John Leguizamo
Birth Place: Bogota, Colombia
MERRILY WE ROLL ALONG, Laura Benanti and More Set for Signature Theatre 2026-2027 Season (May 5, 2026)
Video: Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway & More in Trailer for Christopher Nolan's THE ODYSSEY (May 5, 2026)
Interview: Grant Reynolds of MAMMA MIA! at Orpheum Theater (Apr 28, 2026)
BIO
John Leguizamo began his career as a stand-up comedian on the New York nightclub circuit in 1984. He made his television debut in Miami Vice (1986) and appeared in projects including Madonna’s “Borderline” music video (1984), Casualties of War (1989), Die Hard 2 (1990), Hangin’ with the Homeboys (1991), and Regarding Henry (1991). In 1991, he wrote and performed the Off-Broadway one-man show Mambo Mouth, playing seven different characters. He followed with Spic-O-Rama (1993), another solo stage production later adapted for HBO. Film roles during this period included Whispers in the Dark (1992), Super Mario Bros. (1993), and Carlito’s Way (1993).
In 1995, Leguizamo created, wrote, produced, and starred in the Fox sketch comedy series House of Buggin’. He appeared in films including To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar (1995), Executive Decision (1996), Romeo + Juliet (1996), Spawn (1997), The Pest (1997), and Land of the Dead (2005). In 1998, he debuted on Broadway with the solo show Freak, which was later filmed for HBO. He also appeared in Spike Lee’s Summer of Sam (1999).
During the 2000s, Leguizamo starred in the miniseries Arabian Nights (2000), released the comedy album John Leguizamo LIVE (2001), and appeared in Empire (2002). He wrote and performed the stage show Sexaholix... A Love Story (2002). Beginning in 2002, he voiced Sid the Sloth in the Ice Age franchise, reprising the role in multiple sequels and video games. He also voiced Globox in Rayman 3: Hoodlum Havoc (2003), guest-starred on Dora the Explorer (2004), and joined the cast of ER (2005–2006) as Dr. Victor Clemente. Other projects included the television pilot Edison (2006), The Babysitters (2007), The Kill Point (2007), The Happening (2008), and guest appearances on Sesame Street and The Electric Company.
In 2010, Leguizamo premiered the semi-autobiographical one-man show Klass Klown, later retitled Ghetto Klown. After touring nationally, the production opened on Broadway in 2011 and was later adapted into the documentary Tales From a Ghetto Klown (2012) and an HBO special (2014). Film and television work during this period included Chef (2014), American Ultra (2015), John Wick (2014), Bloodline (2016), and producing Othello: The Remix (2016). In 2015, Abrams ComicArts published a graphic novel adaptation of Ghetto Klown.
In 2017, Leguizamo participated in Lin-Manuel Miranda’s charity single “Almost Like Praying” and debuted the Broadway production Latin History for Morons, which transferred from The Public Theater to Studio 54. He later hosted the 63rd Obie Awards (2018) and appeared in projects including Waco (2018), When They See Us (2019), and the stage musical Kiss My Aztec (2019), which he co-wrote. In 2020, he appeared in The Mandalorian. In 2021, he performed in Waiting for Godot and voiced Bruno Madrigal in Disney’s Encanto. Subsequent film roles included The Menu (2022) and Violent Night (2022).
In 2023, Leguizamo served as a guest host on The Daily Show and hosted the MSNBC series Leguizamo Does America. His adaptation Our Hood received its first reading at the Guthrie Theater that year. In 2024, he hosted the PBS documentary series American Historia: The Untold History of Latinos. In 2025, he appeared in the play The Other Americans at The Public Theater.
