Michelle Rodriguez
Early Life
Michelle Rodriguez was born on July 12, 1978, in San Antonio, Texas. She is of Puerto Rican descent on her mother's side and Dominican on her father's side. Rodriguez moved to the Dominican Republic with her mother when she was eight years old and lived there until she was 11. She later moved to Puerto Rico until the age of 17 and finally settled in Jersey City, New Jersey. She dropped out of high school but later earned her GED.
Career
Rodriguez's career began in 2000 when she starred in the critically acclaimed film Girlfight. For her performance in the film, she won several awards, including the Independent Spirit Award and Gotham Award for Best Debut Performance. The role opened up opportunities for her in Hollywood, and she soon found herself acting in big-budget films.
In 2001, Rodriguez gained international fame when she starred in the action film The Fast and the Furious. She played the role of Letty Ortiz, a skilled street racer, and mechanic. Her performance was well received, and she reprised her role in several sequels of the franchise.
Rodriguez continued to build her acting career by taking on roles in various genres. She appeared in the science fiction film Avatar as Trudy Chacon, a combat pilot. She also voiced a character in the animated film Turbo and appeared in the television series Lost.
Personal Life
Rodriguez is known for her outspoken nature and advocacy for various causes. She is a strong supporter of LGBTQ+ rights and has identified herself as bisexual. Rodriguez is also passionate about environmental issues and is an advocate for animal rights.
Filmography
Rodriguez has an extensive filmography that spans over two decades. Some of her notable films include:
- Girlfight (2000)
- The Fast and the Furious (2001)
- Resident Evil (2002)
- S.W.A.T. (2003)
- Avatar (2009)
- Machete (2010)
- Battle: Los Angeles (2011)
- Fast & Furious 6 (2013)
- Furious 7 (2015)
- The Fate of the Furious (2017)