John Leguizamo is about to have a special Hollywood moment—acting alongside his daughter, Allegra Leguizamo, for the first time. The Menu star, 64, revealed in an interview with PEOPLE that the father-daughter duo will share the screen in Tin Soldier, an action film also starring Robert De Niro and Jamie Foxx.
“We did this movie together, and she had to hold a gun to my face,” Leguizamo shared. “She’s never even held a gun before—it was a crazy moment.” The film is set for release in May 2025.
Allegra, 25, is the eldest of Leguizamo’s two children with his wife, Justine Maurer. The couple, who married in 2003, also share a son, Lucas, 24. Leguizamo reflected on how fatherhood has influenced his career, particularly in his upcoming film Bob Trevino Likes It. “Having kids changes you forever. It’s a gift, but also a lifelong worry,” he explained. “It helped me tap into the loneliness my character feels in Bob Trevino Likes It.
Outside of acting, Leguizamo and Maurer embrace their blended cultural backgrounds. The actor, who grew up Catholic, shared how their family celebrates both Jewish and Christian traditions, including Passover seders and Hanukkah alongside Easter and Christmas.
With Tin Soldier on the horizon, fans will soon see Allegra step into the spotlight alongside her famous father. This marks a significant milestone not just in Leguizamo's career but also in the family dynamic, highlighting the intersection of personal and professional life in the often turbulent world of Hollywood.
The anticipation around Tin Soldier could lead to exciting new opportunities for Allegra, who is taking her first steps into the entertainment industry, a space where her father has made a notable mark. As both a father and mentor, Leguizamo's insights and experiences are likely to assist Allegra in navigating her budding career.
Moreover, Leguizamo has emphasized the need for a change in representation in Hollywood roles. Through his own success and by encouraging his daughter, he hopes to pave the way for a more diverse set of voices in storytelling. By working with renowned actors like De Niro and Foxx, Allegra is positioned to learn from veteran talents, gaining invaluable experience in the industry.
In discussing the dynamics of their family life, Leguizamo expressed his passion for blending cultures in his household. This gives both his children a rich understanding of different traditions and practices. Embracing both Jewish and Christian celebrations, he indicates a holistic approach to spirituality and culture that invites broader narratives and inclusiveness.
The film Tin Soldier not only showcases the father-daughter bond but also examines deeper themes surrounding identity and culture that resonate with many families across America today. As the Leguizamos navigate their respective paths, they intertwine their artistic journeys with family values and heritage, contributing to the broader cultural tapestry.
Whether through the drama of Hollywood or the ease of home, John Leguizamo's experiences inform his role as a father and an actor. Their upcoming film project serves as an excellent reminder of how art can imitate life, illustrating the close emotional bonds of family in the context of a challenging Hollywood landscape.
