Jimmy Smits Joins Cast of Netflix-Baz Luhrmann Series "The Get Down"

Jimmy Smits, shown at right, has been cast in the role of Francisco Cruz (aka "Papa Fuerte") in the upcoming Netflix series "The Get Down" (created by filmmaker Baz Luhrmann). The series, which takes place in the 1970s South Bronx during the birth of hip hop, was recently criticized for a lack of Latino representation in the main cast (African Americans and Latinos were both present for the creation of hip hop). 

Luhrman commented on the casting by saying, "The Puerto Rican culture of the ’70’s Bronx plays such a large role in the story we are telling that the character of Papa Fuerte had to be played by an actor who could bring experience, gravitas and authenticity to the role. I know our entire cast is excited to have someone of Jimmy’s talent joining us on the journey we are undertaking. We are thrilled to have him on 'The Get Down'."

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