Netflix to Release Vadhir Derbez’s “Yo No Soy Mendoza” Series in Latin America

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Vadhir Derbez’s latest project is expanding across Latin America. 

Netflix has snapped up Yo No Soy Mendoza, starring the 34-year-old Mexican actor, for Latin America.

Vadhir Derbez, Yo No Soy Mendoza, Laura Londoño The humorous drama is the last original story from Fernando Gaitán, the late Colombian screenwriter and producer who created some of the most popular telenovelas, including Yo Soy Betty, La Fea.

The Sony-produced and distributed series is set in Mexico City.

It turns on the story of Julian Garcia, an unassuming debt collector whose life takes a shocking turn when he is kidnapped and forced to assume the identity of a wealthy businessman with a dangerous past.

The synopsis elaborates: Thrust into a world of luxury and deadly secrets, Julian must navigate Mendoza’s complicated life, including a forced marriage to Laura Santander and the powerful enemies who want him dead.

Derbez plays the dual roles of Garcia and Mendoza. Laura Londoño stars as Laura.

Gaitán had inked a development deal with Sony shortly before he suffered a fatal heart attack in 2019. He created scores of shows including Yo Soy Betty, La Fea, which aired in 180 territories and was adapted in numerous markets, including the U.S.

Yo No Soy Mendoza is made by Sony Pictures Television, which also handles international sales and cut the Netflix deal. The streamer has acquired the series and will play it across its LatAm footprint.

“With its blend of drama, humor, and intricate storytelling, Yo No Soy Mendoza is poised to captivate audiences and pay tribute to Gaitán’s enduring legacy in television,” said John Rossiter, EVP, Distribution, Networks & Production, Latin America, SPT. “We can’t wait for viewers throughout the region to get to know these unforgettable characters.”

Alejandro Garcia executive produces Yo No Soy Mendoza alongside Carlos Quintanilla Sakar who is also creative director. It’s developed by Miguel García Moreno, Mariana Palos, Alejandra Rodriguez, Luis Gamboa and Celia Kim.

Disney Branded Television Renews Selena Gomez’s “Wizards Beyond Waverly Place” for Second Season

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There are more days of wizardry in Selena Gomez’s future….

Wizards Beyond Waverly Place, guest-starring and executive produced by the 32-year-old Mexican American actress/singer, has been renewed for a second season.

Selena Gomez, Wizards Beyond Waverly PlacePer Disney Branded Television, the new season will go into production in Los Angeles in April.

The news comes about a month after the Season 1 finale on February 28.

“I’m overwhelmed by all the love for the series and ready to keep serving this new generation of ‘Wizards’ fans with more Russo magic, while continuing to deliver a big warm hug to the original fan! So many surprises in store for this second season,” executive producer and series star David Henrie said in a statement. “It’s going to be big, so stay tuned!”

Wizards Beyond Waverly Place follows an adult Justin Russo, who has chosen to lead a normal, mortal life with his family, Giada, Roman and Milo. When Justin’s sister Alex brings Billie to his home seeking help, Justin realizes he must dust off his magical skills to mentor the wizard-in-training while also juggling his everyday responsibilities — and safeguarding the future of the Wizard World.

The first episode became Disney Channel‘s most-watched series premiere ever on Disney+ with 3.2M global views in the first 12 days.

In addition to Henrie, Wizards Beyond Waverly Place stars Janice LeAnn Brown (as Billie), Alkaio Thiele (as Roman Russo), Max Matenko (as Milo Russo), Taylor Cora (as Winter) and Mimi Gianopulos (as Giada Russo).

Jed Elinoff and Scott Thomas serve as writers and executive producers, along with executive producers Gary Marsh, Jonas Agin, Gomez and Henrie.

Wizards of Waverly Place was created by Todd Greenwald.

Jake Cannavale Starring in the Romantic Comedy “F*ck Valentine’s Day”

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Jake Cannavale is bringing the comedy for Valentine’s Day.

The 29-year-old part-Cuban American actor has joined the cast of the romantic comedy F*ck Valentines Day, which is filming in Malta.

Jake Cannavale,Cannavale is among a roster of new cast additions that includes Skylar Astin, Sabrina Bartlett, Natasha Leggero and Lil Rel Howery.

They join Marisa Tomei and Virginia Gardner in the ensemble cast.

From writer Steve Bencich and director Mark Gantt, the film follows Gina (Gardner), born on the most celebrated day of love, Valentine’s Day, which she detests immensely. She is determined to stop her boyfriend from popping the question on a birthday getaway in Greece, home of her vivacious mother (Tomei). Enlisting fellow vacationers, the handsome Johnny Giovinazzo and his brassy sister Mickey, Gina hopes to delay the proposal, leading Gina to discover that she just might be with the wrong guy.

Producers are Nancy Leopardi of Indy Entertainment, John Ierardi and Bo Youngblood of Showdown Productions and Michael Cassutt. 

