Salma Hayek Pinault (born September 2, 1966) is a Mexican and American actress, film producer, and director. She has starred in films such as Desperado (1995), From Dusk till Dawn (1996), Wild Wild West (1999), Dogma (1999), Frida (2002), Once Upon a Time in Mexico (2003), Puss in Boots (2011), and The Hitman's Bodyguard (2017).
Hayek was born in Coatzacoalcos, Veracruz, Mexico. Her father, Sami Hayek Domínguez, is a Lebanese Mexican businessman, and her mother, Diana Jiménez Medina, is a Mexican opera singer. Hayek has a younger brother, Sami.
Hayek began her acting career in Mexico, appearing in telenovelas such as Teresa (1989) and El Secreto (1991). In 1991, she moved to Hollywood to pursue a career in film.
Hayek's breakthrough role came in 1995, when she starred in the Robert Rodriguez film Desperado. She followed this with roles in From Dusk till Dawn (1996), Wild Wild West (1999), and Dogma (1999).
In 2002, Hayek starred in the biopic Frida, portraying Mexican artist Frida Kahlo. The film was a critical and commercial success, and Hayek's performance was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actress.
Hayek has since starred in a number of other successful films, including Once Upon a Time in Mexico (2003), Puss in Boots (2011), and The Hitman's Bodyguard (2017).
In addition to her acting career, Hayek is also a successful film producer. She has produced a number of films, including Frida (2002), Ugly Betty (2006–2010), and Beatriz at Dinner (2017).
Hayek is a vocal advocate for social justice and equality. She is a supporter of the Time's Up movement and has spoken out against sexual harassment and assault. She is also a co-founder of the Chime for Change campaign, which works to raise awareness of the issues facing girls and women around the world.
Hayek is a role model for many women and girls. She is a strong and independent woman who has achieved great success in both her career and her personal life. She is an inspiration to millions of people around the world.