William Levy’s Production Company Signs Production Deal with TelevisaUnivision’s Streamer ViX

Posted on May 14, 2024 by Tom Castaneda

William Levy has a new production deal…

Following the 43-year-old Cuban actor and telenovela star’s acclaimed role in ViX‘s Montecristo last year, the TelevisaUnivision streamer has signed Secuoya Studios and William Levy Entertainment to a production deal.

Together, the companies will develop two new projects – the series, Arcadia (w/t) and the film, Bajo Un Volcán (w/t) – both starring Levy, who will serve as an also executive produce.

Arcadia (w/t) tells the story of Pablo (Levy), a man who flees due to a broken heart and a violent past. Under a false identity, he starts a new life with his son in Arcadia, an idyllic town in the Canary Islands. Bajo Un Volcán (w/t), follows an ill-timed and forbidden love happening amid a natural catastrophe. Both projects are set to start production later in the year.

“I am thrilled to be teaming up with Secuoya and ViX again on two outstanding projects that I believe our audiences will love as much as I do. I can´t wait to return to Spain to start production”, Levy shares in a statement to Deadline.

“Following the success of Montecristo in 2023, we are excited to renew our collaboration with Secuoya Studios and the talented William Levy, bringing our growing audience two compelling productions that will enhance our content offering with powerful narratives and visuals that will resonate with our subscribers,” shared Augusto Rovegno, Senior Vice President of Content of ViX at TelevisaUnivision.

Levy began his career in the Spanish-language market where he quickly catapulted to one of the most sought-after talents where he remains today. He expanded his reach with U.S. audiences in the 2000s with roles in Tyler Perry’s The Single Moms Club, Girls Trip opposite Queen Latifah and Jada Pinkett-Smith, Resident Evil: The Final Chapter and most notably on the small screen as a regular in Lee Daniels’ Star from Fox.

“We are delighted to renew our magnificent relationship with ViX. Thanks to this agreement we will work together on two of Secuoya Studios’ most ambitious 2024 projects. Having William Levy again, in his dual role as protagonist and executive producer, in Arcadia and Under a Volcano, his first film in Spain, demonstrates the excellent professional harmony that was established in the development of Montecristo, the series that captivated audiences last year,” stated Sergio Pizzolante, Commercial & Distribution President, Secuoya Studios.

William Levy to Star in Pantaya’s Dramatic Thriller “Montecristo”

Posted on January 13, 2022 by Tom Castaneda

William Levy is ready to thrill…

The 41-year-old Cuban actor and former telenovela star will be leading the cast of the newly announced dramatic thriller Montecristo, from Pantaya and Secuoya Studios.

Levy’s new series is set in Havana, Madrid, and Miami.

Based on Alexandre Dumas’ The Count of Monte Cristo, the series tells the story of Alejandro Montecristo (Levy), an enigmatic figure who bursts into the public eye and raises concerns amongst the world’s elite because of the mysterious origins of his fortune.

He’s the founder and CEO of a new technology company that has incited the envy and interest of many, among those is Fernando Alvarez Mondego – a businessman connected to the Spanish aristocracy who wants to acquire the Montecristo startup. What Fernando doesn’t know is that Montecristo is someone he knew decades ago and the reason for his emergence is fueled purely by revenge.

“I’ve been drawn to the story of The Count of Montecristo since my youth,” Levy tells Deadline in an exclusive statement. “He’s a mysterious figure driven in his pursuit of justice and vengeance, which are powerful themes that resonate universally. I am so thrilled to be partnering with Secuoya Studios and Pantaya to bring this story to life in a way that has never been seen before.”

“Montecristo is our newest modernized premium classic series,” adds Mario Almeida, Head of Content for Pantaya. “This story of vengeance and passion has unforgettable characters at its core, and the new take on this timeless story is brilliantly conceived. We feel there is no better partnership to serve revenge coldly.”

Levy began his career in the Spanish-language market where he quickly rose to become to one of the most sought out talents where he remains today. He expanded his reach with U.S. audiences in the 2000s with roles in Tyler Perry’s The Single Moms Club, Girls Trip opposite Queen Latifah and Jada Pinkett-Smith, and Resident Evil: The Final Chapter; and most notably on the small screen as a regular in Lee Daniels’ Star.

“We are extremely proud in our multiple project slate with Pantaya and William, they both are an integral part of our expansion plan in the Americas and the world,” said David Martinez, head of fiction, and Sergio Pizzolante, head of the U.S. and Latin America from Secuoya Studios, respectively.

