Ricardo Antonio Chavira Net Worth, Relationships, Age/Birthdate & Birthday

The Making of a Screen Presence: Early Roots and Formative Years

Ricardo Antonio Chavira was born on September 1, 1971 — a birthday that marks the beginning of a life which would later unfold far beyond his San Antonio, Texas upbringing.  Raised in a family rooted in values and public service — his father, Juan Antonio Chavira, served as a judge in Bexar County — Ricardo was shaped early by a sense of discipline and ambition. 

Tragedy struck early: his mother passed away from breast and ovarian cancer when Ricardo was a teenager. That profound loss became a catalyst for self-expression — he discovered acting in high school, perhaps in search of solace and connection. 

He pursued that newfound passion academically — earning a bachelor's degree in theater from University of the Incarnate Word, and later a Master of Fine Arts from University of California, San Diego.  By 2000, with training under his belt, he made the decisive move to Los Angeles.

Breakout Stardom: From Supporting Roles to Global Recognition

Ricardo’s early years in Hollywood involved a steady climb. He earned guest roles on respected series including NYPD Blue, 24, Joan of Arcadia and JAG. In 2002, he appeared in a recurring role on Six Feet Under and took part in a television pilot that, though unaired, marked his move toward more significant acting opportunities. 

Everything changed in 2004. That year, he landed what would become an iconic role: Carlos Solis in the hit series Desperate Housewives. For many, that character became the definitive version of Ricardo Chavira — charismatic, complicated, and irresistibly compelling.  The success of the show not only brought him fame, but also industry recognition: alongside the ensemble cast, he garnered two Screen Actors Guild Award wins for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series. 

Over the years, Ricardo has maintained a diversified career — transitioning smoothly between television, film, and stage plays. From guest appearances on series such as Scandal, Jane the Virgin and Santa Clarita Diet, to a more recent portrayal of Abraham Quintanilla in the biographical series Selena: The Series — his passion for acting remains undimmed.

Beyond the Spotlight: Family, Roots, and Personal Commitments

While his career soared, Ricardo also built a grounded personal life. He married longtime partner Marcea Dietzel on September 22, 2007 — a milestone that added a layer of stability and support off-screen.  The marriage has produced two children: a son, Tomás Antonio Chavira (born 2003), and a daughter, Belén Elysabeth Chavira (born July 28, 2008). 

The loss of his mother in adolescence left a lasting legacy: a deep commitment to health advocacy. Ricardo became an outspoken supporter of cancer research, aligning himself with Susan G. Komen for the Cure and even serving as San Antonio’s honorary spokesman for the charity.  On multiple occasions he has used his platform to promote awareness and fundraise — honoring his mother’s memory with purpose. 

What His Success Means: Net Worth, Legacy, and Influence

According to a recent ranking of former cast members of Desperate Housewives, Ricardo’s estimated net worth stands around US$3 million.  While that figure may not rival the wealthiest Hollywood titans, it reflects a durable career built on talent, consistency, and a measured approach to both fame and personal life.

But perhaps more meaningful than dollars and cents is the arc of transformation Ricardo represents: a Texan kid who turned childhood pain into purpose, who armed himself with education and craft, and who — through a string of nuanced performances — carved out a place in the entertainment world while staying connected to family, roots, and values.

In that sense, Ricardo Antonio Chavira’s journey resonates beyond celebrity headlines. His story speaks to resilience, reinvention, and the power of commitment — both to art and to humanity.