“Life continues. And because of that, all I want to say in the end is: ‘Sábado Gigante,’ hasta siempre, buenas noches.” The Don Francisco’s parting words on Saturday September 19, 2015 after spending 53 years on the air as host of Univision’s Sabado Gigante. The show was titled, “Sabado Gigante Hasta Siempre.”
How It Started
For some it’s hard to believe that the variety show Don Francisco (nee Mario Kreutzberger) created is over. The Chilean who fell hard for American TV while studying to be a tailor in New York invented a variety show in 1962. That show became a staple in Latino households across the country for over five decades and throughout the world. At last count it is broadcast in 40 different countries. It had something for everyone from abuelitas to ninos. Melding musical and dance segments with sketch comedy, celeb interviews, audience games and giveaways.
Other folks are saying “adios al final!” They were tired of the frisky Don Francisco and the obvious objectification of women (usually scantily clad co-hostess and contests like “Miss Culito”), lack of racial diversity and crass comedy.
And yet its popularity and impact is undeniable. Two million people across the U.S. tuned into watch original shows every Saturday night. At its peak in rating it was closer to four million people. It was on air for 2,600 consecutive weeks without a single repeat in sight. The Guinness Book of World Records determined it was the longest running weekly variety show in TV history.
Undeniable Impact
The show was also a springboard for entertainers, newsmakers; politics and tragedy. All all shared the same stage. Before that “Latin Explosion” folks love to talk about artists like Ricky Martin and Shakira were launching their careers on the show. Don Francisco was a stop on the campaign trails for folks like George W. Bush and Barack Obama. When the Chilean miners were being rescued Don Francisco was talking about it.
It’s important to note that Kreutzberger is an example of what a media empire can be. Don Francisco, like a true don, owns the rights to the show he created. He shaped its image and brand since its debut in Chile. At a time when so many shows live and die based on the decisions of others, Francisco was always in the drivers’ seat. It’s safe to say that the entertainment giants we know like Emilio Estefan and Robert Rodriguez borrowed a page from Kreutzberger’s playbook.
Need proof? Celebs, entertainers and past guests like Jorge Ramos, Daddy Yankee, Juanes and Enrique Iglesias appeared live (or streamed in) to bid the don adieu. Even President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama sent a recorded goodbye.
Above everything else, Sabado Gigante reminded us all of home in some way. From the over the top gags, the karaoke competitions and the roving segments that Don Francisco filmed in Latin America. It delivered faces and places we needed and wanted to see and hear but couldn’t find on American TV.
That is why millions took three hours out of their Saturday nights to sit and watch with the abuelitas and tios every week. That is why Sabado Gigante will be “hasta siempre.”