The Cuban-American actor opens up about his career, his Hispanic upbringing, and his latest role on Apple TV+’s The Morning Show

For more than three decades, Néstor Carbonell has steadily built one of the most eclectic and enduring careers in Hollywood, earning recognition as a widely respected Latino actor working today. Born in New York to Cuban parents, he graduated from Harvard with a degree in English literature before pursuing his passion for acting, bringing charisma and determination to every one of his roles.

Those qualities propelled Carbonell from small guest roles to national recognition. Before he became a familiar face to millions, Carbonell appeared in the renowned soap opera As the World Turns, Law & Order, and the popular Melrose Place. But it was 1996’s Suddenly Susan that marked his true breakthrough. As Luis Rivera, starring alongside Brooke Shields, he won audiences with his warmth and humor on NBC’s primetime. His character, loved by audiences, also provided a rare opportunity for Latino visibility on network television in the mid-’90s.

Carbonell’s performance at that time earned him back-to-back ALMA Awards (American Latino Media Arts Awards) and, more importantly, signaled to Hollywood the arrival of a dynamic talent whose staying power reflects not just inspiration but the understated grit required to navigate an industry that hardly makes the journey simple.

Since then, his career has spanned an extraordinary range of projects, from the cult comedy The Tick to Christopher Nolan’s The Dark Knight, from his haunting portrayal of Richard Alpert in Lost to the layered complexity he brought to Sheriff Alex Romero in Bates Motel. What makes Carbonell’s journey remarkable is not only its longevity but also the way he has continually expanded the possibilities of representation on screen.

“I cannot paint Hispanics with one brush because we are so different and varied. But one of the things we all share is diligence and hard work, along with gratitude… Family, faith, and education are pillars of our communities.”

Néstor Carbonell

His performance in Lost’s unforgettable “Ab Aeterno” episode, where much of his dialogue was in Spanish, marked a milestone in mainstream American television. At the same time, his Emmy-winning portrayal of Vasco Rodrigues in Shōgun reminded audiences of the depth he brings to roles that straddle cultures and histories.

Today, he is reaching a new audience as Yanko Flores on Apple TV+’s The Morning Show, showcasing his talent alongside Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon. His role is both grounding and electric, a testament to his versatility and to the experience of a Latino actor who has redefined what it means to be indispensable in Hollywood.
The series has already earned multiple Screen Actors Guild Award nominations, underscoring the caliber of talent behind its success. But beyond accolades, it has also become a cultural touchstone, much like the morning ritual that shapes and reflects the lives of countless viewers.

As ¡HOLA! begins its coverage of Hispanic Heritage Month, Carbonell stands out as an influential figure to highlight, a Cuban American actor whose career embodies talent, resilience, gratitude and values deeply rooted in his culture. Reflecting on three decades of representation and reinvention, the actor welcomed us in a sunlit New York hotel near Central Park, where he opened up about his Cuban roots, his family’s enduring influence, and the lessons that continue to shape his life on and off the set of The Morning Show.

On The Morning Show
Néstor, it’s such a pleasure to sit down with you. Let’s start by talking about The Morning Show, since everyone is anticipating this new season. The series addresses taboo topics, or as you’ve mentioned before, the gray areas of the industry. What led you to join the cast, and what attracted you most to this role?
First of all, thank you so much for doing this. It’s an honor to sit here with ¡HOLA!, and I appreciate you asking these great questions. I jumped at the chance to work on the show. I had worked with Kerry Ehrin before on a series called Bates Motel.

She is the creator of The Morning Show, and when she asked me, “I’m writing this show and I’d love for you to participate. Is there any role in particular that you would love to play?” I told her, “You know, I’ve always wanted to play a weatherman, a meteorólogo. I think that’s fascinating. What they do is extraordinary.

In her own genius, she created this character out of nothing—flaws, misbehaviors, everything that makes him who he is. I was eager not only to work with her again but also to be part of this tremendous cast. And of course, the writers are incredible, including new voices this season. Our head writer for the last two seasons, Charlotte Stout, has been extraordinary. She took the reins from Kerry Ehrin and, together with a team of writers, developed these last two seasons. So no, it wasn’t a hard decision for me. It was a definite yes, and I was thrilled to join the cast.

