Nelson Ascencio

About

Biography

Filmography

Biography

A talented Cuban-American comic and actor, Nelson Ascencio went from working the New York City comedy circuit to training in Los Angeles with The Groundlings improv troupe. After breaking into the industry with television guest spots, including in an episode of "The Larry Sanders Show" (HBO, 1992-98), he became a writer and cast member for "MADtv" (Fox, 1995-2009), where he delighted with his many impressions, including a spot-on Ricky Martin. After leaving the series, Ascencio continued touring with his comedy routines and guested on "Curb Your Enthusiasm" (HBO, 2000- ) before landing the small but flashy role of Flavius, a member of the style team for contestant Katniss (Jennifer Lawrence) in the highly anticipated dystopian thriller "The Hunger Games" (2012). Gifted with both comedic and dramatic chops, Nelson Ascencio proved a fascinating addition to any project in which he appeared.

Born Aug. 30, 1964 in Havana, Cuba, Nelson Ascencio grew up in New York City, eventually studying acting at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts and at HB Studios in Greenwich Village. After cutting his professional teeth working the stand-up comedy circuit, he moved to Los Angeles and joined the famed Groundlings comedy troupe. He began accruing TV guest spots, including episodes of "Gabriel's Fire" (ABC, 1990-91), "The Larry Sanders Show" (HBO, 1992-98) and "Party Girl" (Fox, 1996) before becoming a writer-turned-cast member of the sketch comedy series "MADtv" (Fox, 1995-2009). While on the hit show, Ascencio achieved fame for his chameleonic abilities, including dead-on impressions of Antonio Banderas, Ricky Martin and Enrique Iglesias.

After leaving series, Ascencio continued to hone his craft in live comedy and stage performances, including shows at HBO Workspace, Luna Park, The Upfront, and Theatre at the Improv. He also booked guest spots on "Birds of Prey" (The WB, 2002-03) and "Curb Your Enthusiasm" (HBO, 2000- ) as well as a supporting role in the alien comedy "Paul" (2011). Ascencio's profile received a major boost, however, when he was cast in the highly anticipated thriller "The Hunger Games" (2012), the tale of a future society that annually forces 24 young women and men to fight to the death on live television. Ascencio notched the small but juicy role of the flamboyant Flavius, one of the style team members charged with preparing heroine Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence) to dazzle the audience, government and staff of the Games as she struggles to somehow survive them.

By Jonathan Riggs