Jesse Garcia on the Wild Cheetos Story That Inspired Eva Longoria’s ‘Flamin Hot’

Everything has a story, including Flamin’ Hot Cheetos. In fact, the story behind the person who claims to have invented the flavor, Richard Montañez, was so good it warranted a film. “We worked very hard to make sure that it was entertaining as well as telling Richard’s story,” Jesse Garcia, who plays Montañez in the new Eva Longoria-directed film ‘Flamin’ Hot’ (June 9), told Newsweek’s H. Alan Scott. “When I first got the script, I knew the part was mine.” That’s because Garcia connected to Montañez’s story on a personal level. “He’s Mexican American, he came from not much money, which I didn’t either.... It’s the same story a lot of us have.” On the surface, the story is about the addictive spicy flavor. “It’s like Mexican food. You get just the right amount of heat where people can’t stop eating.” But at its core it’s a “universal” story. “It doesn’t matter where you’re from, or who you are, everyone can find something they can relate to.” And Garcia feels there needs to be more stories like this told. “We just need more opportunities. There’s still a battle, but I’m enjoying the ride.”  Visit Newsweek.com to learn more about the podcasts we offer and to catch up on the latest news. While you’re there, subscribe to Newsweek’s ‘For the Culture newsletter. Follow H. Alan Scott on everything at @HAlanScott.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.