The incredibly versatile Spanish actor has made a huge mark in Hollywood with his powerful performances and intense screen presence. This talented performer earned an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his chilling portrayal of the psychopathic Anton Chigurh in the 2007 film No Country for Old Men—a role that truly defined his career. The Spanish actor also received well-deserved Academy Award nominations for his emotionally gripping roles in Before Night Falls and Biutiful, further solidifying his reputation as one of the most compelling actors of his generation.
Before fame took hold, the Spanish actor led a surprisingly athletic life—he played rugby at a high level and was even a member of the Spanish National Team. His journey into acting began at a very young age; he made his on-screen debut when he was just six years old. By the time he was 20, he appeared alongside his mother in the film The Ages of Lulu, marking an early milestone in what would become a remarkable career.
On a personal note, the Spanish actor married fellow superstar Penelope Cruz in 2010, after the couple had been dating for three years. Their relationship has remained a strong and private part of his life. He comes from a family deeply rooted in the arts—his father is Jose Carlos Encinas, and his mother is the acclaimed actress Pilar Bardem. Together, they raised a son who would go on to achieve international fame.
The Spanish actor is now a proud parent to two children: a daughter named Luna and a son named Leo. With each new project, the Spanish actor continues to captivate audiences around the world, proving time and again why he remains one of the most respected figures in modern cinema.
He’s mostly recognized for his intense performances in heavy dramas, but he also left a lasting impression in romantic comedies like Vicky Cristina Barcelona and Eat Pray Love. In fact, many people were surprised by how effortlessly he transitioned into those lighter roles. He truly showcased his range as an actor when he took on the role of the villain Raoul Silva in the 2012 James Bond film Skyfall—a performance that critics and fans alike still talk about. He brought such depth and menace to the character, proving once again why he remains one of the most respected figures in the industry. He continues to surprise audiences with each new role he takes on.