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Salma Hayek

Award-winning actress now producing numerous projects


SEPTEMBER 15, 2021 11:38 AM EDT

Salma Hayek is an actress best known for her award-winning role in the film, ‘Frida.’ Hayek was born in Mexico in September 1966. Her mother is of Spanish descent and her father is Lebanese. The 55-year-old attended college for a brief period of time before dropping out to pursue an acting career.

"Frida Kahlo: Making Her Self Up" Exhibition At The V&A   Private View© GettyImages

After moving to Los Angeles, Hayek landed small roles in various films, one of them being alongside Antonio Banderas in the film ‘Desperado’ in 1995. From there, she went on to act in movies such as ‘Fools Rush In,’ ‘The Faculty,’ and ‘Wild Wild West.’ Fascinated by independent films, Hayek began her own production company called Ventanarosa in 1999.

A few years later in 2002, Hayek acted in and co-produced the biofilm, ‘Frida’ which was based on the life of Frida Kahlo. Her performance earned her an Oscar nomination for Best Actress. In addition to producing films, Hayek also executive produced the popular TV show, ‘Ugly Betty’ which won a Golden Globe award.

64th Annual Golden Globe Awards   Press Room© GettyImages

From there, Hayek went on to produce numerous projects and in 2007, she signed a two-year deal with ABC for her production company to develop projects for the network.

NBC's "78th Annual Golden Globe Awards"   Show© GettyImages

In regards to her personal life, Hayek started dating Francois-Henri Pinault in 2006 and the following year she gave birth to the couple’s daughter Valentina Paloma Pinault. Hayek and Pinault eventually married in February 2009.

Salma Hayek Photocall   38th Deauville American Film Festival© GettyImages

The 55-year-old is enjoying life as a mom and wife, often documenting and sharing the family’s adventures with her 18.7 million followers on Instagram.