Ramón Rodríguez initially had reservations about playing the lead role of Will Trent in the ABC crime drama based on Karin Slaughter’s book series, given his past experience with unsold TV pilots and short-lived series. Additionally, the character of Will Trent was described as white in the novels, while Rodríguez is of Puerto Rican heritage. However, after meeting with the creators of the show and securing the role, Rodríguez made unique choices to portray Will, including adopting a Southern drawl and donning three-piece suits. This commitment and his portrayal of a dyslexic orphan have helped make “Will Trent” a hit series, leading to a third season renewal.
In a time when diverse leads in successful shows have become scarce due to industry cost-cutting measures, “Will Trent” is a significant win for Latino representation that subverts common tropes. Will’s ambiguous ethnicity allows Rodriguez to play a character whose cultural background is not the primary focus of his characterization. As the series progresses, Will delves into his Puerto Rican heritage and familial connections, exploring his roots and identity. This narrative evolution has provided Rodríguez with the opportunity to portray a troubled and complex character with layers beyond his ethnicity.
Rodríguez’s own upbringing as a proud “Nuyorican” in Manhattan’s Lower East Side, surrounded by women, has shaped his perspective on portraying multifaceted Latino characters in Hollywood. His experiences growing up in a diverse environment have influenced his desire to push back against stereotypical roles for Latinos in the industry. By choosing to take on roles with complexity and depth, Rodríguez aims to challenge perceptions and expand opportunities for Latinos in the entertainment industry while honoring his cultural heritage and identity.
As a series regular on “Will Trent,” Rodríguez has found significant success in a career that began unexpectedly after a chance encounter led him to acting. His journey from working for the New York Knicks to appearing in commercials and then transitioning to film and television has been marked by a commitment to roles that challenge stereotypes and showcase the diversity of Latino experiences. His latest projects, including the action-thriller film “G20” and the continued success of “Will Trent,” underscore his dedication to telling authentic and compelling stories.
Rodríguez’s aspirations extend beyond acting as he envisions creating culturally specific stories that resonate with audiences on a global scale, similar to the impact of films like “Moonlight” and “Parasite.” Drawing inspiration from trailblazing Latino actors before him, such as Raul Julia, John Leguizamo, Benicio del Toro, and Rita Moreno, Rodríguez is determined to carve out a path for himself and future generations of Latino storytellers. By advocating for more opportunities and representation in the industry, he hopes to see a shift towards authentic storytelling and increased support for diverse voices in Hollywood.
In conclusion, Rodríguez’s journey as an actor and producer on “Will Trent” reflects a commitment to portraying rich and nuanced characters while advocating for greater diversity and inclusivity in the entertainment industry. Through his work on screen and behind the scenes, he is setting a precedent for authentic storytelling and representation of Latinos in mainstream media. As “Will Trent” continues to captivate audiences and pave the way for Latino actors and creators, Rodríguez’s impact on the industry is poised to leave a lasting legacy.
