When you think of Cardi B, you picture a bold, unapologetic superstar who took the music industry by storm. But behind every larger-than-life personality is a story of family, sacrifice, and cultural roots. For Cardi B, that foundation was built by her father, Carlos Alman. While he may not seek the spotlight, his influence on the Grammy-winning rapper is undeniable. This is the story of Carlos Alman, the retired cab driver who raised a global icon.
Early Life and Dominican Roots
Carlos Alman was born on March 19, 1958, in the Dominican Republic . Growing up on the Caribbean island, he was immersed in a vibrant culture rich with Afro-Latin traditions . This heritage of music, resilience, and strong family values would become a cornerstone of his identity and the legacy he would pass on to his children. His mother, Esperanza Almanzar, raised him, though details about his father and siblings remain private—a theme that continues throughout his life story .
The Immigrant Story: From the Dominican Republic to the Bronx
Seeking a better life and more opportunities, Carlos Alman made a life-changing decision in 1990. He immigrated to the United States, settling in the Bronx, New York . This move was the ultimate act of hope and sacrifice. Like millions of immigrants before him, he arrived with little but a determination to build a stable foundation for his future family.
For nearly nine years, Carlos Alman worked as a taxi driver navigating the busy streets of New York City . It was a demanding, often thankless job, but it was honest work that allowed him to provide for his family. His daughter, Cardi B, has spoken about her parents’ “regular, poor jobs,” emphasizing that their hard work taught her the value of a hustle .
In 2019, Cardi B showed how much her father’s experience still mattered to her. She reacted on social media to a New York Times episode highlighting unfair conditions for NYC cab drivers, writing:
“ATTENTION! My dad to this day still campaigns for cab drivers because this is some of the challenges they deal with. You buy a car, you have to pay the city and still pay off your car. You stay in debt forever!”
She also urged people to “be nice to cab drivers” . This passionate defense shows that the values Carlos Alman instilled—standing up for working people—remain strong in his daughter.
Family Life and Marriage
In 1991, Carlos Alman married Clara Almanzar . Together, they built a family in their new home. On October 11, 1992, they welcomed their first daughter, Belcalis Marlenis Almanzar, who the world would come to know as Cardi B . Three years later, on December 22, 1995, they had their second daughter, Hennessy Carolina .
Clara worked as a supermarket cashier, and together, the couple worked tirelessly to make ends meet . However, the marriage faced significant challenges and the couple separated in 2005 when Cardi B was just 13 years old . While the divorce was difficult, Carlos Alman remained a consistent and present figure in his daughters’ lives.
The Father-Daughter Bond: Carlos and Cardi B
Despite the fame and fortune she has achieved, Cardi B has never forgotten her roots or the influence of her father. She often credits him for instilling in her the “personality twin” traits they share . Their bond is a strong and protective one.
In a poignant moment in 2019, Cardi B fiercely protected her father’s privacy. When a Univision reporter attempted to interview and film him, she intervened, stating, “Don’t put my father on TV because my dad doesn’t walk around with security and you don’t know people that’s gonna harm my dad” . This act of protection shows her deep love and respect for him and his desire to remain out of the spotlight.
Cardi B also shared that Carlos Alman introduced her to traditional Dominican cuisine, keeping their cultural heritage alive in their home . She has described her parents as “real good parents” and expressed that their support has been invaluable throughout her journey .
A Life of Quiet Dignity
Carlos Alman is the embodiment of a private person. He has never sought fame, despite his daughter’s massive success. He has chosen to live a life of quiet dignity, far from the paparazzi and red carpets . He is currently believed to be retired and continues to live a private life, valuing his peace above all else.
Defending His Name Against Rumors
In 2026, Carlos Alman became the subject of a vicious online hoax when a fabricated screenshot claimed he had a criminal record . The rumor was quickly debunked by AI fact-checking tools and by Cardi B herself.
“First thing first, my dad never been arrested in this county… my dad is a immigrant from the Dominican Republic.. he would be deported if he committed such a disgusting crime!!” she fired back .
She also warned: “stop playing wit me and my family and leave me the fck alone fr before I start some shit today” . This fierce defense shows the depth of her love for her father and the lengths she will go to protect his reputation.
The Bigger Family
Beyond Cardi B and Hennessy Carolina, Carlos Alman has six other children from a previous relationship . These include daughters Maciel Almanzar and Nicauly Villalona, and four sons, one of whom is Fernando Almanzar . In total, he has eight children, though most maintain private lives away from the public eye .
Carlos Alman is also a grandfather through Cardi B’s children—Kulture Kiari Cephus (born 2018) and Wave Set Cephus (born 2021)—and through his other children’s families .
Conclusion
The story of Carlos Alman is a powerful reminder that the foundation of success is often built by those who remain unseen. He is not a celebrity, but his life story is one of immense value—a testament to the immigrant spirit, the power of hard work, and the profound love of a father. While Cardi B shines on the world’s stage, her light is a reflection of the man who sacrificed, persevered, and taught her the values that guide her to this day. Carlos Alman may prefer to stay out of the headlines, but his influence on one of music’s biggest stars will never be forgotten.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Carlos Alman’s nationality?
He is Dominican-American. He was born in the Dominican Republic and later became a United States citizen .
2. What was Carlos Alman’s job?
He was a New York City taxi driver. He worked in this profession for nearly nine years to support his family .
3. Who is Carlos Alman’s ex-wife?
He was previously married to Clara Almanzar. They separated in 2005 after being married in 1991 .
4. How many children does Carlos Alman have?
He has a total of eight children. He had six children from a previous marriage and two daughters, Cardi B and Hennessy Carolina, with his ex-wife Clara .
5. Why does Carlos Alman stay out of the spotlight?
He prefers a private life. Despite his daughter’s fame, he values his privacy and peace, and Cardi B has actively worked to protect him from unwanted media attention .
6. How did Carlos Alman influence Cardi B?
He taught her the importance of hard work, perseverance, and cultural pride. His life as an immigrant and a hardworking father instilled in her the “hustle” mentality that contributed to her success .
7. What is Carlos Alman’s estimated net worth?
His estimated net worth is between $200,000 and $500,000 . This is separate from his daughter Cardi B’s massive fortune.
8. Is Carlos Alman still alive?
Yes, as of 2025, Carlos Alman is alive at 67 years old . He continues to live a quiet, private life.
