Danny Trejo's son says actor didn't know Ben Shapiro was involved in Daily Wire film
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Gilbert Trejo said his father only learned of Ben Shapiro's involvement after filming had begun on the Daily Wire project, which has drawn criticism from activists over its depiction of immigration enforcement.
Gilbert Trejo said his father, actor Danny Trejo, was not familiar with commentator Ben Shapiro when he signed on for the Daily Wire and Bonfire Legend production titled Pawn Shop. He explained that Trejo learned of Shapiro's involvement about two weeks after filming began and that the actor could not publicly criticize the project without risking a breach-of-contract lawsuit, underscoring the legal limits that often surround film productions.
"He was booked on a film, it’s not pro-ICE, it’s not overtly pro anything. His agent described it as ‘a complicated story about a complicated time, where everyone looks bad except you, the hardworking Mexican shop owner who just wants peace.’"
Gilbert added that the film’s premise follows a federal agent who becomes trapped in a pawn shop with a Hispanic father and his son during civil unrest in Minneapolis. He said the production faced local protests over the use of blank gunfire, pyrotechnics and a staged car crash, as well as concerns that the opening scene dramatizes the fatal shooting of Renée Good by ICE agents.
The production was temporarily halted earlier this month but resumed after obtaining a revised permit that includes provisions for local food-pantry access and measures to protect residents from noise and violent-scene filming. The crew also agreed to limit private security presence to avoid policing or harassing nearby pedestrians.
Danny Trejo previously addressed the controversy in a short video, stating that he is proud of his Mexican heritage, supports immigrants, and views his role as an actor telling a story.
"I am a proud Mexican who has always been and will always be a supporter of my community. I am also obviously, pro-immigrant. I am not pro-ICE. I know where I come from and I know our struggles. I am an actor. My job is to tell a story. God bless you, Danny."