Who Is Elizabeth Peña? Age, Biography and Wiki
Elizabeth Peña was born on September 23, 1959, in New Jersey, USA, and passed away on October 14, 2014. Despite her untimely death, Peña's legacy in film and television endures. Renowned for her versatile performances in both dramatic and comedic roles, she broke barriers for Latina actresses in Hollywood. With a career spanning over three decades, she appeared in numerous films such as "La Bamba" (1987) and "Down and Out in Beverly Hills" (1986) and received acclaim for her voice work in animated series like "The Incredibles" (2004).
As of 2025, Elizabeth Peña would have turned 66 years old, though her contributions to the entertainment industry continue to resonate strongly with fans and peers alike.
| Occupation | Stage Actress |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | September 23, 1959 |
| Age | 55 Years |
| Birth Place | Elizabeth, New Jersey, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Virgo |
| Country | Jersey |
| Date of death | 14 October, 2014 |
| Died Place | Los Angeles, California, U.S. |
Popularity
Elizabeth Peña's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Though specific measurements vary, Elizabeth Peña was known for her striking presence on screen. She stood at approximately 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm) tall, with a weight that fluctuated between 125-135 pounds (57-61 kg) during her prime. Her well-maintained figure and strong screen presence were complemented by her natural beauty, earning her roles that showcased her unique talents.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Elizabeth Peña came from a close-knit family with rich cultural roots in the arts. Tragically, Peña was married to actor and producer Hans Toris from 1994 until her death in 2014. The couple shared a deep bond, and their union brought Elizabeth joy, both personally and creatively. While there might have been whispers surrounding her dating life before marriage, Peña always maintained a level of privacy regarding her relationships, focusing on her career and family.
Mario Peña was a Cuban actor, playwright, director, and designer, and Estella Margarita Peña was a producer. The Peña family moved to Cuba when Elizabeth was less than a year old; she returned to the United States at the age of nine, after which time she and her family resided in New York City.
Peña's parents founded the Latin American Theatre Ensemble. In 1977, Peña graduated from New York's High School of Performing Arts.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of her passing in 2014, Elizabeth Peña’s net worth was estimated to be around $2 million. However, her contributions to the entertainment industry and continued recognition through re-releases of her films and television shows have kept her legacy alive. While exact figures for earnings posthumously are challenging to compile, her work continues to inspire a new generation, potentially increasing her estate's value through residuals and royalties.
Career, Business and Investments
Elizabeth Peña enjoyed a prolific career in film and television. She began acting at a young age and achieved recognition in the 1980s through her roles in various films. Peña was a pioneering figure for Latina actresses and often played characters that broke stereotypes.
In addition to her acting career, she also explored directing, with her work on “The Hunchback” (1997) showcasing her multifaceted talent. Following her death, several tributes and retrospectives have honored her contributions to the industry; moreover, her family continues to promote her legacy through dedicated projects and rights to her past works.
Social Network
Though Elizabeth Peña was not known for using social media extensively during her lifetime, her influence is felt across platforms celebrating her legacy. Memorial pages and fan accounts on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter keep her memory alive, sharing clips of her performances and anecdotes from her colleagues.
Elizabeth Maria Peña (September 23, 1959 – October 14, 2014) was an American actress. Her film credits include Down and Out in Beverly Hills (1986), Batteries Not Included, La Bamba (both 1987), Jacob's Ladder (1990), Rush Hour (1998), The Incredibles (2004), and Nothing like the Holidays (2008).
Peña won the 1996 Independent Spirit Award for Best Supporting Female and a Bravo Award for Outstanding Actress in a Feature Film for her work in Lone Star (1996). She also voiced Rosa Santos in the animated television series Maya & Miguel and Mirage in The Incredibles.
Peña was a founding member of the Hispanic Organization of Latin Actors (HOLA).
Education
Elizabeth Peña was a graduate of the New York City High School of the Performing Arts, an institution known for nurturing talent in the arts. Following her education, she honed her craft through extensive experience in theater before transitioning successfully to film and television.
In conclusion, Elizabeth Peña remains an influential figure in Hollywood, with her legacy celebrated through various platforms. As we reflect on her contributions from a 2025 perspective, her life story continues to inspire countless fans and aspiring artists.
In 1979, Peña made her film debut in El Super, a "moving and melancholy comedy about a family of lower middle class Cuban refugees attempting to adjust to life in Spanish Harlem". She worked once again with director Leon Ichaso in his next feature, Crossover Dreams.