The television adaptation is written by Lidia Fraga and Jacobo Díaz and will be directed by Alberto Ruiz-Rojo. The series is produced by David Martinez and executive produced by Secuoya Studios and Sergio Pizzolante. Levy and his producing partner Jeff Goldberg will also serve as executive producers.

The series will premiere on Pantaya in the U.S. and Puerto Rico.

Facebook Watch Renews Gloria Estefan’s Interview Series “Red Table Talk: The Estefans”

Posted on January 27, 2021 by Tom Castaneda

Gloria Estefan isn’t leaving the (red) table anytime soon…

The 63-year-old Cuban singer-songwriter, producer, actress and entrepreneur’s Red Table Talk: The Estefans, a spin-off of Jada Pinkett Smith’s interview series, has been renewed for an additional 12 episodes.

Facebook Watch has ordered the supersized order after the first season debuted in October 2020.

The series is hosted by Grammy winner Estefan, her daughter and rising musician Emily Estefan and El Gordo y La Flaca host Lili Estefan.

New episodes will debut later this year on Facebook Watch and will highlight the three generations of women, as they come together with family, celebrity guests and experts.

The first season featured discussions with Michelle Rodriguez, Rosie O’Donnell, the family of Vanessa Guillén, Kate del Castillo and Lele Pons.

Red Table Talk: The Estefans is produced by Westbrook Studios with Pinkett Smith, Estefan, Ellen Rakieten and Miguel Melendez serving as executive producers.

“We’ve missed you, Red Table Talk: The Estefans fans and can’t wait to see you again. Taking on the iconic Red Table has been an immense privilege and enlightening journey for myself, Emily, and Lili,” said Gloria. “We look forward to continued exploration, growth, and healing in our upcoming episodes – and with my red gavel, much more than the ‘rhythm’ is gonna get you.”

Red Table Talk creator and executive producer Pinkett Smith added, “It’s been an honor to work with Gloria and her family on a project that means so much to all of us. By inviting us into their lives, with such honest and vulnerable conversations, the Estefans have touched the hearts of people everywhere, shining the light on topics that aren’t traditionally discussed in the Hispanic community. We are looking forward to the new episodes of Red Table Talk: The Estefans. We hope you will join The Estefans and the entire Red Table Talk community as we continue the journey of healing with important, honest conversations that hopefully will inspire understanding, unity and encouragement all over the world.”

Mina Lefevre, Head of Development & Programming, Facebook Watch said, “Each episode of the Estefans has been truly impactful, and Gloria, Emily and Lili have opened up the Red Table to a whole new audience. The Estefans tackled complex issues with vulnerability, awareness, and poise that truly resonated with our audience. I’m looking forward to seeing what they bring to the Red Table in 2021.”

Gloria Estefan Launches New Talk Series “Red Table Talk: The Estefans”

Posted on October 8, 2020 by Tom Castaneda

Gloria Estefan is seeing red…

The 63-year-old Cuban superstar has launched her own Red Table Talk, a spinoff of Jada Pinkett Smith’s hit Facebook Watch show, with her daughter and niece.

Gloria Estefan, her daughter Emily Estefan and niece Lili Estefan, representing three different generations, took center stage at the Red Table Talk: The Estefans, which premiered on October 7.

“I’ve been pitched many times to do a talk show before but because I knew it would be a rough schedule, it would be impossible,” says Gloria, who takes on the role of mediator in the conversations. “But I was immediately jazzed about the idea because it involves spending time with family, which I love.”

The idea about a spinoff was pitched to Gloria two years ago when she was already a fan of Pinkett Smith’s Red Table Talk. After proposing the idea to her daughter, rising singer-songwriter and producer Emily, and Lili, host of Univision‘s El Gordo Y La Flaca, they immediately said yes.

“When I actually watched the show for the first time after Gloria told me about it, I thought, ‘what did I get myself into it? Did I answer too quickly?,'” says Lili who brings a 20-plus years of talk show experience to the table.

Meanwhile, Emily is the passionate voice of the Millennial youth. “You should never be forced to share things you don’t want to share,” she says. “If you’re a good person and you’re brave and put it on the table (no pun intended), only beautiful things can come from that.”

Red Table Talk: The Estefans is an eight-episode series with a new installment airing every Wednesday at 12:00 pm ET. Featured guests include Rosie O’Donnell, Kate del Castillo, Michelle Rodríguez and Gloria Guillen, mother of slain Fort Hood soldier Vanessa Guillen.