I know you can’t give away that much, but share with us where Yanko, your character, is in this new season?
So, without giving away too many spoilers, we find Yanko thriving professionally. He’s now a co-anchor with Chris Hunter, as he was last year, and he’s doing quite well in that role. In many ways, he’s reached what I imagine has always been his dream goal professionally.

But of course, as often happens when characters achieve their dreams, something comes along to threaten them. Yanko is not immune to this season. He’s caught in a massive dilemma of the heart. That’s probably as much as I can say.

“What I love most about working with Jen and Reese is that, despite all the attention and natural scrutiny a show like this brings, they foster an environment that is relaxed, creative, open, and collaborative.”

Néstor Carbonell

I’m sure viewers can’t wait to find out. And did you learn anything about weather and meteorology while preparing for this role?
I did. As a matter of fact, when I started, Yanko was a meteorologist. So when I began portraying him, I went to KNBC and observed them filming. They were gracious enough to let me watch, ask questions, and learn more about meteorology in general. I did some research, but more than anything, I wanted to understand the environment: how they related to one another and how weathermen or meteorologists are perceived within the industry. That was a really unique opportunity, and I treasured it.

Later, when Yanko moved on to being an anchor, I leaned on my good friend Antonio Mota, who was an anchor on Good Morning America on weekends years ago, and who went on to anchor for CBS in Chicago and other stations over the years. I have turned to him for advice many times. He now teaches broadcasting at the University of Miami, and he has shared tricks of the trade with me, like keeping 90-degree elbows at the table. Whenever I can learn from someone who has actually done this for a living, it is an amazing opportunity.

Your sister also built a career in television, working at Telemundo and Fox. Did you turn to her for advice, both on-camera presence and on the kinds of complex topics the series explores?
Absolutely. My sister’s been another source of great information. She was on camera for sure, but also, when she did her packages, she would be in charge of editing everything. Her piece, every aspect, she would write it; she’d be on scene interviewing people, sometimes people who, unfortunately, didn’t want to be interviewed at the time. So it was a very emotional process.

All of that process is extremely emotional for her, and she was extremely good at it. So she’s been another incredible source of wisdom and information for me.

“I still go into every job as an opportunity to learn something and grow.”

Néstor Carbonell

Relaxed and thoughtful, Néstor Carbonell discusses faith, marriage, and the secret to longevity in Hollywood.
What has it been like working with Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon, two of the most powerful women in the industry? And how would you describe the chemistry on set?
It has been an extraordinary opportunity working with both of them over the years. From the very beginning, it was an impressive group of people with Apple putting its full support behind the show, Jennifer and Reese leading the cast, and Steve Carell also with us in the early seasons. The ensemble continues to grow, and the level of talent, from the actors to the writers, is extraordinary. Every department is truly remarkable.

What I love most about working with Jen and Reese is that, despite all the attention and natural scrutiny a show like this brings, they foster an environment that is relaxed, creative, open, and collaborative. Everyone has the chance to excel. When you walk on set, you do not feel the pressure you might expect.

I especially love seeing new actors come in, often nervous about working alongside such a high-profile team, and within a take or two, their shoulders drop, and they just relax. That is entirely thanks to Jennifer, Reese, and also Mimi Leder, our producing director, who have created a space where everyone can do their best work.

Bringing His Cuban Roots to the Screen
How important is it for you to bring your Cuban background into the roles you play?
Very, if the character is of Cuban origin, I love working with the writers to add little details, detalles cubanos, as I call them. They are so open to it, and the writers are extraordinary, Charlotte as well as Kerry Ehrin. At the start of a season, we often talk about their plans for the character, and if I make a suggestion, they will consider it, and sometimes it ends up in the script, even on the day of shooting.

