Arnaldo Santana

Luis Arnaldo Santana (September 1, 1950 – October 8, 1987) was an American film, stage and television actor. He was best known for playing Tony Montana's henchman Ernie in the 1983 film Scarface.

Life and career Santana was born in El Paso, Texas, the son of Mariano Santana and Lilia Zuniga. He attended and graduated from Burges High School. After graduating, he attended the University of Texas at Austin, studying drama. He acted in numerous stage productions at the Upstairs Downtown Theater, and at Festival Theater in Montana. He began his screen career in 1977, appearing in the film The Boys from Riverside Drive. The next year, he appeared in the films A Night at the Adonis and Dune Buddies.

Later in his career, Santana guest-starred in television programs including The Doctors and Nurse, and also in films such as Scarface (as Tony Montana's henchman Ernie), starring along with Paul Rodriguez, Héctor Elizondo, Joe Santos, Alma Cuervo, Martha Veléz, Maria Richwine, Bert Rosario and Katy Jurado.

Santana (right) with Bert Rosario, Joe Santos and Paul Rodriguez in a.k.a. Pablo, 1984

Santana retired from acting in 1984, last appearing in the stage play Short Eyes.

Death Santana died in New York on October 8, 1987, at the age of 37.