Esai Morales is an American actor, director, and musician. He is best known for his roles in films such as La Bamba, My Family, and Ozark. He has also appeared in television series such as NYPD Blue, Resurrection Blvd., and Jericho. Morales has been nominated for several awards, including an Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series for his role in NYPD Blue. He is also known for his work in the theater, having performed in productions of A Midsummer Night's Dream, The Tempest, and The Glass Menagerie. Morales' work in film and television has earned him a reputation as one of the most talented actors of his generation.