Esai Morales aka Esai Manuel Morales Jr. is an American actor, director, producer, and musician known for his versatile performances in film and television. He is famous as “Lieutenant Tony Rodriguez” in the television series “NYPD Blue” and “Esteban Gonzalez” in the PBS series “American Family”.
He is mostly famous for playing “Roberto Bob Morales” in the biographical musical drama “La Bamba” and “Ricardo,” a journalist, in the suspenseful drama “The Disappearance of Garcia Lorca.”
Esai Morales’s Bio, Age
He was born on October 1, 1962, in Brooklyn, New York, to Puerto Rican parents Esai Morales Sr., a welder, and Iris Margarita, a union activist engaged with the International Ladies’ Garment Workers’ Union. Morales grew up in an ethnically varied neighborhood, which influenced his identity and career.
Career
In New York, he made his professional debut in theater and television. Bad Boys (1983), his first major film, was about competing youngsters committed to a juvenile correctional facility.
Morales began his acting journey in the late 1970s and early 1980s with appearances in television shows such as “Fame” and “Miami Vice.” However, his breakthrough role came in 1987 when he portrayed the character of Bob Morales, the brother of Ritchie Valens, in the biographical film “La Bamba.” His powerful performance earned widespread popularity and established him as a talented actor in the industry.
Esai Morales has shown his versatility by playing a variety of roles throughout his career. He has acted in movies such as “Bad Boys,” “Rapa Nui,” “My Family,” “Fast Food Nation,” and “Gun Hill Road.” For their passion, emotional heft, and honesty, his performances have received high recognition.
In addition to his work in film, Morales has had a successful career in television. He has appeared in numerous TV shows, including “NYPD Blue,” “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit,” “Criminal Minds,” and “Chicago P.D.” One of his most notable television roles was as Lieutenant Tony Rodriguez in the acclaimed HBO series “Oz.”
In 2011, Morales played the role of Enrique in the drama film Gun Hill Road and the web series Los Americans. He collaborated with Tony Plana, Yvonne DeLaRosa, Lupe Ontiveros, and JC Gonzalez on the project.
Esai Morales is also recognized for his involvement in activism and advocacy. He has been a vocal supporter of various causes, including Latino representation in the entertainment industry and social justice issues.
Esai Morales has established himself as a respected and versatile actor, known for his compelling performances on both the big and small screens. His career spans several decades, and he continues to contribute to the entertainment industry with his talent and passion
Achievement
Morales was given the Rita Moreno HOLA Award for Excellence by the Hispanic Organization of Latin Actors in 2005. For his influence as an actor and a role model, he was given the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Arpa Foundation for Film, Music, and Art.
Who is Esai Morales dating?
Esai Morales is married to Elvimar Silva.
What is Esai Morales’s Net Worth?
Esai Morales has an estimated net worth of $5 million.
Body Measurement
- Height: 5 feet 10 inches
- Weight: 75 kg
- Hair Color: Dark Brown
- Eye color: Brown