Danny Trejo Rejects ICE Support Claims After Pawn Shop Role

Actor Danny Trejo responded to criticism over his role in Pawn Shop, a film produced with The Daily Wire and Bonfire Legend that has drawn attention for its portrayal of ICE agents. Trejo said his casting does not represent support for ICE policies and defended his role as an actor.

The 82-year-old actor was criticized online after reports revealed his involvement in the project, which is inspired by the fatal shooting of Renee Good by an ICE officer in Minneapolis. Trejo said he has a long history of supporting immigrant communities.

Trejo addressed the reaction in a statement shared on social media.

"I want to address some social media comments about me. Make no mistake. I am a proud Mexican who has always been and will always be a supporter of my community," said Danny Trejo, actor.

Trejo continued his statement by distinguishing his personal views from the themes of the movie. He said his participation reflected his profession rather than agreement with every element of a story.

"I am also obviously pro-immigrant. I am not pro ICE. I know where I come from and I know our struggles.

I am an actor. My job is to tell a story," said Danny Trejo, actor.

The actor has previously spoken about immigrant issues, including joining the #AyudaEnEspanol campaign in 2020 to support Spanish-language COVID-19 resources for Latino migrant farmworkers.

In a 2025 interview about families affected by ICE raids, Trejo offered a message of support.

"To the families, keep up hope," said Danny Trejo, actor.

He followed that message with additional encouragement for people affected by hardship.

"Help your neighbor and do whatever you can for people in need," said Danny Trejo, actor.

Production of Pawn Shop in Livingston, Montana, was briefly paused after local concerns about filming disruptions, including noise, business access and communication with residents. Officials restored permits on Oct. 6 after revisions were made to production conditions.

The film also features Harvey Keitel and Henry Thomas, with Trejo reportedly playing a pawn shop owner whose family business becomes a shelter for an ICE agent during unrest.

Ben Shapiro criticized the production shutdown, saying officials were targeting the film because of its content.

"content discrimination" said Ben Shapiro, Daily Wire co-founder.

Shapiro also described the action as a constitutional issue after Livingston officials temporarily halted filming.

"a violation of the First Amendment" said Ben Shapiro, Daily Wire co-founder.