Few actors in Hollywood can move seamlessly from gritty drama to heartfelt romance like JD Pardo. Known for his compelling performances in Mayans M.C., Revolution, and A Girl Like Me: The Gwen Araujo Story, Pardo has earned respect for his depth and dedication to every role. But beyond his acting, many fans are curious about JD Pardo’s net worth, career beginnings, and the personal life that keeps him grounded.
This detailed biography covers everything — from his early modeling days to his rise in television, his most iconic roles, and how he built his career into a successful Hollywood story.
Quick Facts
Full Name | Jorge Daniel Pardo |
Stage Name | JD Pardo |
Date of Birth | September 7, 1980 |
Age (2025) | 45 years old |
Birthplace | Panorama City, Los Angeles, California, USA |
Nationality | American |
Ethnicity | Mixed (Argentinian and Salvadoran) |
Occupation | Actor, Model, Writer |
Famous For | Mayans M.C., Twilight, Revolution, A Girl Like Me |
Marital Status | Married |
Spouse | Emily Frlekin |
Children | One daughter |
JD Pardo Net Worth (2025) | Estimated around $4 million |
Early Life and Background
JD Pardo was born Jorge Daniel Pardo on September 7, 1980, in Panorama City, Los Angeles. His father is from Argentina, and his mother is from El Salvador, giving Pardo a diverse Latin-American heritage. This JD Pardo ethnicity has often helped him portray a wide range of culturally rich characters on screen.
Growing up in Southern California, Pardo developed a passion for movies and storytelling early on. While many of his peers chased sports or music, JD was fascinated by cinema. He would watch old films and practice monologues in front of a mirror, long before he ever dreamed of becoming a household name.
Modeling Beginnings and Early Acting Dreams
Before making his mark as an actor, JD Pardo started out in modeling. His sharp looks and natural charisma landed him small campaigns and TV commercials. These early gigs built his confidence in front of the camera and opened the door to acting auditions.
Unlike many actors who find quick fame, Pardo took the slow, steady path — focusing on improving his craft and learning from every opportunity. His modeling background gave him poise, but it was his dedication to storytelling that would define his career.
Acting Debut and Rise in Television
JD Pardo’s early acting work came through guest roles in popular TV shows like Titans, Veronica Mars, and CSI: Miami. His breakthrough moment arrived when he starred in the 2006 Lifetime film A Girl Like Me: The Gwen Araujo Story.
In this powerful drama, JD Pardo played the role of Gwen Araujo, a transgender teenager whose tragic story made national headlines. His sensitive and authentic portrayal earned critical praise and proved he was more than just a handsome face — he was an actor with emotional depth and courage.
This performance still stands as one of his most respected works and is frequently searched under “JD Pardo Gwen Araujo” and “JD Pardo A Girl Like Me”.
JD Pardo in A Cinderella Story
In 2004, JD appeared in the teen romantic comedy A Cinderella Story starring Hilary Duff and Chad Michael Murray. Although his role was brief, it introduced him to a younger audience and expanded his early filmography. Searches for “JD Pardo Cinderella Story” and “JD Pardo A Cinderella Story” remain popular among fans revisiting his early career.
Breaking Into Hollywood: Twilight and Beyond
JD Pardo gained global attention when he joined the cast of The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 2 in 2012. He played Nahuel, a half-vampire who helps Bella and Edward in the film’s final chapter. The role showcased his ability to step into a major franchise and hold his own alongside big names.
Many fans remember his charming presence, leading to frequent searches for “JD Pardo Twilight” and “JD Pardo in Twilight.” Though his screen time was limited, the role helped him reach international audiences and marked another milestone in his diverse career.
JD Pardo in Revolution and High Potential
After Twilight, JD landed a leading role in the NBC post-apocalyptic drama Revolution (2012–2014). He portrayed Jason Neville, a conflicted soldier navigating moral choices in a world without power. The series built his reputation as a serious actor who could carry intense and emotionally layered roles.
In 2024, JD made headlines again when he joined the cast of High Potential, an ABC crime drama where he stars as Sergeant Karadec opposite Kaitlin Olson. The show has been praised for its fresh approach to mystery and humor, and it’s quickly becoming one of his most notable roles to date.
