Manny Jacinto Wasn’t Shocked by His Reduced Role in Top Gun: Maverick

Manny Jacinto Wasn't Shocked by His Reduced Role in Top Gun: Maverick

As a huge fan of Manny Jacinto’s acting skills and his inspiring journey in Hollywood, I can’t help but be in awe of this talented artist. His experiences, as shared in his interview with GQ, are a testament to the ups and downs that come with being an actor in the industry.


Manny Jacinto, who currently shines as Qimir in “The Acolyte,” didn’t have it easy earlier. He remembers watching “Top Gun: Maverick” for the first time and discovering that many of his lines had been removed during post-production. Featuring Tom Cruise, Miles Teller, and Glen Powell, this film turned into a massive success in 2022, earning the second position at the global box office with an impressive $1.5 billion. Despite contributing to the soaring success of Teller and Powell, Jacinto’s role was significantly reduced in the final version of the blockbuster movie.

In an interview with GQ, Jacinto discussed his experience being passed over for a larger role in “Maverick,” acknowledging that such setbacks are common in Hollywood. Despite this, Jacinto’s dedicated fanbase was surprised by his minimal appearance in “Top Gun: Maverick,” where he played LT Billy “Fritz” Avalone. Though disappointed, Jacinto valued the opportunity to observe and learn from one of the industry’s top actors during filming.

As a fan, I must admit it was gratifying to hear some buzz about the production, but I wasn’t entirely surprised. On set, there was a palpable feeling that the focus would shift towards others, with less attention given to our scenes. Yet, despite this, the experience remained remarkable for me. I got to observe the inner workings of such a massive undertaking, witness Tom Cruise in action up close, and become an integral part of this iconic franchise.

Growing up as a Filipino kid in Canada, I moved here when I was just three. My time on “Maverick” later inspired me deeply, making me long for more representation of diverse backgrounds in Hollywood. Instead of crafting tales solely for Tom Cruise, I aspire to create stories that resonate with Manny Jacinto and others like us. Collaborating with fellow Filipinos, we’re already working on new projects, taking the first steps towards realizing this dream.

“Tom Cruise creates roles that inspire and energize him. As Asian Americans and people of color, we need to take charge and produce the larger stories we desire, instead of waiting for someone else to do it.”

Manny Jacinto Would Love to Work With A24 and Neon

Manny Jacinto Wasn't Shocked by His Reduced Role in Top Gun: MaverickManny Jacinto Wasn't Shocked by His Reduced Role in Top Gun: MaverickManny Jacinto Wasn't Shocked by His Reduced Role in Top Gun: MaverickManny Jacinto Wasn't Shocked by His Reduced Role in Top Gun: Maverick

Starting out in 2013, I made my mark on TV with shows like “Supernatural” and Disney’s “Once Upon a Time.” By the following year, I was gracing the screens of “iZombie,” “Bates Motel,” and “Wayward Pines.” As my acting credits expanded, so did my recognition. In 2016, I landed an unforgettable role on “The Good Place,” starring alongside Kristen Bell and Ted Danson. This opportunity transformed my life.

Despite achieving notable accomplishments so far through “The Good Place” and his role in “The Acolyte,” Jacinto is eager to continue his acting career and has plans for future projects. He’s interested in collaborating with studios like A24 and Neon, known for their recent successes such as “Longlegs.” Additionally, he aims to steer clear of projects that might require extensive editing and instead seek out new opportunities that are more fulfilling for him.

I’m strongly drawn to working on a noteworthy indie film produced by A24 or Neon. I’d be thrilled to join a fresh franchise, be it a comic, manga, or anime, such as Naruto or One Punch Man. Yet, there are still many accomplishments ahead of me.

As Jacinto waits for the opportunity, he will join Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan in “Freaky Friday 2” coming out around 2025. He accepted this part because it represents a significant change from his previous roles.

You can watch “Top Gun: Maverick” on Paramount+, while “The Acolyte” is currently available to stream on Disney+.

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2024-07-18 22:01