Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, better known as Bad Bunny, has proven that his talents extend far beyond the recording studio. While his music has made him a global phenomenon, his foray into film and television reveals an artist with serious acting ambitions. From high-octane action to intimate dramas, the Puerto Rican star has taken on roles that challenge expectations and highlight his range. For Latino audiences who have followed his journey from the barrios of San Juan to Hollywood sets, here is a curated watchlist of his most notable performances.
Action and Crime: From Bullet Train to Narcos: México
In Bullet Train (2022), Bad Bunny appears as "The Wolf," a character whose brief but intense presence includes a memorable fight sequence alongside Brad Pitt. The role demanded precise choreography and a cool demeanor, earning him praise from critics who noted his natural screen presence. This performance was a clear statement that he could hold his own in a big-budget Hollywood production.
His turn in the Netflix series Narcos: México is equally compelling. Playing "Kitty" Páez, a member of the Arellano Félix cartel's inner circle, Bad Bunny brought a raw energy to the role. The series, set in Tijuana and other Mexican cities, explores the brutal realities of the drug trade, and his character adds a layer of authenticity to the narrative. For fans of crime dramas, this is a must-watch.
More recently, he has taken on a role in Darren Aronofsky's Caught Stealing, where he portrays a criminal who commands both respect and violence. This project marks a significant step in his acting career, working with a director known for intense, character-driven stories. It's a role that promises to further solidify his reputation as a serious actor.
Comedy and Drama: Saturday Night Live and Cassandro
Bad Bunny's versatility shines in his appearances on Saturday Night Live. Not only has he performed as a musical guest, but he has also hosted the show, delivering comedic sketches with natural ease. His ability to seamlessly switch between Spanish and English in his monologue resonated with bicultural audiences, making him one of the few artists to do so on the iconic program.
In the biographical drama Cassandro (2023), he plays a supporting role alongside Gael García Bernal. The film tells the story of Saúl Armendáriz, a gay luchador who becomes an icon in the world of Mexican wrestling. Bad Bunny's performance adds depth to the narrative, showing his comfort with both physical comedy and emotional storytelling. This film is a testament to his willingness to take on projects that explore deep social themes.
He also appears in the upcoming Happy Gilmore 2, a sequel that blends sports and comedy, and has a small role in Pixar's Toy Story 5, showing his range even extends to family-friendly animation.
Why This Matters for Latino Representation
Bad Bunny's acting career is more than just a side project; it's a deliberate expansion of his influence. By taking on roles in both English and Spanish-language productions, he is breaking down barriers for Latino artists in Hollywood. His success in films like Bullet Train and series like Narcos: México demonstrates that Latino talent can thrive in diverse genres, from action to drama to comedy.
For fans who want to see another side of the artist, this watchlist offers a glimpse into his growth as a performer. Whether you're drawn to the adrenaline of Bullet Train or the cultural depth of Cassandro, each project showcases a different facet of his abilities. As he continues to take on new challenges, one thing is clear: Bad Bunny is not just a musician who acts; he is an actor in his own right, with a promising future on screen.
For more on Bad Bunny's cultural impact, check out our coverage of his wax statue at Musée Grévin and his historic $1 billion tour.