For example, I once had a scene where I was talking about my mother’s cooking. I suggested making it more specific, saying something like, “My mother’s arroz con pollo” or “My mother’s ropa vieja.” They loved it and embraced those touches. The team is very open to adjusting scripts and including my input, especially when it comes to Cuban culture.

“What my father has done is extraordinary. He came to the United States with nothing in his pockets. He had lost everything in Cuba, but what he did have was a law degree… He was able to apply it here, earn a master’s in international law, and eventually practice. From there, he slowly worked his way up through corporate America. I have deep respect for what my father accomplished.”

Néstor Carbonell

I read you once thought you would follow in your father’s footsteps and become a lawyer. Looking back now, after having taken the risk, what goes through your mind?
I was crazy. I was nuts to think that way, looking back at the moment I decided not to pursue something more conventional. I think, “What was I thinking?” Because it is a daunting proposition. But I knew I loved it, I knew I wanted to study it, and I knew I always wanted to continue being a student of it if I was lucky enough to work in this business. I still go into every job as an opportunity to learn something and grow.

What my father has done is extraordinary. He came to the United States with nothing in his pockets. He had lost everything in Cuba, but what he did have was a law degree. Mind you, in Cuba, it was civil law versus common law, but he was able to apply it here, earn a master’s in international law, and eventually practice. From there, he slowly worked his way up through corporate America. I have deep respect for what my father accomplished. At one point, I thought, “Well, maybe I’ll do that.” I even took one law class in college. But then I took ONE acting class, a Meisner acting course, and I thought, “THIS is what I want to study.” And that was the end of that.

The actor reflects on his role as Yanko in Apple TV+’s The Morning Show, a character that continues to challenge and inspire him.
And now your children are musicians. What advice do you give them, especially when you think about your own parents?
Yes. My parents were so supportive when I dropped this bomb on them that I was going to do something no one in the family had ever done or even thought of doing. They stood by me, especially in those first three years when I was really struggling. I was working here and there, trying to piece it all together, and they were incredibly supportive.

My wife and I have a similar mindset. We try to be as supportive as we can, guiding our kids without overwhelming them. The idea is to give them encouragement and the space to try things. They have chosen another difficult career, perhaps even harder than the one I chose, but they are very talented, diligent, hardworking, and disciplined. So we are fully behind them, and they have our blessing.

Néstor opens up about his heritage and upbringing

“My wife was an actress who gave up a 20-year career to raise our kids full time, and she did a beautiful job, an extraordinary job. I am in awe of her, of what she has accomplished professionally as an actress, and of what she has done as a mother.”

Néstor Carbonell
Carbonell credits resilience and gratitude as the keys to his enduring career.
The Secret to a Lasting Marriage
Let’s talk about your wife. You met through this business, on set. Has it really been 20 years?
Well, actually longer.

Even more?
We met in 1994. We have been together since then, so 31 years.

Thirty-one years together. That is remarkable.
We have been together 31 years and married for 25.

That is beautiful. What is the secret? Especially in Hollywood, where lasting marriages are rare.
You know, she is an extraordinary woman. I am very lucky. I really am. (pauses, visibly emotional) Sorry, it just caught me by surprise. I am a lucky guy, and I know how lucky I am. We laugh a lot. We laugh a lot.

My wife was an actress who gave up a 20-year career to raise our kids full time, and she did a beautiful job, an extraordinary job. I am in awe of her, of what she has accomplished professionally as an actress and of what she has done as a mother. If there is a secret, I think shared values and shared principles are a big part of it. And if you laugh at the same things, it does not hurt. She laughs at all my really bad jokes, which helps. She is a good laugh.

Something I also admire is that you have spoken openly about your faith and how it helps you stay grounded in this business. How important has that been for you personally and professionally?
Absolutely. My brother, my sister, and I were blessed to be raised in a way where faith was a very important part of our lives. We were raised Catholic, and wherever we moved, and we moved often, faith and family were the constants. We lived in London three different times, and also in Mexico, Venezuela, the Bahamas, Florida, and Connecticut. Because of my dad’s work we moved around a lot, but we would always find a church wherever we were.

