The presence of the actress in this Hollywood production was celebrated by the Latin American community because, fortunately, it is far from the typical stereotypes usually linked to violence or drug trafficking.

The film, classified as a biographical drama, is called "Father Stu" and stars the Mexican actress Teresa Ruiz, the American Mark Wahlberg and the Australian-American Mel Gibson.

“Father Stu” is based on a true story and tells the story of boxer turned priest Stuart Long in the 1990s.

Wahlberg will play the role of Stuart, Gibson will be his father; while Ruiz will be Carmen, a young Chicana who will play a vital role in the main character’s life. 

"In the film, Mexican culture is celebrated a lot, not in terms of religion, but of these values ​​that we have such as respect, honor, the importance of having a family, which are qualities that we are very good at," said the Mexican actress in an interview with El Universal in 2021.

About “Father Stu”

When an injury ends Stuart Long's amateur boxing career, he decides to move to Los Angeles and starts working as a clerk in a supermarket. There he meets the young Carmen, a teacher who is totally immune to Long's charms. “Determined to win her over, the lifelong agnostic starts going to church to impress her. But surviving a horrific motorcycle accident leaves him wondering if he can use his second chance to help others find their way, leading him to realize that he is destined to be a Catholic priest. Despite a devastating health crisis and skepticism from Church officials and his estranged parents, Stu pursues his calling by inspiring those closest to him and many others”, the synopsis says.

The script of the feature film has been in charge of the American Rosalind Ross, who also debuts as a director in this production. Mark Wahlberg, Stephen Levinson, and Jordon Foss have served as producers.

“Father Stu” will premiere in United States theaters on April 13.

About Teresa Ruiz

Ruiz, 33, was born in Oaxaca. Throughout her career, she has acted in television series and movies. Among them: “Luis Miguel. The series”, “Narcos: Mexico”, “The Delivery”, “Marcelino, bread and wine”, “Cantinflas”, and other productions. In addition to being an actress, she is a film producer.