Isabela Merced, the burgeoning sensation currently captivating audiences both on the silver screen and through her vibrant musical endeavors, continues to assert her formidable presence in the entertainment industry. Fresh off her groundbreaking role as Hawkgirl in the recently released DC Universe film Superman and a starring turn in HBO’s acclaimed series The Last of Us, Merced is now making significant waves in the music world with her new single, “Apocalipsis (versión salsa).” Released on August 15, 2025, this transformed salsa rendition of her 2020 track signals a powerful embrace of her roots and artistic autonomy.
Rising on the Big Screen: From Nickelodeon to Hawkgirl
Merced’s journey to becoming a prominent figure in Hollywood has been a steady and impressive ascent. Born Isabela Moner, she began her career at a young age, making her Broadway debut at just ten years old in Evita alongside Ricky Martin. Her early years saw her as a familiar face on Nickelodeon, notably in 100 Things to Do Before High School and the animated Dora and Friends: Into the City!. This foundation quickly transitioned into a robust filmography, including roles in blockbusters like Transformers: The Last Knight and critically praised performances in Sicario: Day of the Soldado and Instant Family. She also famously brought the titular character to life in Dora and the Lost City of Gold.
However, 2025 marks a pivotal year for Merced’s acting career. In July, she took flight as Kendra Saunders, also known as Hawkgirl, in James Gunn’s highly anticipated Superman film, becoming the first actress to portray the iconic DC superhero in a live-action movie. Her portrayal of the winged heroine, described as an “adrenaline seeker” who enjoys being dropped from high heights during filming, underscores her commitment to dynamic on-screen performances. Concurrent with her superhero debut, Merced has garnered immense praise for her role as Dina in the second season of HBO’s post-apocalyptic drama The Last of Us, which premiered in April. These significant roles have cemented her status as a leading talent, with TVLine naming her the year’s Drama Star to Watch and Variety recognizing her in their annual Power of Young Hollywood Impact Report.
A Harmonious Return: “Apocalipsis” with Tony Succar
Beyond her acting prowess, Merced has cultivated a parallel and equally impactful music career. In 2019, she embraced a new professional identity, changing her stage name to Isabela Merced in honor of her late Peruvian grandmother, Yolanda Merced Salazar Pittman. This change signified a deeper connection to her heritage and a more personal artistic expression. Her musical debut under this new name came with the single “Papi” in 2019, followed by her critically acclaimed debut EP, The Better Half of Me, in May 2020. The original “Apocalipsis” track was a highlight of this EP, co-written with her younger brother and producer, Gyovanni Moner.
Now, Merced has revisited “Apocalipsis,” infusing it with an explosive salsa rhythm in collaboration with two-time Grammy and Latin Grammy Award-winning Peruvian artist Tony Succar. Released on August 15, 2025, this new version is more than just a musical update; it is described as a “smoldering salsa reinvention” and a profound “love letter to Peru,” showcasing her dedication to her cultural roots through sound. The collaboration highlights the vibrancy of latin music and Merced’s versatility, blending classic salsa instrumentation with modern pop elements. This strategic move underscores her continued commitment to making her mark in the music industry as a bilingual artist who seamlessly blends genres and cultures.
Roots and Resonance: Embracing Peruvian Heritage
Isabela Merced’s Peruvian-American heritage is not merely a biographical detail but a core component of her artistic identity. Growing up in a bilingual household in Ohio with a Peruvian mother, Merced initially spoke Spanish as her first language and openly identifies as more Peruvian than American. This deep connection profoundly influences her artistic output, particularly her music. From incorporating traditional Peruvian dance elements like Marinera and Diablada into her early music videos, to consistently singing in Spanglish, she actively celebrates and promotes the rich cultural wealth of her family’s homeland. Songs like “Agonía” are directly inspired by Peruvian folktales, further illustrating her commitment to authentic storytelling through her art. Her professional name change was a powerful and public affirmation of this heritage, symbolizing a new chapter where she fully embraces her background and personal power.
A Multi-Hyphenate’s Ascendancy
Isabela Merced’s current trajectory exemplifies the modern multi-hyphenate artist. Her ability to navigate the demanding worlds of Hollywood blockbusters and the dynamic music industry with grace and authenticity is a testament to her talent and dedication. Her roles in Superman and The Last of Us have amplified her global visibility, creating a significant platform for her musical endeavors. The release of “Apocalipsis (versión salsa)” is timely news, arriving as she reaches new career heights, solidifying her status as a force to be reckoned with.
Merced’s continuous artistic evolution, marked by strategic career choices and a profound connection to her heritage, positions her as a true powerhouse. Whether soaring as Hawkgirl or igniting dance floors with a salsa anthem, Isabela Merced is definitively owning her power, both on-screen and in real life.
