It was such a pleasure to have the opportunity to meet the cast of Cristela on the set of their new show (airing on ABC Friday, October 10 8:30/7:30c). The show explores Cristela Alonzo’s real life experiences as well as her professional experiences. Some of these encounters involve cultural stereotypes that have made her cringe. On her show she has the opportunity to explore some of these perceptions that people have about Latinos in general. The show is not intended to be about the cultural life of an average Latino, rather it is about relatable life experiences that anyone of any background can connect with.
Speaking candidly Cristela shared some of her life story with us. Similarly to her character she quit college to help take care of her family and her mom who was ill at the time. In real life she is a comedian – her character is a law student. In real life her mom was ill — on the set Cristela has paid tribute to her real life mother (who is now passed on) by placing photos of her throughout her character’s home.
Despite the pilot not getting picked at first, she was determined to keep pushing forward. Her reasoning is, if someone can work 3 jobs and still have the stamina to care for a family then she has no time for excuses to stop trying. Even now with an impacted schedule, (before taping the show she takes part in writing the script in the wee hours of the morning, then she goes to make-up and wardrobe, then tapes the show, then she goes back to assist in editing the script) she just keeps pushing forward each day.
Just like many “latchkey kids” she watched a lot of television. However, television shows back then had story lines that explored real life struggles and made her dream. “Nowadays we don’t have shows that inspire you to do what you want”, shared Cristela. She wants her audience to be inspired to dream. Just listening to Cristela made me realize that the only boundaries that exist are the ones we accept.
I love her story and this show! It is heartwarming, family friendly, funny that will attract all audiences whether they are Latino or not. Watch for it this Friday!
About the show: Cristela’s dream of becoming a lawyer is something her traditional Mexican-American family doesn’t quite understand. She’s entering her sixth year of law school after juggling home obligations and working multiple jobs to pay her way.
Starring: Cristela Alonzo | Carlos Ponce | Maria Canals-Barrera | Terri Hoyos | Andrew Leeds | Sam McMurray
