7 Astonishing Facts About Marco Perego-Saldana: The Italian Artist Who Changed His Name For Love

Marco Perego-Saldana is far more than just "Zoe Saldaña’s husband." As of December 2025, this Italian-American polymath has cemented his own legacy as an accomplished painter, sculptor, and a rising force in Hollywood as a director and producer, all while balancing a low-key family life with one of the world's biggest movie stars. His journey—from a former professional soccer player in Venice to a New York-based artist with a $5 million net worth—is a fascinating narrative of reinvention and passion. The couple, who married in a secret ceremony in 2013, have become a power duo known for their commitment to equality, exemplified by Marco’s decision to take his wife’s surname, a move that made international headlines and redefined modern partnership. This article dives deep into his unique biography, his latest directorial projects, and the artistic vision that defines his extraordinary career.

Marco Perego-Saldana: Comprehensive Biography and Profile

Marco Perego-Saldana’s life is a tapestry woven with threads of art, sport, and filmmaking. Born in Italy, he embraced the American dream, eventually becoming a celebrated figure in both the art world and the film industry.

• Full Name: Marco Perego-Saldana (Born Marco Perego)
• Date of Birth: March 1, 1979
• Age (as of December 2025): 46 years old
• Birthplace: Salò, Brescia, Lombardy, Italy
• Nationality: Italian-American
• Spouse: Zoe Saldaña (m. 2013)
• Children: Three sons: Twins Cy Aridio and Bowie Ezio (9 years old), and Zen (7 years old)
• Occupation: Painter, Sculptor, Film Director, Producer, Writer, Former Professional Soccer Player
• Known For: His conceptual art, his marriage to Zoe Saldaña, and directing the films The Absence of Eden and Dovecote.
• Net Worth (Estimated): Approximately $5 million, primarily from his art and filmmaking career.

The Unexpected Path: From Italian Soccer Player to Avant-Garde Artist

Marco Perego-Saldana's early life in Salò, Italy, was defined by sports, not art. He was once on track to play for a professional soccer team in Venice, a path that seemed set for his future. However, a pivotal move to New York City redirected his career, forcing him to take on various odd jobs, including working as a busboy, waiter, and soccer teacher, to make ends meet. This period of struggle was instrumental in forging his artistic identity.

His breakthrough into the U.S. art world was hard-won. Perego-Saldana’s work, which often blends painting and sculpture, is known for its conceptual depth and provocative themes. While specific details on his artistic style—such as movement or medium—are kept intentionally private, he has successfully established himself as a serious contemporary artist.

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A notable recent achievement showcasing his artistic versatility was his involvement with the Vatican Pavilion at the 60th International Art Exhibition - La Biennale di Venezia (Venice Biennale). He directed a film for the pavilion that starred his wife, Zoe Saldaña, blending his visual art background with his burgeoning directorial skills on a prestigious international stage.

Behind the Camera: Marco Perego-Saldana’s Rise as a Filmmaker

Transitioning from the canvas to the screen, Marco Perego-Saldana has rapidly built a compelling filmography, establishing himself as a director and producer with a distinct vision. His move into filmmaking is a natural extension of his storytelling abilities as a visual artist.

His most talked-about project is the 2023/2024 feature film, The Absence of Eden. This directorial effort, which he also produced, stars Zoe Saldaña and is a testament to the creative synergy between the couple. The film's release has marked his most significant entry into the mainstream movie industry.

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Other notable production and directorial credits that bolster his topical authority as a filmmaker include:

• Dovecote (2024): A short film where he is credited as a director.
• Keyhole Garden (TBA): A future film project where he is listed as having credits.
• Me + Her (Short): An earlier short film project.
• Burn to Shine: A production credit that further diversifies his resume.

His work behind the camera is characterized by dramatic intensity and a focus on complex human narratives, reflecting the conceptual nature of his fine art. This multi-hyphenate career—artist, director, and producer—solidifies his place as a dynamic creative force in the entertainment world.

The Saldaña-Perego Dynamic: Family Life and the Name Change That Made History

The relationship between Marco Perego and Zoe Saldaña is one of Hollywood’s most unique and private unions, starting with their chance meeting on a flight to New York and their quick, intimate wedding in 2013. Their commitment to challenging traditional gender roles is perhaps the most defining public aspect of their marriage.

Marco’s decision to take his wife’s surname, becoming Marco Perego-Saldana, was a powerful, symbolic act. Zoe also hyphenated her name to Saldaña-Perego, making the joint decision a mutual declaration of equality and partnership. This move generated significant discussion about patriarchy and tradition in marriage.

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The couple are dedicated parents to their three young sons, twins Cy and Bowie, and the youngest, Zen. Zoe has openly credited Marco as her "biggest cheerleader" and a source of immense professional support, revealing in a recent January 2025 interview that his encouragement was key to her staying in the industry when she considered quitting.

In a recent interview with Vogue México, Zoe also revealed an "important promise" the couple made to each other, emphasizing their commitment to communication and mutual growth. Their public appearances, such as attending the 2025 Breakthrough Prize Ceremony, are rare but always highlight their strong, united front.

Marco Perego-Saldana embodies the definition of a modern renaissance man. His ability to seamlessly transition between the worlds of contemporary art, independent filmmaking, and devoted family life makes his story a compelling one to follow, proving that his impact extends far beyond his famous spouse.