20 Fascinating Facts About Daniel and Luis Moncada

20 Fascinating Facts About Daniel and Luis Moncada

As a big fan of Daniel and Luis Moncada’s mesmerizing work, I was excited to dig up some compelling truths about the masters of menace. When I first discovered that those terrifying Cousins from Breaking Bad were played by real-life brothers, I had to know more. And wow, what I uncovered! Who would’ve thought Luis Moncada was formerly in a gang? Or that Daniel Moncada is three years younger than Luis?

Additionally, the more I learned about Daniel and Luis behind the camera, the more fascinated I became by how these talented Honduran-American brothers crafted the Cousins’ unique brand of speechless, spine-chilling villains. Join me for a binge-worthy ride of some of the little-known facts behind Daniel and Luis Moncada’s phenomenal shared claim to fame! Even off-screen, the Moncada brothers don’t disappoint. Take a look.

Here are 20 Fascinating Facts About Daniel and Luis Moncada.

1. Daniel and Luis Moncada are real-life siblings

Greg2600, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Daniel and Luis Moncada are brothers born in Honduras before immigrating to the United States as young children with their family. The Moncada family relocated to the Sacramento, California region when Daniel and Luis were still young children, where the siblings spent the majority of their childhood after leaving Honduras. Daniel and Luis retained their ability to fluently speak Spanish while adopting English after moving to the U.S. as young kids with their Honduran parents.

2. Despite portraying twins on screen, Luis is three years older

Daniel and Luis Moncada, Honduran-American actors and brothers, are known for their roles as “The Cousins” Leonel and Marco Salamanca on the AMC crime drama series Breaking Bad (2010) and its spin-off Better Call Saul (2016; 2018-2022).

Moreover, despite portraying twins in the series, Luis is around three years older than Daniel in real life. Luis was born on July 18, 1977, while Daniel was born on May 17, 1980.

3. Luis Moncada was formerly in a gang

Greg2600, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Luis Moncada, one of the Moncada brothers known for their roles as “The Cousins” on Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul, was formerly in a gang and has served a prison sentence for vehicle theft. Luis had an expletive tattooed on his eyelids at the age of 18 as an irate.

To add on, he received a prison sentence for driving a stolen vehicle around the same time. Luis has since turned his life around and is now a married father of two who volunteers at youth prison camps to tell his story.

4. Luis had forged a path in acting before Daniel

Luis Moncada had already established himself as an actor before his brother Daniel. Luis is a talented and versatile actor who has appeared in a variety of film and television projects.

To boot, before his acting career took off, Luis was involved in gang street crime and served a prison sentence for the same. Luis has since turned his life around and is a motivational speaker who shares his story at schools, prison camps, and youth programs.

5. Daniel’s first role was in Breaking Bad

Greg2600, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Daniel Moncada, one of the Moncada brothers known for their roles as “The Cousins” on Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul, had an interesting journey to stardom. His first role was in Breaking Bad, which marked a significant turning point in his acting career. Before his acting debut, Daniel had a background in martial arts, kickboxing, and jiu-jitsu, which he used to channel his energy and discipline into acting.

Additionally, Breaking Bad‘s success pushed him and his brother Luis into the spotlight, and they have since continued to captivate audiences with their performances in various other film and TV projects.

6. Daniel and Luis Moncada look identical but they’re different

Luis Moncada is on record explaining that despite portraying identical twins on screen, he and his brother Daniel are quite different in real life. They both have unique personalities and experiences that each brother brings to their acting careers.

7. Their Breaking Bad role was their breakthrough moment

Daniel and Luis Moncada achieved widespread acclaim for their roles as Leonel and Marco Salamanca, famously known as “The Cousins,” in the highly praised TV series Breaking Bad. Their portrayal of these silent and menacing enforcers left a mark on the show, contributing to its intense and gripping narrative.

Besides, ‘The Cousins’ stoic presence, coupled with their unique visual signature—a matching pair of shiny suits and axes—solidified their status as iconic characters in the Breaking Bad universe. The Moncada brothers’ compelling performances added a layer of tension and mystery, making their characters memorable in the realm of television storytelling.

