Basic Information:
Name: Wagner Maniçoba de Moura
Date of Birth: June 27, 1976
Nationality: Brazilian
Profession: Actor, Filmmaker, Musician, Journalist
Social Media Links: Not publicly available
Biography:
Wagner Moura was born on June 27, 1976, in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil, and spent his early years in the small town of Rodelas. His mother, Alderiva, was a housewife, and his father, José Moura, served as a sergeant in the Brazilian Air Force. At the age of 13, Wagner and his family moved back to Salvador, where he later pursued journalism at the Federal University of Bahia. However, his passion for the arts led him to the world of acting.
Wagner's acting career began in theater, where he honed his craft and gained recognition in Brazil. His breakthrough came with the 2007 film "Elite Squad," in which he portrayed Captain Roberto Nascimento, a role that resonated with audiences and critics alike. The film's success was further cemented when it won the Golden Bear at the 58th Berlin International Film Festival. He reprised this role in the sequel, "Elite Squad: The Enemy Within," in 2010, solidifying his status as a leading actor in Brazilian cinema.
In 2013, Wagner made his Hollywood debut in the science fiction film "Elysium," starring alongside Matt Damon and Jodie Foster. However, it was his portrayal of the notorious drug lord Pablo Escobar in the Netflix series "Narcos" (2015-2016) that brought him international acclaim. His nuanced performance earned him a Golden Globe nomination and showcased his ability to delve deep into complex characters.
Beyond acting, Wagner ventured into directing with his debut film "Marighella" in 2019, a biographical drama about the Brazilian revolutionary Carlos Marighella. The film was well-received and marked his transition into filmmaking.
Career Timeline:
1996: Begins acting career in theater productions in Salvador, Bahia.
2000: Makes film debut in "Woman on Top."
2003: Gains recognition with "The Man of the Year."
2007: Achieves breakthrough with "Elite Squad."
2010: Stars in "Elite Squad: The Enemy Within."
2013: Debuts in Hollywood with "Elysium."
2015-2016: Portrays Pablo Escobar in "Narcos."
2019: Directs first feature film, "Marighella."
Achievements:
Awards & Recognition:
Golden Bear at the 58th Berlin International Film Festival for "Elite Squad."
Cinema Brazil Grand Prize for Best Actor in "Elite Squad: The Enemy Within."
Golden Globe nomination for Best Actor in a Television Series – Drama for "Narcos."
Annie Award nomination for Outstanding Achievement for Voice Acting in an Animated Feature for "Puss in Boots: The Last Wish."
Philanthropic Work:
Appointed as a Goodwill Ambassador by the International Labour Organization (ILO) in 2015, Wagner has been active in campaigns against modern slavery and forced labor.
Key Quotes / Catchphrases:
"I think that addiction is a very, very important thing that has to be treated, but has to be treated as a health problem and not as a police problem."
