Elizabeth Peña was an American actress best known for her roles in Down and Out in Beverly Hills, Lone Star, and Rush Hour. She had a dynamic career in both film and television, showcasing her talent through various memorable characters.
Personal and Family Life
Elizabeth Peña was born on September 23, 1959, in Elizabeth, New Jersey, to Cuban immigrants Estella Margarita and Mario Peña. She grew up in New York City and had a passion for acting from a young age, inspired by her father who was a playwright and actor. Elizabeth married William Kibler in 1988 but later divorced. In 1994, she married Hans Christian Rolla, with whom she had two children, Kælan and Fiona.
Career Highlights
Peña began her acting career in independent films and theater, gaining recognition for her unique characters and strong performances. She gained fame with her role in Down and Out in Beverly Hills, followed by notable performances in films like La Bamba and Jacob’s Ladder. Over the years, she received multiple awards, including ALMA Awards and Independent Spirit Awards, for her contributions to both film and television.
Death and Legacy
Elizabeth Peña faced struggles with alcohol, which adversely affected her health, leading to her untimely death from liver cirrhosis on October 14, 2014, in Los Angeles, California, at the age of 55. She left behind a legacy of diverse roles in the entertainment industry and is remembered for breaking barriers for Latina actresses in Hollywood.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Transamerica | 2005-02-14 | Margaret |
| Rush Hour | 1998-09-18 | Johnson |
| Jacob’s Ladder | 1990-11-02 | Jezzie |
| Down and Out in Beverly Hills | 1986-01-31 | Carmen |
| La Bamba | 1987-07-24 | Rosie Morales |
| The Incredibles | 2004-10-27 | Mirage (voice) |
| Tortilla Soup | 2001-08-24 | Leticia Narnjo |
| Lone Star | 1996-06-21 | Pilar |
| Mother and Child | 2009-11-07 | Lawyer |
| Charlie’s Angels | 2011-09-22 | Warden Gloria Galvez |