Complex reported that legendary filmmaker Spike Lee described Eddie Palmieri’s final on-screen performance in Highest 2 Lowest as “a blessing,” highlighting the profound presence and energy Palmieri brought to the film. The feature, published August 19, 2025, documents Palmieri’s final appearance in Lee’s reinterpretation of Akira Kurosawa’s High and Low, starring Denzel Washington.

Palmieri appears in a pivotal scene set during a Puerto Rican Day Parade sequence in the Bronx, leading his salsa orchestra in a live performance captured on film. According to Lee, the moment was far more than a traditional cameo. “I would not say that’s a cameo, that’s a starring role,” Lee explained, emphasizing Palmieri’s central presence and the authenticity of the live musical performance.

Lee also reflected on Palmieri’s remarkable vitality during production. Despite being in his 80s, Palmieri demonstrated extraordinary energy throughout filming. “He was in his 80s, but he had more energy than me that day. The crowd loved him. It was a blessing,” Lee said.

The sequence, introduced by actors Rosie Perez and Anthony Ramos, connects the film directly to New York’s Puerto Rican cultural heritage. Palmieri’s appearance serves as both a musical and symbolic centerpiece, reinforcing the film’s themes of identity, community, and cultural continuity.

The collaboration marks Palmieri’s final contribution to Lee’s body of work. He had previously contributed music to Lee’s Netflix series She’s Gotta Have It and recorded two original tracks, “Da Lowdown” and “Puerto Rico,” for the Highest 2 Lowest soundtrack.

Palmieri’s involvement in the film extends his legacy beyond the stage and recording studio into cinematic history, reinforcing his influence across artistic disciplines. His presence in the film captures a living representation of New York’s musical and cultural traditions.

Highest 2 Lowest premiered in select theaters on August 15, 2025, and later debuted globally on Apple TV+, introducing Palmieri’s final filmed performance to audiences worldwide.

Source: Bernadette Giacomazzo, “Spike Lee Says Eddie Palmieri's Final Cameo in Highest 2 Lowest Was 'A Blessing',” Complex, August 19, 2025.
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