John Leguizamo on playing Pablo Escobar, 'Carlito's Way' & starring in 'Empire' with Fat Joe
Digest
This podcast features an in-depth conversation with actor and comedian John Leguizamo, hosted by Joe Crack and Jada Kiss. They discuss Leguizamo's career, his surprise comedic talent, and his role in the film "Carlito's Way," which he initially disliked but later came to appreciate. The conversation touches on the influence of "Scarface," Hollywood's persistent lack of Latin representation, and the challenges faced by Latin actors. Leguizamo also promotes his new Spanish-language Hulu series, "Dead Killer Nannies," which explores the life of Pablo Escobar from his son's perspective. The podcast delves into the evolving nature of gangsterism, the impact of surveillance technology, and personal anecdotes about friends navigating criminal lifestyles and their consequences. They also briefly discuss the decline of cash transactions and the societal tendency to villainize and later honor complex figures.
Outlines
Introduction and Guest Introduction
The podcast opens with hosts Joe Crack and Jada Kiss introducing their guest, the legendary John Leguizamo, highlighting his diverse career in comedy and acting, and his new Spanish-language series on Hulu, "Dead Killer Nannies."
The Realities of Entourages and Generosity
The discussion humorously explores the significant costs associated with artists' entourages and shifts to Leguizamo's routine of helping the homeless, viewing it as charity and good karma.
Leguizamo's Versatility: Comedy and Acting
Hosts express surprise at John Leguizamo's comedic prowess, contrasting it with his dramatic roles and discussing the hard work required to excel in both acting and comedy.
"Empire," Method Rap, and Hollywood's Diversity Issues
The conversation delves into the movie "Empire," its impact, and the inspiration behind "method rap." It then highlights the lack of Latin representation in Hollywood, praising "Empire" for its diverse cast and crew while lamenting the limited opportunities for Latin creators.
Fear-Based Decisions and Authenticity in Film
The podcast examines how fear influences studio executive decisions and praises the authenticity of "Carlito's Way," attributing it to a writer's personal experiences and the casting of Latino actors.
"Carlito's Way": Initial Dislike to Masterpiece
John Leguizamo shares his initial disappointment with "Carlito's Way," expecting a "Scarface Part II," but later reevaluates it as a masterpiece, appreciating its love story and the struggle against a criminal life. He also discusses playing Benny Blanco, drawing from real-life inspiration.
Directing, Improvisation, and Divorce Realities
Leguizamo shares insights into learning from director Brian De Palma, the use of improvisation on set, and the universally challenging and often financially driven nature of divorce settlements.
Legacy of "Scarface" and Personal Ambition
The discussion revisits the profound influence of "Scarface" on perceptions of the Latin community and contrasts it with personal ambition and lifestyle choices, touching upon the financial aspects of fame.
Evolution of Rap and "Dead Killer Nannies" Promotion
The podcast explores the shift in rap music's lyrical content and promotes John Leguizamo's new Spanish-language Hulu series, "Dead Killer Nannies," focusing on its unique perspective on Pablo Escobar.
Portraying Pablo Escobar and His Son's Journey
Leguizamo discusses the trope of Latin actors playing Pablo Escobar, his preparation for the role, and shares the inspiring story of Escobar's son escaping his father's legacy to become a psychologist.
The Burden of Notorious Names and Exploitation
The conversation addresses the societal prejudice faced by individuals with infamous family names and the ongoing ethical questions surrounding the financial exploitation of criminal legacies.
Survival, Violence, and Gangsterism's End
The remarkable survival of Pablo Escobar's son is highlighted, contrasted with Griselda Blanco's tragic end. The discussion touches on the cycle of violence and the increasing difficulty of maintaining a criminal lifestyle due to advanced surveillance.
Surveillance, Sci-Fi, and Future Technologies
The pervasive nature of government surveillance technology is discussed, alongside the role of science fiction in foreshadowing and realizing futuristic technologies like FaceTime.
"Bugonia," Criminal Tropes, and Dangerous Friends
The movie "Bugonia" and its depiction of female violence are discussed, along with criminal tropes like using "dumb cousins" and the reluctance to lead. A story about a dangerous friend from the past and the overwhelming police response to murder is shared.
Long Sentences, Generosity, and Avoiding Negativity
The podcast covers long prison sentences and a generous act of paying a friend to stay away from a criminal life. The importance of avoiding negative influences, even from close friends, for personal growth is emphasized.
Tragic Downfalls and Choosing a New Path
A friend's descent into addiction and violence leading to murder and imprisonment is recounted. The speaker explains their decision to distance themselves from negative influences for a life of "cleanliness and goodness" and a new spiritual path.
An Uncle's Infamous Past and Risky Reunion
The speaker shares the story of their uncle, a notorious figure from a 1970s New York prison crew, and a risky reunion after his release, ultimately choosing not to continue the association due to his dangerous lifestyle.
The Decline of Cash and Conclusion
The conversation shifts to the decreasing use of cash for transactions, with businesses increasingly refusing it, highlighting a societal shift towards digital payments, and concluding the podcast.
