Guillermo Diaz is an American actor and producer from New York City. Diaz was born in New Jersey but grew up in Washington Heights, Manhattan, where he found his passion for acting while in high school. Diaz has performed in movies, television series, comedy shows, documentaries, music videos, and indie films while also co-hosting a podcast and engaging in charitable and humanitarian work.

Realizing his love for acting in high school, Diaz completed acting classes alongside business classes when attending Baruch College in New York. His first step into the acting world started in the independent film “Fresh” in 1994 where he had his first speaking role. Diaz went on to perform in other indie films before being cast in a leading role in the film “Stonewall,” a role that brought more recognition to his name and talent. Diaz continued to gain recognition after being cast in the comedy “Half Baked” with Dave Chappelle, who later would have Diaz frequently guest star in his comedy series “Chappelle’s Show.” Diaz went on to perform in numerous other shows and movies, most notably “Weeds,” “Mercy,” and “Scandal.”

Though he began acting before any formal training, Diaz shares that hiding his sexuality helped him become a better actor. Diaz worked to fit in with his classmates, hiding the fact that he was gay for many years. He has used this personal experience to fuel his acting, delivering incredible performances through his complex characters. Knowing the difficulties of growing up with unique challenges, Diaz engages in numerous charities and organizations that offer resources to those in need. He is an active member of the C.A.R.E. Project which aids people who are homeless in Los Angeles, he is outspoken in his support of the LGBTQ+ organization, and he has helped raise funds for numerous organizations such as the National MS Society. At the 2022 Be Great! Humanitarian Awards, Diaz was presented with the 2022 Impact Award for his work.

Recently, Diaz can be found co-hosting a podcast with his former “Scandal” co-star Katie Lowes. Often joined by former castmates, Diaz and Lowes discuss episodes and the details of “Scandal,” share behind-the-scenes memories, and relive the beloved show with their listeners.

Quote

“I went to school in the Bronx. I learned to constantly try to cover up the fact that I was gay. That facade of being somebody I'm really not just to protect myself definitely helped with acting.”

Social Media

Instagram: @guillermodiazreal