After working in Havana and Hollywood, Negrete was called to act in "¡Ay Jalisco, No Te Rajes!" ("Hey Jalisco, Don’t Back Down!") which made him an international Latin star and helped formulate the "charro" film genre. During filming he met Gloria Marín, starting their romance and the string of films they filmed together. He complemented his film career by singing rancheras with the trio Los Tres Calaveras and touring Latin America, singing at concerts and making personal appearances. He was offered the main role in "El Peñón de las Ánimas" ("The Rock of Souls") and wanted Marín to be his co-star. In spite of his protests, newcomer María Félix became his star and eventually his wife, although they at first despised each other while filming.