Frankie J. Alvarez

First-generation Cuban-American actor Frankie J. Alvarez had a hot start to his career, following his degree from the prestigious Juilliard School and experience in regional theater with a breakout co-starring role in the much buzzed-about "Looking" (HBO 2014-15), a comedy-drama about three gay men in San Francisco often compared in tone to Lena Dunham's "Girls" (HBO 2011- ). After being raised in Miami, Alvarez attended Florida State University for his undergraduate degree. Going in as a Creative Writing major, he shifted his career path and his major after dabbling in some undergraduate stage productions. After graduation, he performed in a variety of plays, even touring around the country with a national tour of the children's show "Ramona Quimby," based on the beloved series of books by Beverly Cleary. After auditioning for The Juilliard School, he got into the exclusive program, working his way through the drama department and graduating in 2010. He began developing a musical called "Those Lost Boys," about an indie band reuniting 10 years after their acrimonious breakup. His first on-screen role came was as a recurring minor character on the Broadway-themed musical showcase "Smash" (NBC 2012-13). He quickly transitioned from that into his leading role on "Looking" as the bearded, soulful Agustin, a proud gay Latino dealing with prejudices from both the gay and straight worlds.