American actor Mario Lopez was born on October 10, 1973 in San Diego, California. The son of Mexican immigrants, he was a wrestler during his high school days at the Chula Vista School for the Creative and Performing Arts, and participated in the California state wrestling championships. He later went on to a career in acting, and is most well-known for his role as the jock A.C. in the sitcom Saved by the Bell. He has also worked on a number of other television productions, both acting and hosting various shows. Among these are Pet Star, ESPN Hollywood, Pacific Blue, The Bold and the Beautiful, and The Other Half. He has also hosted for the beauty pageants Miss America and Miss Universe.
A.C. Slater is portrayed by Mario Lopez in the NBC television comedy show Saved by the Bell. An army brat and initially an outsider, he transfers to Bayside High near the start of the series, and is recognized as a token jock. He excels as a star athlete, competing as a wrestler and as the football team’s quarterback, while also maintaining a rivalry with Zack for Kelly’s affection. He later on becomes another of Zack’s best friends, though he still keeps referring to Zack with the nickname “Preppie.” He also grows attracted to the feminist Jessie, admiring her strong will.
(Photo courtesy of CBS)