Manolo Cardona's Spouse: All About His Wife, Valeria Santos

Prof. Ross Stoltenberg I 08 May 2025

Who is the charismatic Colombian actor Manolo Cardona, and what makes his journey in the world of entertainment so compelling? Manolo Cardona is a multifaceted talent whose career, marked by significant roles and personal commitments, has solidified his place as a prominent figure in both Latin American and international cinema and television.

Born Manuel Julin Cardona Molano on April 25, 1977, in Popayn, Cauca, Colombia, Manolo Cardona's life is a testament to the power of pursuing dreams and embracing diverse opportunities. His upbringing in Colombia, surrounded by a family that valued both public service and intellectual pursuits, undoubtedly shaped his trajectory. His father, Javier Enrique Cardona, was involved in politics, including serving as the mayor of Popayn, and his mother, Nancy Molano, a psychologist, merchant, and astrologer, instilled in him a broad perspective on life.

Cardona's path into acting was not a conventional one. Initially, he pursued studies in finance and international relations, a testament to his diverse interests. However, his passion for the performing arts eventually took center stage. At the age of seven, he was given the nickname "Manolo" by his family, a name that would later become synonymous with his acting career. After finishing his studies in Cali, Colombia, he moved to further his artistic education, which ultimately became the cornerstone of his professional path.

Bio and Personal Information	Details
Full Name	Manuel Julin Cardona Molano
Born	April 25, 1977, Popayn, Cauca, Colombia
Age	47 (as of November 14, 2024)
Nick Name	Manolo
Parents	Javier Enrique Cardona and Nancy Molano
Marital Status	Married to Valeria Santos
Children	One son (age 10)
Education	Studied Finance and International Relations
Known for	Acting in various TV shows and movies, including "Ladrn de Corazones" and "Quin mat a Sara?"
Friends	Sofia Vergara
Link	IMDB Profile

Manolo Cardona's career is highlighted by his memorable roles, beginning with "Ladrn de Corazones" ("Heartthrob") and "La Hermandad" ("The Brotherhood"). His portrayal of Gustavo Velasco in "Ladrn de Corazones" and Julio Kaczinski in "La Hermandad" catapulted him to the forefront of television audiences, cementing his reputation as a sought-after talent. The roles demonstrated not only his acting range but also his ability to captivate viewers with complex characters. He is also well-known for his performance in "Quin mat a Sara?" ("Who Killed Sara?"), where he played the role of Alex Guzmn.

Cardona's career also includes roles in international projects, expanding his reach and showing his versatility. His participation in the show "Reign," where he portrayed Toms of Portugal, showcased his capacity to embrace diverse roles and cross cultural boundaries. Manolo's ability to adapt to different types of roles and projects has allowed him to build a career with a diverse portfolio.

Beyond his professional achievements, Manolo Cardona's personal life reflects his values. He has been married to Valeria Santos since December 1, 2012. The couple shares a son, now 10 years old, demonstrating a strong commitment to family life. This highlights another dimension of Cardona's personality, showing that he balances his demanding career with family.

Cardona's close friendship with fellow Colombian star Sofia Vergara adds another layer to his profile. His friendship network is a testament to the relationships built through shared experiences and mutual respect within the entertainment industry.

Manolo Cardona is not from Mexico, a fact that distinguishes him from other cast members of the popular series "Who Killed Sara?". He was born and raised in Colombia, and as far as one can tell, he continues to make his home there. This emphasizes his roots and the connection to his home country.

Manolo Cardona's commitment to his partner, Valeria Santos, highlights the importance of family in his life. Having married in 2012, the couple has built a life together, supported by a network of family and friends. The strong family values are evident in both his professional and personal life.

Cardona has been happily married to his life partner since 2021, and he and his wife are connected to an affluent political family in Colombia. This reflects his close ties to family and society, adding another facet to his life beyond his acting career.

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Cardona is involved in the film "Now and Then," alongside Rosie Perez and Jos Mara Yazpik, for Apple's bilingual thriller. This is an example of the diversity and scope of his projects.

Manolo Cardona has been a successful figure in Latin American entertainment for many years. His skill as an actor, his personal commitments, and the way he interacts with his peers all add to his appeal. As he continues to work and grow, his story gives insight into the life of a man who is successful in the entertainment industry.