Podcast Summary: Danny Trejo's Tattoo Is More Famous Than He Is | 2 Bears, 1 Cave
Podcast Information:
- Title: 2 Bears, 1 Cave with Tom Segura & Bert Kreischer
- Host/Authors: Tom Segura & Bert Kreischer, YMH Studios
- Episode: Danny Trejo's Tattoo Is More Famous Than He Is
- Release Date: November 25, 2024
Introduction: Setting the Stage
In this engaging episode of 2 Bears, 1 Cave, hosts Tom Segura and Bert Kreischer are joined by none other than the iconic actor Danny Trejo. The conversation delves deep into Trejo’s tumultuous past, his rise in Hollywood, the significance of his famous tattoo, and the profound impact of his relationships both within and outside prison walls.
Danny Trejo’s Journey into Hollywood
The episode kicks off with Bert introducing Danny Trejo’s authentic entry into the film industry. Trejo recounts his casting in the seminal film Runaway Train:
“I remember when they had picked somebody else and then they wanted me after I showed up. And Andre Godzillowski, the director, was trying to tell people, no, look, this is Eric Roberts. He goes to Eric's face like this. Look, face, look. And this other guy was kind of Spaniard, Spanish. He goes, yeah, look.” ([01:21])
Trejo explains how his genuine persona resonated with the film’s needs, leading him to train co-star Eric Roberts in boxing for authenticity on set.
“I started training Eric Roberts how to box for a movie called Runaway Train. And Eric, you know, well deserved. He was a movie star.” ([04:50])
The Tattoo that Defined a Career
A significant portion of the discussion centers around Trejo’s infamous chest tattoo, which has become almost as recognizable as the man himself. Trejo shares:
“That is the most recognizable tattoo in the world. So recognizable and so funny. That was more recognizable than me.” ([46:22])
He elaborates on how the tattoo became his calling card, opening doors in Hollywood and shaping his on-screen persona.
Life Behind Bars: Stories of Survival and Friendship
Trejo offers an unfiltered look into his life before fame, highlighting his multiple incarcerations and the influence of key individuals like Eddie Bunker:
“Eddie Bunker is awesome. He taught me how to fight, you know, taught me how to fight. And everything he gave me allowed me to succeed in the path that I took.” ([22:27])
Bunker, a fellow inmate and friend, played a pivotal role in Trejo’s life, providing strategies for survival and eventually aiding him in transitioning to a life post-prison.
Trejo discusses the harsh realities of prison life, emphasizing the importance of displaying strength and the psychological challenges inmates face:
“Prison is a very scary place, but nobody can show it, you know? And because in prison, you learn to smell any kind of weakness, any kind of fear, any kind of sorrow, you can pick it up.” ([08:33])
Overcoming Addiction: The Road to Recovery
A heartfelt segment of the podcast delves into Trejo’s battle with addiction. He recounts his initial exposure to drugs and alcohol at a young age:
“First, I started going to AA by accident... And I. Everything happened accident. But there was a big party in our neighborhood... So we stopped, went to the tool, went to the trunk of the car to get the tools necessary to crash parties.” ([35:21])
Meeting his sponsor, Johnny Harris, was a turning point:
“That's where I met Johnny Harris, my sponsor, right? And he told me, the only thing that's gonna beat you to Quentin are the headlights on the bus.” ([39:11])
This relationship underscored the importance of community and support in his journey to sobriety.
The Significance of Uncle Gilbert
Uncle Gilbert emerges as a central figure in Trejo’s narrative, representing both the allure of a troubled lifestyle and the mentorship that steered him:
“He taught me how to fight, you know, taught me how to fight. And everything he gave me allowed me to succeed in the path that I took... He turned me on to drugs.” ([22:27])
Despite his contributions to Trejo’s early life, Gilbert also exposed him to the pitfalls of addiction and criminal activity, illustrating the complex dynamics of familial influence.
Building a Life Beyond the Cage
Transitioning from prison to Hollywood, Trejo emphasizes the transformative power of his SAG card and the roles that followed:
“I started going from movie to movie to movie because they were making a whole bunch of prison movies... And so I just kept working. I kept going from movie to movie to movie, and that's the way it's been my whole career.” ([06:10])
He also touches upon his work as a drug counselor, illustrating his commitment to helping others overcome the struggles he once faced.
A Passion for Cars and Culture
Beyond his acting career, Trejo shares his love for cars, particularly lowriders, and how this passion intertwines with his cultural heritage:
“I think nine lowriders. Nine different lowriders? Yeah. I got a building right now, the most gorgeous 19. 1949 Chevy Stepside Pickup truck. Oh, wow. It's absolutely stunningly gorgeous.” ([54:32])
This segment highlights the deep-rooted connections between personal interests and cultural identity, showcasing another facet of Trejo’s multifaceted life.
Impactful Friendships and Acts of Kindness
A poignant moment in the episode highlights Trejo’s unwavering commitment to helping others, regardless of their backgrounds:
“When I met him, I run into him in a Narcotics Anonymous meeting. And 10 years ago, he saved my son's life. Literally... He didn't have no shoes, but I got him.” ([60:29])
These stories underscore the theme that acts of kindness and support can create lasting, positive ripples in one’s life and the lives of others.
Final Reflections: Legacy and Influence
As the conversation winds down, both hosts reflect on Trejo’s enduring legacy in film and his personal growth:
“You guys have so much. I want to go back to the History Channel show for a second... Eight episodes coming out. By the way, History Channels got my number. I love everything they do.” ([75:02])
Trejo’s influence extends beyond his film roles, impacting those around him and inspiring listeners to embrace compassion and resilience.
Notable Quotes:
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On Authenticity in Acting:
“I went into and I kind of like just reminiscing, and I'm watching everybody, and they're all being stupid, but because everybody thinks prison is this, like, get out of the way. I'll kill you. It’s not, man.” ([08:33])
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On the Power of a Single Choice:
“I'm sorry, I thought I shut that off... It's so real this show is.” ([04:55])
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On Overcoming Fear and Strength:
“Prison is probably the most right now place in the world. Right now.” ([41:48])
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On Helping Others:
“But you do something that... I woke up today and I was like, that's going to be. My new thing is you said, I just want to help. I'm going to see what it feels like to help people.” ([63:29])
Conclusion: A Story of Redemption and Resilience
This episode of 2 Bears, 1 Cave offers a raw and intimate glimpse into Danny Trejo’s life, illustrating his journey from the depths of addiction and prison to becoming a beloved figure in Hollywood. Through his stories, Trejo exemplifies the power of authenticity, the significance of supportive relationships, and the enduring impact of personal transformation. Listeners are left with a profound understanding of Trejo’s resilience and the meaningful legacy he continues to build.