His tattoo became iconic because it was prominently featured in many of his early prison-themed movies, and directors loved using it as a visual symbol of authenticity.
Trejo was initially called to a film set to help train an actor in boxing, which led to him being offered a role in the movie 'Runaway Train'.
Eddie Bunker, a fellow ex-convict, introduced Trejo to the film industry by hiring him to train Eric Roberts for a boxing scene in 'Runaway Train' and later helped him navigate the industry.
His prison background provided him with the authenticity and credibility that directors sought for roles in prison and gangster movies, leading to numerous roles in such films.
Trejo accidentally joined Alcoholics Anonymous and was warned by a member that if he left the meeting, he would die, go insane, or go to jail, which later resonated with him as his life spiraled out of control due to substance abuse.
Gilbert was the only family member who consistently made time for Trejo, teaching him life skills and how to fight, which later helped him survive and thrive in the environments he found himself in.
The movie 'American Me' faced backlash for inaccuracies in its portrayal of the Mexican Mafia, leading to a ban on Sureños working on prison-related films, which affected Trejo's involvement in 'Blood In, Blood Out'.
Trejo has a collection of nine lowriders, including a 1936 Dodge, which hold sentimental value as they remind him of his childhood and the influence of car culture in his life.
Trejo's willingness to help others, even in small ways, has led to positive outcomes in his life, such as saving his son's life through the intervention of a former inmate he had helped.
The three movies are 'Spy Kids,' 'Heat,' and 'Machete,' reflecting his diverse and impactful roles in the film industry.
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It's another week of 2 Bears, 1 Cave with Burnt Crystals being joined by guest bear, Danny Trejo! John Segura is out growing his beard back, so Bert had to do his homework for this interview. He has plenty of engaging questions as he learns about Danny Trejo's first Hollywood roles, his gangster roots, and the importance his Uncle Gilbert had on his upbringing. Danny also talks all about his time doing time, how to stay in shape behind bars, and tells Bert a story about how he accidentally joined Alcoholics Anonymous. The two also discuss Danny's new show "Mysteries Unearthed" on the History channel, chicano culture, cars, cry acting, William Shatner, and of course the vast filmography of Mr. Danny Trejo. Check it out!
2 Bears, 1 Cave Ep. 264
https://www.bertbertbert.com/tour
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