Carlos Alman might not be a celebrity himself, but his story is one of quiet strength, hard work, and love for his family. He’s best known as the father of Grammy-winning rapper Cardi B, but there’s so much more to him than just that title.
While his daughter lives in the spotlight, Carlos has chosen a different path — one filled with humility, dedication, and family values. His journey from the Dominican Republic to the busy streets of New York City is the story of many hardworking parents who give everything to create a better life for their children.
Quick Bio
| Full Name | Carlos Alman (also known as Carlos Almanzar) |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | March 19, 1958 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 67 years old |
| Birthplace | Dominican Republic |
| Current Residence | The Bronx, New York City, United States |
| Nationality | Dominican-American |
| Ethnicity | Dominican |
| Religion | Christianity (believed) |
| Profession | Former Taxi Driver |
| Known For | Father of Grammy-winning rapper Cardi B |
| Ex-Wife | Clara Mercedes Almanzar |
| Children | 8 (including Cardi B and Hennessy Carolina) |
| Mother | Esperanza Almanzar |
| Height | 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm) |
| Weight | Around 65 kg (143 lbs) |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
| Languages | Spanish, English |
| Lifestyle | Private, humble, family-oriented |
| Residence Type | Retired, living quietly in New York |
| Net Worth (Estimated) | Modest personal wealth; supported by family success |
| Notable Trait | Hardworking immigrant father who inspired Cardi B’s work ethic |
Who Is Carlos Alman?
Carlos Alman is a Dominican-American man known for being Cardi B’s father. Born on March 19, 1958, in the Dominican Republic, Carlos grew up surrounded by strong cultural traditions, music, and family unity.
As a young man, he dreamed of a better life. In the early 1990s, he made a brave decision to leave his home country and move to the United States, settling in The Bronx, New York. It was a big change — trading the calm of island life for the fast-moving energy of one of the world’s busiest cities.
But Carlos didn’t back down from challenges. He worked hard, adjusted to his new surroundings, and started building a home for his family. His courage and determination became the foundation for everything that came after — including his daughter’s rise to international fame.
READ ALSO: Clara Almanzar: The Woman Behind Cardi B’s Story
A Glimpse Into His Early Life
Growing up in the Dominican Republic, Carlos was shaped by community values and a culture rich in music and warmth. Though little is known about his childhood, those early lessons — family first, work hard, stay humble — would follow him for life.
Carlos’s mother, Esperanza Almanzar, played an important role in teaching him about kindness and responsibility. These lessons would later guide him as a father, helping him raise his children with the same sense of discipline and love.
When he moved to the United States, Carlos didn’t come from money or privilege. He came with dreams and determination — the same spirit that many immigrants share when chasing the American dream.
His Life in New York City
When Carlos arrived in New York, life wasn’t easy. The Bronx in the 1990s was a loud, colorful, and sometimes tough place to live. But for Carlos, it was also full of opportunity.
He became a taxi driver, spending long hours navigating busy streets, picking up passengers, and working late nights just to make ends meet. It was hard, tiring work — but it was honest. It paid the bills, supported his family, and gave his children a stable home.
Carlos didn’t just drive a cab; he drove his family forward. His everyday dedication taught his children the true meaning of effort, patience, and pride in one’s work.
Carlos Alman’s Family
Carlos married Clara Mercedes Almanzar in 1991. Clara has Trinidadian and Spanish roots, and together they raised two daughters — Belcalis Marlenis Almánzar (Cardi B), born in 1992, and Hennessy Carolina, born in 1995.
Their home was small but filled with love, laughter, and a blend of cultures. The mix of Dominican and Trinidadian heritage created a vibrant environment for the girls, exposing them to both Caribbean warmth and New York energy.
Even though Carlos and Clara eventually divorced in 2005, they remained united as parents. They both continued to support their daughters, teaching them the importance of hard work, respect, and family loyalty.
Carlos also has six other children from previous relationships, though he keeps their lives private. He’s always been protective of his family, choosing privacy over fame.
The Father Behind Cardi B’s Drive
Carlos Alman may not appear on stage or in interviews, but his presence has always been felt in his daughter’s success. Cardi B often talks about her father with love and respect. She says his hard work as a taxi driver inspired her to work even harder for her dreams.
She watched him come home tired but never complaining. He showed her what it means to earn something through effort — not shortcuts. His sacrifices became the silent motivation behind her music, her ambition, and her confidence.
Carlos didn’t raise a superstar — he raised a strong woman who learned from him the value of discipline and self-belief.
Why Carlos Alman Values Privacy
In a world where fame often takes over, Carlos is refreshingly private. He doesn’t do interviews. Carlos doesn’t post on social media. He doesn’t attend red carpets or music awards.
And that’s exactly how he likes it.
Carlos believes happiness doesn’t come from attention — it comes from peace. While his daughter’s fame reaches across the world, he prefers a quiet life in New York City, spending time with his family and enjoying simple moments.
Even Cardi B has spoken out about her father’s privacy, warning the media not to approach or film him. She’s protective of him because she knows how much he values a normal, peaceful life.
