John Leguizamo Skewers Hollywood in 'Ghetto Klown'

By Michael Lopez

Following a string of successful autobiographical one-man shows, John Leguizamo returns to the stage this week for the debut of his new play Ghetto Klown.

Taking aim at John’s most famous costars, Ghetto Klown lovingly skewers everyone from Kurt Russell to Steven Seagal to the legendary Al Pacino, using original photographs and videos from his films as a backdrop to his over-the-top storytelling.

“Take off your makeup and be yourself, John," Leguizamo says, doling out his best Pacino impersonation. "You’re a clown, you’re a clown, Huah! Huah!”

Delving into his experiences on the cult classic Carlito’s Way, John explains the highs and lows of acting alongside Hollywood legends. He also discusses the personal side of the 1993 film, since he met his second wife on the set.

“I opened up to her because she was so vulnerable,” John says on stage. “I’d never felt I could really be my whole self with anyone. And she told me she felt she’s been waiting to exist her whole life.”

John also weaves in interesting stories about his first acting gig on Miami Vice and donning a dress alongside Patrick Swayze for To Wong Foo. Currently playing at Manhattan’s Lyceum Theater, Ghetto Klown is already getting rave reviews and will entertain New York audiences through July.

What was your favorite John Leguizamo movie? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Al Pacino, Carlito's Way, Ghetto Klown, Hot Stuff, John Leguizamo, Theatre