She’s a talented television and film actress who gained widespread recognition for her standout performances in major productions. One of the key moments in her career came when she portrayed Estrella in the 2015 James Bond film Spectre, a role that brought her into the global spotlight. Around the same time, she captivated audiences as Valeria Velez in Netflix’s critically acclaimed 2015 series Narcos. Her performance in that series further solidified her reputation as a compelling and versatile actress.
Later on, she took on a powerful and enduring role as Captain Jessica Cortez in the popular TV series S.W.A.T., where her strong presence and dynamic character development made her a fan favorite. But long before these breakthrough roles, she had already begun making waves in the industry. Her first major role was in the 2011 action-packed film Miss Bala, where she played the lead character—a performance that showcased her depth and range early in her career.
She also shared the screen with Diane Kruger in the FX series The Bridge, adding another impressive credit to her growing resume. Born in Ciudad Obregón, she comes from an interesting background—her father worked as an American baseball scout for the Yankees, which gave her a unique upbringing straddling two cultures.
On a personal note, she married Brian Andrew Mendoza on October 27, 2018, in a heartfelt ceremony. The couple welcomed their son, Noah Hawk, the following year, marking a joyful new chapter in her life. Through each role and milestone, she continues to make her mark in Hollywood, balancing powerful on-screen performances with a grounded personal journey.
Back in 2014, she made a memorable appearance in the Arctic Monkeys’ music video for their hit single “Snap Out Of It,” showcasing her versatility early on. Then, not too long after, she took on a more intense role—portraying Sister Charlotte in the chilling horror film Annabelle: Creation. Her performance as her added a haunting depth to the movie, really solidifying her presence in the genre. Over time, she has continued to build an impressive resume, with each role as her demonstrating a growing range and commitment to her craft.