Spy Kids: Armageddon has been released on Netflix, but the question remains: does series regular Danny Trejo reprise his role as Machete? This 2023 Netflix movie marks the first installment in the Spy Kids franchise in 12 years, following 2011’s Spy Kids: All the Time in the World. Consequently, this release introduces a completely new family and a fresh set of mischievous yet ingenious spy kids. However, this shift raises questions regarding the return of any original characters, considering that Spy Kids: Armageddon exists within the same cinematic universe as the preceding four movies.
Regrettably, the original Spy Kids cast members Alexa Vega and Daryl Sabara are notably absent from the Spy Kids: Armageddon lineup. Moreover, Antonio Banderas, Carla Gugino, and Alan Cumming, who played significant roles in the earlier movies, are not even making small cameo appearances in this latest installment. However, there was a hope that Danny Trejo might reprise his role as Machete, given his longstanding collaboration with director Robert Rodriguez. Trejo had previously returned as Machete in the 2011 film, even when Banderas, Gugino, and Cumming did not. Machete, a stoic gadget inventor and a caring uncle, is a pivotal character in the Spy Kids franchise and should ideally make an appearance in Spy Kids: Armageddon.
Unfortunately, Trejo does not reprise his role as Machete in Spy Kids: Armageddon. The character is Juni and Carmen’s uncle, so realistically, it wouldn’t make much sense for him to return without the original Spy Kids. However, even though the character’s absence aligns with the movie’s narrative, it doesn’t lessen the disappointment. Trejo could have at least made a cameo appearance in some capacity. Nonetheless, considering Spy Kids: Armageddon introduces an entirely new cast, Rodriguez probably aimed to narrate a completely distinct story or initiate a reboot series with a clean slate.
Trejo and Rodriguez are longstanding collaborators with a history of working together on various films, including Desperado, From Dusk Till Dawn, the Spy Kids franchise, Once Upon a Time in Mexico, and the Machete series. Hence, it is somewhat surprising that Trejo didn’t reprise his role for the 2023 Spy Kids movie. However, despite not collaborating since 2013’s Machete Kills, there remains a possibility for Trejo to make a comeback in a future installment of Spy Kids. If Spy Kids: Armageddon gains popularity on Netflix, a sequel is likely to be approved. Considering the fan demand for the original characters, Netflix might heed this feedback and reintroduce Machete.
However, there’s also a possibility of Machete making a comeback in a different manner. In 2010, Rodriguez directed the R-rated Spy Kids spinoff, “Machete,” featuring Trejo in the titular role. Three years later, they joined forces for an even more ambitious and audacious sequel, “Machete Kills.” Towards the end of this sequel, a mock trailer for “Machete Kills in Space” was showcased, sparking anticipation among the audience. Since then, fans have eagerly awaited the production of “Machete Kills in Space.” Considering Rodriguez’s decision to revive Spy Kids with “Spy Kids: Armageddon” after a 12-year hiatus, there’s no reason to believe that he couldn’t revisit the Machete franchise a decade later as well.
Danny Trejo’s character Machete is a central figure in Robert Rodriguez’s filmography. Machete, portrayed by Trejo, is an iconic character known for his toughness, skills, and distinct personality. He made his debut in the Spy Kids films as Uncle Machete, providing a playful and action-packed dynamic to the storyline. The character’s popularity grew, leading to two standalone Machete films, “Machete” and “Machete Kills,” where Trejo played the titular character, showcasing his formidable skills with blades and engaging in thrilling, often humorous, adventures.
Machete is a symbol of resilience and justice, blending action with a touch of humor. Danny Trejo’s portrayal adds depth and charisma to the character, making Machete an unforgettable and beloved presence in the cinematic world. Fans of the Spy Kids and Machete series continue to anticipate the potential return of this iconic character, hoping for more action-packed adventures in the future.