Oscar “Toasta” Gale From the Barbershop to the Big Screen

By Axel Lola Rosa

Artículo en español>>oscar “Toasta” gale de la barbería a la pantalla grande

Oscar Gale, known as Toasta, represents the different cultural influences that enrich today’s entertainment world. Born to a Honduran mother and a Paraguayan father, Gale has always stayed local not just by acting but also hosting events and owning a small business in Jefferson Parish. His family’s roots trace back to the heart of San Pedro Sula, specifically from the Barrio de Las Acacias.
Initially, Gale’s passion for music remains a significant part of his identity. However, a chance encounter with casting director Tracy Kilpatrick changed his life forever. While hosting a Latin Night in the city, Gale extended an invitation to Kilpatrick to recruit talent for her upcoming project, Contraband, starring Mark Wahlberg. To his surprise, she offered him an audition. Not sure what to do at first, he eventually seized the opportunity, marking the beginning of his acting career.

Since then, Gale has built an impressive resumé, featuring roles in acclaimed films like Tammy and 22 Jump Street, as well as the hit television series NCIS: New Orleans, amongst many more. But his most recognized role was in the movie The Big Short, which explores the events leading to the 2008 financial crisis in the U.S. caused by the housing bubble and the subsequent collapse of the mortgage market. The Huffpost stated, “The most gripping scene in ‘The Big Short’ isn’t about rich, white men,” referring to Gale portraying a father who lost his home due to the crisis. His experience on set with Mark Wahlberg during Contraband stands out as a memorable moment. Gale recalls filming under freezing conditions, with a scene meant to take place in the warmth of Colombia. Wahlberg’s friendly and professional attitude made a strong impact on him, showing the close connections that exist in the industry.

Perhaps one of the most touching highlights of Gale’s acting journey was working alongside Paul Walker on the film, Hours. Gale, who grew up admiring Walker in the Fast and Furious franchise, found himself star-struck yet grounded during their interactions. “He was super cool and humble,” Gale recalls, reflecting on their casual conversations. The news of Walker’s tragic passing deeply affected him. “When I heard he passed, I was at my friend’s house. I got really emotional; it was a sad day for so many of us.”

Recently, Gale made a splash with a Super Bowl commercial, where he portrayed a Latino barber. Although he didn’t watch the game live, the flurry of notifications that poured in after the ad aired was overwhelming. “It was one of the first commercials aired! My phone went off like crazy,” he says with excitement.

Currently, Gale is honing his craft as a barber while also working on a podcast focused on men’s mental health. He urges aspiring Latino actors from New Orleans not to let anyone diminish their pride. “Whatever gives you that spark and drive, don’t lose it!” Gale is a living testament to resilience, proving that with passion and determination, dreams can come true, and one’s heritage can be a source of strength and inspiration.
For a list of Gale’s projects you can visit IMDB.com and for his next project announcement, follow him on Instagram, @oscargale.