Over 100 Latino actors and creatives recently signed an open letter to Hollywood, urging for greater representation of Latino voices in storytelling. This call comes on the heels of an incident involving actress Odessa A’zion, who stepped away from the film Deep Cuts after concerns were raised about casting choices that sidelined Latino talent.
The letter highlights a troubling trend: the character Zoe Gutierrez, who is of Mexican heritage, was replaced by a non-Latino actress. The signatories stressed that this reflects a systemic issue where Latino actors are often overlooked. They argue that casting decisions matter. They shape how communities see themselves on screen and influence who gets to tell their stories.
Famed actors such as Eva Longoria, John Leguizamo, and Xochitl Gomez were among those who signed, emphasizing a need for authenticity and inclusion. The letter calls for not just more Latino actors in diverse roles, but for Latino voices to be part of the creative process from the beginning. They advocate for hiring Latino executives and including community voices as consultants and writers.
According to a 2021 study by the USC Annenberg Inclusion Initiative, only 4.5% of lead roles in films featured Latino actors, highlighting the urgent need for change. The letter reflects growing frustration in Hollywood as more voices are raised to challenge the status quo.
In response, A’zion expressed her disappointment with the casting decision on Instagram, sharing that she did not fully understand the implications of her role. Her move, however, garnered support from the Latino community, showcasing solidarity in the face of ongoing challenges.
This moment is part of a larger movement in Hollywood where artists are advocating for accountability and equity. As audiences demand more truthful representations, it’s clear that the conversation is shifting. The industry must respond, not just with promises but with genuine action to create opportunities for Latino talent.
For more information on Hollywood representation issues, you can visit the USC Annenberg Inclusion Initiative here.
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Deep Cuts,Odessa A\u2019zion,Open Letter
