Luis Kelly-Duarte, a Nicaraguan-born actor, hails from Northern California, where he was raised with a rich cultural heritage.
As a child, Luis migrated to San Francisco with his mother and two sisters, fleeing the communist government of Nicaragua to reunite with his father, who had arrived in the United States a few years prior.
Growing up, Luis was exposed to a unique blend of cultures, as his paternal side of the family originates from the Atlantic coast of Nicaragua, renowned for its vibrant music, dance, food, and traditions.
From a young age, Luis demonstrated a profound passion for music, and at the tender age of junior high, he penned his first rap song under the pseudonym "Tsunom." He went on to perform in San Francisco's underground hip-hop scene, honing his craft and building a reputation.
However, it was his sister's appearance in a play at San Francisco State that profoundly altered Luis's focus. The following semester, he enrolled in his first acting class at Contra Costa College, marking the beginning of his journey in the world of acting.
Luis continued his studies at Cypress College, where he refined his craft and prepared himself for the demands of the entertainment industry.
Throughout his career, Luis has worked on numerous hit shows, including Shameless opposite Shanola Hampton and Steve Howey, as well as Animal Kingdom starring Ellen Barkin. He has also appeared in feature films, television productions, and theatre performances.
