William Levy, a name synonymous with charisma, talent, and heartthrob status, has captivated audiences worldwide with his striking looks and powerful performances in telenovelas. Born William Gutiérrez-Levy on August 29, 1980, in Cojimar, Cuba, this Cuban-American actor and former model has become one of the most recognizable faces in Latin American entertainment. From his humble beginnings in Cuba to his rise as a leading man in some of the most popular Spanish-language TV shows, Levy’s journey is a testament to perseverance, passion, and undeniable star power. This article delves into the life of William Levy, exploring his career, personal relationships, and the rumors that have kept him in the spotlight, including his connection with actress Samadhi Zendejas, his long-term relationship with Elizabeth Gutiérrez, and his role as a father.
Early Life and Path to Stardom
William Levy’s story begins in Cojimar, a small fishing village in Cuba. Born to a single mother, Barbara Levy, and raised alongside his siblings, Jonathan and Barbara Gutiérrez Levy, William’s childhood was marked by challenges. His family faced economic hardships, and at the age of 14, they emigrated to Miami, Florida, seeking a better life. This move was pivotal, as it opened doors to opportunities that would eventually shape his career.
In Miami, Levy attended Barbara Goleman Senior High School, where he excelled in baseball, earning a scholarship to St. Thomas University. However, his passion for the arts led him to pivot from business administration to acting. After two years of college, he moved to Los Angeles to pursue acting studies, later honing his craft in Miami and Mexico City. His early career included modeling for Next Models agency, which helped him gain visibility and confidence in front of the camera.
Levy’s breakthrough came in 2003 when he participated in the reality show Protagonistas de Novela, a competition designed to discover new telenovela stars. It was here that he met Elizabeth Gutiérrez, a fellow contestant who would become a significant figure in his personal life. Though he didn’t win the competition, his charm and talent caught the attention of producers, launching his acting career.
William Levy’s TV Shows: A Telenovela Titan
William Levy’s rise to fame is closely tied to his work in telenovelas, where he has portrayed brooding, romantic leads that have made him a household name. His television career spans over two decades, with a string of successful shows that have solidified his status as a telenovela icon. Below are some of his most notable TV shows:
- Mi Vida Eres Tú (2006): Levy’s first major role came in this Venezuelan telenovela, where he played Federico, marking his entry into the world of Spanish-language soaps.
- Acorralada (2007): This Miami-based telenovela saw Levy as Larry Irazábal, a role that showcased his ability to portray complex, emotional characters.
- Cuidado con el Ángel (2008): Starring alongside Maite Perroni, Levy played Juan Miguel San Román, a surgeon with a tumultuous love life. This telenovela was a massive hit, introducing him to a broader international audience.
- Sortilegio (2009): As Alejandro Lombardo, Levy captivated viewers in this romantic drama, further cementing his status as a leading man. His chemistry with co-star Jacqueline Bracamontes sparked rumors of an off-screen romance.
- Triunfo del Amor (2010-2011): Reuniting with Maite Perroni, Levy played Maximiliano Sandoval, a role that highlighted his versatility as an actor capable of balancing drama and romance.
- La Tempestad (2013): In this telenovela, Levy portrayed Captain Damián Fabré, a seafaring hero, showcasing his ability to take on action-oriented roles.
- Café con Aroma de Mujer (2021): Levy returned to telenovelas after a hiatus, playing Sebastián Vallejo in this modern adaptation of the classic Colombian series. His performance alongside Laura Londoño was widely praised, and the show became a global hit on Netflix.
- Vuelve a Mí (2023): Levy starred as Santiago Zepeda and served as an executive producer in this Telemundo telenovela, co-starring Samadhi Zendejas. The show’s intense storyline and the undeniable chemistry between Levy and Zendejas fueled speculation about their off-screen relationship.
Levy’s TV shows have not only showcased his acting prowess but also his ability to connect with audiences across cultures. His roles often feature a blend of rugged masculinity and emotional vulnerability, making him a fan favorite in the telenovela genre. His work has earned him numerous awards, including nominations for Premios TVyNovelas and a special recognition at the 2014 Festival de Cine de Almería in Spain for his contribution to Latin entertainment.