This is where keywords like “JD Pardo High Potential” and “High Potential JD Pardo” are trending on Google, proving his growing influence in American television.
JD Pardo in Mayans M.C. – The Career-Defining Role
Without question, JD Pardo’s biggest success came with Mayans M.C., the hit FX series that ran from 2018 to 2023. In the show, he played Ezekiel “EZ” Reyes, a complex outlaw balancing loyalty, revenge, and family.
JD’s performance in Mayans was raw, powerful, and deeply human. Fans were drawn to his mix of intensity and vulnerability, which made EZ one of the most compelling antiheroes on TV.
The show’s massive success turned JD into a leading man and boosted JD Pardo net worth significantly through salary increases, syndication bonuses, and endorsement opportunities.
Fans also became curious about his background and style, leading to popular searches such as “JD Pardo Mayans,” “Modeling JD Pardo Mayans,” and “JD Pardo Roadhouse” (referring to his upcoming project with Jake Gyllenhaal).
Upcoming Projects: Road House and Beyond
JD Pardo recently joined the cast of Road House, the modern remake of the 1989 cult classic starring Jake Gyllenhaal. The movie is expected to hit Amazon Prime soon and could be another major step in JD’s film career.
His involvement has already generated buzz, especially with keywords like “JD Pardo Roadhouse.” Critics expect Pardo to deliver yet another strong, grounded performance that balances action with emotion.
JD Pardo’s Wife and Personal Life
Many fans wonder, “Does JD Pardo have a wife?” Yes — he is happily married to Emily Frlekin, a project manager with The Black Card Circle Foundation, a charitable organization. The two have kept their relationship largely private, but they share one daughter and often emphasize the importance of family in their lives.
Searches for “JD Pardo wife” and “Wife JD Pardo” reflect how curious fans are about his off-screen life. JD once mentioned in interviews that his wife’s support and stability help him stay grounded, even amid the chaos of Hollywood.
JD Pardo’s Ethnicity and Cultural Pride
JD Pardo ethnicity — half Argentine and half Salvadoran — plays a key part in his identity. He’s spoken proudly about his multicultural background and how it influences the characters he chooses.
By representing Latino heritage in mainstream media, JD has become a positive example of diversity in Hollywood. He often encourages young actors from similar backgrounds to pursue their dreams fearlessly.
JD Pardo Net Worth (2025): Earnings, Salary, and Assets
Now, let’s answer the question most fans ask — what is JD Pardo’s net worth in 2025?
According to industry estimates, JD Pardo net worth is around $4 million. His wealth comes primarily from:
1. Television Earnings
His major income comes from series like Mayans M.C., Revolution, and High Potential. During the peak of Mayans M.C., JD reportedly earned between $50,000–$100,000 per episode, depending on season and bonuses.
2. Film Roles
Roles in Twilight, Road House, and other projects have added to his earnings, along with royalties from streaming platforms.
3. Brand Collaborations
Although JD Pardo isn’t heavily involved in influencer marketing, he occasionally partners with fashion and lifestyle brands — often inspired by his Mayans biker aesthetic and modeling roots.
4. Real Estate & Investments
JD lives in Los Angeles, where he owns a comfortable home and invests in property and media projects. His measured approach to finances shows his focus on long-term stability rather than flashy spending.
Awards and Recognition
While JD Pardo hasn’t yet won a major award, his performances have earned consistent praise from both critics and fans. His portrayal in A Girl Like Me received early recognition, and his role in Mayans M.C. remains one of FX’s most celebrated leads in recent years.
As he takes on more projects like High Potential and Road House, award nominations seem not only likely but well-deserved.
JD Pardo Young: The Journey to Stardom
Looking back, JD Pardo’s journey from a young boy in Panorama City to a respected Hollywood actor is nothing short of inspiring. JD Pardo young was determined, patient, and persistent — qualities that continue to define his success today.
He once shared in an interview that rejection shaped him more than success. Each “no” made him work harder, and that mindset has clearly paid off.
Life Beyond Acting
Off-screen, JD Pardo values fitness, family, and community. He maintains a disciplined routine, often sharing glimpses of his workouts and motorcycle rides. His grounded lifestyle contrasts sharply with the chaos of Hollywood fame, making him relatable to fans worldwide.
