Danny Trejo Cast in Daily Wire Film "Pawn Shop" Amid Controversy
Actor Danny Trejo is appearing in the Daily Wire's film "Pawn Shop," which portrays an ICE officer, while his son says Trejo was unaware of Ben Shapiro's involvement and is contractually barred from criticizing the project.
Actor Danny Trejo is filming "Pawn Shop," a movie produced by Ben Shapiro's Daily Wire that follows an ICE officer after a Minneapolis riot. The film’s plot involves the officer seeking refuge in a pawn shop occupied by a Hispanic veteran, played by Trejo, and the veteran’s grandson.
Trejo’s son, Gilbert Trejo, said his father had not heard of Shapiro before signing on and that the actor’s contract prevents him from speaking negatively about the production. Gilbert added that Trejo was attracted to the role because it offered a positive portrayal of a Hispanic veteran.
"My dad contractually can’t badmouth him, the film, or walk away without being sued for breach of contract," Gilbert wrote on Instagram.
The casting was first reported by Deadline after protests in Montana, prompting criticism from fans on social media. Trejo later told TMZ he supports his community and immigrants but does not support ICE. A source said Trejo described the role as a positive depiction of a Hispanic veteran.