Danielle Gasher serves as executive producer along with Phil Shaltz, Natalie Marciano, Batia Parnass and casting directors Arlie Day and Mike Page.

Cannavale, the son of Bobby Cannavale, previously starred in Eat Brains Love and Inside Man.

Eugenio Lopez-Chacarra Wins Indian Open to Claim First European Tour Title

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Eugenio Lopez-Chacarra is celebrating his first European tour title…

The 25-year-old Spanish golfer and former LIV Golf player overcame a slow start to win the Indian Open for his first European tour title on Sunday.

Eugenio Lopez-ChacarraLopez-Chacarra shot a 1-under 71 in the final round to finish at 4 under and clinch the victory in his ninth tournament on the European tour.

He ended up two shots ahead of Keita Nakajima, who shot an even-par 72 in the final round.

Lopez-Chacarra, who was playing on a tournament invitation, won in his fifth LIV start but was left off the Fireballs roster for the 2025 season by fellow Spaniard Sergio Garcia.

“I’m very grateful for that opportunity,” he said, thanking organizers for the invitation. “You guys probably changed my life from today so thanks for that.”

Lopez-Chacarra came into the final round at the DLF Golf and Country Club with a one-shot lead but started with a double bogey on the first hole and a bogey on the third to go back to level-par for the week. He bounced back with five birdies in nine holes to retake the lead, which he kept despite a bogey on the 17th.

“It was a tough day, we knew it was going to be a long day with a lot of pressure and obviously not having the start I really wanted to,” he said. “I know when I play my best I’m one of the best players in the world, I’ve already proved that a million times.”

Shakira Breaking Records in Mexico with “Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran” World Tour

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Shakira is celebrating a historic sweet sixteen in Mexico…

The 48-year-old Colombian Grammy-winning singer, songwriter, dancer and philanthropist continues breaking records in Mexico, where she’ll perform five additional shows as part of her Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran world tour.

Shakira

Tha includes two dates at the Estadio GNP Seguros in the capital city on August 29 and 30, the latter announced on Friday (March 28) by the promoter OCESA.

Shakira will reach the historic milestone of eight performances at the venue (previously known as Foro Sol) over two separate phases of her tour. The feat surpasses shows by other international icons such as Paul McCartney, Metallica, Coldplay and Taylor Swift.

With this new show, Shakira brings the total number of dates on her first world stadium tour to 16 in the Latin American country.

“Shakira continues to make history in Mexico! Due to high demand, another date of the Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour has been added at the GNP Seguros Stadium,” OCESA said in a statement.

Pre-sale for Banamex cardholders began Friday at 1:20 p.m. (local time), one day before the general sale.

Kali Uchis Releases New Single “Sunshine & Rain”

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Kali Uchis is embracing the sunshine and rain…

The 30-year-old Colombian American Grammy-winning singer-songwriter has released “Sunshine & Rain,” the first single from her upcoming album, Sincerely.

Kali UchisAs she steps into motherhood, “Sunshine & Rain…” marks both artistic growth and a new chapter in her life since becoming a mother.

“This record is about embracing a life of enjoyment despite the world or your circumstances,” says Kali on the meaning behind the track. “An existential piece focusing on the vulnerability and romanticism of life.”

Her new album will be released on May 9.

Uchis was featured on Kaytranada‘s 2019 single “10%“, which won Best Dance/Electronic Recording at the 63rd Annual Grammy Awards.

Jessie Reyez Releases Highly Anticipated New Album “Paid in Memories”

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Jessie Reyez is makin’ new memories…

The 33-year-old Colombian singer, who was born and raised in Canada, has released her long–awaited album Paid in Memories.

Jessie ReyezThe album includes collaborations with Lil’ Wayne, Lil Yatchy, Ari Lennox, Miguel, Big Sean, 6lack, and Deyaz.

“My relationship with success has been a little convoluted for a long time. I was scared of it when I first got started in the industry.  It was an ongoing joke that I would give away a lot of my hits because I write a lot of music for other people as well. To be honest, maybe they were right. But the operative word here is WERE. I’ve done un-packing; some of it has to do with being the underdog for too long, another has to do with not having been born rich and almost feeling like all of the success that I’ve been lucky enough to have feels like a jacket that was too tight. But I’ve been in the gym, I’ve been growing my biceps, I’ve been becoming more familiar with feeling at home. I’m reaping the fruits from the seeds I buried years ago. And I’ve been lucky enough that my success has not just come materially. I’ve been really fortunate that along with the heartbreak, I’ve had beautiful love stories. Along with people that I’ve lost along the way, I’ve had people that stuck it out with me. I’ve been paid in more ways than one, and luckily, I’ve been well paid in memories,” she said in a press release.

Known for her fearless and vulnerable lyrics, Reyez has an instantly recognizable voice that’s truly her own.

No longer reducing her aesthetic to chase success, she’s now writing about her experiences with heightened vulnerability and ultimately producing the best songs of her career.

