JW Cortés is an actor, singer, filmmaker, and decorated Marine combat veteran whose path has taken him from the streets of Brooklyn to the battlefields of Iraq, and now to stages and screens across America.

He is best known for his role as Detective Carlos Alvarez on FOX’s Gotham and has also appeared in The Blacklist, Power, and Law & Order: SVU. Later this year, Cortés will be seen in Academy Award-winner Kathryn Bigelow’s new Netflix feature.

His upcoming memoir, A KINGS HERO, chronicles his powerful journey through violence, war, art, and redemption—shedding light on what it means to fight for your life, your family, and your place in the world.

Cortés gained national attention on NBC’s Stars Earn Stripes, where he trained with elite operators including the late Navy SEAL Chris Kyle. A passionate advocate for veterans and underserved communities, he has addressed Congress, performed alongside music legends like Roger Waters and Gary Sinise, and led national nonprofits.

Whether on screen, in print, or in person, JW Cortés continues to lead with authenticity, purpose, and a deep commitment to service.