Fernando Allende is a trailblazing figure in the entertainment industry, shattering conventions and defying expectations as the first Latin Adonis to achieve unparalleled success across multiple platforms. Born in Mexico City to a Mexican father, Cuban mother, and grandparents of Spanish and Puerto Rican descent, Allende's cultural heritage has played a significant role in shaping his artistic journey.
As a child, Allende began singing folk tunes at the tender age of seven, and by the time he was 15, his captivating good looks landed him his first starring role in the film "Maria" alongside Taryn Power. This marked the beginning of a remarkable career, with Allende going on to star in over 20 films, earning him 13 prestigious awards.
Initially, Allende intended to pursue a law career, attending LaSalle University in Mexico City. However, the allure of acting proved too great, and he soon found himself accepting numerous film and television roles, including hundreds of episodes of Spanish dramatic television. He also released a dozen best-selling records, had a gold single, and starred in his own variety specials, winning the Hispanic equivalent of the Oscars and the Emmy in the same year.
In 1979, Allende made the bold decision to leave his comfort zone and relocate to Hollywood, convinced that his unique background would provide a gateway to the US entertainment industry. After nearly two years of relentless auditions, acting classes, and vocal training, Allende finally landed his first US acting job, starring opposite Joanne Woodward in ABC's "The Streets of Los Angeles." This breakthrough role paved the way for his subsequent successes, including a pilot for ABC, his first English-speaking film, and a US television series.
Fernando's versatility and charm have made him a sought-after celebrity endorser, with notable campaigns including the Milk Advisory Board's all-media advertising in English and Spanish. He has also appeared in numerous television shows, including "Flamingo Road," "The Phoenix," and "Murder She Wrote," as well as making his own special featuring songs from his debut RCA album.
A highlight of Allende's illustrious career came when he was cast in the iconic role of George Mellis, the "Golden-Greek" playboy-sadist in CBS's mini-series "Master of the Game." This groundbreaking performance not only expanded his acting range but also shattered stereotypes, cementing his status as a true Hollywood star.
Since then, Allende's television career has continued to flourish, with notable roles in HBO's "The Hitchhiker," "Murder She Wrote," "Hart to Hart," "Glitter," and an unforgettable episode of "Miami Vice." His most recent appearances include ABC's "Murder in Three Acts" alongside Peter Ustinov and Tony Curtis, as well as NBC's "The Alamo."
