TELEMUNDO announced today that Angélica Celaya, Samadhi Zendejas and Gabriel Porras will star in the true story of La Diva de la Banda, JENNI RIVERA: MARIPOSA DE BARRIO. This inspiring and moving series will trace Jenni Rivera's path to fame, giving an account of her LIFE STORY based on her autobiography, "Unbreakable," and testimony from family offering a new glimpse into her life as daughter, mother, wife, lover and artist. Written by Rossana Negrin, "Jenni Rivera: Mariposa de Barrio" will give viewers their first chance ever to get to know the real woman behind the music, exploring the human aspect of this icon of the Regional Mexican genre.
"We are very proud to produce and develop this series about Jenni Rivera, showcasing some of the important milestones in her life. We are certain it will serve as a source of inspiration, optimism, success and empowerment for Hispanic audiences in this country," remarked Luis Silberwasser, President of TELEMUNDO. "In addition to a stellar cast, the stories and experiences shared by Rivera's own family were crucial to making this series. With it,
Telemundo reaffirms its commitment to creating high-quality biographical series that offer viewers the true stories of their favorite icons."
In "Jenni Rivera: Mariposa de Barrio," three actresses will play the singer at different points in her life. The multifaceted and acclaimed Angélica Celaya will play the adult Rivera. Celaya is a Mexican-American actress whose career includes successful productions in both English and Spanish, among them "Constantine," "Dallas," "Castle," "Criminal Minds: Beyond Borders," "El Señor de los Cielos" and "Alguien Te Mira."
Samadhi Zendejas will play Rivera as a young adult, during one of the most difficult periods in the diva's life. An up-and-coming actress and singer, Zendejas is a young actress and singer who has participated in a number of series and telenovelas, including "Atrévete a Soñar," "Esperanza del Corazón," "Un Camino Hacia el Destino" and "Mujeres Asesinas."
Rivera's childhood will be portrayed by Regina Orquín, a child actress born in the United States but raised in Mexico. She has appeared in single-episode programs and telenovelas such as "Amores Verdaderos," "Libre para Amar," "Yo No Creo en los Hombres" and "Antes Muerta que Lichita."
Jenni Rivera's father, the singer and producer Pedro Rivera, will be played by
Telemundo veteran Gabriel Porras. The renowned Mexican leading man, one of the most versatile Hispanic actors in television, theater and film, will play Don Pedro in his adult years opposite Celaya.
"We feel blessed to be working with
Telemundo on this story honoring the life of my sister, Jenni," said Rosie Rivera, President of Jenni Rivera Enterprises. "Our partnership with the network has allowed us to be involved in every aspect of the series and to contribute details and recommendations that only we, her family could."
In addition to the lead cast, the production features a talented supporting cast that includes Rosalinda Rodríguez, who will portray Doña Rosa; Stephanie Arcila as Rosie Rivera; Marcela Alcaraz, in the role of Chiquis; and Uriel del Toro, who will bring to life the role of Juan Rivera in their adult stages.
Jenni Rivera was a singer, songwriter, producer, entrepreneur and single mother of five. Despite numerous difficulties and tragedies, she worked tirelessly to achieve success for her family. She was loved and admired by millions for her strength and determination, and, especially, her honesty. Her life was cut short by a tragic airplane accident on December 9, 2012.
Also participating in the production is Pepe Gámez, Adrián Carbajal, Kevin Cabrera, Julio Ocampo, Adriana Bermúdez, Braulio Hernández, Enrique Montaño, Emmanuel Morales, John Díaz, Adriano Zendejas, Anyel Maldonado, Noah Rico, Nicholas Forero, Xavier Ruvalcaba, Raúl Sandoval, Martin Fajardo, Mauricio Novoa, Orlyana Rondón, Luz del Sol Padula, Ana Wolfermann, Maya Idarraga, Paola Real, Dariana Fustes, Fabiana Lion, Samantha López, Kelaine Hernández, Tony Garza, Christopher Millán, Ricardo Kleinbaum, Argelia García and
PALOMA Márquez, among others.
