Many people are curious to know about Jonathan Banks’s second wife. We are excited to discuss Gennera Banks.
People mainly know about her because she’s married to a well-known actor – Jonathan Ray Banks. But there’s more to her than that!
Let’s dive into the life of Gennera Banks and explore the remarkable journey of her famous husband.
Gennera Banks was born on January 1, 1970. She entered the limelight due to her marriage to Jonathan Banks in 1990, but she has her own unique story. Despite the public attention on her spouse, Gennera has led a fascinating life filled with her own accomplishments.
Emmy-nominated actor and Indiana University alumnus Jonathan Banks is best known for his portrayal of Mike Ehrmantraut in the award-winning drama “Breaking Bad,” Entertaining Hollywood with his theater for over sixty years, the renowned actor Jonathan Banks was featured in more than 70 television shows and more than 50 movies.
His theater journey began with some impressive film roles in the early 1980s. His first notable film roles were in the film Airplane! (1980), 48 Hrs. These early roles showcased his versatility and acting talent.
Early Life & Background
He was born on January 31, 1947, in Washington, D.C., and raised in Chillum Heights, Maryland with his family. His parents came from different backgrounds.
His father was a civil servant, and his mother was a professor at Indiana State University. There are also some fascinating stories about his mother’s profession: she worked as a secretary for the CIA and even for high-ranking Naval officers! They played significant roles in building his life.
He attended Northwood High School in Silver Spring, Maryland, and later continued his education at Indiana University Bloomington, where he met another future acting star—Kevin Kline. They even performed in a play together!
Following their graduation, Banks and Kline embarked on separate but equally exciting paths.His experience gave him valuable insight into the world of theater production. Banks joined a touring company called Hair as a stage manager, leading him to travel to Australia and New Zealand!
Hollywood Career Journey
Banks’ acting journey truly started in 1974 when he moved to Los Angeles. He began his career by taking on supporting roles in both movies and TV shows, which gradually making his experience.
Recalling on this period, Banks once shared, ‘I was just a guy trying to make it in this crazy business.’ His breakthrough came in the late 1980s with the role of FBI Special Agent Frank McPike on the TV series ‘Wiseguy.’ This performance was so remarkable that it earned him his first Primetime Emmy Award nomination!
While ‘Breaking Bad’ (2009–2013) may be his most renowned work, Banks’ filmography is a testament to his versatility as an actor. He’s appeared in a diverse range of films, from the comedic brilliance of ‘Airplane!’ to the intense action of ’48 Hrs.’ and the poignant drama of ‘Mudbound.’
His talent extends beyond the big screen, with memorable guest appearances in numerous shows. Banks’ creative prowess extends beyond live-action, too, as he’s lent his voice to video games and animated projects.
Moreover, he is excited about his upcoming projects, including a new film and a potential return to television, promising more of his captivating performances.
Banks’ film projects include:
- Stir Crazy (1980)
- Beverly Hills Cop (1984)
- Freejack (1991)
- Crocodile Dundee in Los Angeles (2001)
- Reign Over Me (2007)
- Mudbound (2017)
- The Commuter (2018)
- The Gangster Chronicles (1981)
- Otherworld (1985)
Personal Life & Children
Jonathan Banks has a rich personal life beyond the glitz and glam of Hollywood.
He has been married twice. He first married Marnie Fausch in 1968 and has a daughter, but the couple divorced in 1970. He found love again in 1990 when he married Gennera Gonzalez Cebian.
Together, they have fraternal twins, and Banks also has a stepdaughter from Gennera’s previous relationship. In 2018, Banks experienced a personal tragedy when his home was destroyed in the Woolsey Fire.
Awards & Nomination
Actor Jonathan Banks, attended by his wife Gennera Banks, was among the honorable guests at the 68th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards, held at the Microsoft Theater on September 18, 2016 .
The uncertainty was high as he was nominated for an Emmy Award that year, admitting his exceptional supportive actor role in the drama series, Better Call Saul.
This was one of five Emmy nominations he would receive for his role. Although he didn’t secure the award that year, Banks’ standing as a highly admired actor with a long and successful career in film and television remains unblemished.