Celebrating Queer Strength: Mexican Wrestling's Exóticos Shine in New Film
Mexican wrestling, known as lucha libre, has a thriving LGBTQ+ community of flamboyant wrestlers called exóticos. These wrestlers, who wear extravagant outfits and makeup, have gained recognition and respect in the sport. The release of the film "Cassandro," starring Gael García Bernal as one of the trailblazing exóticos, has brought attention to this unique aspect of Mexican cultural life. Exóticos have been part of lucha libre for almost a century, but it wasn't until the 80s that they began to openly express their homosexuality. Today, openly gay and transgender wrestlers are common in lucha libre, making it one of the most inclusive sports in Mexico.