Latino representation in Hollywood could generate $18 billion, says study

Summary

A new report highlights the underrepresentation of Latinos in Hollywood, with Latinos making up 19% of the U.S. population but only securing 4% of lead or co-lead roles in films. The McKinsey report also reveals that Latino films outperform others at the box office, yet the industry continues to undervalue their potential, overlooking a possible $18 billion in revenue. Actor John Leguizamo and industry experts stress the importance of increasing Latino representation in executive roles and greenlighting more Latino-led projects. They argue that greater inclusion would reflect both cultural diversity and good business sense, helping to reshape Hollywood's future.

Takeaways

• 😀 Latinos make up 19% of the U.S. population but only hold 4% of lead or co-lead roles in films.
• 😀 The Latino community represents 29% of box office sales and 24% of streaming subscriptions, yet faces underrepresentation in Hollywood.
• 😀 Latino films outperform their counterparts at the box office, typically requiring 25% less budget while generating 60% more revenue.
• 😀 The lack of investment in Latino-led projects results in an estimated $18 billion in potential revenue being ignored by the industry.
• 😀 Hollywood continues to perpetuate stereotypes about Latinos, limiting opportunities for authentic representation of their diverse experiences.
• 😀 There is a strong business case for greater Latino representation, as Latino-led films perform better and offer a high return on investment.
• 😀 More Latino executives and creatives in positions of power are needed to drive systemic change in Hollywood.
• 😀 John Leguizamo advocates for a shift in Hollywood, emphasizing the need for Latino stars to be given the same opportunities as their white counterparts.
• 😀 The Latino community is diverse, including Afro-Latinos and South American Latinos, but Hollywood often fails to represent this variety.
• 😀 Greater Latino presence in executive roles would create a feedback loop, offering opportunities to a broader range of Latino talent.
• 😀 The lack of Latino decision-makers in Hollywood leads to the continued invisibility of Latino experiences and the undervaluing of their stories.

Q & A

What percentage of lead or co-lead roles in films are held by Latinos, despite making up 19% of the U.S. population?

Latinos hold only 4% of lead or co-lead roles in films, which is significantly lower than their percentage of the U.S. population.

How does Latino movie performance compare to other films at the box office and on streaming platforms?

Latino movies perform better, with Latino-led films doing 60% better than their counterparts, despite having 25% lower budgets. Latinos also account for 29% of box office ticket sales and 24% of streaming subscribers.

What is the financial potential that Hollywood is missing out on due to underrepresentation of Latinos?

The McKenzie report suggests that Hollywood is ignoring up to $18 billion in potential revenue by not fully embracing Latino representation.

What are some of the key issues contributing to the lack of Latino representation in Hollywood?

Systemic racism and Hollywood’s historical bias toward white characters and narratives are key factors. Latinos are often asked to fulfill stereotypes or check a diversity box, rather than being seen as leading talents.

How does John Leguizamo describe the challenge faced by Latino talent in Hollywood?

John Leguizamo criticizes the industry's tendency to underfund Latino-led projects and treat them as less important, despite their proven success. He also points out that the lack of Latino executives and decision-makers perpetuates these challenges.

What role does having Latino executives play in improving representation in Hollywood?

Latino executives can create opportunities and help ensure authentic representation, shifting the industry away from stereotypes and toward real, diverse stories. Their presence also provides a feedback loop to uplift Latino talent both in front of and behind the camera.

What does the McKenzie report say about the profitability of Latino-led films?

The report highlights that Latino-led films are more profitable, often outperforming other films with lower budgets, making a compelling case for the financial benefits of better Latino representation in Hollywood.

Why is representation important for young Latinos, according to the report?

Representation is crucial for young Latinos as it helps them see that there are opportunities for them in the industry beyond stereotypes. It also shows them that they can aspire to more diverse roles and careers.

What recommendation does John Leguizamo give to Hollywood to address Latino underrepresentation?

Leguizamo recommends increasing the number of Latino executives in Hollywood and greenlighting more Latino-led projects. He also suggests flipping typical white roles to Latino stars to provide more opportunities for growth and exposure.

How does Bill Kramer, CEO of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, view diversity in Hollywood?

Bill Kramer emphasizes the importance of diversity, noting that it is central to the Academy's mission. He stresses the need for a more diverse membership and a broader pipeline of talent that reflects the diverse world we live in.