Anwar Zayden lived a life filled with excitement, passion, and controversy. From being a bull rider to an actor, and from art shop owner to a Miami icon, he followed his own path and made a mark in every field he stepped into. In this article, we’ll explore Anwar Zayden’s life story—his early days, family background, relationships, career journey, controversies, and some interesting facts that made him truly one of a kind.
Who was Anwar Zayden?
Anwar Zayden was a bold personality who lived life on his own terms. Known for his appearance in the famous TV show Miami Vice, Anwar wasn’t just an actor—he was also a bull rider, businessman, and social figure from South Beach, Florida. With his unique style and fearless nature, he became a well-known name in Miami’s cultural scene during the 1980s and 1990s.
| Personal Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Anwar Zayden |
| Date of Birth | October 8, 1961 |
| Place of Birth | South Beach, Florida, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Actor, Bull Rider, Businessman |
| Known For | Role in Miami Vice |
| Age at Death | 58 years (as of 2020) |
| Net Worth (2020) | $4–5 million USD (approx.) |
Anwar Zayden Height and Physical Attributes
Anwar Zayden was known for his rugged charm, bold personality, and athletic physique. Whether it was his role on-screen or his real-life cowboy lifestyle, he always stood out with confidence and strength. He maintained a muscular build through regular workouts and led an active lifestyle throughout his career.
His well-groomed appearance, signature long hair, and confident smile made him an unforgettable figure in Miami’s cultural scene during the 80s and 90s.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm) |
| Weight | 85 kg (187 lbs) |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
| Hair Color | Brown |
| Body Type | Athletic & Muscular |
Anwar’s physical appearance played a big part in shaping his public image, both as an actor and as a Miami social icon. His cowboy-inspired fashion, combined with a bold and fearless attitude, made him instantly recognizable wherever he went.
Anwar Zayden Early Life and Family Background
Anwar Zayden was born on October 8, 1961, in South Beach, Florida, to Lebanese immigrant parents. His father, Alfredo Zayden, was a businessman who owned an import-export company, while his mother, Graciella Zayden, was a homemaker.
Before moving to the U.S., Anwar’s parents lived in pre-Fidel Castro Cuba. In 1958, their store was burned down by militants, forcing them to seek a safer life in America.
After settling in the U.S., Alfredo Zayden joined the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), which made the family move across various countries including Venezuela, Spain, Puerto Rico, and Lebanon. Anwar spent most of his childhood in Barcelona and Madrid.
He attended school at a U.S. Air Force base, and at the age of 18, he moved to Miami to live with his maternal aunt and uncle.
Anwar Zayden Siblings
Anwar had a big family with five siblings—four sisters and one brother. His maternal grandfather was a well-known construction magnate.
| Relation | Name/Details |
|---|---|
| Father | Alfredo Zayden – Lebanese immigrant, businessman, later worked with the CIA |
| Mother | Graciella Zayden – Homemaker |
| Siblings | 5 siblings in total: 4 sisters and 1 brother |
Anwar Zayden Career Journey
Rodeo & Bull Riding
Before stepping into acting, Anwar Zayden was a professional bull rider, competing in rodeos across Florida and Texas. He reportedly earned up to $20,000 per season, which was quite significant for a young man at the time.
Business Ventures
In 1979, he rented a small space in Brickell, Miami, for $600/month. He later opened a successful art and furniture shop called Art Express in Kendall, with help from his father and siblings.
Anwar lived a lavish life. He owned two Range Rovers and bought a two-story Mediterranean house on Pine Tree Drive, Miami Beach, in 1990 for $338,000 USD.
Acting Career of Anwar Zayden
Anwar’s big break came with his role in the crime drama TV show Miami Vice, where he played Mendez, a Bolivian drug dealer.
He appeared in Season 3, Episode 7, titled “El Viejo”, which aired on November 7, 1986. His character, Mendez, is killed in a gunfight with Jake Pierson (played by Willie Nelson).
Anwar was cast after Barbara Diprima, the show’s casting director, saw him dropping off his girlfriend at an acting class. She encouraged him to audition, and that led to his memorable role.
He also worked as a model for Calvin Klein and became a familiar face in Miami’s nightlife and art scene.
Anwar Zayden Love Life & Relationships
Yolanda Hadid – Anwar Zayden First Love
Anwar’s first serious relationship was with Yolanda Hadid, a Dutch-American model and TV personality. He referred to her as his first love, and they were together for almost seven years.
Anwar Zayden Controversy with Coco Johnsen
In 1997, he met model Nancy “Coco” Johnsen at China Grill, a famous Miami restaurant. The next morning, they met for breakfast, but later, Coco filed a complaint accusing Anwar of rape and kidnapping.
Anwar maintained that the encounter was consensual. He was arrested and jailed for 12 days. However, several witnesses came forward in his support, and eventually, the charges were dropped.
In response, he filed a wrongful arrest lawsuit against the Miami Beach Police Department, which was settled in 2004.
Anna Volotchko – Later Relationship
In 2014, Anwar was seen dating Anna Volotchko, a 26-year-old Russian woman. The two were spotted dancing and enjoying themselves on Key Biscayne along with Anna’s mother, Elena.
There are no public records confirming if Anwar ever got married or had children.
Anwar Zayden Net Worth
Anwar Zayden led a life of luxury and adventure. As of 2020, his net worth was estimated to be around $4–5 million USD.
His income sources included:
- Bull riding
- Business (Art Express)
- Acting & modeling
- Real estate
Lesser Known Facts About Anwar Zayden
- He had a popular Instagram fan page called @LegendofAnwar, with over 11,000 followers.
- His acting career began by accident, when he was spotted by a casting director.
- He once rode bulls professionally to make money.
- He modeled in Calvin Klein ad campaigns.
- He loved luxury cars, especially Range Rovers.
- He lived in a lavish two-story mansion in Miami Beach.
- He started Art Express, a design shop, with his father and siblings.
Anwar Zayden Death
Anwar Zayden passed away in May 2020 at the age of 58. The cause of his death was not publicly disclosed, but the news shocked many fans who admired his colorful and fearless lifestyle.
His name and story still live on, especially in Miami’s cultural memory.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ,s)
Q1. What was Anwar Zayden’s net worth?
Ans: As of 2020, Anwar Zayden’s net worth was estimated to be between $4 to $5 million USD. He earned his wealth through his acting career, business ventures, bull riding, and modeling.
Q2. When did Anwar Zayden pass away?
Ans: Anwar Zayden passed away in May 2020 at the age of 58. The exact cause of his death has not been publicly disclosed.
Q3. Where can I find Anwar Zayden’s Wikipedia page?
Ans: Anwar Zayden does not currently have a dedicated Wikipedia page. However, you can find information about him on various biography and entertainment websites, including this detailed blog.
Q4. Is there an obituary available for Anwar Zayden?
Ans: While there is no widely published formal obituary, news of Anwar Zayden’s passing was shared by fans and online communities remembering his contributions to television and Miami’s culture.
Q5. What is Anwar Zayden’s connection to Miami?
Ans: Anwar Zayden was a prominent figure in Miami, Florida. He was born there, became famous for his role in the TV series Miami Vice, and was active in Miami’s social and business circles for many years.
Q6. Does Anwar Zayden have an Instagram account?
Ans: Anwar Zayden does not have an official Instagram account, but there is a popular fan page called @LegendofAnwar that shares photos and memories about him, with over 11,000 followers.
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