Daniel Trejo (/ˈtreɪhoʊ/, Spanish: [ˈtɾexo]; born May 16, 1944) is an American actor from Los Angeles. His film career launched in 1985 with Runaway Train. His breakthrough came in Death Wish 4: The Crackdown (1987).
Trejo often portrays tough characters, including roles in Desperado, Heat (both 1995), From Dusk Till Dawn (1996), Con Air (1997), and Once Upon a Time in Mexico (2003). He gained fame as Isador “Machete” Cortez in the Spy Kids franchise (2001-2003) and starred in the Machete films: Machete (2010) and Machete Kills (2013).
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Danny Trejo Net Worth
Danny Trejo, with a net worth of $500 thousand, owns several homes in L.A. In June 1999, he bought a Pico Rivera home for $130,000, now occupied by a relative. In February 2023, Trejo filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy due to $2 million in IRS debt from mistaken deductions. He agreed to a payment plan with four annual $200,000 payments until 2028. However, recent writers and actors strikes may force him to sell a house.
Early life
Danny Trejo was in Echo Park, Los Angeles, to Mexican-American parents Delores Rivera King and Dionisio “Dan” Trejo. Raised amid violence and substance abuse, he was introduced to drugs by his uncle and started using heroin at 12.
Trejo’s criminal activities led to multiple incarcerations throughout the 1960s, including time at San Quentin, where he became a boxing champion. After overcoming his addictions and finding faith in solitary confinement, he was released in 1969. Before acting, Trejo worked various jobs, including as a substance abuse counselor.
Career
Danny Trejo began his acting career in the 1980s after a serendipitous encounter on the set of Runaway Train. Initially typecast as a prisoner, he gained recognition through roles in films like Heat and Blood In, Blood Out.
The 2000s saw him rise to fame with Spy Kids, where he debuted as “Machete,” a character later featured in his own films. Trejo has appeared in numerous films, TV shows, and video games, and even authored a memoir and cookbook. Despite past health challenges, he continues to be a prominent figure in entertainment.
Personal life
Danny Trejo has been married and divorced four times and has three children. His first marriage to Laura ended due to his drug use. He later married Debbie (1971–1975) and Joanne (1975–1978). Trejo has three children: Danny (b. 1981), Gilbert (b. 1988), and Danielle (b. 1990).
He married Debbie Shreve in 1997; they separated in 2005 and divorced in 2009. Trejo, a Democrat and cousin of filmmaker Robert Rodriguez, survived liver cancer in 2010. In 2019, he rescued a child from an overturned SUV. He is a passionate Los Angeles Rams fan.
What is Danny Trejo’s famous quote?
”Life isn’t worth living if you don’t have some problems, But in truth, drugs and alcohol are really the only problems I have. If I touch either one of those, my life goes to hell and I can’t take care of my obligations”
Conclusion
While most know him for his on-screen personas, Danny Trejo’s life off the screen is just as compelling. From early family troubles to a fortuitous meeting that launched his acting career, Danny’s journey is a testament to resilience.
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Despite financial setbacks and challenges, he remains a stalwart figure in Hollywood, his net worth reflecting both his successes and tribulations.
FAQs about Danny Trejo’s Net Worth
- What is Danny Trejo’s net worth?
As of 2023, it is estimated to be $500 thousand. - Has Danny Trejo won any awards?
Yes, he has won several awards, including from the Alliance of Women Film Journalists and the ALMA Awards. - Does Danny Trejo own businesses outside of acting?
Yes, he owns a record label, a coffee & donut chain, and Trejo’s Tacos restaurant chain in Los Angeles. - Why did Danny Trejo file for bankruptcy?
In 2023, he filed for Chapter 11 due to around $2 million worth of IRS debt related to mistaken deductions. - How did Danny Trejo start his acting career?
His career began with a role in Runaway Train in 1985 after being recognized for his boxing skills during a Cocaine Anonymous meeting.
