The crossover

Over the last few years, and even dating way back to the fifties, there has been a growing trend of Latin music stars delving into acting. This week we take a look at the career choices which see Latin singers take on the big screen, most with great success.

You probably best know Cuban-born Camila Cabello for her music, but you may have seen her acting debut as the title princess in “Cinderella” last year. Cabello received great praise for her role in the moderinsed story which featured a diverse cast of actors directed by Kay Cannon. The romantic musical movie is based on the fairy tale of the same name by Charles Perrault.

Crooner Marc Anthony is another music star who has been successful on the big screen. Anthony, who has won three Grammy Awards for his music, has been dipping his toe into the acting world for the past three decades. In 1996 he appeared in the film “Big Night” along with some other big names including Minnie Driver, Isabella Rossellini, Tony Shalhoub and Stanley Tucci who also co-directed the movie with Campbell Scott.

Movie voice-overs are also a big thing with Latin singers lending their names and voices to animated films. Ricky Martin voiced the title hero in Disney’s “Hercules” as well as a villain in “Minions.” Shakira, who has a very distinct sound in her music, voiced a singing gazelle in the animation “Zootopia.”

In other news this week, turn to our Nutritive Steps column by clinical dietician Abeer to read about how to boost your haemaglobin levels and prevent anaemia. Eating certain foods which are rich in vitamin C can increase your body’s absorption of iron. Read about the things that can actually decrease iron absorption and avoid them.