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Elsa Pataky

Elsa Pataky is a Spanish model, actress, and producer born Elsa Lafuente Medianu in Madrid.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Elsa Pataky is a Spanish model, actress, and producer born Elsa Lafuente Medianu in Madrid. She first became widely known in Spain for her role in the television series *Al salir de clase* and later gained international recognition for playing Elena Neves in the *Fast & Furious* franchise.

Early life

Elsa Pataky was born Elsa Lafuente Medianu in Madrid, Spain, on 18 July 1976. Sources identify her as Spanish, and note that she studied journalism before pursuing acting.

Acting career

Pataky rose to prominence in Spanish television with *Al salir de clase*. She later built an international film career, especially through the *Fast & Furious* franchise as Elena Neves.

Other work

In addition to acting, Pataky has worked as a model and producer. Sources also describe her as having appeared in a range of Spanish and international film and television projects.

Personal life

Pataky has been married to Australian actor Chris Hemsworth since 2010. They have three children.

Key facts

  • Born in Madrid, Spain, in 1976.
  • Became known in Spain through the television series *Al salir de clase* (1997–2002).
  • Played Elena Neves in the *Fast & Furious* films.
  • Married Australian actor Chris Hemsworth in 2010.
  • Has three children.
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Canadian context

Pataky has relevance for Canadian readers mainly through the global popularity of the *Fast & Furious* films and international entertainment coverage; no specific Canada-based connection is established in the provided sources.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Elsa Pataky?
Elsa Pataky is a Spanish actress, model, and producer best known for *Al salir de clase* and the *Fast & Furious* films.
What is Elsa Pataky's birth name?
Her birth name is Elsa Lafuente Medianu.
When was Elsa Pataky born?
She was born on 18 July 1976.
What role made Elsa Pataky famous in Spain?
She became widely known for playing Raquel Alonso in the television series *Al salir de clase*.
What is Elsa Pataky best known for internationally?
She is best known internationally for portraying Elena Neves in the *Fast & Furious* franchise.
Who is Elsa Pataky married to?
She is married to Australian actor Chris Hemsworth.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elsa_Pataky
    Supports: Birth name, birth date, nationality, career overview, and role in *Al salir de Clase* and *Fast & Furious*.
  2. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0665235/
    Supports: Birth details, education, acting career background, and role in *Al salir de clase*.
  3. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/es-es/name/nm0665235/
    Supports: Birth date, birthplace, occupations, and marriage to Chris Hemsworth.
  4. Apple TV — https://www.apple.com/tv-pr/originals/
    Supports: Biography details including family background, studies, and early acting career.
  5. People — https://people.com/tag/elsa-pataky/
    Supports: Career summary, marriage to Chris Hemsworth, and children.