8. Physical training was part of their preparation for Breaking Bad

In preparation for their roles as “The Cousins” in Breaking Bad, Daniel and Luis Moncada dedicated themselves to rigorous physical training. The siblings undertook a demanding regimen to cultivate a menacing and unforgettable presence befitting their characters.

What’s more, their commitment to physical preparation allowed them to embody the silent and imposing traits, enhancing the believability of their roles. The Moncada brothers’ dedication to the physical aspects of their performances showcased their commitment to delivering a captivating portrayal, contributing to the impact and success of their characters in the acclaimed TV series.

9. Daniel and Luis Moncada brought intense performances on screen

The Moncada brothers garnered acclaim for their intense performances as “The Cousins” in Breaking Bad. Their portrayal of the silent and menacing enforcers was marked by a captivating intensity, leaving audiences in awe.

Better still, the brothers’ ability to convey a chilling and eerie presence on screen added tension to the series. Critics and fans alike praised their acting, as they brought a unique and unsettling authenticity to their roles. The Moncada brothers’ ability to communicate volumes through minimal dialogue contributed significantly to the success of their characters in the iconic TV series.

10. The Cousins’ characters were inspired by the hitman character Chigurh

https://youtu.be/Lp3VHEL4wm8?si=hH2d0sf-hkCJ7-eA

Daniel and Luis Moncada’s portrayal of “The Cousins” in Breaking Bad draws inspiration from the hitman Anton Chigurh in the thriller movie No Country for Old Men. The deliberate cinematic reference infuses their characters with a chilling demeanor. Like Chigurh, the Moncada brothers’ on-screen personas display an unsettling combination of silence, unpredictability, and a relentless pursuit of their goals.

Furthermore, this homage to a memorable character in cinematic history adds depth and resonance to “The Cousins,” showcasing the brothers’ commitment to creating a memorable and impactful presence in the acclaimed TV series, aligning with the narrative’s dark and suspenseful tones.

11. Daniel and Luis Moncada have played dynamic roles

Beyond their iconic roles as “The Cousins” in Breaking Bad, Daniel and Luis Moncada exhibit remarkable acting versatility in a range of diverse projects. Both brothers have successfully taken on roles that transcend the personas they portrayed in the renowned TV series.

Their ability to seamlessly transition into different characters showcases their skill and adaptability, affirming their status as multifaceted actors. Whether in drama, comedy, or other genres, the Moncada brothers’ diverse roles underline their commitment to exploring the breadth of their acting capabilities, earning them recognition for their talent beyond their breakthrough roles in Breaking Bad.

12. Daniel and Luis have made many TV appearances

Expanding their acting portfolios, Daniel and Luis Moncada have made notable appearances in various television shows, showcasing their versatility beyond Breaking Bad. The brothers have successfully taken on diverse roles across different genres, further establishing themselves as accomplished actors in the television industry.

Moreover, these appearances highlight their ability to bring depth and authenticity to a range of characters, solidifying their presence in the broader entertainment landscape. By engaging with varied projects, the Moncada brothers continue to intrigue audiences with their talent, proving their capacity to leave a lasting impact across different television productions.

13. Daniel and Luis Moncada have an active social media presence

Photo by Mariia Shalabaieva on Unsplash

Daniel and Luis Moncada maintain an active presence on social media, providing fans with intriguing insights into their professional and personal lives. Through platforms like Instagram and Twitter, the brothers share behind-the-scenes glimpses of their projects, offering a unique and personal connection with their audience.

Additionally, their engagement with fans extends beyond the screen, showcasing a genuine and approachable side to their personalities. This social media presence not only fosters a stronger connection with admirers but also reflects the Moncada brothers’ appreciation for the support they’ve received throughout their careers, making them accessible figures in the digital realm of entertainment.

14. The Moncada brothers often express gratitude to their fans

Daniel and Luis Moncada openly express deep gratitude and affection for the devoted Breaking Bad fanbase. Acknowledging the show’s profound impact on their careers, the brothers regularly convey love and appreciation through social media and public appearances. Their genuine interactions with fans, including heartfelt messages and shared memories related to the iconic series, underscore mutual admiration.

