Lynnelle Pham

Written by Lynnelle Pham

Modified & Updated: 11 Oct 2024

50-facts-about-taylor-zakhar-perez
Source: Gq.com

Who is Taylor Zakhar Perez? Born on December 24, 1991, in Chicago, Illinois, Taylor Zakhar Perez is a rising star in Hollywood. Known for his breakout role as Marco Valentin Peña in The Kissing Booth 2, Perez has quickly become a household name. With a diverse cultural background, including Mexican, Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, Croatian, and Hungarian roots, he brings a unique perspective to his roles. Fluent in multiple languages and passionate about various causes like mental health, LGBTQ+ rights, and environmental conservation, Perez is more than just an actor. He’s a multifaceted individual dedicated to making a positive impact both on and off the screen.

Key Takeaways:

  • Taylor Zakhar Perez, known for his role in "The Kissing Booth 2," is a multitalented actor with a diverse background and a passion for sustainability and representation in Hollywood.
  • With a strong social media presence and dedication to personal growth, Taylor Zakhar Perez engages with fans, supports emerging artists, and advocates for important causes in and out of the entertainment industry.
Table of Contents

Early Life and Background

Taylor Zakhar Perez has a fascinating background that shaped his journey into acting. Let's dive into his early years and family life.

  1. Birth and Early Life: Born on December 24, 1991, in Chicago, Illinois, Taylor Zakhar Perez is the sixth of eight children. His family later moved to Chesterton, Indiana, where he spent most of his childhood.

  2. Family Background: Perez's family boasts a rich cultural heritage. His mother is an aesthetician, and his ancestry includes Mexican, Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, Croatian, and Hungarian roots.

  3. Siblings: Taylor has seven siblings: Ron, Grant, Kaie, Koehn, Kristy, Jenna, and Maria. His younger sister Maria's stage performances in Annie inspired him to get involved in community theater.

  4. Early Interests: Before focusing on acting, Perez explored business, modeling, and athletics. He was a nationally ranked and state champion swimmer in high school.

  5. Swimming Scholarship: He was offered a swimming scholarship to Fordham University but declined it to attend UCLA, where he pursued a major in Spanish culture and community and a minor in film and television.

Education and Career Beginnings

Taylor's education and early career choices played a significant role in shaping his path to stardom.

  1. College Education: At UCLA, Perez studied Spanish culture and community, which helped him understand and appreciate different Latinx communities. This education has significantly influenced his acting career and advocacy for Latinx representation in Hollywood.

  2. Acting Debut: His acting debut came in an episode of the popular Nickelodeon television series iCarly in 2012, where he played Keith, Carly's brief date.

  3. Early Roles: Perez's early roles included appearances in Suburgatory, Awkward, Young & Hungry, and Scandal. These roles helped him gain experience and build his resume in the entertainment industry.

Breakthrough and Major Roles

Taylor Zakhar Perez's big break came with a role that catapulted him to fame.

  1. Breakthrough Role: His breakthrough role came in 2020 with The Kissing Booth 2, where he played Marco Valentin Peña opposite Joey King. This role catapulted him to stardom and made him a household name.

  2. The Kissing Booth Franchise: Perez reprised his role as Marco in The Kissing Booth 3 (2021) and also appeared in the short film Philanthropy. The success of these films led to major roles in other projects, including 1Up (2022).

Skills and Talents

Taylor is not just an actor; he has a range of skills that add to his versatility.

  1. Multilingual Skills: Taylor Zakhar Perez is fluent in both English and Spanish, adding another layer to his impressive repertoire. He is also proficient in French and Italian, showcasing his linguistic skills.

  2. Acting Prowess: Perez has demonstrated his acting prowess in various roles, including his breakout performance in The Kissing Booth 2. He has also shown his musical talents by singing and playing guitar in the film.

  3. Choreography and Guitar Lessons: For his role in The Kissing Booth 2, Perez took choreography and guitar lessons to prepare. This dedication to his craft has been a hallmark of his career.

Relationships and Social Media

Taylor values his relationships with co-stars and fans, often engaging with them through social media.

  1. Castmates and Friendship: Perez has spoken highly of his castmates, particularly Joey King and Joel Courtney. The close bond they formed during filming has been a significant part of his positive experiences in the industry.

  2. Social Media Presence: Taylor Zakhar Perez has a strong social media presence, engaging with his fans and sharing glimpses of his personal and professional life. He uses platforms like Instagram to connect with his audience.

Advocacy and Personal Interests

Beyond acting, Taylor is passionate about various causes and hobbies.

  1. Mental Health Awareness: Perez is an advocate for mental health awareness and regularly raises awareness about the importance of self-care and seeking help when needed. He uses his platform to promote positive mental health practices.

  2. Outdoor Adventures: When not on set, Taylor Zakhar Perez loves to immerse himself in nature and explore the great outdoors. He enjoys connecting with nature and making the most of every adventure.

