" These stereotypes are an increasing issue because female Latin actresses are no longer being considered for roles by the talent they uphold. Rather they are being judged by their sexual appeal, and physical attributes.
The explosively popular sitcom, "Modern Family," features Colombian native actress, Sofia Vergara in the role of Gloria Delgado-Pritchett. She is a young Latina mother that challenges her older, caucasian husband's old-school tendencies. Although Vergara's humor and character brings a unique perspective on the show, her role also encourages Latino stereotypes. She is very loud, aggressive when temperamental, and consistently flaunts her body in skin-tight dresses with high heels. Vergara is a natural blond, but was introduced to the American audience as a brunette. She was forced to dye her hair dark brown in order to receive the role of Gloria, because casting directors said she did not look, "Latina enough." What I find most insulting about their comment is the way they want to portray all Latinas, even though Latinas obtain various physical aesthetics. The exciting factor about Latinas is that we are all different. From Spanish-European to Indian-indigenous descent, Hispanic females have diverse body types, skin complexions and physical attributes. It is frustrating to witness the discrimination in the entertainment industry, because American audiences that do not have exposure to Latin cultures, and believe that Latinos only look and act the way they are perceived on television. Even Sofia Vergara, the iconic Latina on screen today, cannot meet all the expectations of a Latina in Hollywood standards.
Vergara is encouraging Hollywood's discrimination, regardless of her natural features being a barrier for her artistic career in the entertainment industry, when she first started auditioning for American shows.
