Raoul Trujillo

Raoul Max Trujillo, born May 8, 1955, has a diversified career as an American actor, dancer, choreographer, and theater director. He started his career soloing with the Nikolais Dance Theatre, and later became instrumental as the original choreographer and co-director for the American Indian Dance Theatre. His substance in the film, television, and theatre industry spans over four and a half decades. In addition to his artistic career, Trujillo has also hosted several dancing programs and was nominated for the prestigious Critics' Choice Award. He achieved fame with his striking role as Zero Wolf in Mel Gibson's Apocalypto, a ruthless Mayan slave catcher. Also, he's renowned for his role as the Iroquois chief Kiotsaeton in the film Black Robe. The-list films like The New World, Cowboys and Aliens, Riddick, Blood Father, Sicario, and its sequel Sicario: Day of the Soldado are also part of his acting portfolio. His recent work includes the role of Che 'Taza' Romero in the television series Mayans M.C.

Trujillo kicked off his career in the theater as a scenic painter before landing his first job as an actor/dancer in a production of Equus in 1977. Having started his dancing career in Los Angeles in 1978, he trained with the Toronto Dance Theatre and Nikolais/Louis Dance Lab with scholarships. He later joined Nikolais Dance Theatre as a touring member. After leaving the company, he started his solo work incorporating shamanic ceremonials, native myths, and legends. In the late 80s, Trujillo transitioned into screen acting with over 107 film and television credits, including choreographing the dances, ceremonies, and rituals for Terrence Malick's The New World.