Telemundo Signs Multi-Year Agreement with Media Icon Mario Kreutzberger

Telemundo announced today it signed a multi-year agreement with international media icon Mario Kreutzberger, better known for his stage name "Don Francisco." The unprecedented agreement includes the creation of a joint production company to develop and produce original content and formats for Hispanics in the United States and audiences around the world, across multiple platforms. In addition, having interviewed numerous world leaders during his more than 53-year long career - including Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama - Kreutzberger will bring his expertise to Telemundo Network News as a special senior news correspondent leading a series of high profile interviews.

"Mario is the most recognized face of Spanish-language media around the world," said Cesar Conde, Chairman, NBCUniversal Telemundo Enterprises and NBCUniversal International Group. "We are extremely proud that he has chosen to join the Telemundo family. His numerous contributions to our community, endless expertise in innovative television entertainment and unique ability to engage world leaders reinforce our commitment to continue transforming the media landscape."

Creator and host of "Sábado Gigante" (Giant Saturday), the longest running TV variety show in the world according to Guinness World Records, Kreutzberger is also a beloved international humanitarian. Born in Chile, Kreutzberger launched the show in 1962 on Chile's Canal 13 where it became an instant success that has lasted 53 years, broadcasting in over 42 countries throughout the United States, Latin America and Europe. "Sábado Gigante" ended its broadcast cycle in September 2015.

Kreutzberger added: "I am extremely happy with this opportunity NBCUniversal Telemundo Enterprises is giving me. Telemundo network has experienced tremendous growth thanks to its clear vision and steadfast commitment to the Hispanic community. It is an honor for me to join this great international media company, which will allow me to develop new projects, and most importantly, stay connected to my loyal audience that has always been at my side."

Kreutzberger's impact has extended beyond the small screen, through his admirable contributions towards the welfare of children. Since its founding in 1978, he has been at the helm of the "TELETON Chile," an annual telethon that has raised nearly $500 million and has resulted in the construction of 13 hospitals where over 91,000 disabled children have been treated. For his work on behalf of children, the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) named him Ambassador for the organization. In 1998, Kreutzberger founded ORITEL (International Organization of Telethons), the governing organization for the telethons of Chile, Mexico, Colombia, El Salvador, Peru, United States, Guatemala, Honduras, Uruguay, Paraguay, Nicaragua, and Puerto Rico. He currently serves as Chairman of ORITEL. In addition, in 2001, he became Vice President of the Muscular Dystrophy Association in the United States.

Kreutzberger has received numerous industry recognitions from public and private institutions in the United States and Latin America. He has been inducted into the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences Hall of Fame; honored on the Hollywood Walk of Fame; featured in the "Museum of Television and Radio" and received a special Emmy Award as "Leader of Spanish Language Television."

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