Trejo: My Life of Crime, Redemption, and Hollywood

Danny Trejo is a man known to global audiences from his four decades on the small and big screen. As of February 2020, he was noted for the most on-screen deaths in movies (65). He has acted for acclaimed directors from Michael Mann to Robert Rodriguez to John Frankenheimer—his roles spanning from on-screen heavy to a starring role. The story begins with a future seemingly less than certain, a life in confinement. At 24 years old, Trejo was serving a stretch in Soledad Prison. He had served time in multiple prisons for various crimes, sharing living space with Mexican Mafia, killers, and other notorious individuals. Trejo’s strength, toughness, and street smarts helped him throughout that time. A drug problem held sway over his soul, but a solitary stint led to an involuntary detox and sobriety followed. After his release, Trejo embarked on another path, one to guide and help lost souls.

Trejo proves an engaging read from the jump-off. Danny Trejo and Donal Logue have compiled a redemption story that is unparalleled. Trejo offers a genuine, candid account of his life, whether hell-raising or child-raising, he proves to be even more compelling than his characters. An autobiography with a depth of soul.