Photos
STAGE CREDITS
Productions
Writing
Playwright
Conceiver
Movies
[ 1984 ] Macetero
[ 1989 ] Diaz
[ 1990 ] Angel
[ 1990 ] Burke
[ 1990 ] Ignacio
[ 1990 ] Ortiz
[ 1991 ] Boy in Alley
[ 1991 ] Johnny
[ 1991 ] Liquor Store Gunman
[ 1992 ] Guess my nationality guy
[ 1992 ] John Ctillo
[ 1993 ] Angel
[ 1993 ] Benny Blanco
[ 1993 ] Luigi Mario
[ 1995 ] Chi-Chi
[ 1995 ] Sergio
[ 1996 ] Captain Carlos Lopez
[ 1996 ] Manny
[ 1996 ] Tybalt
[ 1997 ] Clown, Violator
[ 1997 ] Lefty
[ 1997 ] Pest
[ 1998 ] Chino
[ 1998 ] Rat #2
[ 1998 ] Zip
[ 1999 ] Jorge
[ 1999 ] Vinny
[ 2000 ] Gune
[ 2000 ] Seymour
[ 2001 ] Berger
[ 2001 ] Toulouse-Lautrec
[ 2002 ] Dean Singer
[ 2002 ] Felix Ramirez
[ 2002 ] Sid
[ 2002 ] Spider Mike
[ 2002 ] Victor Rosa
[ 2004 ] Manolo Bonilla
[ 2005 ] Antonio
[ 2005 ] Beck
[ 2005 ] Cholo DeMora
[ 2005 ] Dodge
[ 2006 ] Hannibal
[ 2006 ] Sid
[ 2006 ] TC
[ 2007 ] Felix De La Pena
[ 2007 ] Frank Diaz
[ 2007 ] Lorenzo Daza
[ 2007 ] Michael Beltran
[ 2008 ] Det. Simon Perez
[ 2008 ] Enrico
[ 2008 ] Julian
[ 2008 ] Mauricio Rodriguez
[ 2008 ] Roger Pena
[ 2009 ] Dante, Perfecto
[ 2009 ] Freek
[ 2009 ] Jed
[ 2009 ] Sid
[ 2010 ] Paul
[ 2011 ] Val Valenzuela
[ 2012 ] Jimmy Alpha
[ 2012 ] Lucho Calvo
[ 2012 ] Sid
[ 2013 ] Alex
[ 2013 ] Chips
[ 2013 ] Javier
[ 2013 ] Ziggy
[ 2014 ] Aurelio
[ 2014 ] Jesse
[ 2014 ] Martin
[ 2014 ] Pisanio
[ 2014 ] Santiago
[ 2015 ] Dave
[ 2015 ] Fly Boy, Liam
[ 2015 ] Montgomery De La Cruz
[ 2015 ] Pete
[ 2015 ] Rose
[ 2015 ] Taylor
[ 2016 ] Atticus
[ 2016 ] Berto
[ 2016 ] Emir Abreu
[ 2016 ] Sid
[ 2017 ] Aurelio
[ 2017 ] George Diebold
[ 2018 ] Jeb
[ 2019 ] Jeremy Martinez
[ 2019 ] Rodrigo
[ 2020 ] Detective Espada
[ 2020 ] Mr. Martinez
[ 2021 ] Bill 'Pepe' Miller
[ 2021 ] Bruno
[ 2021 ] Estragon
[ 2021 ] Misael
[ 2022 ] Bruno Madrigal
[ 2022 ] Movie Star
[ 2022 ] Scrooge
[ 2024 ] Bob Trevino
[ 2025 ] Luke Dunn
[ 2025 ] Sid (voice)
[ 2025 ]
[ 2027 ]
TV Shows
Ozzy Delvecchio
Flying Monkeys, Silly Mail Bird, Pirate Pig Captain
Dr. Victor Clemente
Glenn, Carl, Therapist
Orlando Calderone, Angelo Alvarez
Larry Garcia, Narrator
Gordon Rogers
[ 2025-2025 ] Ezra Esposito
Awards and Nominations
John Leguizamo, Latin History for Morons
winner
John LeguizamoLatin History For Morons
John Leguizamo, Latin History for Morons
John Leguizamo, Latin History for Morons
winner
John Leguizamo, Ghetto Klown
winner
John Leguizamo, Ghetto Klown
John Leguizamo, Sexaholix
winner
John Leguizamo, Freak
John Leguizamo - , Freak
John Leguizamo, Freak
John Leguizamo, Freak
winner
John Leguizamo, Spic-o-rama
winner
John LeguizamoSpecial Award
winner
John Leguizamo, Spic-O-Rama
winner
John Leguizamo, Mambo Mouth
winner
John Leguizamo, Mambo Mouth
Videos
Video: Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway & More in Trailer for Christopher Nolan's THE ODYSSEY
by Josh Sharpe - 2026-05-05 09:57:22
Video: Watch the First Trailer for Christopher Nolan's THE ODYSSEY Starring Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway & More
by Josh Sharpe - 2025-12-22 10:42:47
Video: Helen Mirren, David Hyde Pierce, and More in Trailer for THIS ORDINARY THING Doc
by Josh Sharpe - 2025-11-10 11:08:01
Video: Ruben & Trey Santiago-Hudson Talk Joining Forces for THE OTHER AMERICANS
by Backstage Live with Richard Ridge - 2024-11-08 13:20:38
Video: First Look at TO WONG FOO The Musical at the Hope Mill Theatre
by Stephi Wild - 2023-11-17 09:47:39
Video: Listen to a Dance Remix of TO WONG FOO THE MUSICAL's Opening Number 'Feel The Light'
by Stephi Wild - 2023-07-28 08:42:53
Videos: Patti LuPone Talks PHANTOM, Kim Kardashian & More on WATCH WHAT HAPPENS LIVE
by Michael Major - 2023-04-24 09:35:14
