Rolando Argueta-Molina, later known as Rolando Molina, was born in San Salvador, El Salvador, and made his way to the United States at a tender age alongside his single mother, Ana, and younger brother, Mario. This trio of family members faced numerous challenges as they endeavored to pursue the elusive American dream.
As they navigated the unfamiliar terrain, Rolando, his mother, and brother initially stayed with relatives and friends, eventually settling down in the suburban area of North Hollywood, California. It was during his formative years at North Hollywood High School that Rolando's fascination with the magic of movies and television began to take shape.
Following his graduation, Rolando made a deliberate decision to pursue a career in the entertainment industry. He landed a job as a security guard at Universal Studios, working tirelessly at the truck gate. One fateful day, a man driving a Porsche 911 with Florida plates pulled up to the gate. To Rolando's surprise, it was none other than the renowned actor Edward James Olmos, who was on the Universal lot to begin production on his gritty film American Me (1992).
Olmos' chance encounter with Rolando sparked something within him, and a few days later, Olmos' casting director approached Rolando, inviting him to audition for the film. Rolando seized the opportunity and landed the part, making American Me his acting debut.