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Created and hosted by Chile-born Don Francisco since 1962, "Sabado
Gigante," or "Giant Saturday," is the No. 1 rated show on
Saturday night among U.S. Hispanics and is the longest running
TV variety show in the world, according to Guinness World
Records.
With its mix of humor, talent contests, family reunions,
celebrities and musical acts packed into a frenetically paced
three-hour program, "Sabado Gigante" has been a staple of
television throughout Latin America, as well as an object of
scorn for intellectuals and comedians.
The last show will run on Sept. 19 this year and Don Francisco,
whose real name is Mario Kreutzberger, will host entertainment
specials and help develop on-air talent at the Miami-based
network, which took on "Sabado Gigante" 30 years ago.
No reason was given for the decision to end the show, which is
broadcast in more than 40 countries.
Perhaps like no other variety show, the "Sabado Gigante" formula
held up to the passing of time and changes in the media
landscape.
"From the start we made sure to ask, 'What does the audience
want?'" the 74-year-old Kreutzberger said in a statement. "And
we have worked tirelessly for precisely that audience, with the
utmost dedication, humility and deep respect."
(Reporting by Mary Milliken; Editing by Steve Orlofsky)
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