He’s also quietly involved in charitable efforts supporting youth mentorship and Latin American cultural programs, though he rarely publicizes them.
Final Thoughts
From A Girl Like Me to Mayans M.C. and now High Potential, JD Pardo has proven that talent, persistence, and humility can take you far. His story represents the power of hard work, cultural pride, and staying true to your craft.
With a strong lineup of projects and a growing fanbase, it’s safe to say JD Pardo net worth — and his legacy — will continue to rise in the coming years.
People Also Ask
1. What is JD Pardo’s net worth?
JD Pardo’s net worth is estimated at around $4 million as of 2025.
2. What ethnicity is JD Pardo?
He is of Argentinian and Salvadoran descent.
3. Who is JD Pardo’s wife?
JD Pardo is married to Emily Frlekin, a project manager and philanthropist.
4. What movies and TV shows has JD Pardo been in?
Some of his top works include Mayans M.C., Revolution, Twilight, High Potential, A Girl Like Me, and A Cinderella Story.
5. Is JD Pardo in Road House?
Yes, JD Pardo stars in the new Road House remake alongside Jake Gyllenhaal.
6. Is JD Pardo married?
Yes, JD Pardo is married. The actor tied the knot with Emily Frlekin, a California-based project manager who works with The Black Card Circle Foundation, a nonprofit organization.
Despite JD’s growing fame, the couple has kept their marriage very private. They rarely make red-carpet appearances together, preferring to keep their family life out of the spotlight.
What makes their relationship admired by fans is how steady and drama-free it’s been. Pardo once mentioned that his wife’s support has been a cornerstone of his success, especially during his years on Mayans M.C..
Their marriage reflects balance – JD handles the public attention of Hollywood, while Emily focuses on meaningful philanthropic work. Together, they’ve built a grounded and loving home life.
7. What ethnicity is JD Pardo?
JD Pardo’s ethnicity is Argentinian and Salvadoran. His father is from Argentina, and his mother is from El Salvador.
This mixed Latin-American heritage has given him a unique identity and a strong connection to both cultures.
JD has often talked about how proud he is of his roots. In interviews, he’s said that his background helps him connect deeply with characters who have complex emotional or cultural identities.
This diversity has also opened up opportunities for him to represent Latino stories in Hollywood, especially through roles like EZ Reyes in Mayans M.C. and Jason Neville in Revolution.
8. Does Emily Frlekin have children?
Yes. JD Pardo and Emily Frlekin have one daughter together.
They’ve chosen to raise her away from the media’s attention. JD occasionally mentions fatherhood as his “most important role,” showing how much he values family above fame.
While the actor often posts about his career or fitness on social media, he avoids sharing personal photos of his child — a choice that keeps their family life peaceful and private.
9. What is JD Pardo doing now?
As of 2025, JD Pardo is busy expanding his acting career beyond Mayans M.C.. After the FX series wrapped up in 2023, he joined the cast of ABC’s crime dramedy High Potential, where he stars alongside Kaitlin Olson.
In the show, JD plays Sergeant Karadec, a disciplined and intelligent cop who works with a single mother turned detective.
Fans and critics have praised JD’s performance for bringing depth and charm to the character, proving once again that his talent extends far beyond his biker image.
Alongside High Potential, JD is also working on upcoming projects, including the modern remake of Road House with Jake Gyllenhaal. These roles continue to grow JD Pardo’s net worth and cement his reputation as one of Hollywood’s most versatile Latino actors.
10. Does JD Pardo speak Spanish?
Yes, JD Pardo speaks Spanish.
Given his Argentinian and Salvadoran roots, Spanish is part of his upbringing. He’s fluent enough to handle bilingual interviews and often switches between English and Spanish naturally.
This language skill has helped him connect with Hispanic audiences across the U.S. and Latin America. It’s also given him an advantage when portraying Latin characters authentically, especially in series like Mayans M.C., where cultural representation is a central theme.
11. Where was Mayans M.C. filmed?
Mayans M.C. was primarily filmed in Southern California, including Los Angeles, Santa Clarita, and Calabasas.
