Biographie
JW Cortés’ life exemplifies resilience, dedication, and the impactful use of one’s platform. Raised in Sunset Park, Brooklyn, New York City, by proud Puerto Rican parents, JW cultivated a passion for the arts and a strong commitment to serving his community and country from an early age. This drive led him to enlist in the Marine Corps, where he served honorably for nearly thirteen years, including combat deployments and assignments at various U.S. Diplomatic Embassies as part of the esteemed Marine Corps Embassy Security Group (MCESG).
While in uniform, JW pursued his love for the arts, training at the prestigious Esper Studio under Terry Knickerbocker, and establishing a presence in the entertainment world. In 2012, he was chosen from over 200,000 applicants to participate in NBC's reality series *Stars Earn Stripes*, training alongside notable figures like Navy SEAL Chief Chris Kyle and celebrities such as Terry Crews and Laila Ali. He made history as the first actor to portray DC Comics’ character Detective Carlos Alvarez on FOX’s primetime hit *GOTHAM*, and has appeared in well-known series including *Law & Order SVU*, *POWER*, *The Blacklist*, and *Blue Bloods*. In 2022, he voiced "Mateo" on PBS’s *Alma’s Way*. Fans also enjoyed his cameo in Jennifer Lopez and Maluma’s music video “Pa’Tí Lonely,” and his involvement in the remix of country star Kane Brown’s hit “Homesick” highlighted his versatility and commitment to supporting military families.
Beyond acting, JW has made notable philanthropic contributions. In 2016, he received the NFL Hispanic Leadership Award, choosing The Detective Rafael Ramos Foundation as the beneficiary of a $2,000 donation from the New York Jets, underscoring his dedication to giving back. That same year, JW joined The Ramos Foundation, created in memory of NYPD Detectives Rafael Ramos and Wenjian Liu. Taking on the role of President in 2020, he secured nearly one million dollars in funding, bolstering programs like the annual backpack giveaway, which equips thousands of students with essential school supplies. During the pandemic, JW spearheaded efforts to distribute hand sanitizer and masks to schools in BedStuy, Brooklyn, helping students stay safe while continuing their education. Through his relationship with Gary Sinise, the Gary Sinise Foundation has contributed substantial support annually to The Ramos Foundation. He also cultivated partnerships with the Tunnel to Towers Foundation and the Marine Corps Toys for Tots program, delivering thousands of toys to local children. Leveraging his celebrity connections, JW elevated The Ramos Foundation’s visibility, gaining support from prominent figures including boxing champion Amanda Serrano, Dean Cain, Robin Lord Taylor, Joseph Sikora, Gary Sinise, and Terry Crews.
JW’s work culminated in the renaming of PS 54K in Brooklyn to The Detective Rafael Ramos School on September 13, 2024—a tribute to his influence and the enduring legacy he fosters. As he prepares to conclude his presidency of The Ramos Foundation on December 21, 2024, JW leaves behind a powerful legacy of service and community dedication, ready to hand leadership to the next steward.
His philanthropic efforts have earned recognition as well. JW was named a celebrity spokesperson and Hero Ambassador by The Boot Campaign and featured in HBO’s acclaimed series *Habla Y Vota*. In 2015, he was honored as an “American Icon” by the nonprofit Got Your 6, delivering a congressional address at the GI Film Festival to promote accurate portrayals of military and veteran stories in Hollywood. Moreover, JW has spoken before Congress to advance support for veterans and first responders.
Currently, JW is a sought-after public speaker, inspiring audiences nationwide. Above all, he is a proud father of two sons, cherishing their Taco Tuesday traditions. He is also working on his first memoir, slated for release in 2025. JW’s journey from Brooklyn’s streets to a leader in service and entertainment serves as a powerful inspiration, demonstrating that determination and heart can create a lasting impact.