Keywords
John Leguizamo
Actor, comedian, and writer known for his one-man shows, film roles, and the Spanish-language series "Dead Killer Nannies." He often portrays complex characters and brings authenticity to his roles.
Benny Blanco
A character portrayed by John Leguizamo in "Carlito's Way." The character was based on a real-life drug dealer, providing Leguizamo with the inspiration for the role.
Carlito's Way
A 1993 crime drama film directed by Brian De Palma, starring Al Pacino and Sean Penn. It was initially perceived as a sequel to "Scarface" but is now recognized as a masterpiece exploring themes of redemption and the struggle to escape a criminal life.
Scarface
A 1983 crime film directed by Brian De Palma, starring Al Pacino. It significantly influenced a generation, particularly in its portrayal of drug dealing and gangster lifestyle, leading some to emulate the depicted behaviors.
Hollywood Representation
The lack of diversity and inclusion in Hollywood, particularly for Latin actors and creators. The discussion highlights the disparity between population demographics and on-screen/behind-the-scenes representation.
Pablo Escobar
A notorious Colombian drug lord and the central figure of the Netflix series "Narcos" and John Leguizamo's series "Dead Killer Nannies." His life and legacy continue to fascinate and generate content.
Gangsterism
The lifestyle and culture associated with organized crime. The podcast explores its portrayal in media, its impact on individuals, and the evolving nature of criminal activity in the face of modern surveillance.
Surveillance Technology
Advanced technologies used by governments for monitoring and tracking individuals. This includes drones, smart home devices, and data analysis, raising concerns about privacy and control.
Cash Transactions
The declining use of cash for payments, with businesses increasingly refusing cash and preferring digital transactions, indicating a societal shift towards cashless economies.
Rat Hunters
A historical prison crew from 1970s New York State. The speaker's uncle was a founding member, and his fearsome reputation within this group was respected even by other dangerous inmates.
Q&A
What was John Leguizamo's initial reaction to "Carlito's Way"?
John Leguizamo initially disliked "Carlito's Way" because he expected it to be a "Scarface Part II" and was disappointed when it focused more on a love story.
How did "Scarface" influence the youth culture?
"Scarface" heavily influenced youth culture by glamorizing the drug dealing and gangster lifestyle, leading many to aspire to and emulate the behaviors depicted in the film.
What challenges does Hollywood face regarding diversity?
Hollywood faces challenges in providing adequate representation for Latin actors and creators, despite their significant contributions and audience engagement.
What is the significance of "Dead Killer Nannies"?
"Dead Killer Nannies" is significant as the first authorized Pablo Escobar story, offering a unique perspective on his life and family, portrayed by John Leguizamo.
How has the nature of gangsterism changed?
Modern gangsterism is characterized by shorter "runs" due to advanced surveillance, leading to quicker apprehension by law enforcement compared to previous eras.
What role does science fiction play in predicting the future?
Science fiction often serves as a precursor to reality, with many imagined technologies and societal changes eventually becoming commonplace, as seen with advancements like FaceTime.
What is the legacy of Pablo Escobar?
Pablo Escobar's legacy is complex, marked by immense wealth and violence. Despite his criminal status, his story continues to be a subject of fascination and commercialization.
How does modern surveillance impact criminal activity?
Advanced surveillance technologies, including drones and data analysis, make it increasingly difficult for criminals to operate undetected, effectively ending the era of long-term gangster runs.
Why did the speaker choose to distance themselves from negative influences?
The speaker chose to distance themselves from individuals involved in criminal activities to pursue a path of "cleanliness and goodness," prioritizing personal growth and avoiding negative influences that could jeopardize their family and current lifestyle.
Who were the "Rat Hunters"?
The "Rat Hunters" were a notorious prison crew from 1970s New York State. The speaker's uncle was a founding member, and his fearsome reputation within this group was respected even by other dangerous inmates.
Show Notes
Fat Joe and Jadakiss are joined by John Leguizamo, the Queens-born actor, comedian, and playwright now starring as Pablo Escobar in the first authorized Escobar story, the Spanish-language Hulu series 'Dear Killer Nannies.' Leguizamo breaks down what it was like playing Benny Blanco in 'Carlito's Way,’ the real drug dealer he based his performance on, and what he thought about Al Pacino playing a Puerto Rican. Joe and John reminisce on working together on the 2002 film ‘Empire,’ and Joe talks about writing “My Lifestyle” during the shoot using the all the gangster themes as inspiration. Then, they talk Pabo Escobar: which actor portrayed him best, Pablo’s son consulting on the show, the legends behind what happened to his $30 billion, and why there will never be another gangster like him again.
Joe and Jada is now STREAMING ON NETFLIX!
All lines provided by Hard Rock Bet
8:00 Joe & John's 2002 film 'Empire'
10:00 Lack of Latin representation in Hollywood
13:00 'Carlito's Way' & Benny Blanco's legacy
22:00 Why Fat Joe CAN'T retire
31:00 Playing Pablo Escobar in 'Dear Killer Nannies'
46:00 What happened to Pablo's $30 billion?
52:00 Why there will never be a gangster like Pablo again
58:00 Joe tells hilarious Terror Squad stories
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