  3. Animal Lover: Perez is an animal lover and often advocates for animal rights and raises awareness about animal cruelty issues. His kind heart and soft spot for animals have made him a beloved figure in the animal welfare community.

Awards and Recognition

Taylor's talent has not gone unnoticed, earning him several nominations and awards.

  1. Acting Nominations and Awards: Taylor Zakhar Perez’s talent has been recognized with nominations and awards, highlighting his dedication and skill in the industry. These accolades are a testament to his hard work and commitment to his craft.

  2. LGBTQ+ Rights Advocate: Perez is a proud supporter of LGBTQ+ rights and uses his platform to support and raise awareness for the community. He believes in equality and inclusivity, advocating for equal rights and addressing important social issues.

Personality and Values

Taylor's personality and values make him a relatable and inspiring figure.

  1. Sense of Humor: Taylor Zakhar Perez is known for his infectious laughter and quick wit, bringing joy to those around him with his genuine sense of humor. His ability to connect with people through humor has made him a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.

  2. Environmental Conservation: Perez is passionate about environmental conservation and actively promotes sustainable practices. He encourages others to make eco-friendly choices, highlighting the importance of protecting the environment.

  3. Multitalented Performer: Aside from acting, Taylor Zakhar Perez is also a talented dancer. He has captivated audiences with his graceful moves, adding another dimension to his multifaceted skills.

  4. Body Positivity Advocate: Perez is passionate about promoting body positivity, recognizing the importance of self-acceptance and self-love. He uses his platform to promote positive body image and self-esteem.

Fan Engagement and Continuous Learning

Taylor values his fans and believes in continuous personal and professional growth.

  1. Fan Engagement: Taylor Zakhar Perez enjoys connecting with fans through live streams and Q&A sessions. These interactions foster a sense of community and allow him to engage directly with his audience.

  2. Constant Learner: Perez has a thirst for knowledge and actively seeks opportunities to learn and grow as both an individual and performer. This continuous learning has helped him stay adaptable and innovative in his career.

  3. Collaborations with Emerging Artists: Taylor Zakhar Perez recognizes the importance of supporting emerging talent and seeks out opportunities to collaborate with up-and-coming artists. This support helps nurture new talent in the industry.

  4. Infectious Energy: Above all, Taylor Zakhar Perez brings an infectious energy to everything he does. His enthusiasm and passion are contagious, captivating audiences and leaving a lasting impression.

Philanthropy and Industry Recognition

Taylor's commitment to making a positive impact extends beyond his acting career.

  1. Philanthropic Work: Perez is involved in various philanthropic activities, including supply chain trips to an Australian nonprofit organization focused on natural, renewable, and biodegradable wool fiber. His commitment to making a positive impact is evident in his work.

  2. SAG Awards Ambassador: In February 2024, Taylor Zakhar Perez was appointed the ambassador for that year's SAG Awards ceremony. This appointment highlights his growing influence and recognition within the industry.

  3. Talent Agency Signing: In March 2024, Perez signed with talent agency Paradigm. This move signifies his continued growth and commitment to his career, seeking new opportunities and challenges.

Passion for Sustainability and Representation

Taylor is dedicated to promoting sustainability and advocating for his community.

  1. Sustainability Efforts: Taylor Zakhar Perez is very passionate about sustainability and making a change in the world. His efforts to promote eco-friendly practices reflect his dedication to environmental conservation.

  2. Latinx Community Support: Perez is deeply committed to supporting his Latinx community. He believes in representing Latinx individuals on screen and advocating for equal representation in Hollywood.

  3. Role Models: Growing up, Taylor Zakhar Perez identified with artists like Selena, who represented his cultural heritage. He aims to make a similar impact by providing positive representation for Latinx communities.

Personal Growth and Fan Relationships

Taylor's journey emphasizes personal growth and maintaining strong connections with fans.

  1. Personal Growth: Throughout his journey, Perez has emphasized the importance of personal growth and continuous learning. This mindset has helped him navigate the challenges of the entertainment industry.

  2. Fan Relationships: Taylor Zakhar Perez values his relationships with fans, often engaging with them through social media and live streams. This connection helps build a loyal fan base and fosters a sense of community.

Off-Screen Relationships and Career Milestones

Taylor's off-screen relationships and career milestones have shaped his journey in the entertainment industry.

  1. Off-Screen Relationships: While fans might speculate about his off-screen relationships, Taylor Zakhar Perez has clarified that he is not dating his The Kissing Booth co-star Joey King. Despite this, he has expressed his admiration and respect for her.

  2. Career Milestones: From his early roles in iCarly to his breakout performance in The Kissing Booth 2, Taylor Zakhar Perez has achieved significant milestones in his career. Each role has contributed to his growth as an actor and his increasing popularity.

