Trinidad Silva, a character actor from Mission, Texas, had a promising career that was tragically cut short. He moved to Los Angeles in his mid-20s and landed his first acting role on "Baretta" in 1977. Unfortunately, due to the Latino typecasting prevalent at the time, most of his TV roles were as criminals or gang members. However, his role as Jesus Martinez on "Hill Street Blues" broke this stereotype, portraying a former gang leader turned community activist. Silva also played more positive roles in films like "Alambrista!" and "El Norte." Sadly, while filming "UHF" in 1988, Silva was killed by a drunk driver in Whittier, California. The film was dedicated to his memory. He was married to Sofia Alvarez.

Trinidad Silva

Acting Born January 30, 1950 – Died July 31, 1988 Mission, Texas, USA

Trinidad Silva, a character actor from Mission, Texas, had a promising career that was tragically cut short. He moved to Los Angeles in his mid-20s and landed his first acting role on "Baretta" in 1977. Unfortunately, due to the Latino typecasting prevalent at the time, most of his TV roles were as criminals or gang members. However, his role as Jesus Martinez on "Hill Street Blues" broke this stereotype, portraying a former gang leader turned community activist. Silva also played more positive roles in films like "Alambrista!" and "El Norte." Sadly, while filming "UHF" in 1988, Silva was killed by a drunk driver in Whittier, California. The film was dedicated to his memory. He was married to Sofia Alvarez.

Known For

Hill Street Blues

American Playhouse

Monte

Barney Miller

Puente

T. J. Hooker

Ramon Cruz

Hunter

Hector Rivas

The White Shadow

Julio

The Running Man

Cheering Game Show Patron (uncredited)

Colors

Frog

Hallmark Hall of Fame

Basilio Garcia

The Jerk

Punk

The Milagro Beanfield War

Milagro Townsperson

UHF

Raul Hernandez