John Leguizamo Says To Wong Foo Deserved More Love and Recognition
John Leguizamo has opened up about his disappointment over the reception of To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar, saying the 1995 comedy deserved greater appreciation for its impact and performances.
Actor and comedian John Leguizamo believes his iconic film To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar did not receive the recognition it deserved when it was released nearly three decades ago.
Speaking in a recent interview, the 66-year-old actor reflected on the 1995 road comedy-drama directed by Beeban Kidron and praised the effort behind the movie’s groundbreaking portrayal of drag culture.
Leguizamo explained that the film was overshadowed by The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, which arrived in theaters before To Wong Foo and captured significant attention at the time.
The actor revealed that the team behind To Wong Foo originally hoped to release the movie earlier but had to adjust the schedule because co-star Wesley Snipes had other commitments.
Leguizamo said there was limited space in Hollywood at the time for films featuring drag queen characters, making it difficult for both projects to receive equal recognition.
The movie starred Leguizamo alongside Patrick Swayze and Wesley Snipes. He praised his co-stars and said they approached their roles with dedication and respect.
According to Leguizamo, the cast worked closely with drag consultants to ensure their performances were authentic. He specifically credited his coach Laritza Dumas for helping him develop the character and accent.
The actor said the experience was meaningful and that the team worked hard to bring depth and dignity to their characters rather than treating them as stereotypes.
Released on September 8, 1995, To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar became a memorable part of 1990s cinema and gained a loyal following over the years.
Although John Leguizamo feels the film was overlooked during its initial release, its cultural influence continues to be recognized by audiences today.
The actor’s comments highlight the lasting impact of a movie that pushed boundaries and remains celebrated by fans decades later.