DAVID CASTAÑEDA: THE OBSERVER [IN PRINT]
Mexican-American actor, writer, director DAVID CASTAÑEDA stars as Diego Hargeeves, one of the unlikely heroes of the most recent pop-culture phenomenon The Umbrella Academy
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Observation may seem like a passive skill but observation is more involved than anyone may think. When you observe, you consciously pay attention. When you observe, you purposely go above and beyond to sense the smallest of details. When you observe you participate, albeit quietly, as you absorb and learn from what you perceive through your senses. Observations bring revelations. David Castañeda is an observer. An observer knows how to enjoy life and not take it too seriously.
That same vibe is what David Castañeda and his character Diego Hargreeves share in common. It may not be too obvious on the surface but there’s a heightened sense or reckless abandon running through their veins that’s exciting, fun, and relatable in many levels.
There’s something widely appealing about a chaotic, dysfunctional family with super powers and abilities. It’s relatable, especially when they deal with their personal problems and dilemmas. Add to that the uber stylish flair of creators Gerard Way, Steve Blackman and Gabriel Bá to the action-packed scenes, and you got yourself a memorable, timeless hit series.
Diego Hargreeves, the hot-headed hero who can control the trajectory of his knives, placed David Castañeda among the echelon of latinx superheros like Don Diego de la Vega a.k.a. Zorro from 1919 to El Santo and many more throughout Mexican and mainstream history.
Diego’s character evolution has been interesting to watch. From being the masked vigilante member of the academy, to losing his loved ones, to reconnecting with his siblings, busting out some moves (cue I Think We’re Alone Now by Tiffany), to growing out his hair, to his action stunts with Lila (Ritu Arya), to trying his best to be the hero that he thinks he should be and taking care of the impending apocalypse.
Catch David Castañeda Diego Hargreeves in The Umbrella Academy. Season 2 is now streaming on NETFLIX