Brief
Danny Trejo’s son says his father never heard of Ben Shapiro while filming pro‑ICE movie
Gilbert Trejo says his 82‑year‑old father was unaware of Shapiro’s involvement and is contractually barred from criticizing the project.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Danny Trejo’s son Gilbert posted on Instagram on Oct. 13, saying his 82‑year‑old father never heard of Ben Shapiro when he signed on for the Daily Wire’s ICE‑themed film “Pawn Shop.”
What happened
According to Gilbert, the cast learned two weeks into shooting that Shapiro’s production company was behind the movie. He wrote that his father was told who Shapiro is and what he stands for only after filming began.
What the reports add
Gilbert explained that Trejo is contractually prohibited from speaking negatively about Shapiro, the film or walking away without risking a breach‑of‑contract lawsuit. He also noted that Trejo could not release the statement he wanted to because of the same clause.
What was said
Gilbert quoted his father’s earlier comments to TMZ, where Trejo described himself as “a proud Mexican…pro‑immigrant…not pro‑ICE.” He added, “It’s f—d up. He’s handcuffed to this stupid project, and swaths of people have instantly turned their back on him without knowing any of the facts.”
How it came about
The film, described by Trejo’s agent as a “complicated story about a complicated time,” follows a Minneapolis riot that forces an ICE officer into a siege at a pawn shop. The project has drawn criticism for its pro‑ICE premise, prompting public backlash against Trejo.
Key facts
- Danny Trejo’s son says his father never heard of Ben Shapiro before filming began (variety.com)
- Trejo is contractually barred from criticizing Shapiro or the film (variety.com)
- Trejo previously told TMZ he is pro‑immigrant and not pro‑ICE (variety.com)
Sources
- [1] variety.com — originally reported as “Danny Trejo Had ‘Never Heard’ of Ben Shapiro Before Signing On for Daily Wire’s ‘Pawn Shop,’ Says His Son: ‘It’s F—d Up. He’s Handcuffed to This Stupid Project’”
