ROBERTO SANCHEZ BRINGS ICONIC ROLES TO LIFE
BY EBBY MAGAZINE
From Dexter: Original Sin to Palm Royale, Roberto Sanchez reflects on his standout performances and the exciting projects shaping his career.
PHOTO ABOVE, ROBERTO SANCHEZ WITH HIS WIFE, LENEE ADKINS
PHOTOGRAPHER JAMES PRATT
“SOMETIMES ALL IT TAKES IS SOMEONE BELIEVING IN YOU. THAT’S WHEN YOU REALIZE—YOU WERE CAPABLE ALL ALONG.”
ROBERTO SANCHEZ, ACTOR, PRODUCER, DIRECTOR
PHOTOGRAPHER DARRIN VANGORDER
Cuban actor Roberto Sánchez has built a remarkable career defined by versatility, passion, and dedication to his craft. Renowned for his standout performances in projects like Dexter: Original Sin and the highly anticipated Apple TV+ series Palm Royale, Sánchez continues to captivate audiences with his dynamic range. Approaching his 60th birthday this January, Sánchez recently sat down with us to reflect on his journey, sharing insights into his latest roles, the challenges of his craft, and the balance he maintains between his professional commitments and personal life.
Sánchez described his work on Dexter: Original Sin as “an incredible honor,” highlighting his excitement at joining a series he had long admired. However, filming was challenging, as he recounted an intense and physically demanding climactic scene that tested his resolve. His role in Palm Royale has been a remarkable opportunity, where he shares the screen with icons like Laura Dern, Allison Janney, and Kristen Wiig. “It’s the best cast I’ve ever worked with,” Sánchez shared, expressing his gratitude for the opportunity.
Beyond acting, Sánchez has ventured into screenwriting, penning the story for the upcoming action-crime thriller 72 Hours. With a career that spans over 100 projects—including iconic roles in 2 Fast 2 Furious and hit TV series like Queen of the South and Law & Order: SVU—Sánchez shows no signs of slowing down. His relentless drive, even delaying ankle surgery to meet professional commitments, is a testament to his unwavering passion for storytelling. “Every day on set reminds me why I love this profession,” Sánchez said, a sentiment that defines his illustrious career and fuels his continued success.
In this exclusive interview, Roberto Sánchez shares his perspective on work, life, and passion.
“THE NEXT CHALLENGE IS ALWAYS WHAT EXCITES ME MOST—BECAUSE WITH EVERY NEW STEP, YOU’RE WRITING ANOTHER CHAPTER IN YOUR STORY.”
Roberto, your career spans various genres and roles—from action-packed films to deep dramatic series. How do you choose which projects to take on, and what excites you most about these new opportunities?
As an actor, one always wants the opportunity to play complex and challenging roles. That’s what motivates me when considering a role. Take my role as “Handsome Tony” on Dexter. On the surface, Tony looks like a cookie-cutter loan shark. Taxing you a vig (interest) every week that you are late. Even using physical harm if you don’t pay it back. I think many actors would play it that way, and there is nothing wrong with that choice. I always try to find a redeemable quality in these types of roles. I believe Tony wants to give the people who come to him an opportunity at the American dream–the same opportunities that he had.
You’ve spoken about the honor of joining Dexter: Original Sin. Can you tell us what bringing your character to life in such an iconic series was like, especially considering your admiration for the show?
The first thing I did when I got the script was go to the end to see if and how my character met his demise. A lot of times, as an actor, one hopes that his character doesn’t get killed. However, in the “Dexter world,” it is an honor! Lol. I am now in the history books as Dexter’s 2nd kill. I love it!!
Filming Dexter presented intense physical challenges, such as when they restrained your character, Tony Ferrer, in a particular scene. How do you prepare for physically demanding roles like this, and what went through your mind at that moment?