“NYB,” “BEGGIN 4 LUV” and the 6lack team-up “6LESSINGS” are immediate highlights.

Yoan Moncada Among Record 26 Cuban Players on MLB’s Opening Day Rosters

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Yoan Moncada is officially part of part of Major League Baseball Opening Day history.

The 29-year-old Cuban professional baseball third baseman made his Los Angeles Angels debut at his former home, Rate Field, drawing a walk in his only plate appearance during the opening game.

Yoan MoncadaIn the process, Moncada helped his native Cuba make MLB history, with a record 26 players on MLB‘s Opening Day rosters.

Cuba’s total topped its previous high of 23 in 2016, 2017 and 2022.

In all the percentage of Opening Day players born outside the 50 states remained at 27.8%, matching its lowest level since 2016.

There were 265 players from 18 nations and territories outside of the 50 states among 954 players on Opening Day active rosters and injured, restricted and inactive lists, the commissioner’s office said Friday.

The Dominican Republic led countries outside the U.S. with 100, down from 108 last year and 110 in 2020.

Venezuela was second at 63, followed by Cuba (26), Puerto Rico (16), Canada (13), Japan (12), Mexico (11), Curacao and Panama (four), South Korea (three), Aruba, Australia and Colombia (two) and Bahamas, Brazil, Germany, Honduras, Nicaragua and South Africa (one apiece).

Philadelphia Phillies‘ Jesús Luzardo was listed as “miscellaneous.” Born in Peru, he’s of Venezuelan descent.

The Houston Astros and San Diego Padres topped teams with 16 international players each, with the Astros having a share of the lead for the fifth straight season

They were followed by the Atlanta Braves (14), the New York Mets (13) and the Baltimore Orioles and Miami Marlins (12 each).

Daniel Zovatto Signs with Gersh for Representation

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Daniel Zovatto has new representation…

The 33-year-old Costa Rican actor has officially signed with Gersh.

Daniel ZovattoZovatto can most recently be seen starring opposite Anna Kendrick in her directorial debut, Woman of ther Hour, for Netflix.

He was also recently seen in The Pope’s Exorcist opposite Russell Crowe from director Julius Avery.

Zovatto can be seen as “The Prophet” in the HBO Max series Station Eleven, directed by Hiro Murai.

He’s currently filming Bear Country from director Derrick Borte opposite Crowe and Aaron Paul.

Zovatto is also now wrapped on Famous from Jody Hill for A24 alongside a cast including Zac Efron, Phoebe Dynevor and Nicholas Braun. He also recently wrapped Catherine Hardwicke’s next feature, Street Smart, in which he also serves as an executive producer.

Other past credits include playing lead in John Logan’s Showtime series Penny Dreadful: City of Angels.

Prior to that, he shot the lead in Cameron Van Hoy’s indie Flinch with Tilda Cobham-Hervey. Zovatto can also be seen starring in Alan Ball’s series Here and Now on HBO. Other credits include Heavy, opposite Sophie Turner, Fede Alvarez’s Don’t Breathe and David Robert Mitchell’s It Follows.

His additional credits include Greta Gerwig’s Lady Bird and Drake Doremus’ Newness.

Pedro Almodóvar to Receive Chaplin Award from Film at Lincoln Center

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Pedro Almodóvar has been selected to receive a special award…

The 75-year-old Spanish two-time Oscar-winning film director, screenwriter and author, who has had a decades-long relationship with the New York Film Festival, will receive a lifetime honor from its presenting organization next month.

Pedro AlmodóvarThe 50th annual Chaplin Award will be presented to the filmmaker on April 28 at Lincoln Center’s Alice Tully Hall.

Presenters who will pay tribute to him at the gala event include performer and artistic director Mikhail Baryshnikov; actress Rossy de Palma (the honoree’s longtime muse); pop star Dua Lipa; actor John Turturro; and filmmaker John Waters.

The Chaplin Award Gala is Film at Lincoln Center’s primary annual fundraising event. Proceeds benefit the nonprofit’s programs, including film series, educational initiatives, and marquee events like the New York Film Festival and New Directors/New Films.

The list of previous Chaplin recipients includes Jeff Bridges, Viola Davis, Robert De Niro, Barbara Streisand, Sidney Poitier, Michael Caine, Audrey Hepburn, Robert Altman, Billy Wilder and Elizabeth Taylor.

Almodóvar has had 15 films selected to screen at the New York Film Festival, including Oscar winners All About My Mother and Talk to Her.

His relationship with FLC began with when New Directors/New Films (a spring fest, on the opposite end of the calendar from NYFF in the fall) featured What Have I Done to Deserve This? in 1985 and Law of Desire in 1987.

He made his NYFF debut in 1988 with Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown, which was that year’s Opening Night selection.

Other selections include Centerpiece films Bad Education, Volver and The Room Next Door; and Closing Night films Live Flesh, Talk to Her, Broken Embraces, and Parallel Mothers.