John Leguizamo, the 65-year-old Colombian-American actor, has been a prominent figure in Hollywood and Broadway for nearly four decades. His journey is marked by a passion for storytelling, both on and off the screen. Recently, he shared insights into his literary influences and his mission to amplify Latin voices in the entertainment industry.
Leguizamo’s acting career has been nothing short of illustrious. He has worked with renowned directors like Baz Luhrmann, Spike Lee, Tony Scott, and Brian De Palma. His performances have ranged from Hollywood blockbusters to Broadway hits, and he has even lent his voice to animated icons like Sid the Sloth in Ice Age and Bruno in Encanto.
From the stage to the screen: Leguizamo’s acting journey
Leguizamo’s dedication to his craft is evident in his method acting approach. He believes in forming genuine relationships with his co-stars, as seen in his work on Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey. Nolan’s unique approach to filmmaking, including keeping the script a mystery until the deal was signed, intrigued Leguizamo. The actor’s role as Eumaeus, the loyal character in Western literature, allowed him to connect with co-stars Matt Damon and Tom Holland both on and off the set.
Leguizamo’s commitment to his craft extends beyond acting. He has been an advocate for Latin representation in Hollywood, highlighting the disparity between the Latin population and their representation in the industry. ‘We’re 20% of the US population, but we’re 30% of the US box office… with less than 6% of the roles, leading roles and less than 1% of the executives,’ he notes. His one-man shows, such as Freak and Latin History for Morons have been instrumental in bringing diverse stories to the forefront.
Literary influences: Leguizamo’s favorite books
Leguizamo’s love for reading has evolved over the years. As a child, he struggled with long-form reading due to ADHD but found solace in encyclopedias and informative books. His interest in fiction grew as he matured. He recently shared four of his favorite books, each of which has had a significant impact on his life and career.
Open Veins of Latin America by Eduardo Galeano
Leguizamo’s first pick is Open Veins of Latin America by Uruguayan journalist Eduardo Galeano. This 1971 chronicle of five centuries of exploitation in Latin America struck an emotional chord with Leguizamo. The book’s depiction of pre-colonization Latin American life resonated deeply with him, especially after learning about his ancestry on PBS’s Finding Your Roots. His lineage, stretching back more than 500 years, includes conquistadors, indigenous people, and African slaves.
Long Day’s Journey Into Night by Eugene O’Neill
The second book on Leguizamo’s list is Eugene O’Neill’s Long Day’s Journey Into Night published posthumously in 1956. This semi-autobiographical drama had a profound influence on Leguizamo’s life and work. It shaped his approach to fatherhood and inspired his one-man show Freak. Leguizamo emphasizes the importance of being present for his children, setting rules to ensure he spends no more than two weeks apart from his family.
The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao by Junot Díaz
Leguizamo’s third choice is Junot Díaz’s 2008 Pulitzer Prize-winner, The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao. This genre-bending novel provided Leguizamo with insights into Dominican history and the complexities of masculinity. The book’s exploration of these themes influenced his performance as Bruno in Encanto and his personal journey towards redefining manhood for his son.
The works of James Joyce
James Joyce is one of Leguizamo’s favorite writers, with A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man playing a pivotal role in his decision to pursue acting. When preparing for The Odyssey Leguizamo revisited Joyce’s 1922 modernist retelling, Ulysses. He praises Joyce’s ability to capture the human experience and inner monologue, making Ulysses a masterpiece of modern art.
Expanding horizons: Leguizamo’s upcoming children’s book
In addition to his acting and advocacy work, Leguizamo is expanding his horizons as a children’s author. He is releasing his first children’s book, Kiki and the Can in August. The book tells the story of a young boy who discovers the rich history of Latin heroes, mirroring Leguizamo’s own journey of self-discovery and pride in his heritage.
Leguizamo’s literary journey and Hollywood impact are a testament to his passion for storytelling and his commitment to amplifying Latin voices. From his iconic roles to his upcoming children’s book, he continues to inspire and educate audiences about the importance of representation and diversity in the entertainment industry.