I work out quite a bit. That has always helped me with physically demanding roles. For this particular scene, it did not! In order to sell it on camera, they had to really strap me down. I’m a pretty strong guy, but I got nothing when I tried to move around under those saran wraps. I really couldn’t move. I guess I watch too many horror movies cause my mind started to wonder, “What if there was some kind of zombie apocalypse and everyone was affected except for me?” I’m done for! I can’t escape! I think that real fear helped sell it as the character.
PHOTOGRAPHER MYRNA SUAREZ/PARAMOUNT+ WITH SHOWTIME
Left: Patrick Gibson as Dexter Morgan, and Right: Roberto Sanchez as Tony Ferrer in Dexter: Original Sin, Episode 3,
Season 1, streaming on Paramount+ with SHOWTIME in 2024
.
In Palm Royale, you work alongside legendary actors like Laura Dern, Kristen Wiig, and Ricky Martin. What has it been like to share the screen with such an esteemed cast, and how does it influence your performance?
I have been very fortunate in my career to work with talented people, on and behind the camera. Palm Royale is definitely on the top of the list for me. It’s one of those rare situations where everyone cheers and supports each other. We are truly a family. Also, working alongside an icon like Carol Burnett is truly a dream come true.
You’ve also written the story for the upcoming film 72 Hours. What inspired you to venture into screenwriting, and what can audiences expect from this action-packed thriller?
Well, I had written, produced, and directed a couple of award-winning shorts before 72 Hours. One day, while filming in Mexico, I had a conversation with one of the producers, Ojan Missaghi of Toric Films. He was looking for some fresh ideas and asked me if I would write something. I told him that I wasn’t really a writer. He said, “Yes, you are!” “You’ve written two successful shorts!” With that, I proceeded to write the story of two brothers from opposite sides of the law, having to put their differences aside to rescue a family member who was in the hands of one of Mexico’s most notorious cartels. Oh, and you only have 72 Hours! Ojan and his partner at Toric Films, David Wachs, loved it and decided to move forward with production. They brought in screenwriter Sean Crayne to develop the script further. I love what we were able to put together. It’s a solid indie film with high stakes that I think people will enjoy.
With a career as prolific as yours, how do you balance your professional life with personal moments?
It can be challenging sometimes, especially having to travel back east every week while shooting BMF (Black Mafia Family) in Atlanta. You learn to appreciate the little things, Like the extended walks with my wife and Hunny Boy (our dog). Bumming around and binge-watching The Walking Dead for the 3rd time and just taking a moment to enjoy the moment. It has a different meaning these days.
What excites you most about the second season of Palm Royale, and what can fans expect from your character, Pinky, as the story evolves?
Of course, I am limited in what I can say about Palm Royale, but... I think the fans are gonna love season 2! You are gonna really get to know Pinky and Rachel (my wife) and what these two have up their sleeves. I love the development of the storyline with these two wacky characters!
You’ve worked in various mediums—television, film, and screenwriting. Do you feel more connected to a specific medium or role or enjoy the variety in your career?
What’s that quote ... “Variety is the spice of life!” I definitely enjoy the different mediums. If there is anything I’d like to do more of, it would be theatre (stage productions).
Finally, you’ve achieved so much in your career, yet your passion for your work remains unwavering. What keeps you inspired, and what’s next for Roberto Sánchez, professionally and personally?
I’m in the process of writing a rom-com tentatively titled “The Cafe” I’ve never written one. I love challenges!!!
SO MANY MANTRAS COME TO MIND, BUT ONE THAT I OFTEN USE
THAT BRINGS ME PEACE.
“THIS TOO SHALL PASS.”
WHAT IS MY SELF-LUXURY AND HOW DO I FEED MY SOUL?
“I’d have to say that it’s my collection of rare, hard-to-find Bruce Lee items. I have an office in my house that is literally covered wall to wall, inch by inch, with Bruce Lee memorabilia. There is the competitive side of me that has to find that thing that no other collector has. The hunt and ultimately, the find, are exciting and brings me joy. Also, when I find myself stressed out or my energy is low, I sit in my office. It takes me back to a simpler time, my childhood. It also reminds me of how far I've come and how blessed I am. The office space recharges my soul.”
