David Joel Barrera, known professionally as David Barrera, is an American actor, producer, and writer with a career spanning over three decades. Recognized for his commanding presence on television and in film, Barrera has built a diverse resume featuring memorable performances in major network series, HBO miniseries, and Hollywood blockbusters. From his breakthrough military roles to gripping guest appearances in procedural dramas, he remains a respected figure in the entertainment industry.
- David Barrera: Early Life and Education
- Quick Facts Table
- Professional Career and Breakthrough Roles
- Personal Life: Wife and Children
- Net Worth and Financial Standing
- Frequently Asked Questions About David Barrera
- Who is David Barrera?
- How old is David Barrera?
- Who is David Barrera’s wife?
- Does David Barrera have children?
- What is David Barrera’s net worth?
- What are some of David Barrera’s most famous movies and TV shows?
David Barrera: Early Life and Education
David Barrera was born on December 28, 1968, in San Juan, Texas. Growing up as the seventh of eight children in a large family, he developed an early interest in the dramatic arts. During his time at Pharr-San Juan-Alamo High School in his hometown, he actively participated in the school’s Theater Club, laying the groundwork for his future profession.
Following high school, Barrera pursued higher education to hone his craft. He graduated from Southern Methodist University before advancing his training in the graduate acting program at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD). His dedication to the stage earned him the Princess Grace Award for acting during his studies.
Quick Facts Table
| Full Name | David Joel Barrera |
| Date of Birth | December 28, 1968 |
| Age | 57 years old |
| Place of Birth | San Juan, Texas, United States |
| Profession | Actor, Producer, Writer |
| Wife | Maria Canals-Barrera (m. 1999) |
| Children | 2 daughters (Bridget and Madeleine) |
| Net Worth | Estimated between $5 Million and $17 Million |
| Height | 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm) to 5’11” |
| Zodiac Sign | Capricorn |
Professional Career and Breakthrough Roles
Barrera made his professional feature film acting debut in 1995, playing FBI Agent Brodie in the movie Now Way Back. Throughout the late 1990s and 2000s, he built momentum by appearing in an extensive array of television shows and films, including Almost Heroes (1998), The United States of Leland (2003), and Evan Almighty (2007).
His television career includes a recurring six-episode arc on NYPD Blue as Dr. Victor Carreras between 1998 and 2001. He has also made notable guest appearances and recurring roles across top-tier television franchises:
- 24 (earning an ALMA Award nomination for his performance)
- Generation Kill (portraying Gunnery Sgt. Ray ‘Casey Kasem’ Griego)
- The Closer and Major Crimes
- CSI: Miami, CSI: NY, and NCIS
- The Big Bang Theory, Grimm, and Heroes
- Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story (playing Chief Arreola)
In addition to live-action television and film, Barrera has lent his voice to video game titles such as Need for Speed: Underground, Midnight Club 3: Dub Edition, and Saints Row. He also worked as an associate producer on the 2009 film Cruzando, in which he starred as The Matador.
Personal Life: Wife and Children
David Barrera has been married to American actress Maria Canals-Barrera since January 16, 1999. The couple met in 1997 and dated for two years before marrying. Maria Canals-Barrera is recognized for her starring roles in Disney Channel’s Wizards of Waverly Place and the DC animated series Justice League.
The couple shares two daughters, Bridget and Madeleine. The family resides in Los Angeles, California. Demonstrating their personal and professional bond, David guest-starred alongside his wife in a 2010 episode of Wizards of Waverly Place titled “Alex Gives Up,” playing the character Carlos Cucuy.
Net Worth and Financial Standing
Through decades of steady work in television, film, and voice acting, Barrera has established financial stability. Entertainment industry analyses and financial reports estimate David Barrera’s net worth to be between $5 million and $17 million, accumulated primarily through his acting contracts, production ventures, and industry contributions.
Frequently Asked Questions About David Barrera
Who is David Barrera?
David Barrera is an American actor, writer, and producer best known for his television roles in Generation Kill, NYPD Blue, and Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story.
How old is David Barrera?
Born on December 28, 1968, David Barrera is 57 years old.
Who is David Barrera’s wife?
He has been married to actress Maria Canals-Barrera since January 1999.
Does David Barrera have children?
Yes, he and his wife Maria share two daughters named Bridget and Madeleine.
What is David Barrera’s net worth?
Industry estimates place his net worth between $5 million and $17 million.
What are some of David Barrera’s most famous movies and TV shows?
Some of his most recognized projects include Generation Kill, 24, NYPD Blue, The Closer, and Netflix’s Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story.