These locations were chosen to mirror the gritty border-town atmosphere of the fictional Santo Padre, California — the base for the Mayans Motorcycle Club.
Some scenes were also shot near the U.S.–Mexico border to capture the authentic vibe of the biker brotherhood and its cross-border storylines. The desert landscapes and small-town settings added realism to the show’s powerful storytelling.
12. Why did Mayans M.C. get canceled?
Mayans M.C. officially ended after its fifth season in 2023.
FX announced the decision early that year, explaining that it was a planned conclusion rather than a sudden cancellation. The creators, including Elgin James, wanted to give the story of EZ Reyes a complete and meaningful ending.
While fans were disappointed, the finale tied up the characters’ arcs and reflected JD Pardo’s best work to date. Many viewers still believe it ended too soon, but the series remains one of FX’s most successful and culturally impactful dramas.
13. Who on Mayans is a real biker?
Interestingly, Mayans M.C. included a few cast members and extras who were real-life bikers.
The production team collaborated with members of real motorcycle clubs to ensure the show felt authentic. However, JD Pardo himself isn’t a biker in real life — though he trained extensively for the role.
He learned motorcycle handling, club culture, and the discipline of riding safely, often doing many of his own scenes. His commitment impressed both fans and crew, helping him embody EZ Reyes perfectly.
14. Is Santo Padre, California a real town?
No, Santo Padre, California is a fictional town created for the Mayans M.C. series.
It represents a mix of several real border towns and small Southern California communities. The idea was to create a setting that felt real but gave the writers creative freedom for storytelling.
The town’s gritty look and close-knit community made it feel authentic, which is why many fans assume it’s an actual place.
15. What happened to Miguel Galindo’s brother in Mayans M.C.?
In Mayans M.C., Miguel Galindo’s brother (Cristóbal) tragically died as a baby — a key emotional plotline in the series.
This event deeply affected Miguel’s family and influenced his strained relationship with others, including EZ Reyes.
The loss symbolized how trauma and revenge shaped nearly every character in the series, giving it the emotional depth that made the show so memorable.
16. Did Kurt Sutter write Mayans M.C.?
Yes, Kurt Sutter, the creator of Sons of Anarchy, co-created Mayans M.C. with Elgin James.
Sutter wrote and produced the show’s early episodes, helping establish the tone and story structure. However, he left the series during Season 2, and Elgin James took full creative control afterward.
Even after Sutter’s exit, the show retained its signature edge and emotional complexity, thanks in part to JD Pardo’s outstanding lead performance.
17. Will there be a Mayans M.C. Season 6?
No, Mayans M.C. ended with Season 5 in 2023, and there are no official plans for a Season 6.
FX confirmed the show’s conclusion as part of the creators’ vision to wrap up EZ Reyes’ story meaningfully.
Still, many fans have expressed interest in potential spin-offs or prequels, and JD Pardo himself has said he’s open to revisiting the universe someday — but for now, Mayans remains complete.
18. How old is Nahuel in Twilight?
In The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 2, Nahuel — the half-human, half-vampire character played by JD Pardo — is 150 years old, though he appears to be around 17 or 18 in human years.
This role introduced JD Pardo to a massive global audience and remains one of his most recognized film appearances outside television. His portrayal added a mysterious and emotional edge to the story’s final chapter.
19. What is JD Pardo doing after Mayans M.C. and Twilight?
After Mayans M.C., JD Pardo has shifted toward more dynamic and diverse projects.
He’s now starring in ABC’s High Potential and filming Amazon’s Road House remake.
These choices show how Pardo is broadening his career — moving from dark, action-heavy characters to roles that showcase his intelligence, humor, and emotional range.
Fans and critics agree that JD Pardo’s best work may still be ahead of him.
Conclusion
JD Pardo’s story is a reminder that success doesn’t happen overnight. From his early modeling gigs to Hollywood stardom, his path reflects grit, growth, and authenticity. Whether he’s riding through Mayans M.C. or solving crimes in High Potential, JD Pardo continues to win hearts with his dedication and charm.
And as his career keeps climbing, so does his net worth, influence, and legacy in the American entertainment industry.
