MTV alum Daisy Fuentes is breaking barriers and building an empire
BY California Stories – Giselle Fernandez
PUBLISHED 6:00 AM PT Oct. 26, 2026
Daisy Fuentes left Cuba at age 3 and eventually settled in New Jersey, where she learned English and adapted to a new culture. Initially dreaming of becoming a hairstylist, she enrolled in cosmetology school before an unexpected opportunity led her to Spanish-language television. That opened the door to MTV, where she became a groundbreaking Latina VJ, connecting with audiences in both English and Spanish.
Looking back on her multicultural upbringing, Fuentes says she has “always looked at it as something extra to offer, not barriers.”
Fuentes went on to become Revlon’s first Latina spokesperson with a worldwide contract, helping expand representation for Latina women. In the latest episode of “California Stories with Giselle Fernandez,” she shares how she recognized an opportunity to build her own brand that grew into a business spanning fashion, beauty, fitness, wellness and home products.
Inspired by her mother’s ability to look elegant on a budget, Fuentes built her business around making style accessible to women.
“I will take any opportunity that is given to me, and I will turn it to gold,” she said in reflecting on her approach to opportunity.
Today, Fuentes credits her parents with instilling the values that have guided her career and her life. She speaks movingly about her mother, whose influence continues to shape her brand, and about finding lasting love with her husband, singer-songwriter Richard Marx, later in life.
After past relationships taught her the importance of staying true to herself, Fuentes has embraced a new chapter centered on gratitude, family and helping others.
Her advice to women entering their next phase of life is simple: “I want to be really present, and I want to help the people I love as much as I can.”