Judy Reyes: In Her Own Words
Watch this 2008 interview, in which Judy Reyes explains to Maria Hinojosa how she was introduced to television, what it was like growing up in New York City as a Dominican (her parents were from the Dominican Republic) in the late 1970s, and the impact that ethnic stereotyping left on her early in her acting career.
During the interview, Reyes mentions Puerto Rican actor Rosie Perez, whose breakthrough came in films of the late 1980s and early 1990s and who was known for her quick-talking characters and distinctive voice.
As you watch, consider how Latino stereotypes influenced Reyes’s experiences, first growing up in the Bronx and then working in Hollywood.
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In the interview, Reyes says she wants to use the influence she’s earned in Hollywood to promote ideas that are important to her, connect with her identity, and “expand on the idea of being Latino” in a way that moves beyond any stereotype.
Since the time of this interview, Reyes has started producing an animated series about a resilient eight-year-old Latina orphan named La Golda. La Golda strives to rise above her current situation and help make the world a better place.
Take Notes
What challenges did Reyes face growing up in New York City that were related to her identity? How were these apparent early in her career? Why is it important to Reyes to produce programs that depict an accurate picture of Latinas?