VIDEO: Prime Video Debuts THE POWER Teaser Trailer With Toni Collette, Auli'i Cravalho & More
by Michael Major - 2023-01-31 13:09:10
VIDEO: John Leguizamo Reveals KISS MY AZTEC! Musical Will Come to Broadway in 2023 on LATE NIGHT
by Michael Major - 2022-11-17 10:44:55
VIDEO: Actor and Writer Irene Sofia Lucio Shares Her Journey From Tutoring Students to Starring in SLAVE PLAY
by Survival Jobs - 2022-08-11 13:34:05
VIDEO: Get A First Look At Krystina Alabado, KC Dela Cruz, Angelica Maria Beliard & More In Pre-Broadway KISS MY AZTEC! at Hartford Stage
by Alan Henry - 2022-06-20 10:16:38
VIDEO: Lin-Manuel Miranda & John Leguizamo Talk Viral ENCANTO Hit on GOOD MORNING AMERICA
by Michael Major - 2022-01-21 12:06:31
News
by Chloe Rabinowitz - May 5, 2026
Signature Theatre has revealed its 2026-2027 Season. The 37th season features six musicals and two plays, including a world premiere musical, a regional premiere musical, and a DC premiere play.
by Josh Sharpe - May 5, 2026
A new trailer is here for The Odyssey, Christopher Nolan's highly anticipated big-screen version of the classic epic by Homer. The trailer previews the Greek tale, featuring sweeping shots of grand settings and looks at several members of the star-studded main cast. Watch it now.
by Analisa Swerczek - Apr 28, 2026
BroadwayWorld Omaha representative Analisa Swerczek sat down with Grant Reynolds, currently starring as Sky in the Mamma Mia! tour arriving in Omaha this week, to talk about his Chicago roots, life on the road, and all things Mamma Mia!
by Stephi Wild - Apr 21, 2026
Following its first sold-out “dance along performance,” the Tony and Grammy-winning Broadway musical BUENA VISTA SOCIAL CLUB will host an encore “dance along” performance, hosted by John Leguizamo.
by A.A. Cristi - Apr 17, 2026
UK comedian Christopher Hall will make his New York City debut with Pizazz at Asylum NYC. The limited run will take place in June and follows an international tour of the show.
by Jennifer Ashley Tepper - Apr 12, 2026
Broadway has a long history of one-person shows, including many that have been added to the canon in this century. Seeing one actor powerfully create a whole world on stage can be an exceptional experience. Of course, one handers are hardly one-person projects; while there may only be one actor on stage, they are collaborating with an entire team of creatives, designers, and behind-the-scenes personnel to bring a show to life.
by Stephi Wild - Mar 30, 2026
Performances are now underway for August Wilson's Joe Turner's Come and Gone on Broadway! The show recently extended, and will now play through Sunday, July 19. Meet the cast here!
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Mar 18, 2026
Stages has revealed its 2026–27 season, a selection of beloved musicals, award-winning dramas and comedies, and bold contemporary works that celebrate the power of storytelling and community.
by Stephi Wild - Mar 17, 2026
Comedian Aries Spears has been announced to perform at Ruth Eckerd Hall on January 22. Known for his sharp wit and engaging performances, Spears continues to be a prominent figure in stand-up comedy.
by Josh Sharpe - Mar 12, 2026
Broadway alums Kumail Nanjiani, John Leguizamo and Dan Fogler, alongside O’Shea Jackson Jr., have joined previously announced Josh Hartnett in the cast of the action thriller All Day & All Night.
by Josh Sharpe - Mar 3, 2026
Disney’s Zootopia 2 is coming to Disney+, debuting on the streamer on Wednesday, March 11. The movie is now available on Digital platforms along with 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, DVD, and a limited edition 4K SteelBook.