Recent Roles and Future Projects

Taylor continues to take on exciting roles and projects, keeping fans eagerly anticipating what's next.

  1. Role in Red, White & Royal Blue: In 2023, Perez starred in the romantic comedy film Red, White & Royal Blue, further showcasing his acting range and versatility. This role solidified his position as a leading actor in the industry.

  2. Support for Emerging Artists: Taylor Zakhar Perez recognizes the importance of supporting emerging artists. He actively seeks out opportunities to collaborate with up-and-coming talent, helping to nurture new voices in the entertainment industry.

  3. Personal Interests: When not acting, Taylor Zakhar Perez enjoys outdoor adventures and immersing himself in nature. His love for the outdoors reflects his appreciation for the natural world and his desire to live sustainably.

  4. Philanthropic Activities: Perez is involved in various philanthropic activities, including supply chain trips to support sustainable practices. His commitment to making a positive impact is evident in his work both on and off the screen.

  5. SAG Awards Ambassador Role: As the ambassador for the 2024 SAG Awards, Taylor Zakhar Perez will be representing the industry's highest honors. This role underscores his growing influence and recognition within the entertainment industry.

  6. Talent Agency Signing: Signing with Paradigm in March 2024 marks a significant step in Taylor Zakhar Perez’s career. This move signifies his continued growth and commitment to his career, seeking new opportunities and challenges.

  7. Sustainability Efforts: Taylor Zakhar Perez is passionate about sustainability and making a change in the world. His efforts to promote eco-friendly practices reflect his dedication to environmental conservation.

  8. Latinx Community Support: Perez is deeply committed to supporting his Latinx community. He believes in representing Latinx individuals on screen and advocating for equal representation in Hollywood.

  9. Role Models: Growing up, Taylor Zakhar Perez identified with artists like Selena, who represented his cultural heritage. He aims to make a similar impact by providing positive representation for Latinx communities.

  10. Personal Growth: Throughout his journey, Perez has emphasized the importance of personal growth and continuous learning. This mindset has helped him navigate the challenges of the entertainment industry.

  11. Fan Relationships: Taylor Zakhar Perez values his relationships with fans, often engaging with them through social media and live streams. This connection helps build a loyal fan base and fosters a sense of community.

  12. Future Projects: As Taylor Zakhar Perez continues to rise in the entertainment industry, fans eagerly await his future projects. With his undeniable talent and charming personality, it is clear that he will remain a prominent figure in Hollywood for years to come.

Taylor Zakhar Perez: A Rising Star

Taylor Zakhar Perez has quickly become a standout in Hollywood. Born on December 24, 1991, in Chicago, he grew up in a large, diverse family. His journey from a small role in iCarly to a breakout performance in The Kissing Booth 2 shows his dedication and talent. Fluent in multiple languages and passionate about various causes, Perez is more than just an actor. He advocates for mental health, LGBTQ+ rights, and environmental conservation. His commitment to personal growth and continuous learning sets him apart. With a strong social media presence and a genuine connection with fans, Perez remains relatable and grounded. As he continues to take on new roles and challenges, there's no doubt he'll keep making waves in the entertainment industry. Fans eagerly await what’s next for this multifaceted and inspiring individual.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Taylor Zakhar Perez?
Taylor Zakhar Perez is a talented actor best known for his role as Marco in the Netflix film "The Kissing Booth 2." With his charming looks and impressive acting skills, he quickly captured the hearts of audiences worldwide.
How did Taylor Zakhar Perez start his acting career?
His journey into the world of acting began with theater. From there, he transitioned to television and film, landing roles in various projects before his breakout role in "The Kissing Booth 2."
What are some interesting facts about Taylor's personal life?
Beyond his acting, Taylor is an avid traveler and a fitness enthusiast. He often shares glimpses of his adventures and workouts with fans on social media, showcasing his love for exploring new places and staying in shape.
Has Taylor Zakhar Perez won any awards for his acting?
While he hasn't snagged any major awards yet, his performance in "The Kissing Booth 2" earned him widespread recognition and praise. Many believe it's only a matter of time before he starts collecting accolades.
What projects is Taylor Zakhar Perez working on now?
Following the success of "The Kissing Booth 2," Taylor has been linked to several upcoming projects. Fans are eagerly waiting to see him shine in new roles, both on the big screen and on streaming platforms.
How can fans connect with Taylor Zakhar Perez?
For those looking to keep up with Taylor, he's quite active on social media. Following him on platforms like Instagram and Twitter is a great way to stay updated on his life, both on and off the set.
What makes Taylor Zakhar Perez stand out in Hollywood?
His combination of talent, charisma, and dedication sets him apart. Taylor's ability to connect with his audience, whether through a dramatic scene or a heartfelt post on social media, makes him a standout figure in the entertainment industry.

Was this page helpful?

Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.