the importance of maintaining her cultural roots and heritage.

ASSOCIATED WITH

Throughout her career, Salma Hayek has worked with numerous esteemed directors and actors. Her frequent collaborations with Robert Rodriguez in films like "Desperado," "From Dusk till Dawn," and "Once Upon a Time in Mexico" have been particularly notable. She starred alongside Antonio Banderas in multiple films, establishing a strong on-screen chemistry. Hayek also co-starred with Penélope Cruz in the 2006 film "Bandidas," and appeared alongside Adam Sandler in the "Grown Ups" film series. Her association with director Julie Taymor for "Frida" remains a highlight of her career, showcasing her ability to bring complex, real-life characters to the silver screen.