And it went beyond just the ritual of attending church. It was about finding strength, and about the idea of giving back, which was always impressed upon us. Faith has always been something I lean on, and something I continue to rely on every day.

Hispanic Heritage Month began this week. What message would you like to share with Hispanics like your parents, like you, who came here, left everything behind, and pursued a future and a dream?
I am always amazed by the number of stories and by how diverse the Hispanic experience is. There are so many different cultures. I cannot paint Hispanics with one brush because we are so different and varied.

But I think one of the things we all share is diligence and hard work, along with gratitude. Gratitude is a beautiful thing to see. There is also pride in what we do, in our principles, and in what we stand for. Family, faith, and education are pillars of our communities, and I believe they cross over into every Hispanic culture. So if there is a message, it is that I am so proud to be part of this community. That is my message.

What do you like to do in your free time, when you are not working? Do you have a hobby or something you love?
Yes, absolutely. During the pandemic, I took up the speed bag in boxing. You know how we all picked up new things during that time, and this was something I could do at home.

I had already been boxing a little bit for about six years. There is a famous gym in Hollywood called Wild Card Boxing where I occasionally go, and if not, I train at home and hit the bag there. That has definitely become one of my favorite hobbies.

Néstor reveals the secret to a lasting marriage

I also read that early in your career, you once had to dress up as Batman for a job. Did you ever imagine you would later end up working with Christopher Nolan on The Dark Knight films?
No, that is a really great question. When I was starting out and struggling, one thing I was very grateful for was landing a number of commercials in Spanish that aired on Telemundo and Univision. My Spanish was stronger back then, so I was able to get away with it, and I was so grateful for those opportunities.

But in between those jobs, I still had to make some money. One time, I worked at a kid’s party dressed as Batman, and I was a terrible Batman. I had not prepared enough. And kids, they know their Batman, they know their comic book heroes. My utility belt was awful. It was a disaster. I left feeling like I had disappointed those kids, and I thought, “I’ll never do that again. Or if I have another party, I’ll make sure I do it better.”

Lo and behold, I later ended up playing Batmanuel in The Tick, which was obviously a spoof on Batman. But never in a million years did I think I would actually be part of Christopher Nolan’s Batman films. Then came The Dark Knight and The Dark Knight Rises, where I played the mayor of Gotham. I think I even mentioned to him that I had once played a version of the character.

“One of the things we all share is diligence and hard work, along with gratitude. Gratitude is a beautiful thing to see. There is also pride in what we do, in our principles, and in what we stand for… If there is a message, it is that I am so proud to be part of this community. That is my message.”

Néstor Carbonell on Hispanic Heritage Month

Carbonell may once have stumbled through a children’s party dressed as Batman, but today Néstor Carbonell continues to reinvent himself in roles that challenge and inspire. As Yanko on The Morning Show, he brings humor, humanity, and authenticity to a series that reflects our times. Three decades in, his journey stands as proof that resilience, gratitude, and the power of Latino talent can shape stories that define American television.

Back in April & May Nestor was kind to do a Q & A for site while he was in Canada working on Ready or Not: Here I Come. I’ve compiled the entire session into one Master Post since the originals were posted as the questions were answered.

1) How has your approach to acting changed since your first role?

Thank you, Renée! First of all, thank you all for participating! I started out doing theater in college, performing in student-run plays. During the summer after my sophomore year, I managed to land my first professional role in a two character play off Broadway entitled A Silent Thunder. The only acting instruction I’d had up until then, was a basic introductory elective in college on acting. So, in my first professional job, I essentially relied on the theater director and a lot of trial and error. It wasn’t until I graduated college and moved to LA, that I was able to enroll in a Sanford Meisner school and truly commit myself to learning that technique. The basic principle of Meisner is to get you to try to “live truthfully under imaginary circumstances.” Meisner teachers try to get students to train their imaginations much like athletic coaches train athletes to strengthen their muscles. My approach to acting definitely changed once I’d studied Meisner at Playhouse West.