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Feb 19, 2026
Houses on the Moon Theater Company has appointed Jeremy Handelman as Board Chair and Meghan Dunne as Managing Director, marking a new chapter of leadership and growth for the company.
by A.A. Cristi - Feb 18, 2026
Comedian Aries Spears will bring his stand-up tour to the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts for a one-night-only performance in the H-E-B Performance Hall. The show will take place September 26, 2026, at 8 p.m.
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Jan 28, 2026
The Public Theater will host a public, artistic demonstration of support and solidarity for the people of Minnesota: The People's Filibuster on the steps of the Theater’s flagship building.
by Josh Sharpe - Jan 26, 2026
Viewers can take another trip back to the animal metropolis when Disney’s Zootopia 2 arrives on Digital platforms January 27, including Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Fandango at Home.
by Joshua Wright - Jan 7, 2026
Hartford Stage has filed a lawsuit against producer Joey Parnes and related entities, alleging breach of contract and unpaid enhancement funds tied to KISS MY AZTEC!, according to a federal court filing.
by BWW Awards - Dec 29, 2025
This is the last chance to vote for the 2025 BroadwayWorld Washington, DC Awards! Voting ends on 12/31/2025 at midnight. Don't miss out on making sure that your favorite theatres, stars, and shows get the recognition they deserve!
by BWW Awards - Dec 22, 2025
We're in the final weeks to vote for the 2025 BroadwayWorld Washington, DC Awards! Voting ends on 12/31/2025 at midnight. Don't miss out on making sure that your favorite theatres, stars, and shows get the recognition they deserve!
by Josh Sharpe - Dec 22, 2025
The highly anticipated first trailer has been released for The Odyssey, Christopher Nolan's new big-screen version of the classic epic by Homer. Check it out now.
by BWW Awards - Dec 15, 2025
The latest standings have been released for the 2025 BroadwayWorld Washington, DC Awards! Voting ends on 12/31/2025 at midnight. Don't miss out on making sure that your favorite theatres, stars, and shows get the recognition they deserve!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
John Leguizamo has appeared on Broadway in 6 shows.
John Leguizamo has not appeared in the West End.
Best Play (Tony Awards) for Latin History for Morons, Special Tony Award (Tony Awards) for Latin History For Morons, Distinguished Performance Award (Drama League Awards) for Latin History for Morons, Outstanding Solo Show (The Lortels) for Latin History for Morons, Outstanding Solo Performance (Drama Desk Awards) for Ghetto Klown, Outstanding Solo Performance (Outer Critics Circle Awards) for Ghetto Klown, Outstanding Solo Performance (Outer Critics Circle Awards) for Sexaholix, One Person Solo Performance (Drama Desk Awards) for Freak, Best Solo Performance (Outer Critics Circle Awards) for Freak , Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play (Tony Awards) for Freak, Best Play (Tony Awards) for Freak, Outstanding Lead Actor (The Lortels) for Spic-o-rama, Performance (Theatre World Awards) for Special Award, Outstanding One Person Show (Drama Desk Awards) for Spic-O-Rama, Performance (Obie Awards) for Mambo Mouth and John Gassner Playwriting Award (Outer Critics Circle Awards) for Mambo Mouth .
John Leguizamo has won several prestigious awards, including a Special Tony Award for Latin History For Morons. He received the Outstanding Solo Performance award from the Drama Desk Awards for Ghetto Klown, as well as the same honor from the Outer Critics Circle Awards for Ghetto Klown. He also won the One Person Solo Performance award from the Drama Desk Awards for Freak and the Outstanding Lead Actor award from The Lortels for Spic-o-rama. Furthermore, he was honored with a Performance award from the Theatre World Awards, a recognition for Outstanding One Person Show from the Drama Desk Awards for Spic-O-Rama, and an award for Performance at the Obie Awards for Mambo Mouth. Additionally, he received the John Gassner Playwriting Award from the Outer Critics Circle Awards for Mambo Mouth.
John Leguizamo has written 8 shows including Mambo Mouth (Playwright), Spic-O-Rama (Playwright), Freak (Playwright), Sexaholix (Playwright), Ghetto Klown (Playwright), Latin History for Morons (Writer), Kiss My Aztec! (Bookwriter & Lyricist), The Other Americans (Writer).
Videos
