Danny Trejo on Acting, Addiction, and Playing 'The Mean Chicano Dude'

Introduction

• Interview on NPR's FRESH AIR with host Terry Gross.
• Guest: Actor Danny Trejo.
• Background: Grew up in California's prison system; known for tough roles in films and TV.

Early Life and Drug Use

• Began using drugs at age 8, introduced by his uncle.
• Started with marijuana; heroin became his drug of choice by age 12.
• Parents were hardworking but not fully attentive to his lifestyle choices.

Prison Experience

• Served time in San Quentin, Folsom, Soledad, among others.
• Described prison life as a place where one is either predator or prey.
• Used boxing skills (learned from his uncle) for protection and engagement in prison.
• Experienced a turning point on May 5, 1968, when involved in a prison riot.
• Promised God to help others if given another chance at life.

Transition to Acting

• Became a drug counselor post-prison; involved in acting through connections made during counseling.
• First break was on "Runaway Train" due to his boxing skills.
• Worked as an extra and then as a boxing trainer for actors on set.
• Known for playing tough or menacing roles in films like "Machete," "Breaking Bad."

Acting Career and Typecasting

• Often cast in roles that reflect his real-life past as a tough Chicano.
• Played roles like Inmate No. 1, Prisoner, Tattoo Artist in various films.

Documentary Work

• Producer of "Survivor's Guide To Prison," highlighting injustices in the criminal justice system.
• Continues to speak to inmates and engage in drug counseling.

Role in "Breaking Bad"

• Played Tortuga, an informant who ends up decapitated.
• Scene involves his head mounted on a tortoise, which was a first in Hollywood.

Reflections on Personal Change

• Credits a support system and 12-step program for staying clean post-prison.
• Stresses the need for support groups for prisoners re-entering society.

Acting Roles Against Type

• Played against type in "Sherrybaby" as a supportive character.
• Voice role in "Storks" as a heroic stork.

Conclusion

• Finds humor and irony in his life's journey from inmate to actor.