Live from Telemundo’s upfront, it’s Marcello Hernández
Telemundo planned to take its upfront to the “Next Level” in 2024, touting tentpole sports events and scripted content. But it’s also taking things up a notch in terms of its upfront entertainment. In past years, the company showcased big-name musical guests, but for its event from The Shed in New York last week, Telemundo decided to double down with two major talents. First, the company kicked things off with Saturday Night Live star Marcello Hernández, who performed a set talking about his upbringing in Miami, as well as the importance of the Hispanic audience. In addition to Hernández, urbano and reggaeton singer Manuel Turizo—a musician who has collaborated with Shakira, Marshmello, Sebastián Yatra, Ozuna and Beéle—served as a musical guest. And, of course, there was a third major talent, which was the nonstop appetizer trays. — Bill Bradley
Amazon’s ‘Blonde’ moment with Reese Witherspoon
Amazon’s first foray into the TV upfront was a splashy, star-studded affair, more in line with traditional network presentations than the tech-focused NewFronts world it came from. Despite trotting out more than one-dozen celebrities from its slate of shows and movies, the 90-minute presentation kept its schedule relatively tight after a late start at Pier 36 in New York. Alicia Keys’ kickoff performance was a highlight, as was the news that Legally Blonde’s Elle Woods is getting a prequel series—announced at the very end of the presentation when Bruiser (Elle’s chihuahua) and a pink-clad Reese Witherspoon returned to the stage. — Kathryn Lundstrom