HBO Latino’s “Habla Now,” Featuring Diane Guerrero, to Kick-Off the New York Latino Film Festival’s First-Ever Drive-In Showings

Posted on September 6, 2020 by Tom Castaneda

Diane Guerrero’s hitting the festival circuit…

The New York Latino Film Festival (NYLFF) has announced the lineup for the fest’s forthcoming hybrid edition, with HBO Latino’s Habla Now, featuring the 34-year-old Colombian American actress and author, as the Opening Night drive-in feature.

The documentary special, the 15th installment of HBO Latino’s award-winning “Habla” series, features testimonials from US Latinos – celebrities, recognized professionals, and everyday Latinos – who share honest stories about being Latino in the U.S.

In addition to Guerrero, the storytellers include Arturo Castro, Nely Galan, Amara La Negra, Cristina Jimenez, Ozzie Areu, Xiuhtezcatl Martinez, Edgardo Miranda Rodriguez, Mark Hugo Lopez, Mariana Atencio, Laurie Hernandez, Justina Machado, Diane Guerrero, Carmen Carrera, José Andrés and many more.

In addition, Angel Manuel Soto’s Charm City Kings will have its New York premiere at the fest.

Produced by Will Smith, Jada Pinkett Smith and James Lassiter, with a story by Oscar winner Barry Jenkins, Charm City Kings marks the feature directorial debut follows the journey of 14-year-old Mouse who desperately wants to join the Midnight Clique, an infamous group of Baltimore dirt-bike riders who rule the summertime streets.

John Leguizamo’s Critical Thinkingwill also make its New York premiere. The film tells the true story of five Latinx and Black teenagers from Miami Jackson Senior High School who fight their way into the National Chess Championship under the guidance of their unconventional but inspirational teacher.

This year’s virtual NYLFF will take place from September 14-20.

In the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, festivals around the world have either canceled or pivoted to an entirely virtual program. NYLFF is one of the Latinx-based fests that continued with plans for the annual fest with the appropriate changes.

The 21st edition will be a combination of virtual events and in-person screenings that celebrate Latinx creators.

The fest will also host the first Latino drive-in experience to take place both in New York and in The Bronx.

This year’s festival features nearly 75 films representing more than 10 countries, spanning all genres including features, shorts, documentaries, web series and experimental films.

“Inspired by the resilience of the Latino community, NYLFF is proud to return with a fresh format featuring our first-ever drive-in experiences,” said Calixto Chinchilla, founder of NYLFF. “We are proud to serve as an important platform for Latino creatives to share culturally relevant stories about intersectionality, diversity, and lived experiences in this country. Gracias to our sponsors for continuing to support our community of content creators and movie-goers. While there’s much learned this year, one thing we can all agree, the culture continues!”

Click here the complete lineup for this year’s NYLFF.

Gloria Estefan to Host Facebook Watch’s Special “Red Table Talk” Offshoot

Posted on January 24, 2020 by Tom Castaneda

Gloria Estefanis headed to the red table…

The 62-year-old Cuban singer will be at the center of Facebook Watch’s expanded Red Table Talk show.

The online platformhas given the green light for the second installment of the Jada Pinkett Smithand Westbrook Studiosproduced Daytime Emmy-nominated talk show.

Set in Miami, Red Table Talk: The Estefans, features music icon Estefan, her daughter and rising musician Emily Estefan and her niece and Daytime Emmy-winning TV host Lili Estefan.

Like the mothership program, the offshoot will feature the three women of different generations discussing social and personal issues with family, celebrity guests and experts. Pinkett Smith and Gloria Estefan will both serve as executive producers.

“I’m incredibly proud of Red Table Talk, and thrilled to build upon this franchise with my family and with Gloria, Emily and Lili,” said Pinkett Smith. “Red Table Talk has created a space to have open, honest and healing conversations around social and topical issues, and what’s most powerful for me is hearing people’s stories and engaging with our fans in such a tangible way on the Facebook Watch platform. I’m excited to see the Estefans put their spin on the franchise and take it to new places.”

“I’m incredibly excited to carry the Red Table Talk torch with my family in Miami,” said Gloria (on behalf of Gloria, Emily & Lili). “Jada and I have spoken about this a lot and feel my daughter, niece and I can tackle issues important to us and our fans with a new and fresh voice. Jada has done this incredibly and continues to do with her family in their candid, intimate, and groundbreaking conversations at the iconic Red Table.”

Eréndira Ibarra to Star Opposite Keanu Reeves in “The Matrix 4”

Posted on January 19, 2020 by Tom Castaneda

Eréndira Ibarra is enterting the matrix…

The 34-year-old Mexican actress will be reuniting with Sense8 co-creator Lana Wachowski in the Warner Bros./Village Roadshow sequel The Matrix 4, which is expected to begin filming this year.