Life After Retirement
After many years of working hard in New York, Carlos eventually retired from driving taxis. These days, he enjoys a calmer routine, away from the noise of the city.
Thanks to Cardi B’s success, he lives comfortably, free from financial stress. But even with all the luxury his daughter could provide, Carlos still chooses simplicity. He’s proud, grateful, and humble — the same way he’s always been.
Carlos Alman’s Age, Family, and Background
Carlos Alman was born on March 19, 1958, which makes him 67 years old as of 2025. He was born in the Dominican Republic, a Caribbean nation known for its warm people, colorful traditions, and strong family values.
Later in life, Carlos moved to the United States, where he started fresh and built a new life. He proudly identifies as Dominican-American. His ethnicity is Dominican, and although he keeps his beliefs private, it’s widely understood that he follows the Christian faith, which is very common in his home country.
Family has always been at the center of Carlos Alman’s life. He is the proud father of eight children, including his two most famous daughters — Cardi B and Hennessy Carolina — whom he shares with his ex-wife, Clara Mercedes Almanzar.
Even after their divorce, Carlos remained a loving and steady presence in his children’s lives. His other six children, from previous relationships, prefer to stay away from the public eye — something Carlos deeply respects.
Despite being the father of a global superstar, he has always kept his values simple and genuine. For him, life is about love, humility, and family connection, not fame.
Who Is Cardi B?
Cardi B, whose real name is Belcalis Marlenis Almánzar, is Carlos Alman’s eldest daughter. She was born on October 11, 1992, in The Bronx, New York City.
Cardi B’s story is one of determination and energy. She rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most famous rappers in the world. Known for her bold personality, humor, and honesty, she has created a music style that beautifully mixes hip-hop, Latin, and Caribbean sounds.
Her journey from a working-class neighborhood to winning a Grammy Award is a true modern success story. She speaks proudly about her roots and often mentions the lessons she learned from her father.
Carlos’s long hours as a taxi driver and his quiet strength left a lasting mark on her. Cardi B has said many times that her father’s hard work taught her to stay strong and keep going, no matter how difficult things get.
Even with worldwide fame, Cardi B stays proud of her Dominican and Trinidadian heritage. Both her parents’ cultures live on through her personality and her music. Her confidence, family pride, and determination all come from the loving, hardworking home that her father helped create.
Who Is Hennessy Carolina?
Hennessy Carolina Almánzar is Carlos Alman’s younger daughter. She was born on December 22, 1995, and, like her sister, grew up in The Bronx, surrounded by a rich blend of Dominican and Trinidadian culture.
Hennessy has made a name for herself as a social media personality, influencer, and television star. She first caught public attention through her appearances on Love & Hip Hop: New York.
She shares a close bond with her sister Cardi B. The two often support each other both personally and professionally. Hennessy is known for her bright energy, fashion sense, and bold confidence — all of which reflect the strong family spirit her father encouraged.
Although she enjoys fame more than her dad, Hennessy also respects his need for privacy. She often speaks proudly about her upbringing and the lessons her parents taught her.
Just like Cardi B, Hennessy honors her Dominican roots and carries forward the values her father instilled in her — hard work, loyalty, and staying true to yourself.
His Relationship with His Daughters
Carlos Alman’s relationship with his daughters, especially Cardi B and Hennessy Carolina, is built on deep love and respect. While he’s not one to talk publicly, his daughters have often shared small glimpses that show how close they are.
When Cardi B talks about her dad, there’s always warmth in her words. She calls him “strict but loving” and says he taught her about working hard and staying grounded. Growing up, she saw how he faced every challenge with quiet strength. That image stayed with her and helped shape her into the confident, fearless woman she is today.
Hennessy, too, has shared that their father’s discipline kept them focused, even when things weren’t easy. Carlos may not have given them fame or luxury when they were little — but he gave them something more important: values, courage, and love.
Even now, with his daughters living successful and public lives, Carlos stays the same — calm, protective, and proud. He doesn’t need the spotlight; knowing that his kids are happy is enough.
A Father’s Influence on a Superstar
When people look at Cardi B’s success, they see her talent, humor, and bold personality. But behind that stage energy is a foundation built by her parents — especially her father’s example.
Carlos’s quiet influence is seen in her drive, her passion, and even her honesty about where she came from. She has often said she never forgets her roots or her family’s sacrifices. Those lessons didn’t come from fame — they came from her father’s life as an immigrant who worked long days and never gave up.
Carlos’s story mirrors the story of many hardworking parents who move to new countries for their children’s futures. His sacrifices might not make headlines, but they’re part of what makes Cardi B’s story so powerful.
The Immigrant Story Behind the Fame
Carlos Alman’s life is a reflection of the immigrant dream — moving from the Dominican Republic to a new world, learning to survive in a foreign city, and doing everything possible to build a better future for his family.
Driving a taxi in New York wasn’t glamorous, but it was honest work. He showed that success isn’t only about fame or money — it’s about dedication, resilience, and love.
Like many immigrants, Carlos had to adjust to a new culture, language, and lifestyle. Yet he did it with determination. His efforts helped his children grow up with opportunities he never had himself.
