The Hollywood Reporter (Weekly)
MIAMI BEACH HOSTS THR’S LATIN POWER
On Nov. 8, THR hosts its first gathering of the most influential Latinos in entertainment at Soho Beach House. Five trailblazers will be feted: America Ferrera (page 47) and Cris Abrego (page 51), as well as Danny Trejo and Emilio and Gloria Estefan, who reflect on Latin power here.
When was the first time you saw Latin representation in pop culture?
GLORIA ESTEFAN I grew up watching I Love Lucy reruns and fell in love with [fellow Cuban] Desi Arnaz, who spoke and sang in Spanish. It was like seeing someone from my own family being accepted and loved by Americans; like I was also a part of the fabric of this nation. DANNY TREJO I saw Viva Zapata! with Marlon Brando. I was like, “You couldn’t find a Mexican actor?” (Laughs.) The first actual Mexican was Pedro Gonzalez Gonzalez in movies with John Wayne. His grandson, Clifton Collins Jr., is a working actor in Hollywood today. Pretty cool.
In what ways have you seen Latin influence change?
EMILIO ESTEFAN Music artists no longer have to depend on record labels. They can connect with audiences through social media and platforms.
When did you feel your own power had changed?
GLORIA There’s a business phrase: “You’re only as good as your latest hit.” When we began selling millions of albums worldwide [in the ’80s], doing sold-out concert tours, our power shifted. EMILIO When Gloria performed “Mi Tierra” in Spanish at the 1994 Grammys and when Ricky Martin did “La Copa de la Vida” in 1999. I’d helped convince them to let him open the show. TREJO [When] Robert [Rodriguez] invited me to an Obama fundraiser at his house in Austin.
How can Latin power be increased within the industry?
EMILIO When one of us succeeds, we all succeed. TREJO We worry too much about people taking our place, you know? But I love bringing people in and helping them get started.