Xolo Maridueña

Early Life and Background

Xolo Maridueña, born Ramario Xolo Maridueña on June 9, 2001, in Los Angeles, California, is an American actor of Mexican, Cuban, and Ecuadorian descent. His first name, "Xolo," meaning "dog star" in the Nahuatl language, reflects his rich cultural heritage. Raised in the El Sereno neighborhood of Los Angeles, Xolo was introduced to the entertainment industry at a young age. At just three days old, he accompanied his mother to a radio station, sparking his interest in the world of performance and storytelling. By the age of 10, he began auditioning for television commercials, quickly securing roles that paved the way for his acting career .

Career Milestones

Xolo's breakthrough came with his portrayal of Victor Graham in the NBC drama series Parenthood (2012–2015), where he appeared in 51 episodes. His performance garnered critical acclaim and set the stage for future roles. In 2018, he landed the role of Miguel Díaz in the Netflix series Cobra Kai, a continuation of the iconic Karate Kid franchise. His portrayal of the determined and resilient teenager resonated with audiences, earning him a dedicated fanbase and several award nominations.

In 2023, Xolo expanded his horizons by starring as Jaime Reyes, the titular character in the DC Comics film Blue Beetle. This role marked a significant milestone as Jaime Reyes is the first Latino superhero to headline a live-action film, a project Xolo expressed immense pride in representing .

Personal Life and Interests

Beyond acting, Xolo is passionate about various creative endeavors. He co-hosts the podcast Lone Lobos with his Cobra Kai co-star Jacob Bertrand, where they discuss a range of topics from pop culture to personal anecdotes. An advocate for cultural representation, Xolo practices the Ifá tradition, an Afro-Caribbean spiritual system, and has been open about his experiences and beliefs .

Recent and Upcoming Projects

Looking ahead, Xolo continues to diversify his acting portfolio. He is set to voice Brainy Smurf in the upcoming animated film The Smurfs (2025) and has been cast in the indie romance Dog Years and the action film Killing Castro, both slated for release in 2025 .