Ibarra will be joining franchise returnees Keanu Reeves (Neo), Carrie-Anne Moss(Trinity), and Jada Pinkett Smith(Niobe) as well as newcomers Jessica Henwick, Neil Patrick Harris, Toby Onwumere, and Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, who is rumored to be playing young Morpheus. Henwick is buzzed to play a female Neo-like character.

Wachowski will direct and co-write the screenplay with Aleksandar Hemon and David Mitchell. Wachowski is producing with Grant Hill, who executive produced Matrix Reloaded and Matrix Revolutions. The Matrixtrilogy has grossed more than $1.6 billion at the worldwide box office.

Ibarra joined the first and second seasons of Netflix’s Sense8 in the role of Daniela Velázquez.

She also starred in the Kate del Castillo Netflix series Ingobernable and the Amazon Prime series El Candidato. She studied at the artistic studio in Casa Azul.

Warner Bros. Releases Teaser for Rodriguez’s Male Stripper Drama Sequel “Magic Mike XXL”

Posted on February 5, 2015 by Tom Castaneda

Adam Rodriguez is ready to pound the flesh… or at least expose it… once again…

Warner Bros. has released a new teaser trailer for Magic Mike XXL, featuring the return of the 39-year-old Puerto Rican/Cuban-American actor and CSI: Miami alum.

The film is the highly anticipated follow-up to 2012’s male strip club drama. In addition to Rodriguez, who returns as Tito, Magic Mike XXL sees the return of Channing Tatum, Matt Bomer, Joe Manganiello and Kevin Nash.

New cast members include Elizabeth Banks, Stephen “tWitch” Boss, Donald Glover, Amber Heard, Andie MacDowell, Jada Pinkett Smith and Michael Strahan, plus others.

Gregory Jacobs directs the film, taking the reigns from Steven Soderbergh.

Matthew McConaughey, Olivia Munn and Alex Pettyfer will not be returning.

The trailer has already garnered 2.7 million views on YouTube since its release.

Magic Mike XXL hits theaters on July 1.

Cartagena Upped to Series Regular on Fox’s Batman Prequel “Gotham”

Posted on May 12, 2014 by Tom Castaneda

Victoria Cartagena is officially a full-time a Gotham girl…

After guest-starring in the pilot,the Latina theater and television actress has been promoted to series regular on Fox’s Batman prequel Gotham.

Fox’s Broadcast Chairman Kevin Reilly gives high praise to the drama, predicting it will be “this season’s biggest and noisiest hit.”

Based on DC Comics characters from the Batman universe, the hour-long drama series explores the origin stories of Commissioner James Gordon (portrayed by Ben McKenzie) as an idealistic rookie detective in Gotham City, along with Bruce Wayne and the villains who made Gotham City famous.

Cartagena portrays a detective Renee Montoya in the major crimes unit of the Gotham Police Department. In the comic books, is initially a police detective from theGotham City Police Department, assigned to the Major Crimes Unit who comes into frequent contact with the maskedvigilante, Batman. Over the course of her comic book history, Renee is outed as a lesbian, and later resigns from the police force, disgusted by its corruption. After being trained by the first man to bear the name, Montoya has operated as the Question out of a lighthouse she shares with Aristotle Rodor on the Outer Banks of North Carolina.

Gotham also stars Donal Logue, Jada Pinkett Smith, Zabryna Guevara, Sean Pertwee, Robin Lord Taylor, Erin Richards, David Mazouz and Camren Bicondova.

Fox has picked up the Batman prequel series for a full season this fall.

Levy to Star Opposite Jada Pinkett-Smith in “Salsa”

Posted on May 7, 2013 by Tom Castaneda

Sure, he competed on Dancing with the Stars… But this time William Levy will be dancing with a star.

The 32-year-old Cuban American actor and telenovela star has signed on to co-star opposite Jada Pinkett-Smith in Salsa, which the actress will also produce.

Levy, the star of the popular telenovela Triunfo del Amor, will portray Pinkett-Smith’s salsa teacher in the film that tells the story of a woman at a turning point in her life. Through the dance of salsa she begins to get her life back on track.

Pinkett-Smith and Miguel Melendez will produce for Overbrook Entertainment, with production set to begin in the first quarter of 2014.

Levy recently wrapped two Lionsgate films: Addicted and Tyler Perry’s Single Moms Club. He’s currently shooting the remake of La Tormenta–called La Tempestad–for Univision.

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