Manny Perez, a rising star in Hollywood, has been making significant strides in his career, securing lead and co-starring roles in over a dozen films, both major and independent releases, within the past few years.
Born in a small town in the Dominican Republic, Manny is one of eleven siblings, and his family relocated to Providence, Rhode Island, when he was just 10 years old. By the time he finished high school, Manny knew that the stage was his true calling, and he went on to major in drama at Marymount Manhattan College in New York.
Manny's big break came when he co-wrote, produced, and starred in the critically acclaimed independent film Washington Heights (2002),set in his own neighborhood. His performance garnered widespread critical acclaim, with The New York Times praising his "charisma to burn." He went on to win the 2002 Best Actor Award at the Milan International Film Festival in Italy.
More recently, Manny's project La soga (2009) premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival to standing ovations, sold-out shows, and rave reviews. The film, which Manny produced, wrote, and starred in, was the first Dominican film to ever screen at the prestigious festival. La soga has since grossed over $1 million worldwide.
In addition to his work in film, Manny has collaborated with esteemed directors such as Sidney Lumet, Arthur Penn, Spike Lee, Leon Ichaso, Mike Newell, Ed Zwick, Takeshi Kitano, Bob Giraldi, and Darnell Martin.
Despite his success in Hollywood, Manny remains deeply rooted in his Latin heritage, both in the US and the Dominican Republic. He has been honored by El Diario newspaper with the "EL Award" as one of the most prominent Latinos in New York, and has received the Tony Bennett Excellence in Media Award, the Perry Ellis Humanitarian Award, and the Key to the City from his hometown in Providence, Rhode Island.
Manny's dedication to his craft, combined with his charitable work, has earned him numerous accolades, including the Humanitarian Award in his native Dominican Republic for his efforts during the devastation of Hurricane Noel.
As a result of his hard work and talent, Manny has been featured in various magazines, newspapers, and entertainment shows. He currently resides between Washington Heights, New York City, and Los Angeles, and is a member of the LAByrinth Theatre Company in New York City.
