In Hollywood, there are countless actors who may not always be household names but whose performances leave a lasting impact on audiences. One such actor is Rick Gonzalez, an American actor and musician of Puerto Rican and Dominican heritage. From playing unforgettable roles in films like Coach Carter and Roll Bounce to portraying DC Comics’ vigilante Wild Dog in Arrow, Gonzalez has built a career based on talent, hard work, and resilience.
This detailed article will dive into his biography, age, career milestones, net worth, movies and TV shows, family life, marriage to Sherry Aon, his role as a father, and his personal background. Whether you’re discovering him for the first time or are already a fan, this deep dive into Rick Gonzalez will give you a comprehensive look at the man behind the roles.
Who Is Rick Gonzalez?
Rick Gonzalez is an American actor and musician who rose to prominence in the early 2000s with a string of film roles that showcased his versatility and charisma. He is best known for his role as Timo Cruz in the 2005 drama Coach Carter, where he starred alongside Samuel L. Jackson, and for playing Rene Ramirez/Wild Dog in Arrow.
Born and raised in New York City, Gonzalez came from a Latino background that deeply influenced his perspective on life and his pursuit of the arts. From a young age, he demonstrated an interest in acting and performing, putting on improvised shows for family members and later joining school plays. His talent and determination earned him a place at the LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts, an institution famous for nurturing performers in acting, music, and dance.
Rick Gonzalez Age and Early Life
- Date of Birth: June 30, 1979
- Age: 46 years old (as of 2025)
- Birthplace: Bushwick, Brooklyn, New York City, USA
- Ethnicity: Puerto Rican and Dominican heritage
Rick Gonzalez’s childhood was shaped by his immigrant parents, who had roots in the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico. His parents met in Washington, D.C., before settling in Brooklyn, New York. Although they divorced later, Gonzalez was raised in an environment that emphasized culture, resilience, and ambition.
Attending LaGuardia High School gave him the foundation to pursue acting professionally. By the late 1990s, he had already begun landing minor TV and film roles, marking the start of a long journey in Hollywood.
Career Journey: From Early Struggles to Hollywood Success
Rick Gonzalez’s career can be divided into several stages, from early guest roles to his breakthrough films and eventual recognition in television.
Early Appearances
His first television appearance was in the 1998 made-for-TV movie Thicker Than Blood. He then appeared in episodes of Law & Order: SVU, Touched by an Angel, and ER, establishing himself as a versatile young actor.
Breakthrough in Film
In the early 2000s, Gonzalez began appearing in feature films:
- The Rookie (2002) – Played Rudy Bonilla, a heartwarming role that earned attention.
- Old School (2003) – As Spanish, he displayed comedic timing.
- Biker Boyz (2003) – Played Primo in this action-drama.
Iconic Role: Coach Carter (2005)
Gonzalez’s breakthrough came with Coach Carter, where he portrayed Timo Cruz, a troubled young basketball player mentored by Samuel L. Jackson’s character. His emotional performance earned critical praise and showcased his ability to handle complex, dramatic roles.
Other Film Roles
Over the years, Gonzalez appeared in:
- War of the Worlds (2005)
- Roll Bounce (2005)
- Pulse (2006)
- Illegal Tender (2007) – Lead role as Wilson DeLeon Jr.
- What We Do Is Secret (2007) – Played Pat Smear, the guitarist for the punk band Germs.
Rise in Television
Television became another strong platform for Rick Gonzalez.
- Reaper (2007–2009): Played Ben Gonzalez, one of the main characters.
- Mr. Robot (2015): Appeared as Isaac Vera, showcasing his ability to adapt to darker narratives.
- Arrow (2016–2020): Starred as Rene Ramirez/Wild Dog, a vigilante in the Arrowverse. His performance made him a fan favorite in the superhero genre.
- Law & Order: Organized Crime (2022–present): Currently plays Detective Bobby Reyes, solidifying his long-standing presence on TV.
Rick Gonzalez Movies and TV Shows
To summarize, here are some highlights:
Notable Films:
- Coach Carter (2005)
- Illegal Tender (2007)
- Roll Bounce (2005)
- The Rookie (2002)
- Old School (2003)
- Pulse (2006)
- War of the Worlds (2005)
Notable TV Shows:
- Reaper (2007–2009)
- Arrow (2016–2020)
- Mr. Robot (2015)
- Law & Order: Organized Crime (2022–present)
- Guest appearances: ER, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, CSI: Miami, Bones, Castle, NCIS, and others.
Rick Gonzalez Net Worth
According to several celebrity wealth estimation blogs, Rick Gonzalez’s net worth is around $1 million to $1.5 million. While this figure is not officially verified, it reflects his long career in both film and television, along with appearances in mainstream productions.
Unlike many Hollywood stars, Gonzalez has managed to stay relatively private about his financial life, but his steady acting career suggests financial stability and growth.
Family and Relationships
Rick Gonzalez and Sherry Aon
Rick Gonzalez is married to Sherry Aon, who has largely stayed out of the public spotlight. While details about her background remain private, the couple has been together for over a decade, with their relationship often praised for its stability in an industry known for short-lived marriages.
Rick Gonzalez Kids
Rick and Sherry have one daughter, reportedly named Skylar Gonzalez, born in 2013. Gonzalez occasionally shares glimpses of fatherhood in interviews, emphasizing how important family is in his life.
Rick Gonzalez Father and Parents
While Gonzalez has spoken openly about his Puerto Rican and Dominican heritage, the specific names of his parents—particularly his father—are not publicly documented in reliable sources. What is known is that his cultural background deeply influenced his upbringing and perspective as an actor.
Personality and Private Life
Gonzalez is often described as humble, grounded, and committed to his craft. Unlike some Hollywood celebrities, he tends to avoid major controversies and prefers keeping his personal life relatively private. This has helped him maintain a positive reputation within the industry.
Beyond acting, he has also dabbled in music, exploring hip-hop and rap as creative outlets. His diverse talents underscore his love for artistic expression.
Legacy and Impact
Rick Gonzalez may not always headline blockbuster films, but his performances have consistently left a mark. For Latino representation in Hollywood, his career stands as an example of perseverance and dedication. From Coach Carter to Arrow, he has managed to resonate with audiences across genres—from sports drama and comedy to science fiction and superhero epics.
For aspiring actors, Gonzalez’s career demonstrates how resilience, adaptability, and hard work can open doors in the highly competitive entertainment industry.
Conclusion
Rick Gonzalez’s journey is a testament to talent and persistence. Born to immigrant parents in Brooklyn, he worked his way through the entertainment industry, balancing film, TV, and even music. His iconic roles in Coach Carter, Arrow, and Law & Order: Organized Crime showcase his versatility, while his family life with wife Sherry Aon and their daughter reveals his grounded side.
At 46 years old, with a career spanning over two decades, Rick Gonzalez continues to inspire both audiences and fellow actors. Whether through his emotional performances on the big screen or his action-packed superhero persona on television, his impact remains significant.
For more celebrity biographies, insights, and lifestyle articles, keep visiting digijournal—your go-to source for detailed celebrity profiles and entertainment stories.
