Award-Winning Writer-Performer Discusses What It's Like Being Latino In Hollywood

STUDIO CITY (CBSLA.com) — A skilled writer, performer and producer, with a long list of Hollywood credentials, Rick Najera knows that it's not only tough to make it in Hollywood, but especially difficult when you're a racial minority.

Najera visited KCAL9 Studios Saturday to discuss his new memoir, "Almost White: Forced Confessions of a Latino in Hollywood," which explores what it means to be Latino and a Hollywood creative.

Born in San Diego, with roots in Mexico, Najera's journey presents universal lessons from a range of characters both real and imagined. He hopes his story will help others confront the limits placed on their imaginations and the need to take ownership of their own life stories.

Najera has worked for more than 20 years in the entertainment industry, garnering two Writers Guild Award nominations for his work on the critically-acclaimed show "Mad Men." He's served as director of the CBS Diversity Comedy Showcase for nine years and has performed on Broadway. Najera has penned four books, and has been named among "100 Most Influential Latinos in America" by Hispanic Business and listed in "50 Most Creatives In Hollywood" by Variety.

For more on Najera visit www.ricknajera.com.