Raymond Cruz, born on September 10, 1964, in East Los Angeles, California, is renowned for his roles as Detective Julio Sanchez in "The Closer" and its spinoff "Major Crimes", and as the drug lord Tuco Salamanca in "Breaking Bad" and "Better Call Saul". Growing up in a neighborhood with gang activity, Cruz turned to American literature to steer clear of gangs. His diverse roles in films such as "Clear and Present Danger" and "The Rock", alongside his portrayal of intense characters in television, highlight his wide-ranging acting capabilities​​.