Danny Pino, American actor and screenwriter

Daniel Gonzalo Pino, widely recognized by audiences as Danny Pino, is an accomplished American actor celebrated for his diverse roles across television, film, and theater. Born on April 15, 1974, Pino has built a robust career portraying memorable characters, often gravitating towards complex figures in law enforcement and, more recently, compelling antagonists.

Before becoming a household name in crime dramas, Pino honed his craft on stage. In 2002, he made a notable appearance in London's prestigious West End production of Up for Grabs, where he shared the stage with pop icon Madonna. This theatrical experience showcased his versatility early in his career. The following year, in May 2003, Pino took on a significant biographical role, portraying the legendary Cuban-American bandleader Desi Arnaz in Lucy, a CBS special dedicated to the life of the iconic Lucille Ball. His portrayal offered audiences a glimpse into the dynamic partnership that shaped American television history.

Iconic Television Roles

Pino’s career truly gained widespread recognition through his extensive work in long-running television series. From 2003 to 2010, he captivated audiences as Detective Scotty Valens in the popular CBS procedural drama Cold Case. As Valens, Pino brought depth and a compelling intensity to a character dedicated to solving cold, often emotionally charged, cases. His performance became a cornerstone of the show, earning him a dedicated fanbase.

Following his successful seven-season run on Cold Case, Pino transitioned to another major police procedural, joining the cast of NBC’s critically acclaimed and immensely popular Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. From 2011 to 2015, he starred as NYPD Detective Nick Amaro. Detective Amaro, often grappling with personal and professional challenges, added a nuanced and often intense dynamic to the squad, further cementing Pino's reputation for portraying complex law enforcement figures in high-stakes environments.

Recent Ventures and Current Projects

Demonstrating his ability to pivot to vastly different character types, Danny Pino has continued to take on challenging roles. He is currently captivating viewers as Miguel Galindo, the formidable and calculating leader of a drug cartel, on FX's critically acclaimed series Mayans M.C. This gritty drama serves as a compelling spin-off of the highly successful Sons of Anarchy, allowing Pino to explore a darker, more morally ambiguous character and showcasing his range beyond traditional hero roles. Simultaneously, Pino has also taken on the role of FBI Agent John Bishop in the procedural crime drama Gone, further adding to his extensive resume of impactful performances in the crime genre.

Frequently Asked Questions About Danny Pino

What are Danny Pino's most famous television roles?
Danny Pino is perhaps best known for his roles as Detective Scotty Valens on CBS's Cold Case (2003-2010) and as NYPD Detective Nick Amaro on NBC's Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (2011-2015).
Is Danny Pino currently starring in any TV shows?
Yes, he is currently playing the character of Miguel Galindo on the FX series Mayans M.C. He also appeared as FBI Agent John Bishop in the procedural crime drama Gone.
What was Danny Pino's role alongside Madonna?
In 2002, Danny Pino appeared in London's West End production of the play Up for Grabs, sharing the stage with pop superstar Madonna.
What is Mayans M.C.?
Mayans M.C. is a crime drama series airing on FX, which is a spin-off of the popular show Sons of Anarchy. Danny Pino plays the role of drug cartel leader Miguel Galindo in the series.
Did Danny Pino play a real person in a television special?
Yes, in May 2003, Danny Pino portrayed the iconic Cuban-American bandleader and actor Desi Arnaz in Lucy, a CBS special chronicling the life of Lucille Ball.