Gap in Latino representation in Hollywood remains
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One of the most comprehensive annual reports examining the state of diversity in Hollywood is out again, and it shows little progress for Latinos in Hollywood, Astrid Galván of Axios Latino writes.
The big picture: Latinos have long been underrepresented in Hollywood both behind and in front of the cameras despite the population's growth and buying power.
Details: In its 10th year, the UCLA Hollywood Diversity report examined 521 live-action scripted TV shows that aired during the 2021-2022 season.
- Latinos were leads in only 6.1% of broadcast shows, 3.6% of cable shows and 4.3% of digital shows in the 2021-2022 season.
- Those figures were 5.7%, 2.8% and 3.2%, respectively, in the 2020-2021 season.
Between the lines: In relation to their share of the population, Latinos — who skew young demographically — were the least represented as lead actors in shows on streaming platforms, the report shows.
- Not putting out content that appeals to young Latino audiences who largely are U.S.-born and mostly speak English is a huge missed opportunity, says report author Ana-Christina Ramón.
- And this is in spite of the number of English-language streaming shows soaring by 62% in the 2021-2022 season.
What they're saying: Longtime legendary actress Rita Moreno commented on the lack of representation during an event hosted by the Las Casas Foundation for San Antonio students earlier this month.
- "We are still so invisible, we are still so not known, we are still so underexposed and I'm just so angry about this," she said.
- Moreno said different Latino groups should support each other rather than being "siloed" for increased visibility.