Eva Mendes Reveals Her Surprising Cuban Roots

Origins

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By Mattie Jones

eva mendes ethnicity

Eva Mendes is Cuban, with a mixed heritage that includes Spanish, some African, and possibly other roots, making her background as fascinating as her Hollywood career.

Eva Mendes ethnicity

Born Eva de la Caridad Mendez on March 5, 1974, in Miami, Florida, she was raised primarily by her mother after the family relocated to Los Angeles’s Silver Lake area. Fluent in Spanish from a young age, Eva credits her Cuban upbringing—and African-Cuban ancestry—for her fiery spirit and undeniable allure.

Building an Impressive Résumé

Beyond her cultural background, Eva has built a multifaceted career:

  • As an actress, she starred in flicks like 2 Fast 2 Furious, Hitch, and Ghost Rider.
  • As a model, she represented big-name brands such as Calvin Klein and Cartier.
  • As a businessperson, she co-designed for New York & Company and served as creative director of CIRCA Beauty.
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A Hollywood Power Couple

Eva shares two children with Canadian actor Ryan Gosling, solidifying their status as one of Hollywood’s most talked-about families. Whether gracing the red carpet or launching new fashion lines, Eva Mendes continues to capture the spotlight—proving that a rich cultural heritage can fuel an equally vibrant career.