The role of Isaac Mendez in the NBC superhero drama Heroes launched Santiago Cabrera into international prominence. Born in Caracas in 1978 to a Chilean diplomat, he spent his youth moving between countries including England, Romania, Canada, and Spain before his family returned to Chile during his adolescence, setting the stage for an eclectic career in television and film.
Foundations in Drama
Before pursuing acting, Cabrera served as captain of his high school football team. His professional interest in performance began following encouragement from his teachers. He attended the Drama Centre London from 2000 to 2003, completing his training just as he secured his first television roles in British series such as Battlefield Britain, Spooks, and As If. His stage debut occurred at the Royal Theatre Northampton, where he played Montano in a production of Shakespeare’s Othello.
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Following his early work in the UK, Cabrera expanded into American television with the role of Octavius in Empire. His portrayal of Isaac Mendez in Heroes provided a significant profile boost, leading to subsequent work in the BBC drama series Merlin as Lancelot and The Musketeers as Aramis. He later took on the role of Darius Tanz in the CBS drama Salvation and appeared in the 2020 film Godmothered. His recent film credits include playing Richard Deetz in the 2024 production Beetlejuice Beetlejuice.
Science Fiction and Sports
Cabrera joined the cast of Star Trek: Picard in 2019 as Captain Cristóbal Rios, working alongside Patrick Stewart. He participated in the series through its second season, concluding his involvement in 2022. Outside of his professional acting commitments, Cabrera maintains a deep connection to football. He played in the charity event Soccer Aid in 2008 and 2014, and remains a supporter of Queens Park Rangers F.C. and C.D. Universidad Católica.
Fast facts
- Born: 5 May 1978, Caracas, Venezuela
- Education: Drama Centre London
- Citizenship: United Kingdom, Chile, Venezuela
- Spouse: Anna Marcea
- Notable TV Role: Isaac Mendez in Heroes
- Star Trek Role: Captain Cristóbal Rios
- Film role: Richard Deetz in Beetlejuice Beetlejuice
- Occupation: Film actor
Questions readers ask
Where did Santiago Cabrera receive his acting training?
He studied at the Drama Centre London from 2000 until 2003.
What is his connection to the Star Trek franchise?
He played Captain Cristóbal Rios in the Paramount+ series Star Trek: Picard between 2019 and 2022.
