John Leguizamo

Personal context

Summary

John Leguizamo is an actor, comedian, writer, and producer known for films including Carlito’s Way, To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar, Romeo + Juliet, Moulin Rouge!, and the Ice Age franchise, as well as his solo stage shows. Latino history and representation recur in his creative work, including Latin History for Morons and the documentary series VOCES American Historia: The Untold History of Latinos. He has repeatedly criticized Latino underrepresentation and colorism in Hollywood, published open letters urging industry change, and used public appearances, interviews, and his series Leguizamo Does America to promote Latino culture and civic participation. He has also supported Democratic candidates, criticized Donald Trump’s rhetoric and policies toward Latinos, and publicly questioned the administration’s response to Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria.