From San Diego, California Lopez showcased his abilities from a young age. By the age of 3 he showed talent in areas such as dance tumbling and wrestling. Wrestling became his focus during school where he stood out as one of the top wrestlers on his team. He achieved success in statewide high school wrestling competitions.
At Early Age
At the age of 10 Lopez ventured into acting after being discovered by a talent scout during a school dance recital. With an agent by his side he began auditioning for roles and casting agents with his charming personality and self assurance. Initially appearing in commercials Lopez gradually transitioned to television. In 1984 he landed a role on the Norman Lear-created sitcom Pablo (ABC) although unfortunately it was cancelled after only six episodes.
Lopez didn't let anything stop him and managed to secure a position as a dancer and drummer on the music children's show called Kids Incorporated (aired on Syndicated/Disney Channel from 1984 to 1994). He even made an appearance on the beloved 80s sitcom The Golden Girls (aired on NBC from 1985, to 1992).
He later appeared in the spin off series Saved by the Bell; The College Years and Saved, by the Bell; The New Class. Besides his television work Lopez has also made appearances in movies. He had a role in the 2005 film Shall We Dance? as well as various TV movies. In addition to his entertainment career Lopez has found success as an entrepreneur. He has launched businesses, including a production company, a clothing line and a range of health and fitness products. Lopez is also an author with two books, about his life and career.
Later In Life
Mario Lopez initially married actress Ali Landry in 2004; however their marriage ended thereafter. After performing in the Broadway production of A Chorus Line he met Courtney Mazza, with whom he has since had two children. In 1994 Mario purchased a home in Burbank, California for $240,000. Additionally Lopez has written some children's books one dedicated to his daughter titled Mario and Baby Gia and another called Mud Tacos.
Even though Lopez has achieved wealth and fame he remains committed to giving back to the community and helping others in any way. He generously supports organizations, including A Dog's Life Rescue, Best Friends Animal Society, Boys & Girls Clubs of America Broadway Barks Celebrity Fight Night Foundation, Children's Hospital Los Angeles and Feeding America.
In the mid 2000s however Lopez shifted his focus, towards the world of entertainment journalism and hosting gigs. He became a co-host on the show called Extra in 2007 which primarily covers entertainment news. He continued in this role until the summer of 2019. In addition Lopez had the opportunity to co-host a singing competition called The X Factor in 2012. Took on the hosting duties for its third and final season in 2013. After bidding farewell to Extra following a 12 year stint as co-host Lopez embarked on a hosting venture with rival entertainment news program Access Hollywood starting in the fall of 2019. It was also announced that Lopez would reprise his TV role, as A.C. Slater in a version of Saved by the Bell, which premiered on Peacock, their new streaming service in 2020.
Also Read: Get To Know About Mario Lopez: TV Personality Career And Personal Life