Mario Lopez FAULT Magazine Covershoot and Interview

Photographer / Creative Director / Producer: Ran Badua-www.raenbadua.com – @raenbadua
Stylist: Luca Kingston | The Wall Group – @lucakingston @thewallgroup
Groomer: Rodney Rinks – @rodneyrinks
Lighting & Digital Tech: Miles [email protected]

Words: Jacquex Frankel

A busy schedule is no challenge for Mario Lopez, the quintessential multi-hyphenate who juggles an incredibly packed schedule with utmost ease. With a diverse career that spans across television hosting, acting, producing, and entrepreneurship, he’s a force to be reckoned with. But, what sets him apart from the crowd is his unwavering commitment to staying true to himself, his roots, and his values. As a proud Mexican-American, Mario brings an authentic and unique perspective to all that he does, inspiring countless people to chase their dreams with passion and dedication. Mario’s recent collaborations with friends Oscar De La Hoya and Mark Wahlberg have taken him to new heights, including the premiere of their movie “Golden Boy” at the Tribeca Film Festival. Despite his busy career, Mario is a devoted family man who knows how to balance work and family life. He shares invaluable insights, values, and tips for succeeding in both arenas. With his infectious energy, charming personality, and unwavering spirit, Mario Lopez is an inspiration for all.

Please give us insight on your day to day routine…
I usually get up early in the morning and train: boxing or jiu jitsu. Then, I show up at Universal Studios to do On With Mario. Afterwards, we do Access Hollywood for the night show, followed by Access Daily. A total of three shows in a day and after that there are meeting/zoom-call appointments or rushing to a practice for one of the kids.

Tell us a bit about your approach to health and how you prioritize fitness in your life?
You have to make your health a top priority. I try to make a point to break a sweat everyday because I feel like that really wakes me up! At the beginning of the morning works best because that’s the hardest part of the day. I train more for sanity than vanity. 

You’ve been a television host, actor, and producer. How do you approach these different roles, and do you have a preference for one over the others?
I like that there are no rules, I like acting, producing… and being a host which is my most natural, I get to be myself. I’m a fan of entertainment, music, TV, movies… and meeting people!

Golden Boy will premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival, how was partaking in this project?
It turned out really well and I’m thrilled. Oscar De La Hoya is a good friend of mine, and partnering with my friend Mark Wahlberg was a great experience all around. I’m honored! Plus, I got to meet Robert De Niro the other day, a real treat. One of the remaining names on my interview bucket list. 

With your busy career, how do you balance family life, and what do you consider to be the most important values that you hope to instill in your children?
Working hard is in everything I do, especially for the family. I want them to know that there are no shortcuts in life: work hard, stay focused, do the right thing, and the right things will happen.

What do you believe has been the key to the success of your marriage?
Constant communication is key! I have a very understanding wife. Also, do not stop dating your partner! Make it a point to do things, just the two. 

Since launching your own tequila brand: Casa Mexico, what inspired you to start this venture, and what have been some of the challenges and rewards of being an entrepreneur?
Getting into the spirit business was not something I planned, I fell into it and partnered with friend De La Hoya. It’s a lot of fun, I like tequila. And I get behind things I believe in, this one is a good one. It is a tricky business, things can get political but it’s a fun ride. 

How do you stay connected to your roots and cultural heritage?
I’am pretty Mexican! And that just comes with the territory. Haha. Aside from family, I love: the culture, food, people, I feel most at home when embracing my roots.

What are some of your favorite ways to relax and unwind when you’re not working?
I love entertaining at home, watching fights, having people over, listening to music, playing with the kids, that’s probably the best way to relax. 

Are you someone who trusts your instincts or the rational mind?
I try to be both, I try to be rational but ultimately end up with my instincts. I try not to make hasty decisions, gather as much information then plan a course of action

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received, and how has it impacted your life?
Not to change for anyone, be yourself. Be authentic, people will respect that and relate to you. 

What is a simple pleasure that brings you joy in your daily life?
When I arrive home and get to see the kids! 

What’s your FAULT? 
I have a lot! I probably should not be sparring: getting punched in the head, or getting choked during jiu jitsu. But ironically, that makes me feel alive and sort of young. And probably shouldn’t drive fast!