Salma Hayek Pinault, born on September 2, 1966, in Coatzacoalcos, Veracruz, Mexico, is a distinguished actress and producer known for her significant contributions to both Mexican and American cinema.
Early Life and Career:
Hayek began her career in Mexico, starring in the telenovela Teresa (1989–1991) and the film Midaq Alley (1995). She transitioned to Hollywood with roles in Desperado (1995) and From Dusk Till Dawn (1996), establishing herself as a prominent Latina actress in the industry.
Notable Works:
- Frida (2002): Hayek portrayed painter Frida Kahlo, earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress and making her the first Mexican actress to receive this honor.
- Eternals (2021): She played Ajak in this Marvel Cinematic Universe film, which became her highest-grossing live-action movie.
Recent Activities:
At 58, Hayek continues to challenge industry norms regarding age and gender. She has openly discussed combating ageism and sexism in Hollywood, emphasizing that women remain valuable beyond a certain age. She also maintains traditional habits, avoiding online shopping and limiting phone use, believing that over-reliance on technology can hinder intelligence.
Personal Life:
In 2006, Hayek married French billionaire François-Henri Pinault. Despite their wealth, she emphasizes financial independence, stating that she feels the pressure to earn her own income and that they keep finances separate. They have a daughter, Valentina Paloma Pinault, born in 2007.
Philanthropy:
Beyond acting, Hayek is deeply involved in philanthropy, focusing on gender equality and women’s rights. She transformed the Kering Foundation’s “Caring for Women” event into a high-profile fundraiser, akin to the Met Gala, to support these causes.