Video Actor: Ana de la Reguera

Ana de la Reguera, born Anabell Gardoqui de la Reguera on April 8, 1977, in Veracruz, Mexico, has established herself as a prominent figure in both Mexican and international entertainment industries. Her journey from a coastal city in Mexico to the global stage is a testament to her talent, dedication, and versatility as an actress.

Growing up in Veracruz, Ana was influenced by her mother, Nena de la Reguera, a former Miss Veracruz who transitioned into journalism and television. This familial connection to the media world undoubtedly played a role in shaping Ana’s aspirations. She began her artistic education with classical ballet and later pursued performance arts at the Instituto Veracruzano de la Cultura. To further hone her craft, Ana moved to Mexico City to study at Televisa’s Center for Artistic Education (CEA) and later trained under Juan Carlos Corazza in Spain, as well as with Aaron Spicer, Lisa Robertson, and Joan Scheckel in Los Angeles.

Ana’s acting career commenced in the mid-1990s with roles in Mexican telenovelas. Her debut was in “Azul” (1996), followed by notable performances in “Pueblo chico, infierno grande” (1997), for which she received the Heraldo Award for Best Breakout Female Actress, and “Desencuentro” (1997). These early roles showcased her ability to portray complex characters and set the foundation for her future endeavors.

Transitioning from telenovelas to the big screen, Ana made her film debut in “Por la libre” (2000), earning critical acclaim and nominations for Best New Actress and Best Actress. Her role in the romantic comedy “Ladies’ Night” (2003) further solidified her status as a leading actress in Mexican cinema, earning her multiple awards, including the Latin America MTV’s Favorite Actress Award and the Mexican movie industry’s CANACINE Award for Best Actress.

Ana’s international breakthrough came with the 2006 comedy “Nacho Libre,” where she starred alongside Jack Black as Sister Encarnación. The film’s success introduced her to a global audience and opened doors to Hollywood. She subsequently appeared in films like “Cowboys & Aliens” (2011), sharing the screen with Daniel Craig and Harrison Ford, and “Cop Out” (2010) alongside Bruce Willis.

In addition to her film career, Ana has made significant contributions to television. She portrayed Lorena Guerra in the HBO series “Capadocia” (2008-2012), a role that earned her critical acclaim for its depth and complexity. Her versatility is further evident in her performances in series such as “Eastbound & Down” (2010), “Narcos” (2015), and “Goliath” (2016-2018), where she played Marisol Silva, a mayoral candidate in Los Angeles.

Ana’s creative pursuits extended beyond acting when she created, produced, and starred in the comedy-drama series “Ana,” which premiered on April 20, 2020, on Comedy Central and was subsequently made available on Amazon Prime Video for Latin American audiences. The semi-autobiographical series offers a candid and humorous look into the life of an actress navigating the challenges of fame, personal relationships, and self-discovery. The show’s success led to the production of second and third seasons, with the final season premiering on July 12, 2023.

Throughout her career, Ana has demonstrated a commitment to diverse and challenging roles, seamlessly transitioning between comedy and drama, and between Spanish and English-language productions. Her dedication to her craft and her ability to authentically portray a wide range of characters have earned her a respected place in the entertainment industry.

Beyond her professional achievements, Ana is known for her philanthropic efforts. She founded the organization VeracruzANA AC, aiming to raise funds and build a tourist boulevard in Antigua, one of the most historically significant communities in Veracruz. Her commitment to her roots and her efforts to give back to her community reflect her character and values.

Ana de la Reguera’s journey from Veracruz to international stardom is a narrative of talent, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Her contributions to film and television have not only entertained audiences worldwide but have also paved the way for greater representation of Latina actresses in Hollywood. As she continues to take on new projects and challenges, Ana remains a dynamic and influential figure in the world of entertainment.