Bruno Madrigal

Bruno Madrigal is a fictional character who appears in Walt Disney Animation Studios' animated film Encanto (2021). He was created by directors Byron Howard and Jared Bush and is voiced by Colombian-American actor John Leguizamo. Bruno is the ostracised uncle of Mirabel Madrigal and has the ability to see the future. Much of the character's design, including his green ruana, was inspired by traditional Colombian culture. Bruno's name was chosen by songwriter Lin-Manuel Miranda as it was the best fit for the rhythm of the song "We Don't Talk About Bruno", in which family members and townsfolk share gossip and anecdotes explaining why they fear Bruno's prophecies. Initially introduced only from the other characters' perspectives within the verses of the song, Bruno appears later in the plot when Mirabel finds him secretly living in the walls of the family house with the rats. He helps her to save the magic in the house and eventually reconciles with the family. Following the release of the film, Bruno achieved viral popularity on social media. Leguizamo has also received praise from critics for his humorous and tragic portrayal of the character. Therapists have theorised that Bruno may be neurodivergent or have a mental illness. Critical analysis of the Madrigals' neglect and demonisation of Bruno has raised discussions about how families treat members with mental illness and resolve issues around intergenerational trauma.