This journey — from a small Caribbean island to raising a global superstar — is a reminder of what families can achieve when they hold on to faith and work hard together.
Family and Cultural Roots
Carlos has always been proud of his Dominican roots. Even after moving to the U.S., he made sure his children grew up surrounded by Dominican and Trinidadian traditions.
He introduced them to Dominican food, music, and culture. Cardi B has mentioned her love for dishes like mondongo — something her father taught her to enjoy. This connection to her roots helped her shape her Afro-Latina identity, which is now part of her global image.
In their home, the mix of languages, traditions, and music created something special. It gave Cardi B and Hennessy a strong sense of identity — something that shines in their work and the way they represent their culture proudly.
Carlos didn’t just raise children — he raised culture-bearers, young women who celebrate their background in everything they do.
Challenges and Resilience
Like many hardworking parents, Carlos’s journey wasn’t without struggles. He and his family faced financial hardship while living in The Bronx. Long working hours, bills, and raising children in a busy city tested him in every way.
There were times when things were hard, but Carlos never stopped. His strength came from love — love for his children and belief that their lives could be better.
At one point, he faced personal challenges, but he overcame them with quiet determination. His resilience became a lesson for his daughters: life can knock you down, but you always get back up.
Those hard years shaped not just him, but his entire family. They became stronger together, building a story that is now admired around the world.
Carlos Alman’s Personality and Character
If there’s one word to describe Carlos Alman, it’s humble. He’s the kind of person who doesn’t seek attention but earns respect through his actions.
Carlos known to be disciplined, honest, and deeply loyal to his family. He’s the type of father who believes that love is shown through effort, not words. His personality reflects kindness and humility — a mix of strength and calmness that made him the heart of his family.
Even after his daughter became one of the most famous rappers on the planet, Carlos didn’t change. He stayed the same — quiet, grounded, and proud. His focus remains simple: family first, always.
Life Today
Today, Carlos Alman lives in New York City, enjoying a peaceful and private life. After years of working as a taxi driver, he’s now retired and spends most of his time with family.
He doesn’t attend public events or appear in interviews. But those who know him describe him as warm, funny, and deeply caring. He still keeps in touch with all his children, though he chooses to stay away from fame and social media.
Thanks to his daughter’s success, life is more comfortable now — but he remains the same humble man who once drove through New York’s streets, thinking only about how to make his family proud.
Values and Legacy
Carlos Alman’s story is more than just a background detail in Cardi B’s life — it’s a symbol of what it means to be a devoted parent. His values of hard work, respect, and family unity have become the backbone of his children’s success.
He shows that you don’t need to be famous to make a difference. Every mile he drove, every sacrifice he made, built the foundation that helped his family thrive. His story teaches us that love can be powerful even when it’s quiet.
Carlos’s legacy lives not only in Cardi B’s music but in the strength, pride, and culture that her entire family continues to carry forward. He is proof that real heroes don’t always stand in the spotlight — sometimes, they’re the ones who quietly light the way.
Final Thoughts
Carlos Alman’s life is a story of courage, patience, and unconditional love. From a small island in the Caribbean to the busy streets of New York, he built a life of purpose and family.
He may not seek attention, but his impact is undeniable. Behind Cardi B’s fame is a father whose sacrifices and values shaped everything she’s become.
In a world that often celebrates loudness, Carlos Alman reminds us that sometimes the most powerful stories are told in silence — through dedication, love, and the quiet strength of a father’s heart.
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FAQs
1. Who is Carlos Alman?
Carlos Alman is the father of Grammy-winning rapper Cardi B. Born in the Dominican Republic, he later moved to New York City to build a better life. He is known for being a hardworking immigrant and a dedicated family man who inspired his daughter’s success.
2. How old is Carlos Alman?
Carlos Alman was born on March 19, 1958, which makes him 67 years old as of 2025. Despite his age, he continues to live a healthy and peaceful life in New York City.
3. What is Carlos Alman’s nationality and ethnicity?
He is Dominican-American by nationality and ethnically Dominican. His rich Caribbean heritage deeply influenced his family and shaped Cardi B’s Afro-Latina identity.
4. How many kids does Carlos Alman have?
Carlos Alman has eight children in total. His two most famous daughters are Cardi B (Belcalis Marlenis Almánzar) and Hennessy Carolina Almánzar, both born from his marriage to Clara Mercedes Almanzar. His other six children from previous relationships live private lives.
5. Who is Cardi B?
Cardi B, born Belcalis Marlenis Almánzar, is a Grammy-winning rapper, TV personality, and entrepreneur. She was raised in The Bronx and is known for her bold personality, humor, and honesty. Her music mixes hip-hop, Latin, and Caribbean sounds, reflecting her parents’ backgrounds.
6. Who is Hennessy Carolina?
Hennessy Carolina Almánzar is Carlos Alman’s younger daughter. She is a social media influencer, fashion icon, and TV personality who first appeared on Love & Hip Hop: New York. She’s known for her vibrant energy and close bond with Cardi B.
Disclaimer
The information in this article is based on publicly available sources and online references. Some details may be unverified or subject to change. This content is for informational and educational purposes only and does not claim to represent official facts.
