The Evolution of Latinx Roles in Film and TV: From Stereotypes to Complex Characters
For decades, Latinx representation in film and television has been a topic of discussion, with many criticizing the industry of perpetuating stereotypes and lacking diversity. There is no doubt that Latinx representation in film and television is still staggering low with only 5.5% of speaking characters on screen being Latinx (Business Insider). However, in recent years, there has been a significant shift in the way Latinx characters are portrayed on screen. From stereotypical portrayals to complex, multidimensional characters, the evolution of Latinx roles in media has been a long time coming.
The Early Years: Stereotypes and Tokenism
In the early days of film and television, Latinx characters were often relegated to stereotypical roles such as the “Latino lover,” “Illiterate Immigrant, “Lazy Mexican,” “Housekeeper/Maid,” and so much more. These caricatures were not only inaccurate but also damaging, perpetuating negative attitudes towards Latinx individuals and reinforcing systematic racism.
The 1950s and 1960s saw the rise of tokenistic Latinx characters, who were often lessened to minor, supporting roles. These characters were frequently portrayed as exotic, mysterious, and overly sexualized, reinforcing harmful stereotypes.
Actor José Ferrer and Actress Susan Kohner
The 1970s and 1980s: A Glimmer of Hope
The 1970s and 1980s saw a slight improvement in Latinx representation, with the emergence of films like “Zoot Suit” (1981) and “La Bamba” (1987). These films showcased Latinx stories and experiences but still relied on stereotypical portrayals.
Ricardo Montalban and Rita Moreno on the left. Characters from the films La Bamba and Zoot Suit on the right.
The 1980s also saw the rise of Latinx actors like Ricardo Montalban and Rita Moreno, who broke down barriers and paved the way for future generations.
The 1990s and 2000s: A New Wave of Representation
The 1990s and 2000s saw a significant increase in Latinx representation, with films like “Selena” (1997), “Traffic” (2000) and “Crash” (2004). These films featured complex, multidimensional Latinx characters and storylines, making a turning point in the evolution of Latinx roles.
TV shows like “George Lopez” (2002-2007) and “Ugly Betty” (2006-2010) also made significant strides, featuring Latinx characters and storylines that were both authentic and relatable.
Characters from the films Selena and Traffic on the left. Characters from the shows Geroge Lopez and Ugly Betty on the right.
The Present Day: A New Era of Representation
Today, we are seeing a new ear of Latinx representation in film and television. Shows like “Jane the Virgin” (2014-2019), “One Day at a Time” (2017-2020) and “Vida” (2018-2020) feature complex, multidimensional Latinx characters and storylines. Films like “Coco” feature Latinx characters and storylines that are both nuanced and impactful.
Characters from Vida, One Day at a Time, Coco, and Jane the Virgin
The Future of Latinx Representation
While we have made significant progress, there is still a lot of work to be done. The Latinx community is diverse and multifaceted, and our representation in media should reflect that.
As we move forward, it’s essential that we continue to push for more authentic, nuanced, and complex portrayals of Latinx individuals. We must also work to increase Latinx representation behind the camera, in roles such as writers, directors, and producers.
The evolution of Latinx roles in film and television has been a long and winding road. From the harmful stereotypical portrayals to complex, multidimensional characters, we have made some progress. But the momentum must not only continue, but it must also increase.
As we move forward, let us continue to push for more authentic, nuanced, and complex portrayals of Latinx individuals. Let us work to increase Latinx representation behind the camera and in front of it. Together, we can create a more inclusive, equitable, and representative media landscape that reflects the diversity and complexity of the Latinx experience. The time is now, and it has been long overdue.