They say if you love what you’re doing then you’ll never have worked a day in your life…good thing I don’t like working!
-Me
What People Are Saying
“Fernando is an energetic, sensitive, deep and passionate actor. His work is filled with humor and heart and an infectious sense of play.”
— Terry Knickerbocker, Teacher/Mentor
“Fernando was a joy to have on set. His enthusiasm for his work was infectious and the cast and crew absolutely loved him!”
— Jill Abbinanti, Television Writer Law and Order: SVU
About
Born and raised on the Lower East Side of Manhattan, Fernando Mateo Jr. is a former college football player at the University of Albany. Post college he studied the Israeli Self Defense system, Krav Maga for 10 years, achieving a high level and even becoming a part time instructor while working for the family business.
With performing always being something he wanted to do, he finally caved into the desire and began to work on his craft. He began taking classes in NYC and started his journey doing showcases and plays for two years. He then moved on to do a year and a half at the William Esper Studio.
After Esper, Fernando began to focus on film and television. In 2013, he finally got his first network credit in LAW AND ORDER: SVU. Since then he has appeared in numerous films and television shows. Most recently you can see him in the last episode of BLACKLIST: Redemption, THE UPSIDE (feat. Bryan Cranston and Kevin Hart), season 2 of JESSICA JONES and season 6 of ORANGE IS THE NEW BLACK.
During the pandemic Fernando wanted to continue working on his craft and went on to study at the prestigious Terry Knickerbocker Studio with Terry himself and completed the Two Year Conservatory. He then went on to finish his Third Year with Katie Flahive.
Fernando currently resides in Scotch Plains with his rescue dog, Hal Jordan, his amazing girlfriend and her 3 wonderful children. When he is not acting, Fernando enjoys photography and videography.
What People Are Saying
“Fernando is any actors dream partner. You can let go and listen and be in the moment. He gives his all. He’s relentless. A giving actor and person. Fernando creates joy and passion in any room he walks in. He always goes the distance.”
— Julia Mayorga, Actress American Rust
“Fernando is a wonderful addition to any classroom. He is always engaged and his work ethic sets the bar high for his fellow students. His work is deeply layered and his access to his emotional center is always at the ready. He’s a gem and a great person all around.”
— Katie Flahive, Actor/Mentor/Coach
“If I ever feel like quitting my craft, I think of Fernando, and I find the inspiration to keep going.”
— Tooba Sheikh, Actress/Classmate
What People Are Saying
“In the short time that I have known Fernando, he has been nothing short of a gem. He is kind, hard working, professional, dependable and ready to work on a moments notice. I look forward to working with him when the opportunity arises.”
— Bess Glorioso, Broadway Stage Manager/Mentor
“Fernando is one of the funniest actors I’ve ever worked with. His ability to riff in the moment while staying true to his character is unmatched in my experience as a writer and director.”
— Jon Saks, Writer/Director GUTTER, MOOCH, WINK
“You’re my favorite. I love you.”
— Jen, my girlfriend.
Contact me.
fmateojr@gmail.com
(914) 906-1181