The Cisco Kid Was a Breakthrough for Hispanic TV Stars
Until The Cisco Kid appeared on America’s screens, there had been no regular Hispanic actors in any lead role on TV. Many people think that Desi Arnaz Sr. was the first, but I Love Lucy didn’t air until a year after The Cisco Kid‘s first episode.
It is fair to say that the portrayal of Pancho didn’t necessarily put Hispanics in the best light, as much of the show’s humor revolved around Carrillo’s misuse of the English language. Safe to say it’s unlikely that a similar tactic would be used on TV shows today.
