Manny Jacinto, the 36-year-old actor who has won hearts with his performances in The Good Place and the Star Wars series Acolyte, recently opened up about his experience with Top Gun: Maverick. Fans were eagerly anticipating his role as LT Billy “Fritz” Avalone, expecting to see more of him in the much-awaited sequel. However, his appearance was significantly reduced, with all his lines cut from the final edit.
In a candid interview with GQ, Manny shared his feelings about the situation and his thoughts on the filmmaking process. “It’s flattering that there was a little bit of an outcry, but it wasn’t shocking to me,” he said. “There was this sense of where the film was going [on set], like I can see them focusing the camera more on these [other] guys and not taking so much time on our scenes.”
Despite the disappointment, Manny took the experience in stride. “Fortunately, it still was a great experience—you get to see this huge machine at work, see how Tom Cruise works, and you get to be a small part of this huge franchise.” His positive outlook on the experience shows his professionalism and gratitude for the opportunity, even if it didn’t turn out as he initially hoped.
Being on the set of such a high-profile movie allowed Manny to witness firsthand the intricacies of a major Hollywood production. He admired the dedication and meticulous work that went into making Top Gun: Maverick, especially noting Tom Cruise’s commitment. “At the end of the day, Tom Cruise is writing stories for Tom Cruise,” Manny reflected. “It’s up to us—Asian Americans, people of color—to be that [for ourselves]. We can’t wait for somebody else to do it. If we want bigger stories out there, we have to make them for ourselves.”
Manny’s remarks highlight an essential perspective in the entertainment industry: the need for diversity and representation. His experience with Top Gun: Maverick has only fueled his determination to contribute to creating those bigger stories. He understands the importance of representation and the power of storytelling in shaping perceptions and providing opportunities.
Manny Jacinto’s journey in Hollywood is a testament to his resilience and passion. While his role in Top Gun: Maverick may not have panned out as expected, he continues to push forward. His involvement in the upcoming Freaky Friday sequel, currently filming in Los Angeles, is a clear indication that his career is on an upward trajectory. Fans are excited to see him bring his unique charm and talent to new projects.
