Ricardo Montalbán: A Legacy of Grace and Advocacy

Acclaimed actor Ricardo Montalbán was born on November 25, 1920, in Mexico City, Mexico. Though audiences may best remember him as Mr. Roarke from the hit show Fantasy Island (1977–1984), his career spanned seven decades. He appeared in a wide range of films, including musicals, and held leading roles or guest-starred in dozens of TV series. He famously played Khan in Star Trek and Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan (1982). He received an Emmy Award for How the West Was Won (1978) and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Screen Actors Guild in 1993. In his later years, he provided voices for animated films and commercials and appeared as Grandfather Valentin in the Spy Kids franchise.

Early in his career, he was often cast in stereotypical “Latin Lover” roles but eventually broke through those limitations to be recognized for his talent and range. Unlike many minority actors of his time, Montalbán fought to elevate the image of Latinos—particularly Mexicans—in Hollywood. His outspoken advocacy may have cost him roles, but it earned him deep respect. His frustration with Hollywood’s portrayal of Mexicans led him to found NOSOTROS, a Los Angeles-based theater organization created to support Latinos in the entertainment industry.

Ricardo Montalbán was the epitome of elegance and integrity—on screen and in life. He was a trailblazer for Latino representation, and his legacy lives on through The Ricardo Montalbán Foundation.

His autobiography, Reflections: A Life in Two Worlds, was published in 1980.