For years, Carlo Mendez was best known as the younger brother of Hollywood star Eva Mendes.
But now, at 46, he’s carving out his own path in the entertainment world with a breakout role in Showtime’s Dexter: Original Sin.
Playing the ruthless drug kingpin Hector Estrada, Mendez has stunned audiences with his intense on-screen presence.
His chilling portrayal has left fans in awe, proving that he’s more than just a famous sibling—he’s a force to be reckoned with in Hollywood.
A Scene-Stealing Debut
Mendez made a striking entrance in Dexter: Original Sin, appearing shirtless as Hector Estrada, the menacing cartel boss.
Originally played by Nestor Serrano in the show’s first run, the character has been reimagined with Mendez bringing a fresh, terrifying energy to the role.
His first scene, which showed him emerging from a pool after swimming 100 laps before confronting Dexter’s mother, Laura Moser, was enough to get fans talking.
Viewers flooded social media with praise, calling his performance “fire” and his screen presence “unmatched.”
From Comedy to Crime Drama
While Dexter: Original Sin is giving Mendez his biggest moment yet, he has been a working actor for over a decade.
He grew up in Miami alongside Eva and their older brother Juan Carlos, who sadly passed away from throat cancer in 2016.
Mendez honed his craft under renowned acting coach Ivanna Chubbuck, who has worked with stars like Brad Pitt and Charlize Theron.
Over the years, he built an impressive résumé, with roles in 90210, 911, Parks and Recreation, and a long-running stint on the Emmy-nominated soap The Bay, where he played Officer Benji Ramos for over a decade.
Stepping into Darker Roles
Until now, Mendez has mostly been cast in comedic and heroic roles, often playing law enforcement characters. But Dexter: Original Sin is changing that.
In an interview with The Boston Herald, he shared his excitement about taking on a darker, more complex character.
“People haven’t seen me play someone like this before,” he said. “I’m usually the funny guy or the cop.
But Hector Estrada? He’s calculated, methodical, and ruthless.
It’s all business for him—never personal.”
Facing His Own Fears
One surprising challenge Mendez faced while filming wasn’t the intense dialogue or violent scenes—it was swimming.
“I don’t actually know how to swim,” he admitted in a social media post announcing his role. “But I guess I pulled it off somehow.”
Despite his fears, he delivered a commanding performance, fully embodying the character of a powerful and dangerous crime lord.
Making It on His Own Terms
Mendez is adamant that he never relied on his famous sister’s name to get ahead in the industry.
“Most people don’t even know we’re related unless they happen to recognize the last name,” he explained.
While he and Eva share a close bond, they keep their professional lives separate.
“We don’t talk about business. I’ve always wanted to prove myself, and that means working hard without asking for favors.”
A Hollywood Journey Just Beginning
With Dexter: Original Sin already breaking records as Showtime’s most-streamed premiere, Mendez is hopeful that this role will open new doors.
He’s already landed his first leading role in the upcoming thriller Demise, where he plays a landscaper caught in a scandal with a fashion icon.
He’s also staying busy with new projects while keeping his eyes on even bigger opportunities in Hollywood.
Family, Fame, and the Future
Outside of acting, Mendez remains close to Eva and her longtime partner, Ryan Gosling.
He was spotted supporting Gosling at the 2024 SAG Awards, where the Barbie star was nominated for Best Supporting Actor.
He also speaks highly of Eva and Ryan’s parenting skills, calling them “amazing parents” to their daughters Esmeralda and Amada.
As for his own family plans? “I’m focused on my career for now,” he said. “If kids happen, they happen.
But I’ve got time—just look at Al Pacino and Robert De Niro!”
With his undeniable talent and dedication, Carlo Mendez is proving that he’s not just Eva Mendes’ little brother—he’s a star in his own right.
And if his recent performances are any indication, Hollywood is only just beginning to take notice.