Over and above that, this connection exemplifies the Moncada brothers’ humility and recognition of the instrumental role fans played in the success of Breaking Bad, creating a harmonious relationship that transcends the screen and further solidifies the enduring legacy of their characters in the hearts of the show’s enthusiasts.

15. The Cousins are known for their minimal dialogue on-screen

The Moncada brothers’ portrayal of “The Cousins” in “Breaking Bad” is distinguished by their minimal dialogue, relying on actions and expressions to convey their characters’ intentions. The deliberate scarcity of words added an air of mystery and uniqueness to their performances, making every action more impactful.

To boot, Daniel and Luis masterfully communicated the menace and purpose of their characters through gestures, enhancing the mystery surrounding “The Cousins.” This unique approach to storytelling contributed to the iconic status of their roles, showcasing the brothers’ ability to convey depth and complexity without the need for extensive verbal communication.

16. The brothers are fluent in both English and Spanish languages

Fluent in both English and Spanish, Daniel and Luis Moncada have a valuable linguistic versatility that expands their reach in the entertainment industry. This skill allows them to transition between roles in projects catering to diverse audiences. Their ability to convey emotions and narratives in both languages enhances their appeal, opening doors to a wide range of opportunities.

Better still, whether engaging with English-speaking or Spanish-speaking audiences, the Moncada brothers’ linguistic extensiveness contributes to their effectiveness as actors, showcasing their adaptability and making them assets in the global landscape of film and television.

17. Daniel and Luis Moncada are supportive of each other

Daniel and Luis Moncada, being real-life brothers, share a strong and supportive bond that extends beyond their on-screen collaborations. Their unwavering support for each other’s careers in the entertainment industry is evident in their public interactions and behind-the-scenes moments.

This familial connection contributes to the authenticity of their on-screen chemistry and adds a layer of collaboration to their joint projects. In an industry known for its challenges, the Moncada brothers stand out as a testament to the power of familial support, fostering an environment where each other’s success is celebrated and their collaborative efforts shine with a genuine and enduring synergy.

18. Post-Breaking Bad, the Moncada brothers still enjoy success

Following their breakout roles in Breaking Bad, the Moncada brothers, Daniel and Luis, have enjoyed continued success in both television and film. Luis secured a significant role in Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles and made appearances in popular TV shows like The Mentalist, CSI: Miami, and NCIS.

Moreover, Luis also ventured into movies, featuring in notable productions such as Fast & Furious, Rambo, and In Time. Meanwhile, Daniel showcased his talent in TV series like Sons of Anarchy, The Mentalist, and NCIS. He expanded his filmography with roles in movies like End of Watch, McFarland, USA, and The Ridiculous 6. Their post-Breaking Bad careers attest to the enduring impact of their talent.

19. They have participated in conventions related to Breaking Bad

Daniel and Luis Moncada have actively engaged with fans through interviews and conventions, offering a unique glimpse into their experiences with Breaking Bad. Participating in discussions and panels related to the iconic series, the brothers share insights into their roles, the creative process, and the impact of the show on their lives.

Furthermore, these interactions go beyond the screen, creating a direct connection with the passionate fan base. The Moncada brothers’ presence at conventions and in interviews not only celebrates the legacy of Breaking Bad but also underscores their appreciation for the show’s cultural significance and the enduring enthusiasm of its dedicated followers.

20. Luis Moncada is also a fan of Breaking Bad

Luis Moncada’s connection to Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul goes beyond his on-screen involvement—he shares a genuine fan appreciation for both series. His enthusiasm mirrors that of the dedicated fanbase, illustrating a deep understanding and passion for the intricacies of the narratives.

What’s more, Luis’s genuine affection for the shows he contributed to showcases a unique dynamic where the actor becomes an active participant in the fandom. This shared enthusiasm with the audience further cements the Moncada brothers’ special place in the hearts of fans, fostering a mutual love for the compelling storytelling and characters within the Breaking Bad universe.

Daniel and Luis Moncada, known for their menacing roles as “The Cousins” in Breaking Bad, exhibit a multifaceted journey. From intense performances to a genuine love for fans, their diverse careers and close bonds extend beyond the screen. The Moncada brothers remain captivating figures, leaving an enduring mark in the entertainment realm.