In a little under two weeks, the next big, superhero film, Bluebeetle hits theaters around the world. It’s leading star Xolo Maridueña is notch part of the promotional campaign as he is striking in solidarity with these screen actors Guild, but that doesn’t mean his contributions to TV and film can’t still be celebrated.

Xolo was in San Antonio, TX at the SAAHJ Annual Scholarship Gala, and was honored with the Estrella de Esperanza Award. This award is meant to celebrate rising stars from the Latino community and there’s no doubt that he has seen much success and yet he is just getting started.

Xolo spoke highly of his mother and imagined the struggles and challenges. She may have faced in an industry that was underrepresenting Latinos at the time. His energy is infectious. When he wasn’t on stage, giving his award speech, he was taking the time to meet with attendees, taking selfies, or making calls to relatives for those who are in attendance.

Earlier in the event, he took the time to answer questions from the local press and spoke of the shifting environment in which we are seeing for the first time Latinos in lead roles in mainstream media, on a somewhat consistent basis, it’s an exciting time. He’s also discussed what it means to him personally seeing projects led by Latino writers and directors, and how having a crew with a large population of Latinos can help bring a level of authenticity to projects involving Latino stories. 

One thing is clear, the future for Xolo is bright and his upcoming superhero blockbuster will have a major lasting impact on the Latino community. Go see Blue Beetle which is now in theaters everywhere. Hear our thoughts on it below.

Check out the sights and sounds from day 1 of the Superhero Comic-Con and Car Show the largest and most incredible convention in the state of Texas!