William Levy Age and Enduring Appeal
As of April 2025, William Levy is 44 years old, yet his appeal remains timeless. His chiseled features, piercing green eyes, and athletic physique have made him a perennial heartthrob. However, it’s not just his looks that keep him relevant; Levy’s dedication to his craft and his ability to evolve as an actor have ensured his longevity in the industry. From his early days as a model to his current status as a producer and actor, Levy has shown a commitment to growth, taking on diverse roles and exploring new creative avenues.
His age has also brought a sense of maturity to his public persona. In interviews, Levy often speaks about the importance of family, faith, and personal growth. In 2009, he converted to Catholicism, a decision that he has said brought him peace and perspective. This spiritual side adds depth to his image, balancing the “galán” stereotype with a more grounded, relatable persona.
William Levy’s Relationship with Elizabeth Gutiérrez
One of the most discussed aspects of William Levy’s life is his long-term relationship with Mexican-American actress Elizabeth Gutiérrez. The couple met in 2003 on the set of Protagonistas de Novela and quickly became one of the most beloved pairs in Latin entertainment. Their relationship, spanning over two decades, was marked by passion, challenges, and public scrutiny.
Levy and Gutiérrez never married, despite widespread speculation about a “William Levy wedding.” Instead, they maintained a committed partnership, raising two children together: Christopher Alexander, born in 2006, and Kailey Alexandra, born in 2010. The couple often shared glimpses of their family life on social media, attending their children’s sports events and celebrating milestones together.
However, their relationship was not without turbulence. Over the years, rumors of infidelity plagued Levy, with tabloids linking him to co-stars like Jacqueline Bracamontes and Maite Perroni. Despite these allegations, Levy and Gutiérrez reconciled multiple times, with Gutiérrez publicly defending their bond. In a 2021 interview, she described their relationship as a “rollercoaster” but emphasized their mutual love and commitment to their children.
The couple’s relationship took a definitive turn in April 2024, when Gutiérrez confirmed their separation after 20 years together. In an emotional interview with ¡HOLA! USA, she stated, “I’m no longer with William,” citing irreconcilable differences. The announcement shocked fans, especially as it coincided with reports of a domestic altercation at their Miami home, which prompted police intervention. While details remain private, the incident added fuel to the media frenzy surrounding their split.
William Levy’s Son and Daughter: A Father’s Pride
William Levy’s role as a father is central to his identity. His son, Christopher Alexander, now 19, and daughter, Kailey Alexandra, 15, are his pride and joy. Both children have followed in their parents’ footsteps to some extent, with Christopher and Kailey making cameo appearances in telenovelas alongside their father. Christopher debuted in a minor role in Vuelve a Mí, while Kailey appeared in La Tempestad, delighting fans with their natural charisma.
Levy has been open about his dedication to his children, often prioritizing their well-being over his career. In a 2023 Instagram post, he wrote, “My kids are my everything. Everything I do is for them.” Despite his separation from Gutiérrez, Levy and his ex-partner have maintained a cooperative co-parenting relationship, ensuring that Christopher and Kailey remain supported and loved.
Christopher, an aspiring athlete, has garnered attention for his baseball skills, a nod to his father’s high school passion. Kailey, meanwhile, has expressed interest in acting and modeling, with her striking resemblance to her mother drawing comparisons in the media. Levy’s bond with his children is evident in their frequent appearances together at public events and on social media, where he celebrates their achievements and milestones.
William Levy and Samadhi Zendejas: The Rumored Romance
One of the most persistent rumors surrounding William Levy in recent years involves his Vuelve a Mí co-star, Samadhi Zendejas. The Mexican actress, born on December 27, 1994, in Chiapas, Mexico, is 14 years younger than Levy and has made a name for herself in telenovelas like Atrévete a Soñar and Mariposa de Barrio, where she portrayed a young Jenni Rivera. The pair’s on-screen chemistry in Vuelve a Mí was electric, leading to speculation that their connection extended beyond the set.
