Eva Mendes, once a Hollywood sensation, has been noticeably absent from the big screen for nearly a decade. What led her to step away from a promising career? The actress opens up about the challenges she faced in securing quality roles and why she chose a different path.
By Aubree Ross
The Rise and Fall of a Hollywood Star
Eva Mendes was a box office hit in the early to mid-2000s, known for her roles in movies like “Training Day” and “Hitch.” However, she decided to leave the limelight because she was tired of struggling for good roles. Her filmography is diverse, ranging from art films like “Holy Motors” to blockbusters like “2 Fast 2 Furious.”
The Last Act: Lost River
Ryan Gosling, Mendes’ longtime partner, directed her last film, “Lost River,” released in 2014. Last year, Mendes discussed why she left acting and hasn’t looked back. She is also a mother of two, adding another layer to her decision.
The Struggle for Good Roles
In a 2022 interview with Variety, Mendes, 49, revealed that she got tired of fighting for quality roles. She considered creating her own opportunities by becoming a producer but ultimately felt it wasn’t worth the effort.
The Shift to Family Life
Mendes shares two daughters with Ryan Gosling and has focused on family life. She mentioned that Latina actresses have more opportunities now than when she left the industry ten years ago. She hasn’t ruled out a return to acting but is currently content with her home life.
Eva Mendes’ departure from Hollywood is a telling tale of the challenges that even successful actresses face in securing quality roles. While she has shifted her focus to family life, the door isn’t entirely closed on her acting career. With the landscape for Latina actresses improving, who knows what the future holds for this former Hollywood star?