Actor Ricardo Montalban describes the stereotypical and often derogatory images of Mexicans in early film and television, and his objections to these portrayals:
"I used to talk to producers and directors at MGM and I would say, ‘Why do you do this? What a wonderful position you have to show the little kid growing up in East Los Angeles, crawling in front of the television, a decent Mexican. He doesn't have to be a great hero. I mean, portray a bandit if you want. But not at the exclusion of the honorable man. And indeed, the very educated man. Let's have a balance.’”
Watch Ricardo Montalban’s full interview to hear the stories behind his legendary career.
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