Cuban American Actor Carlo Arrechea Comes Out: “My Truth Is My Strength”
In an exclusive interview with Out Magazine, Carlo Arrechea opens up about his sexuality and experiences as a Latino actor in Hollywood. The 34-year-old star shares his journey from Cuban child actor to Emmy Award contender.
“I Embrace Every Facet of My Being”
Arrechea pens a heartfelt letter to his younger self. He writes, “I don’t know if my heart will lead me to a man or a woman, but that uncertainty is part of life’s beauty.” This declaration marks a new chapter in his life and career.
Born in Havana in 1990, Arrechea’s acting journey began at age six. He starred alongside his mother in a Cuban TV show. At 12, his family won the green card lottery. They moved to Miami, Florida.
“I Sometimes Don’t Feel Cuban Enough, But I Also Don’t Feel American Enough”
The move to the US brought challenges. Arrechea faced language barriers and culture shock. He also experienced the abundance of American life. “One of my dreams, in Cuba, I always wanted to eat an apple,” he recalls.
Arrechea’s first girlfriend came at 15. But he always felt attraction to men too. He started exploring this side at 17. His first experiences were not always positive. He shares a story of feeling scared during a date with an older man.
“I Was Very Naïve for a Very Long Time”
The actor focused on his career to cope with dating struggles. He starred in telenovelas and landed a role in the Nickelodeon series Grachi. This part changed his life. “It really put me on the radar. It was my big break,” he says.
Arrechea’s success led to a dilemma. He was famous in Latin America but unknown in Hollywood. He chose to move to Los Angeles and start fresh.
“I Just Want to Be Who I Am”
In LA, Arrechea trained at the Stella Adler Academy. He became more selective about his friends. His bisexuality was a non-issue among his new circle.
A guest role on S.W.A.T. in 2020 made Arrechea an Emmy Award contender. His representatives advised him to hide his sexuality. He initially agreed but later changed his mind. “Why do I have to do that? I just want to be who I am,” he states.
“I’m Opening My Heart”
Arrechea joined the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences in 2024. He attended the 76th Primetime Emmy Awards as a member and voter.
The actor dreams of playing Ricky Ricardo one day. He’s also producing a new film titled Unspoken Bonds.
Arrechea feels lighter after coming out. “I’ve been really vulnerable,” he says. “But I already feel so much lighter.”
