• Faith: Catholic
• Career: Actor
• Birthday:  February 19, 1967

Benicio del Toro, christened Benicio Monserrate Rafael del Toro Sánchez at birth, first saw the world on February 19, 1967, in the town of San Germán, Puerto Rico. Tragedy struck him early in life, as he lost his mother to hepatitis when he was barely nine years old. His father, Gustavo, a lawyer by profession, single-handedly raised him. At the age of 13, he relocated to Pennsylvania, where he enrolled in Mercersburg Academy. His passion for acting ignited here, leading him to the University of California, San Diego. His pursuit of acting mastery did not stop here; he found himself under the roof of the highly respected Circle in the Square Professional Theater School in New York. Later, he further polished his acting skills at the Stella Adler Studio of Acting, a prestigious institution known for shaping many Hollywood stars.

Benicio's entry into Hollywood was swift and impressive. His on-screen presence was first noticed in 'Big Top Pee-wee' in 1988, a role that paved the way for a unique character in 'Licence to Kill' - Duke the Dog-Faced Boy. These roles allowed him to exhibit his versatility and opened the door for more significant opportunities. However, the true turning point in his career came with the film 'The Usual Suspects,' where he breathed life into the character Fred Fenster. His compelling portrayal of this character was widely recognized, earning him the prestigious Independent Spirit Award. This accomplishment marked a pivotal moment in his career, propelling him into the limelight and cementing his position as a formidable talent in Hollywood.

Benicio De Toro Religious Beliefs

Having been brought up in a staunch Catholic household, del Toro's Catholicism holds a paramount place in his life and profession. It was his unshakeable faith that guided him towards an uncertain acting career, which he often describes as a divine calling. His spiritual conviction provides him with a source of solace and resilience during difficult phases of his life, where he finds comfort and tranquility through prayer.