Raymond Cruz

Raymond Cruz, born on September 10, 1964, is an acclaimed American actor. He is renowned for his versatile roles, most notably as Detective Julio Sanchez in the series The Closer and its spinoff Major Crimes. Another of his notable performances is his recurring role as the drug lord Tuco Salamanca in the critically acclaimed crime drama Breaking Bad and its prequel series Better Call Saul. Of Mexican descent, Cruz grew up witnessing and avoiding East Los Angeles' significant gang activity. His formative experiences influenced his portrayal of Tuco Salamanca, creating a compelling and authentic character. Cruz attributes his interest in American literature as an essential factor that helped him avoid joining gangs. His educational journey involved time at three different high schools, along with attendance at East Los Angeles College.

Cruz's prolific career covers a range of film roles, such as sniper Ding Chavez in Clear and Present Danger, Hector in Out For Justice, and U.S. Marine Sergeant Rojas in The Rock. He appeared as the gang member Chuey in the gang film Blood In Blood Out. Cruz's role extended to television, where he played a Los Angeles firefighter in Collateral Damage, had guest roles in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, The X-Files, and 24. His recurring role as Paco on My Name Is Earl and Alejandro Perez on Nip/Tuck underlines his talents in character arcs. In his personal life, he is married to actress Simi Mehta, with whom he co-starred in the The X-Files episode 'El Mundo Gira'.