Rumors of a romance between William Levy and Samadhi Zendejas began in June 2023, when TVNotas published photos of the actors dining together in Mexico City and entering a hotel. The magazine also claimed that Levy gifted Zendejas a designer bag, further fueling speculation. Zendejas’ affectionate Instagram post, calling Levy “ojitos bonitos” (pretty eyes), added to the buzz, as did a video she shared in April 2024, showing Levy singing in a car while she filmed.
The timing of these rumors coincided with Levy’s separation from Gutiérrez, leading many to speculate that Zendejas was the “third party” in their breakup. Gutiérrez’s cryptic Instagram stories, including one that read, “Sigue ordeñándolo. Así conozco más. Gracias por enseñarme lo que no había visto,” were interpreted as indirect jabs at Zendejas. The media frenzy intensified when Zendejas posted a behind-the-scenes video of their fictional wedding in Vuelve a Mí, captioned, “Acompáñame a mi boda. Siempre soñé con este día, mi boda y fue muy linda (aunque sea de mentira).” The video, which garnered nearly 16 million views, sparked comments suggesting Zendejas was “in love” with Levy.
Both Levy and Zendejas have denied romantic involvement. In an April 2024 interview with Telemundo’s Al Rojo Vivo, Zendejas described their relationship as “bonita” and praised Levy as a “gran galán” and supportive colleague. She emphasized that their chemistry was professional, stating, “It’s Nuria and Santiago [their characters] who have this extraordinary chemistry.” A source close to Levy told People en Español that the actors have not seen each other since Vuelve a Mí wrapped, further debunking the rumors.
Despite their denials, the public’s fascination with a potential “William Levy y Samadhi Zendejas” romance persists, driven by their undeniable on-screen spark and the timing of Levy’s split from Gutiérrez. Zendejas has faced significant online criticism, with some fans accusing her of “homewrecking.” In response, she has maintained a lighthearted approach, addressing the controversy with humor and focusing on her career.
William Levy’s Wife: Clarifying the Narrative
A common search term associated with William Levy is “esposa de William Levy” (William Levy’s wife), reflecting fans’ curiosity about his marital status. To clarify, William Levy was never married to Elizabeth Gutiérrez, despite their 20-year partnership and frequent references to her as his “wife” in the media. The couple’s decision not to marry was a personal one, though they were often perceived as a married unit due to their long-term commitment and shared family.
The absence of a formal “William Levy wedding” has not diminished the public’s interest in his romantic life. Following his separation from Gutiérrez, Levy has been linked to various women, including Zendejas and, more recently, Chilean singer Emilia Dides, though he has denied these rumors. In an October 2024 statement, Levy addressed the speculation, emphasizing his focus on his children and career: “I’m alone, and I have my reasons for being so.”
The Legacy of William Levy
William Levy’s journey from a young immigrant in Miami to a global telenovela star is a story of resilience and talent. His ability to captivate audiences with his performances, coupled with his magnetic presence, has made him a cultural icon. While his personal life—marked by a high-profile relationship, rumored romances, and fatherhood—has kept him in the headlines, it’s his professional achievements that define his legacy.
As an actor, Levy has pushed boundaries, taking on roles that challenge stereotypes and showcase his range. His work as an executive producer on Vuelve a Mí signals a new phase in his career, where he seeks greater creative control. As a father, he remains a devoted figure, prioritizing his children’s happiness above all. And as a public figure, he navigates the complexities of fame with grace, addressing controversies with measured responses while maintaining his privacy.
Looking ahead, William Levy shows no signs of slowing down. With upcoming projects in development and a loyal fanbase spanning continents, he continues to redefine what it means to be a leading man in the modern era. Whether he’s stealing hearts on screen or navigating the challenges of public life, William Levy remains a force to be reckoned with—a true star whose light shines bright.
Conclusion
William Levy’s life is a tapestry of triumphs and trials, woven together by his undeniable talent and enduring appeal. From his breakout roles in telenovelas like Cuidado con el Ángel and Café con Aroma de Mujer to his complex personal life with Elizabeth Gutiérrez and rumored ties to Samadhi Zendejas, Levy’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and public fascination. At 44, he continues to evolve, balancing his roles as an actor, producer, and father with a quiet strength that resonates with fans worldwide. As he forges ahead, one thing is certain: William Levy’s star will continue to shine, captivating audiences and sparking conversations for years to come.
