Danny Trejo’s son, Gilbert Trejo, says the veteran actor is effectively unable to publicly address controversy around his involvement in a new ICE-themed film, “Pawn Shop.” Multiple outlets report Gilbert Trejo as saying his father is restricted by contractual and professional circumstances and cannot freely explain his views on the conservative affiliations tied to the project.
The dispute centers on claims that the film is backed by or connected to Ben Shapiro and The Daily Wire, which has drawn criticism for its politics and for the actor’s apparent association with ICE. According to Gilbert Trejo, Trejo’s agent told IndieWire that his father did not know Ben Shapiro or The Daily Wire were involved when he accepted the role. The Washington Times and The Independent also frame Gilbert Trejo’s comments as asserting his father had not been aware of the commentator’s connection at the time of signing, while noting his age and limited ability to speak openly.
Outlets vary in emphasis—some foreground backlash over the movie’s political messaging, while others focus more on the behind-the-scenes account of how the deal was understood at the time Trejo agreed to participate.
