New Television Program ‘Chat’ Gives Young U.S. Hispanics A Voice @ mun2.
October 19, 2001
As the broadcast of “Chat” begins, the youth topic of the day, “Coming out of the Closet,” flashes across TV screens throughout the U.S. The first viewer calls in to say that he “feels so alone” and once again the provocative discussion begins in this unique show that’s bringing young people together for more than just entertainment. “Chat,” which airs Monday through Friday at 8 PM (ET/PT) on mun2 television, is the first talk show to provide a forum for young U.S. Hispanics. Viewers can join in by calling in and emailing their points of view.
“We wanted to provide our young viewers with a free space where they could exchange ideas and discuss controversial topics honestly, without feeling persecuted or censored,” said Yolanda Foster, Vice President of Programming for mun2 television. “By focusing on the importance of viewers’ interaction and the unique perspectives that the hosts/producers bring, ‘Chat’ has accomplished just that.”
“Chat” is made by young people for young people. The talented and diversified group of five young hosts/producers consists of Dominican- born Ron Lizardo, Mexican-born Karim Mendiburu, Panamanian-born Richie Marchsky, Colombian-born Paola Varela, and Carla Marina Osella from Argentina. Beyond their experience in television production, acting and script-writing, each of these individuals bring to “Chat” different points of view, opposing perspectives and even share their own experiences in a casual and informal setting. During the same show discussed above, Richie announced that he too was gay; while on a recent program regarding breast implants, host Paola spoke freely about her own experience when she herself underwent the surgery.
Since the program also airs on Telemundo Internacional, young people all over Latin America are also joining in for what’s slowly becoming a true global event. “Each day we are amazed at the response that our show has received,” said Ricardo Frias, Executive Producer of “Chat.” “It’s as if everyone is passing the word that there is a new place in television where someone is paying attention, truly listening to what they have to say and allowing them the opportunity to voice their thoughts.”
To join “Chat’s” lively discussion, viewers can simply call (800) 889-7560 or email each individual host at: ro*****@****ra.com; ka*******@***ra.com; ri********@***ra.com; pa*******@***ra.com; or ca*******@***ra.com. Additional information is also available at mun2 television’s website: www.mun2television.com.