David Santalla Biography: Wife, Age, Kids, Net Worth, Height, Parents, Movies & TV Shows, Death, Nationality

David Santalla is a celebrated Bolivian actor, comedian, and playwright who achieved widespread fame for his profound contributions to South American cinema and theater.

He is particularly recognized for his role as Don Vito in the critically acclaimed film Mi Socio (1982) and its 2020 sequel, as well as for creating iconic theatrical characters like “La Salustiana.”

His career, which spans over five decades, has established him as a cultural icon in Bolivia, known for blending sharp social commentary with humor.

Quick Facts

• Full Name: Walter David Santalla Barrientos
• Date of Birth: August 16, 1939
• Age: 86 years old
• Gender: Male
• Place of Birth: La Paz, Bolivia
• Nationality: Bolivian
• Profession: Actor, Comedian, and Playwright
• Eye Color: Brown
• Hair Color: Gray (formerly Black)
• Parents: Alfredo Santalla Estrella (Father)
• Siblings: Two older brothers
• Spouse: Sandra Saavedra Urizar
• Children: N/A
• Relationship Status: Married
• Religion: Christianity
• Ethnicity: Mestizo
• Net Worth: $500,000 USD

Early Life and Education

David Santalla, who is now at the age of 86, was born on August 16, 1939, in the city of La Paz.

His father, Alfredo Santalla Estrella, was a distinguished aviation general and a military hero of the Chaco War.

Due to his father’s exile following political shifts in Bolivia, Santalla spent much of his youth in Chile, where he often felt like a lonely child.

His two older brothers were significantly older and did not often include him in their play, leading him to develop a vivid imagination by creating fictional characters and practicing different voices with stones.

He eventually returned to Bolivia for his higher studies, attending the Higher University of San Andrés (UMSA) in La Paz.

Personal Life

David Santalla is currently married to Sandra Saavedra Urizar, a native of Sucre who has been a pillar of support throughout his recent health challenges.

The couple often shares their bond publicly, with Santalla expressing deep gratitude for her companionship during both joyful and difficult times.

While Santalla was a devoted owner to his pet dog, Tico, whom he considered like a son before the animal’s passing in 2025, there are no public records of biological or adopted children.

Career

Santalla’s career began on the radio as a declaimer and audience animator before transitioning to the stage and screen.

He became a household name in Bolivia through his work in “Teatro Popular,” where he developed characters that mirrored Bolivian society.

His breakthrough in cinema came with Chuquiago (1977) and reached its peak with Mi Socio (1982), a road movie that remains one of the most important films in Bolivian history.

In addition to acting, he is a prolific author of theatrical plays and has toured extensively with his comedy troupe, Santallazos.

Even in his later years, he has continued to perform, including a 2020 return to his most famous role in Mi Socio 2.0.

Net Worth

David Santalla has an estimated net worth of $500,000.

This estimate is based on his lengthy career as a premier Bolivian actor, his royalties from classic films, and his successful theatrical productions.

Social Media

• Instagram: @davidsantalla

Filmography

• Chuquiago (1977)
• Mi Socio (1982)
• Libertad (2005)
• Cuando los hombres quedan solos (2019)
• Mi Socio 2.0 (2020)