Anthony Ramos: From Broadway Star To Hollywood Sensation

Anthony Ramos, an American actor and singer, gained fame through his outstanding performance in the Broadway musical Hamilton. With a background in music and theater, Ramos has transitioned into a successful film career, captivating audiences with his talent. His journey from humble beginnings in Brooklyn, New York, to becoming a prominent figure in the entertainment industry is both inspiring and noteworthy.

Who Is Anthony Ramos?

Anthony Ramos is best known for his role in Lin-Manuel Miranda's acclaimed musical Hamilton, where he played the dual roles of John Laurens and Philip Hamilton. This breakthrough performance in 2015 opened doors for him in both television and film, including appearances in Spike Lee's She's Gotta Have It and Bradley Cooper's A Star is Born. Ramos's versatility as an actor and singer has led to significant roles in major productions, including the film adaptation of In the Heights and the upcoming Transformers: Rise of the Beasts.

Quick Facts

Here are some quick facts about Anthony Ramos:

• Full Name: Anthony Paul Ramos Martinez
• Born: November 1, 1991
• Birthplace: Brooklyn, New York
• Astrological Sign: Scorpio

Early Life

Born in Brooklyn, New York, Anthony Ramos grew up in a challenging environment. Raised by his single mother, Mildred, alongside his two siblings, Ramos's family often faced financial difficulties. Despite these challenges, he found solace in music and performance, participating in school activities, including singing in a group called The Halsey Trio.

Ramos's passion for performing arts began at a young age, and he often put on shows for his family. He initially aspired to be a professional baseball player but shifted his focus to acting after enjoying a talent show experience in high school. This pivotal moment led him to pursue a career in the performing arts.

Early Career

After graduating high school in 2009, Ramos attended the American Musical Dramatic Academy (AMDA). Despite facing challenges in his academic performance, he earned a scholarship that helped him pursue his passion for theater. His early career included various auditions and performances, but he struggled to gain recognition.

In 2012, Ramos landed a supporting role in a production of In the Heights, a musical by Lin-Manuel Miranda. However, he faced setbacks, including a disappointing audition for the national tour of the same show. Despite the challenges, he persevered, honing his skills and expanding his experience in theater.

Breakthrough on "Hamilton"

Ramos's breakthrough came when he was cast in the original Broadway production of Hamilton. He played the roles of John Laurens and Philip Hamilton, quickly gaining acclaim for his performances. The show's success and innovative storytelling resonated with audiences and critics alike, propelling Ramos into the spotlight.

During his time in Hamilton, Ramos received praise from notable figures, including President Barack Obama, who commended his talent after attending a performance. This recognition further solidified his reputation as a rising star in the entertainment industry.

Movies and TV Shows

Following his success in Hamilton, Ramos ventured into television and film. He starred in Spike Lee's She's Gotta Have It, a Netflix series based on Lee's 1986 film. His role as Mars Blackmon showcased his ability to bring characters to life on screen, earning him a wider audience.

In 2018, Ramos appeared in A Star is Born, where he played Ramon, a close friend of Lady Gaga's character. His performance contributed to the film's critical and commercial success, further establishing him in the film industry.

Music Career

In addition to acting, Anthony Ramos is also a talented musician. He released his debut EP, The Freedom EP, in January 2018, which was inspired by the political climate following the 2016 election. Ramos's music reflects his experiences and passions, resonating with fans on a personal level.

In June 2019, he signed with Republic Records and released his first full-length album, The Good & The Bad, in October of the same year. The album debuted at No. 21 on the Billboard Heatseekers Albums chart, showcasing his growth as an artist.

Leading Man Roles

Ramos's journey continued to flourish as he took on leading roles, including the titular character in the film adaptation of In the Heights. His portrayal of Usnavi allowed him to connect with audiences on a deeper level, showcasing his range as an actor and musician.

Despite the film's mixed box office performance due to the pandemic, critics praised Ramos's performance, solidifying his status as a leading man in Hollywood. He is set to star in the upcoming Transformers: Rise of the Beasts, further expanding his filmography and reach.

Personal Life

Ramos was previously engaged to actress Jasmine Cephas Jones, who also starred in Hamilton. Their relationship began during the show's rehearsals, and they became a notable couple in the entertainment industry. However, their engagement ended in November 2021, marking a new chapter in Ramos's personal journey.

Despite the challenges, Ramos continues to focus on his career and personal growth, inspiring many with his resilience and dedication to his craft.

Quotes

• "I’ve fought for things in life. I learned how to grind and hustle, but I was never a kid who was ready to fight all the time, you know what I’m saying?"
• "The work ethic wasn’t always there, you know? I’d be lying to you if I said I was always a hard worker."
• "I get in a studio, I’m hungry. You know I’m writing like I’m never going to be able to write a song again. You get a million dollars, you know that could go tomorrow."
• "I had teachers tell me, 'Grow your hair out, change the way you speak, so you can be more ethnically ambiguous.' And I was like, 'Why do I need to be ethnically ambiguous? Why can’t I just be Puerto Rican?'"