2) How do you challenge yourself as an actor after so many years in the industry?

I’ve been so blessed to have had the opportunity to work in this industry since the early 90s. Like most actors, I’ve experienced some tough years. But it’s thanks to those years that I’ve learned to never take any job for granted. I’ve also learned the value of going to work every day with the hopes of learning something new. While we are often asked to play roles that fall into similar categories, there’s always something to learn from the other cast, crew or in the approach to the material.

3) Are there any roles/genres you haven’t yet tackled but would like to?

I would love to have a crack at directing while acting in a feature film. I was lucky enough to have had the opportunity to do both while working on Bates Motel. But I would love to be able to do both in a film. I’m working hard at trying to realize that with a script I cowrote entitled Three Things:)

4) If you could be remembered for one performance which one would it be – and why?

There are so many roles I’ve had the privilege of playing: Richard Alpert on Lost and Sheriff Romero on Bates Motel are two of my favorites. Still, I try to go into every role with the mindset that it could be my favorite. Perhaps one of the most valuable things I’ve learned over the years is to try not to look forward or backwards, but rather to stay present.

1) What character was the most fun to play? Most challenging?

Thank you, again, Renée, and to all of you participating.
Truly, any time you get to work as an actor is a blessing. Getting to play Richard Alpert on Lost was particularly special for me on so many levels. The character was introduced in a flashback to Juliet’s storyline, where he orchestrated the murder of her husband after she declined his request to travel with him to the island. It required gaining her trust after committing an atrocity: a tough challenge, no doubt. And the surprises and challenges kept coming for me as an actor, as the character was brought to the island in different time periods and seemingly didn’t age. Add to that, we were never privy to where our storylines would go, so we had to commit to what was on the page and trust in our directors. As if that weren’t enough, we got to shoot the entire series in paradise! It was easily one of the best professional experiences I’ve ever had.

2) How can a fan get an autograph – do you have a fan mail address?

I’m happy to sign any autograph. You can always send photos to my manager at Thruline Entertainment

3) Who was the funniest Lost character?

Lost was full of flawed and well drawn out characters. As dark as so many of them were, they all had moments of lightness. But there were a handful that I found particularly funny: Hurley, Sawyer and Ben. Hurley had great one liners, Sawyer had hysterical nicknames for everyone, and Ben had the really cutting and funny barbs.

4) Are there any scenes you connected with or were more difficult to perform?

One of the toughest scenes I’ve had to perform is trying to resuscitate Norma on Bates Motel. Kerry Ehrin, Carlton Cuse and all the writers had spent four seasons drawing out the love/hate dynamic between Norma and Romero culminating in this last scene between them. I knew it was going to be painful to have to film that scene given how invested Romero was in Norma. It was definitely one of the toughest and most rewarding scenes I’ve had to film as an actor.

5) What is your favorite career moment?

One of my greatest career moments is booking a series regular role on the show Muscle. It marked the moment I would be able to dedicate myself exclusively to acting without having to hold another job. It was also were I would meet my wife, Shannon:)

6) Is there a person or situation that inspired your career in acting?

Watching Marlon Brando in On The Waterfront and in Last Tango in Paris, were instrumental in my wanting to study acting and in pursuing it professionally. What Brando did on screen was so free, truthful and inspiring!

7) In Pulse, were there any scenes that were significant for you?

Getting to play a Cuban-American Doctor who alternates speaking in English and Spanish while performing major surgery has been particularly special.

8) Romero’s ending was so moving – why did they give him the ending they did?

Thank you. From my understanding, Romero’s fate changed a number of times throughout the writing process in season 5. I believe, at one point , he was going to live at the end of the series. But I feel the writers were spot on in having Romero die at the hands of Norman, while he was pining over Norma’s body.

9) Do you have a ritual before filming?

I’m not sure if I would call it a ritual as much as a practice, but every day before I start shooting I meditate for about 15 minutes to try to get into as relaxed a state as I can so that I can be as emotionally available as possible.

10) Do you think you will travel to England or Australia (Melbourne) for projects?

