Luis Antonio Damaso de Alonso, a man destined for greatness, was born in 1905 in Mexico, a country that would forever leave its mark on his identity. As a young boy, he dreamed of becoming a bullfighter, but fate had other plans. His parents' decision to relocate to the United States would change the course of his life, leading him to pursue a career in acting instead.
With his Mexican heritage, a mix of machismo and romanticism, and a physique that exuded virility, Roland's charm and charisma landed him roles in movies from the early 1920s to 1982. His extensive and varied career saw him take on an array of characters, from extra to matinée idol, Latin Lover, and even a Mexican bandit in B-movies.
He became a household name, starring in a series of six popular Westerns as the iconic Cisco Kid, and impressing audiences with his brilliant performances in major A-movies, such as John Huston's We Were Strangers, Vincente Minnelli's The Bad and the Beautiful, Anthony Mann's Thunder Bay, John Ford's Cheyenne Autumn, and many more.
As he transitioned into Spaghetti Westerns, Roland's sinister characters left audiences in awe of his acting prowess. When he finally retired in 1982, twelve years before his passing, he could look back on a life well-lived, with a career spanning six decades, surviving the advent of sound, and playing alongside the most beautiful women of his time.
Perhaps most importantly, Roland had been given the opportunity to showcase his acting talents, a feat not many actors can claim. His life achievement was a testament to his dedication, perseverance, and natural ability, leaving behind a legacy that would continue to inspire generations to come.
