Actor Gabriel Sloyer has known how to move between worlds: that of the soap operas of his childhood, that of video games where he plays Javier Escuella in Red Dead Redemption, the drug dealer in Griselda , and now, that of family intrigues in The Better Sister , the Prime Video series that places him alongside Jessica Biel at the center of an emotional thriller with hints of melodrama.
In an interview with The Latin Times and ENSTARZ , Sloyer discussed how he came to play J. Rodriguez, a character originally conceived as a wealthy, white, Anglo-Saxon man in Alafair Burke's original novel. "I am who I am," said the New York-born actor, born to Colombian parents, "and over time, the writers integrated Latinx details into the character: slang, warmth, a little bit of Spanish."
The series, produced by Amazon MGM Studios and released in April, revolves around the murder of Adam, the husband of a woman who now lives with her sister-in-law raising their son. Amidst secrets, betrayals, and tense relationships, The Better Sister doesn't hide its dramatic spirit. "It has everything: twists, a bed, extreme emotions. It's almost an American soap opera," says Sloyer, who doesn't hide her love for the genre. "My dad and I watched Pedro el escamoso. Ugly Betty was a fixture in my house."
Although many recognize him for his roles on television or streaming services, Sloyer himself admits that many fans identify with him even more for his forays into the gaming world. "On a plane, someone asked me to sign as Javier Escuella. And of course, you do it with a lot of love. We do everything for the audience," he says.
A modern Latin Lover
His chemistry with Jessica Biel was key to achieving the intensity of the scenes. After devouring the script, Sloyer was called in for a test with the actress, and three days later they were on set, filming intimate and emotionally intense scenes. "It's my first time doing these kinds of scenes. Jessica has more experience, but I think that also contributes to the dynamic," he confessed.
And although he can't reveal his upcoming projects, Sloyer was moved by the audience's response. "Being number one on the platform is great, but what moves me most is remembering how my Latino colleagues pushed and supported me on set. There was so much affection, lots of winks saying 'Go for it, you can do it.' And of course, there was always the tintico."
The Better Sister was filmed entirely in New York City, with the actor at home. From there, Sloyer reflects on his career and the cultural identity he brings to each of his roles. "Putting a Latino in the middle of a traditional American family story and seeing what kind of energy it creates... that's what I like to explore."
Although she didn't reveal details about her favorite music, she did suggest that her character might listen to reggaeton, something between J Balvin, Maluma, and Juanes, but also Shakira. "Like all the characters in this series, she has a public side... and a more intimate one."
With his charisma, talent, and cultural heritage, Gabriel Sloyer not only redefines the contemporary Latin lover, but also positions himself as a key figure in the new Hollywood where Latin nuances are no longer a stereotype, but a strength.
