Jesse Garcia | His journey

Jesse Garcia has never played it safe. From indie films to Hollywood biopics, he has built a career rooted in authenticity, purpose, and a deep love for culture.  When Hispanic Lifestyle spoke with Jesse, he talked about his journey, the power of storytelling, and why representation in media still matters.

Garcia first captured national attention in the Sundance-winning film Quinceañera (2006), where his performance as Carlos—a young man navigating his identity and rejection—showcased his emotional depth and natural charisma. The role didn’t just earn him awards; it cemented his place as a bold voice in Latino storytelling.

His body of work has expanded to include roles on Narcos: Mexico, Sons of Anarchy, and From Dusk Till Dawn: The Series. With every performance, Garcia brings his full self—his experience, his voice, and his culture.  His latest project, “Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Road Trip” follows a Mexican American family who have recently lost their connection to each other and their roots, as they embark on an epic road trip that immediately goes hilariously wrong.

Raised in the small town of Hanna, Wyoming, Jesse Garcia’s path to stardom wasn’t paved with red carpets. He grew up in a working-class Mexican-American family, and those early experiences shaped his work ethic and passion for telling real stories.

In Flamin’ Hot (2023), directed by Eva Longoria, Garcia took on the role of Richard Montañez, the Frito-Lay janitor who claimed to invent Flamin’ Hot Cheetos. Controversy aside, Garcia’s portrayal resonated with audiences—especially Latinos—by capturing the spirit of perseverance and innovation that defines so many of our families.

“What I saw in this story was someone who didn’t wait for permission to succeed. That’s what our community does every day,” Garcia told Hispanic Lifestyle in our video interview.

More than just an actor, Jesse Garcia is an advocate for inclusion. In our exclusive interview, he shared his hopes for the future of Latino media, emphasizing the importance of Latino creatives behind the camera just as much as in front of it.

He is committed to mentoring young actors and developing projects that give voice to the complexity of Latino life in the U.S.—not just stereotypes or side characters, but full, meaningful narratives.

“We are more than just a moment in a movie. We are the whole story,” he said.

Defining Culture and Influence
Jesse Garcia exemplifies what it means to define culture and influence. He’s proof that staying true to your roots while aiming for the stars is not only possible—but powerful. His work continues to challenge Hollywood to see, hear, and value Latino stories.

As we celebrate 30 years of recognizing excellence in our community, Hispanic Lifestyle is proud to spotlight Jesse Garcia—a storyteller, a changemaker, and an inspiration.

EXCLUSIVE Hispanic Lifestyle Interview