Asalia Nazario: The Inspiring Life of Zoe Saldaña’s Mother

When you hear the name Zoe Saldaña, you probably think of Avatar, Guardians of the Galaxy, or Star Trek. She’s a big name in Hollywood, loved all over the world. But behind her success is a quiet hero—her mother, Asalia Nazario.

Asalia isn’t famous. She doesn’t walk red carpets or give interviews. But her story is one of love, courage, and sacrifice. She raised three daughters through heartbreak, hard work, and hope. This article tells the full story of Asalia Nazario, Zoe Saldaña’s mother—a woman who gave her everything to help her children rise.

Asalia Nazario Quick Bio

Asalia Nazario’s Early Life in Puerto Rico

Asalia Nazario was born in Puerto Rico, a place full of sunshine, music, and family values. She grew up with her mother and was raised in a warm and loving home. Life wasn’t fancy, but it was full of meaning.

At just 10 years old, Asalia and her mom moved to the United States. They settled in Jackson Heights, Queens, a busy neighborhood in New York City. Everything was new—new language, new culture, new world. But Asalia was strong. She learned fast and began building a life that would one day shape her entire family.

Arriving in New York at a young age wasn’t easy. The streets were louder, the weather was colder, and everything moved faster. But Asalia didn’t give up. She went to school, helped her mom, and did her best to fit in.

She grew up speaking Spanish and English, which later helped her in jobs and raising her kids. The move to America made her strong, independent, and full of drive. These same values would later help her raise three strong daughters.

Meeting Aridio Saldaña and Building a Family

In New York, Asalia met Aridio Saldaña, a kind and passionate man from the Dominican Republic. He had a warm heart and shared her dream of building a good life in America. They fell in love and got married.

Together, Asalia and Aridio started a family. They built a home where culture, love, and respect were everything. Even though they didn’t have much money, they had each other—and that made their life beautiful.

Asalia and Aridio had three daughters—Mariel, Zoe, and Cisely. From the beginning, Asalia made sure they knew their roots. She taught them about their Afro-Latina identity, their cultures, and their languages.

At home, they spoke both English and Spanish. They watched movies together and had strong family traditions. They learned that they were smart, capable, and worthy of respect. Zoe once said, “We were exceptionally loved by imperfect people.” That love made a big difference.

The Tragic Loss That Changed Asalia Nazario’s Life

In 1987, everything changed. Aridio, Asalia’s husband, died in a car accident. Zoe was just nine years old. It was sudden, shocking, and painful.

Asalia was crushed. She had lost the love of her life, her partner, and the father of her children. Zoe remembers her mother not getting out of bed for a long time. She stopped wearing makeup, stopped laughing. Her heart was broken.

But slowly, she began to stand again—not because it was easy, but because she had three little girls depending on her.

Why Asalia Nazario Sent Her Daughters to the Dominican Republic

After Aridio’s death, Asalia faced a very hard choice. New York in the late 1980s was not a safe place to raise three young girls alone. She didn’t have enough money, and danger was everywhere. So, with a heavy heart, she sent her daughters to live with family in the Dominican Republic.

Zoe and her sisters missed their mother deeply. Life in the Dominican Republic was very different. No winter, no grapes or apples—only mangoes and guavas. Everything felt strange. But the girls were safe, and they were surrounded by family.

This gave Asalia the chance to work hard and save money. She stayed behind in New York and carried the full weight of their future on her shoulders.

Asalia Nazario’s Hard Work and Big Sacrifices

Back in New York, Asalia worked two jobs. During the day, she was a courtroom translator. At night, she worked as a hotel maid. Her days were long and exhausting.

She sent money to her daughters. She called them often. She visited when she could. Even when she wasn’t there in person, her love was always felt.

She didn’t have time for rest. She gave up everything to make sure her girls had food, school, safety, and a future. As Zoe later said, “My mom was just really trying to make ends meet. And we had to become each other’s emotional support.”

