Hemky Madera

Biography

Hemky Madera is a Dominican-American actor known for his dynamic screen presence and powerful performances in both television and film. He was born on January 26, 1977, in Queens, New York, USA, to Dominican parents. Shortly after his birth, his family returned to the Dominican Republic, where he spent most of his childhood and youth.

Madera developed an early interest in acting and storytelling, participating in school plays and local theater productions. After completing his studies, he moved back to the United States to pursue a professional acting career, driven by a deep passion for performance and cultural representation.

Career

Hemky Madera began his acting career in the early 2000s, initially appearing in Dominican television productions such as En La Olla and Trio en Alta Mar. His transition to American television brought wider recognition, as he began securing guest and recurring roles in popular series.

One of his early notable roles came in the HBO series Luck (2011–2012), but he achieved greater fame for his work in the USA Network’s crime drama Queen of the South (2016–2021). In the series, Madera portrayed Pote Galvez, a loyal enforcer who evolves into one of the show’s most beloved and morally complex characters. His portrayal of Pote — a tough yet compassionate protector — earned him critical acclaim and a strong fan following.

In addition to his television success, Madera has appeared in numerous films, including:

Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017) and Spider-Man: Far From Home (2019) – as Mr. Delmar, the friendly bodega owner.

Rango (2011) – a voice role in the Oscar-winning animated feature.

The Lost City (2022)* – alongside Sandra Bullock and Channing Tatum.

Madera’s versatility has allowed him to work across genres, from drama and action to comedy and animation, showcasing his adaptability and range as an actor.