I would love to work in Sydney or Melbourne! I’ve spent a lot of time in Sydney, as my wife and her family are from there. And while I haven’t been to Melbourne yet, I hear it’s beautiful. It would be amazing to get to shoot there, while getting to spend time with Shannon’s family and friends!

1) You’ve done fantastic as an actor & director what else would you like to do behind the scenes?

Thank you so much. I would love to continue screenwriting and try to generate stories that say something compelling about the human condition. The films and shows that have had the most impact on me (Shawshank Redemption, The Killing Fields, Lost) are all entertaining, but also tackle great themes and are ultimately hopeful. I would love to be able to realize stories that are inspirational.

2) What was your favorite part of playing Batmanuel on The Tick.

Playing Batmanuel was an absolute treat. The costume, the sets, the world of The Tick were so rich. The cast was sensational, spearheaded by the genius Patrick Warburton. And the writing was simply extraordinary. I couldn’t wait for the next script to see where the story was going and what outrageous things Batmanuel would say. Getting to work with all of the phenomenally talented people in every department
was easily a highlight for me.

3) Are you excited to be reunited with Sarah for your new film?

It’s been great to catch up with Sarah and work with her again! I hadn’t seen her since Ringer, but it feels as if it were yesterday and we’re having so much fun working together.

4) Would you ever do a musical?

As for doing a musical, I’m not sure how well that would go unless the role demanded that I purposely sing off key, lol. But I have to say, my inability to sing did come in handy once on Kim Possible when Señor Senior Jr had to sing “Quit Playing Games With My Head”. When I got the script, I warned the writers that I was tone deaf. They seemed delighted at that, lol.

5) Are there any upcoming conventions (with Ian?) From the Ian fans 🙂

I would love to do a convention with Ian. He’s a good friend of mine and we’ve both made a number of friends through the Lost Fandom over the years:)

6) What in yourself do you identify in your characters?

There are so many different approaches to acting. I was trained to try to draw the character from within you, so that even though the character might be radically different from who you are, there’s always some element in you that you can tap into and enhance. I think knowing your character’s fears and what he/she wants and needs in a scene are generally helpful in getting you to draw the character out from within you.

7) Do you think you will ever act with Shannon again?

I would love to act with Shannon again! She’s so talented and open and it would be great to work with her again. I’m hoping she comes back to acting soon!

8) How did become so diverse from comedy to drama?

Thank you, that’s very kind. Comedy was something that I kind of fell into. When I was starting out in the early 90s, I would audition for film and a handful of TV dramas, but mostly sitcoms, as there so many of them at the time. I hadn’t trained to work in comedy per se, so I had to stumble my way into making it work for me. Sitcom is its own medium; it’s a hybrid of theater and TV. You have to be alive to the audience while also grounding the material for camera. I’ve been so lucky to get to work with a number of great comedy directors over the years.

9)What do you think of having website dedicated to your career?

Renée has done such an incredible job with the website! The incredible edits she has made over the years, the heartwarming posts and all of the detail that she has put into it is extraordinary! Add to that, I’ve been able to connect with so many people as a result of the site. I can’t thank her enough!

10) Any fun stories from your time acting at university?

When I was in college, there was only one acting elective available to us. But we had an amazing teacher in David Wheeler, who was also an incredibly talented theater director. I was completely new to acting when I took that class and stumbled my way through so much of it. It wasn’t til the end of the course, that I found myself acting on stage with another student, and for a split second I felt an emotional connection with my scene partner, where everyone else in the room seemed to disappear. I remember that moment so well, because it was after that, that I made the commitment to pursue acting professionally.

AIRDATE April 2, 2025 Actors Nestor Carbonell and Daniela Nieves stop by to talk about their new Netflix show Pulse, Paul shares some life lessons, and Miami Hurricanes super fan Michael Yo joins the show. (Segment starts at 44:03 – 59:19) The Gallery has also been updated with two photos shared by show host, Paul Castronovo.

Public Appearances > 2025 > The Paul Castronovo Show | April 2, 2025