In today’s celebrity-driven world, it’s often the stars who shine the brightest while the people behind their success remain in the shadows. One such figure is Carlos Alman, also known as Carlos Almánzar, the father of international rap sensation Cardi B. While Cardi B’s name is etched across headlines worldwide, her father has quietly lived his life away from the spotlight. However, the interest surrounding him has surged in recent years due to his connection to the chart-topping artist and his unique immigrant journey from the Dominican Republic to the heart of New York City.
This article explores Carlos Alman’s background, including his nationality, age, birthday, and his role as a father, provider, and immigrant—offering a glimpse into the man who helped shape one of the music industry’s most outspoken and successful artists.
Early Life and Dominican Roots
Carlos Alman was born on March 19, 1958, in the Dominican Republic. His early life is not well documented, largely due to his preference for a low-profile existence. However, his birthplace and cultural roots have had a significant impact on his values and the way he raised his children.
Dominican by nationality, Carlos grew up in a country known for its vibrant music, strong sense of family, and complex socio-economic challenges. It is likely that the values of hard work, family loyalty, and resilience were ingrained in him from a young age—traits that he would carry with him to the United States and instill in his children.
Immigration to the United States
Like many from the Caribbean and Latin America, Carlos Alman immigrated to the United States in pursuit of better economic opportunities. He settled in New York City in the late 1980s or early 1990s, a period marked by intense immigration from the Dominican Republic to urban centers in the United States.
Carlos eventually made a life in the Bronx, a borough known for its cultural diversity, vibrant Latino communities, and burgeoning hip-hop scene—factors that would play into his daughter Cardi B’s eventual rise. He worked as a taxi driver in NYC, a job that, while not glamorous, provided financial stability for his growing family.
Marriage and Family Life
After moving to New York, Carlos married Clara Mercedes Almánzar, a cashier of Trinidadian descent. The two formed a multicultural household reflective of New York’s diversity. Together, they had two daughters:
- Belcalis Marlenis Almánzar (better known as Cardi B) – born October 11, 1992
- Hennessy Carolina – born December 22, 1995
Carlos and Clara eventually divorced around 2005, but during their years together, they worked diligently to support their children. Despite their humble financial circumstances, Carlos was known to be a devoted father. Cardi B has spoken highly of him in several interviews, praising his work ethic and the sacrifices he made to keep the family afloat.
What many don’t know is that Carlos also had six other children from a previous relationship, bringing his total number of children to eight. These children have remained mostly out of the public eye, although Cardi has acknowledged them in passing.
A Humble Life Away from the Spotlight
Carlos Alman’s decision to remain out of the public eye is not surprising. Unlike the parents of many celebrities who chase the limelight, Carlos has steadfastly chosen to stay private. Despite his daughter’s global fame, Carlos has rarely appeared in media or public interviews. This approach has earned him a level of respect among Cardi B’s fans, who appreciate his humble and grounded nature.
He continues to live in New York and is reportedly retired after spending years as a hardworking NYC taxi driver. His life, while ordinary on the surface, offers a compelling story of perseverance, family dedication, and the immigrant experience.
National Identity: Dominican-American
Carlos Alman’s identity is deeply rooted in his Dominican nationality, though his life in the U.S. has also shaped him into a Dominican-American. He represents the countless immigrants who have come to America to build better futures for their families. His cultural influence is evident in his daughters, particularly Cardi B, who often speaks in Spanish and references her Dominican heritage proudly.
In Cardi B’s upbringing, Carlos’s influence was vital. Although her parents separated, he remained an important presence in her life. His strong work ethic and pride in his roots are qualities Cardi frequently attributes to both her parents.
The Impact on Cardi B and Hennessy Carolina
Carlos Alman may not be famous, but his legacy lives on through his daughters. Cardi B often references her father as a source of strength and resilience. She has shared stories of how her father would work long hours, sometimes double shifts, to ensure the family had food on the table.
Similarly, Hennessy Carolina, a media personality and fashion influencer, has expressed admiration for her father’s role in their lives. While both sisters have risen to prominence in very public ways, they have remained connected to their roots—something they often credit to their upbringing and particularly their father’s guidance.
Misconceptions and Online Rumors
As with many people linked to celebrities, Carlos Alman has been the subject of online misinformation and speculation. Some blogs have posted incorrect birth dates or confused him with others sharing a similar name. However, according to multiple verified sources, his correct birthday is March 19, 1958, and as of 2025, he is 67 years old.
Despite the rumors, he has not leveraged his daughter’s fame for personal gain—a rarity in the entertainment industry. This low-key approach has helped him avoid the trappings of celebrity culture and remain a respected figure in his own right.
A Reflection of the Caribbean-American Experience
Carlos Alman’s life encapsulates the Caribbean-American immigrant narrative: a journey of hope, hard work, and sacrifice. From his beginnings in the Dominican Republic to raising a superstar in the Bronx, his story reflects the silent strength of immigrant parents across the world. His success is not in fame or wealth but in the family he built and the values he instilled.
His ability to maintain a private life while supporting his children’s rise is a testament to his character. While Cardi B takes the world by storm, Carlos remains the unshakeable foundation behind her success.
Why His Story Matters
In the realm of celebrity journalism, there’s often little attention paid to the families of stars unless there’s drama or controversy. But Carlos Alman’s story stands out precisely because it defies that narrative. He is not seeking attention. He has not cashed in on his daughter’s success. He has not released a tell-all book or granted sensational interviews.
Instead, he continues to live with quiet dignity—reminding us that behind every public figure are private sacrifices that often go unseen. His story deserves recognition, not just because of who his daughter is, but because of the honest, hard-working man he is.
Final Thoughts
Carlos Alman may never step onto a red carpet or trend on Twitter, but he is undoubtedly a man worth knowing about. His journey from the Dominican Republic to the streets of New York, his dedication as a father, and his lasting influence on Cardi B and Hennessy Carolina make him a symbol of perseverance and pride.