Zoe Saldaña on Her Mother, Asalia Nazario

As Zoe grew up and became a star, she never forgot where she came from. She often calls Asalia Nazario her hero.

In 2014, Zoe created a web series called My Hero. In the very first episode, she honored her mother. She shared stories about how her mom had to become both parents after her father died. She said, “She’s not perfect, but she always did her best.”

Zoe also said her mom never tried to control her or her sisters. She let them grow, explore, and find their own voices. That kind of parenting—firm, loving, and open—is what made Zoe the woman she is today.

Asalia Nazario’s Love for Learning and Education

Even when life was hard, Asalia Nazario believed in one thing: the power of education. She didn’t have much money, but she always encouraged her daughters to read, study, and ask questions.

Their home was full of books and conversations. School was important, but so was learning at home. Zoe has often said that her mom gave her the confidence to think, speak, and dream big. That love for learning started with Asalia.

As a mother, she knew education could open doors. And she made sure her daughters had that key—even when she had to work two jobs to make it happen.

Asalia Nazario’s Life with Dagoberto Galán

Years after losing her first husband, Asalia found love again. She met a kind man named Dagoberto Galán, who became a big part of their family.

Zoe and her sisters don’t call him “stepfather.” They simply call him Dad. He never tried to replace Aridio, but he gave them more love, more laughter, and more support. He became their second rock.

Zoe once joked, “He’s our kind of crazy beautiful.” That shows just how close they are. With Dagoberto by her side, Asalia finally had someone to share her joys and rest her worries. Their bond added peace to her life after years of struggle.

Asalia Nazario as a Grandmother Today

Now, in 2026, Asalia Nazario is not just a mom — she’s a proud grandmother. Zoe and her husband Marco Perego have three sons: Cy Aridio, Bowie Ezio, and Zen.

Asalia plays an active role in their lives. She’s there for birthdays, holidays, and even red carpet events. Her love continues through this next generation.

Their home is a beautiful mix of languages. Zoe teaches her sons Spanish, Marco teaches them Italian, and their nanny speaks English. It’s a modern, loving family — just like the one Asalia raised years ago.

Asalia Nazario at Zoe Saldaña’s Oscar Win

In March 2025, Zoe won her first Oscar for Best Supporting Actress in the film Emilia Pérez. It was a dream come true—not just for Zoe, but for Asalia Nazario, who was sitting proudly in the audience.

When Zoe walked up to the stage, she looked right at her mom and said through tears,

“I am a proud child of immigrant parents with dreams and dignity and hardworking hands.”

Zoe also became the first American of Dominican origin to win an Academy Award. That night wasn’t just about a movie—it was about a family’s journey, a mother’s love, and a legacy of strength.

Final Thoughts

Asalia Nazario never wanted fame. She never asked for awards. But her life shows that you don’t have to be a celebrity to be powerful. Her story is about love, faith, and the strength to keep going when life feels heavy.

She raised three daughters, lost the love of her life, worked nonstop, and still smiled through it all. She taught her girls to be proud, kind, and fearless.

And today, she stands as the quiet force behind one of Hollywood’s biggest stars.

So when you think of Zoe Saldaña, remember this: behind her success is a mother who gave her everything—Asalia Nazario, the true star of this story.

(FAQs)

What is Asalia Nazario’s ethnicity and nationality?

Asalia Nazario is Afro-Latina. She was born in Puerto Rico and became an American citizen after moving to the U.S. as a child.

Who was Asalia Nazario’s husband?

Her first husband was Aridio Saldaña, Zoe’s father, who died in a tragic car crash in 1987. She later married Dagoberto Galán, who Zoe now calls “Dad.”

How old is Asalia Nazario?

Her exact birthday is not public, but she is believed to be in her early 70s as of 2026.

How tall is Asalia Nazario?

Her height hasn’t been shared, but fans often notice her graceful presence and warm smile beside Zoe at events.

Where is Asalia Nazario now in 2026?

She lives a quiet life in the U.S., spending time with her daughters and three grandsons. She stays out of the spotlight but is always there to support Zoe.

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