Manuel Abud Azteca America
Azteca America unveiled its 2018-2019 programming line-up at its annual Upfront presentation at The Times Center in New York City.
Headlining this year’s presentation is a strong programming slate with new original series, including a reality show with a format twist, updated findings from a recent Nielsen study, a network-wide initiative celebrating the many contributions of Hispanic women in the U.S., and the return of the Miss Universe competition to the network.
In addition, HC2 Network revealed it will be expanding its channel lineup with the launch of AZ Corazón, a 24/7 telenovela channel.
The announcements were made by Azteca America executives Manuel Abud, president, and Chief Executive Officer; Craig Geller, EVP, Network Sales, Digital and Marketing; and Margarita Black, VP of Programming.
The executive team was joined by popular network talent Rafael Mercadante, and Penélope Menchaca, whose return to Spanish-language U.S. television also was announced this evening.
Azteca America enters this Upfront season on the heels of a recent acquisition by HC2 Network Inc., which significantly strengthens Azteca America’s industry position, providing expanded distribution and scale across its linear and digital channels. Azteca America continues to have access to TV Azteca’s current programming and library in Mexico.
“This is an exciting time for Azteca America as we take the network to the next stage with the backing and support of our new parent company, HC2 Holdings Inc. Azteca America’s deep understanding of the Hispanic media landscape and unparalleled content pipeline, coupled with HC2’s commitment to broadcast television in the U.S., places us in a unique position to become a greater competitive force in the marketplace. This dynamic partnership and collaboration expand Azteca America’s broadcasting and distribution footprint to better serve our viewers, reaching a broader spectrum of U.S. Hispanics across our linear and digital channels,” said Abud.
“Today’s consumer is in complete control and to find success, we must look beyond GRPs to cultural relevancy and provide content and environments across all screens to connect with and engage viewers. We are strategic risk-takers, and we are heading into the new season establishing collaborative new partnerships between programming and sales. By creating new content to capture the hearts and minds of our valuable audience, we are able to deliver to our clients deeper audience engagement, allowing them to gain a bigger return on their investment,” added Geller.
Manuel Abud named president and Chief Executive Officer of Azteca America
