“He already is him”: Cobra Kai Star Xolo Mariduena Landed Blue Beetle Without an Audition That Left Actor Crying

Xolo Mariduena is one of the finest actors who gained major stardom with his role in the Cobra Kai series. He has already become an important part of the DC franchise with his leading role in Blue Beetle, which is absolutely one of their major film projects. This film will officially kick off James Gunn’s DCU which many are quite interested to know.

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While the film is surely a big event for the franchise, many would be surprised to know that the lead actor did not give an audition to snag the titular role.

Blue Beetle Star Xolo Mariduena Shared His First Meetup Experience for The Role

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In a new interview with Empire Magazine via Slash Film, the 22-year-old actor, Xolo Mariduena shared his experience when he was offered the role straightaway for Jaime Reyes/Blue Beetle in the upcoming Blue Beetle.

He recalled the experience when he met with the film director, Angel Manuel Soto, and screenwriter, Gareth Dunnet-Alcocer at Arroyo Chop House. It turned out to be more than a general meeting as then Warner Bros. president Walter Hamada was also present.

Recalling his August 2021 meeting, he shared,

“I was so confused, so scared.” He added, “Like, Why is this guy coming out of the woodwork to meet with me? It was so weird.”

He was surprised and reportedly cried on hearing about the great opportunity. However, what was more surprising is the fact that he was the only one the director had eyes on for the titular role.

Xolo Mariduena is The Perfect One for The Blue Beetle Role

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The director explained that the actor was the perfect fit for the titular role. Recalling their first meetup, he complimented the rising star by sharing,

“He was young and quirky, he laughed out loud, was awkward, and caught himself when he was trying to be cool. He wasn’t trying to put on a persona.”

He shared that he was the one who pitched to have Mariduena in the leading role and was impressed when he saw him in  2017’s Twin Peaks: The Return. 

“I was like, ‘Oh, that’s the kid, man. He’s actually really good. The way he interacts with his family is the same way Jaime interacts with his family and friends. So when they asked me who should be cast, I said Xolo. He doesn’t have to try hard to be Jaime Reyes. He already is him.”

However, this is not his first role in a major franchise since he has already gained prominence for his Miguel Diaz role in Cobra Kai. Apart from him, the film also stars Adriana Barraza, Damián Alcázar, Raoul Max Trujillo, Susan Sarandon, and George Lopez.

Blue Beetle will hit theatres in the United States on August 18, 2023.

Source: Empire Via SlashFilm