In 2015, Mexican drug lord Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán was captured by authorities after years on the run. However, before his arrest, he managed to conduct a secret interview with a famous movie star. This interview has since caused controversy and speculation about the relationship between Hollywood and the drug world.
The Movie Star
The movie star who interviewed El Chapo was none other than Sean Penn. Penn is an American actor, director, and filmmaker famous for his roles in movies like “Mystic River,” “Milk,” and “Dead Man Walking.” He has also been involved in political activism, particularly in regards to social justice issues.
The Interview
The interview took place in October 2015 when El Chapo was still on the run from authorities. It was conducted in a remote location deep within the Mexican jungle. The details of how Penn managed to arrange the meeting are still unclear, but it is believed that he used his connections with Mexican actress Kate del Castillo to set it up.
During the interview, El Chapo spoke candidly about his life as a drug lord and his views on Mexico’s drug war. He even admitted to being responsible for supplying up to 25% of all drugs entering the United States. However, he also claimed that he was not a violent person and that he only engaged in drug trafficking out of necessity.
The Controversy
The publication of the interview caused widespread controversy and criticism. Many accused Penn of glamorizing a dangerous criminal and giving him a platform to spread propaganda. Others criticized him for violating journalistic ethics by not informing authorities about his meeting with El Chapo.
The Mexican government also came under fire for allowing El Chapo to be interviewed while he was still on the run from law enforcement agencies. Some accused them of secretly cooperating with Penn and using him as bait to capture the drug lord.
The Aftermath
Shortly after the interview was published, Mexican authorities were able to track down and capture El Chapo. He was extradited to the United States in 2017 and is currently serving a life sentence in a maximum-security prison.
As for Penn, he defended his decision to conduct the interview, claiming that it was an opportunity to shed light on the drug war and its devastating effects on Mexico. However, he also admitted that he regretted not informing authorities about his meeting with El Chapo.
In conclusion, Sean Penn’s interview with El Chapo remains a controversial moment in Hollywood history. It sparked debates about journalistic ethics, the relationship between celebrities and criminals, and the role of Hollywood in shaping public opinion. Regardless of one’s opinion on the matter, it is clear that this story will continue to fascinate and captivate audiences for years to come.
