Salma Hayek candidly opens up about the challenges she faced in her early days in Hollywood, revealing nights filled with tears as she struggled to gain recognition.
Despite her current success, including roles in the upcoming Marvel film 'Eternals' and the highly anticipated 'House of Gucci,' the Mexican actress recalls a time when the film industry didn't believe in her potential.
As one of the five Latin American actresses acknowledged by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences for their contributions, Salma Hayek's journey has been marked by resilience and hard work. However, after transitioning from soap operas to Hollywood, she confronted the harsh reality of the industry, grappling with the question of why she wasn't getting hired and whether she could sustain herself financially.
In an interview with InStyle magazine, Hayek reflects on the challenging early years, admitting that she faced numerous rejections and failed auditions after using her savings from soap opera roles to move to Los Angeles. The discouragement from those who doubted her talent and told her she would never make it weighed heavily on her, leading to nights of tears and self-doubt.
"People told me, 'You're no good, you'll never make it.' What if I had listened to those idiots?" she recounts, acknowledging the impact of such negativity. Despite momentarily giving in to despair, she found the strength to persist, returning to pursue her dream of becoming an actress.
Salma Hayek, cast as Ajak in 'Eternals,' acknowledges the surprising turn her career has taken, especially as an unexpected action star. Reflecting on the changing landscape for women in the film industry, she wonders aloud about the specific reasons for her newfound opportunities, expressing a mix of gratitude and bewilderment.
Born in Coatzacoalcos, Veracruz, Hayek initially gained recognition in Mexican television for her role in the soap opera 'Teresa' before venturing into the film industry. While her early film roles, like 'El callejo de los milagros,' laid the groundwork, it was her performance in 'Frida' that truly propelled her Hollywood career, earning her an Oscar nomination for Best Actress. Salma Hayek's journey serves as an inspiring testament to perseverance and the transformative power of dedication in the face of adversity.
