Latine Immigrant Representation Drops to 25% Across Scripted TV: Industry ‘Cannot Rely on a Few Programs to Represent the Whole’

Updated 25 June 2026 8:33 AM

{"title":"Latine Immigrant Representation on TV Falls to 23% – A New Low in Storytelling","excerpt":"A recent study shows that Latine immigrants now make up only 23% of immigrant characters on scripted television, a sharp decline from 50% in 2020. The findings highlight a growing gap between the demographic reality of the U.S. and its on‑screen portrayal.","body_html":"<p>For the first time in a decade, Latine immigrants are under‑represented on U.S. scripted television. A new report by Define American, in partnership with USC’s Norman Lear Center, found that only 23% of immigrant characters in 80 episodes of 62 series aired between July 2023 and June 2025 were Latine. This is a steep drop from the 50% share recorded in 2020, even though Latine people account for 44% of all immigrants in the country.</p>n<h2>How the Study Was Conducted</h2>n<p>The <strong>"Change the Narrative, Change the World"</strong> report examined 201 immigrant characters across a wide range of shows. The sample included mainstream dramas, comedies, and procedural series, ensuring a broad view of the industry’s output during the two‑year period.</p>n<h2>Key Findings</h2>n<ul>n<li>Latine immigrants represent 23% of all immigrant characters on scripted TV.</li>n<li>In 2020, the share was 50%, showing a 27‑percentage‑point decline.</li>n<li>Latine immigrants make up 44% of the U.S. immigrant population.</li>n<li>The FBI franchise, including <em>FBI</em> and <em>FBI: Most Wanted</em>, contributed a large portion of Latine immigrant roles.</li>n<li>Without the FBI shows, the proportion of Latine characters would be even lower.</li>n<li>Shows such as <em>Mo</em>, <em>Deli Boys</em>, and <em>Bob Hearts Abishola</em> are cited as benchmarks for nuanced representation.</li>n</ul>n<h2>Why the Numbers Matter</h2>n<p>Television shapes public perception. When a demographic is under‑represented, it can reinforce stereotypes or render entire communities invisible. The current gap suggests that the industry is not keeping pace with the evolving cultural landscape of America.</p>n<h2>Industry Response</h2>n<p>While the report does not include direct quotes, it highlights that some networks and creators are aware of the shortfall. The cited shows have been praised for their depth and authenticity, indicating that quality representation is possible when intentional effort is made.</p>n<h2>Implications for the Future</h2>n<p>1. <strong>Audience Demand</strong> – Viewers increasingly seek diverse narratives. A lack of representation may alienate a large segment of the audience.</p>n<p>2. <strong>Talent Pipeline</strong> – Fewer roles for Latine actors can limit career growth and reduce opportunities for fresh storytelling.</p>n<p>3. <strong>Policy and Advocacy</strong> – The findings could inform industry guidelines and encourage networks to adopt more inclusive hiring practices.</p>n<h2>What Needs to Change?</h2>n<ul>n<li>Expand the number of shows that feature Latine immigrant stories beyond a handful of franchises.</li>n<li>Invest in writers, directors, and producers from diverse backgrounds to bring authenticity.</li>n<li>

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