NYF Radio Awards Content POV takes a closer look at the creative world of content developement with award-winning Telemundo executive, Sergio Mendoza.
2023 NYF Radio Awards Grand Jury member Sergio Mendoza is VP of Scripted Development at Telemundo Global Studios. He has extensive experience in TV Series and Telenovelas and his body of work includes drama, action, and thriller .Since 2021, Sergio has held the role of Vice President of scripted development at Telemundo Global Studio, where his skills as a Literary advisor and drama supervisor are committed throughout the entire writing process. Working closely with the writers, he provides the necessary support to create new shows, focusing on the programming strategy and content development.
Sergio is the co-creator of “Falsa Identidad”, and recently wrote in ¨Mariposa de Barrio¨ an original production for Telemundo Studios that includes an International Emmy nomination (Non-English Language U.S Primetime Program). He has supervised the writing process of “La Suerte de Loli” (International Emmy Nominated), “Betty in New York”, “Buscando a Frida” (International Emmy winner), “Pasion de Gavilanes 2” among other titles.
New York Festivals TV & Film Awards: As Vice President of scripted development at Telemundo Global Studio, you work closely with writers throughout the entire creative process. How important is character for storytelling and programming strategy?
Sergio Mendoza: Characters are our main vehicle to connect with audiences. Today more than ever, with all the offers and variety of stories waiting to be watched, identification and empathy for characters are decisive factors in investing your time in a show.
Additionally, characters have the power (and the duty) to represent all of us on the screen, giving visibility and voice to those who, unfortunately, currently in our society, may not have it. For many, fictional characters are the eyes through which we know the world.
New York Festivals TV & Film Awards:You have had extensive experience in series and telenovelas including co-creating “Falsa Identidad” and supervising the writing process of “La Suerte de Loli” (International Emmy Nominated), “Betty in New York”, “Buscando a Frida” (International Emmy winner), and “Pasion de Gavilanes 2” among others. Could you share the backstory of some of these great Telemundo hit series?
Sergio Mendoza: Behind "La Suerte de Loli" was the firm conviction of telling a modern-day story about a woman with freedom of choice, making decisions about her body, her love, and her professional life.
The same was the case with “Betty en NY”. However, Betty comes from an original story by Colombian writer Fernando Gaitán, and our adaptation aimed to vindicate inner beauty.
New York Festivals TV & Film Awards: What new programs are coming soon?
Sergio Mendoza: This year we are back with the eighth season of “El Señor de Los Cielos” after almost three years of absence. The franchise's most beloved characters return with action, drama, and plenty of surprises.