Cristina Sarnoff
Banijay Mexico & U.S. Hispanic, part of Banijay Americas, is teaming with award-winning actor and TV personality Carlos Ponce and veteran industry executive Cristina Sarnoff to develop "Star Crush," an original unscripted series with Ponce set to host. The announcement was made today by Marie Leguizamo, Managing Director of Banijay Mexico & U.S. Hispanic.
Banijay Mexico & U.S. Hispanic and Ponce & Sarnoff LLC are currently developing "Star Crush" for both Latin American and U.S. Hispanic markets, with plans to present the series to the marketplace later this year. It is a bold and engaging game show that brings devoted fans face-to-face with their celebrity crushes for a chance at a once-in-a-lifetime date — and possibly more. In each episode, one charismatic celebrity meets three superfans, each competing for the ultimate prize: a dream date with their Star Crush. Creator-producer of "Star Crush," Ponce will host the show as well as serve as executive producer, anchoring the energy and charm of each episode.
Marie Leguizamo praised their partners: “Since we launched Banijay Mexico & U.S. Hispanic, I’ve wanted to find a way to work and develop projects together with both Carlos Ponce and Cristina Sarnoff, and 'Star Crush' is the perfect series for us to do so. “We believe 'Star Crush' will resonate deeply with a new generation of viewers, as it blends humor, romance, and celebrity in a way that we’ve never seen before in the unscripted space," commented.
Meanwhile, Sarnoff understands the show as a cultural celebration: 'Star Crush' is more than a show — it’s a celebration of multicultural identity, connection, and joy. Partnering with Banijay Mexico & U.S. Hispanic and Carlos Ponce allows us to center Latino talent and stories in a way that feels fresh, elevated, and authentically ours, where brands are excited to join forces," expressed.
Finally, Ponce believes the show is a strong representation of identity: “I’m proud to join forces with Cristina and Marie on a series that’s vibrant, fun, and rooted in cultural pride. 'Star Crush' is exactly the kind of engaging and joyful storytelling our audiences crave. Together, we’re creating entertainment that reflects who we are and where we’re headed," noted.
Since its launch in 2022, Banijay Mexico & U.S. Hispanic has delivered some of the most successful unscripted series in the region, including the hit franchise "LOL: Last One Laughing" for Prime Video in Mexico, Argentina, and Colombia. The company was also instrumental in adapting the global reality format "Temptation Island" for Latin America, establishing regional production hubs in Mexico, Brazil, and Argentina/Chile. Other highlights include two seasons of the comedy competition series "Jalas o te Rajas," starring El Escorpión Dorado and Facundo for Prime Video.
Founded earlier this year, Sarnoff’s Sarnoff Media Co. is the brainchild of former Warner Bros. Discovery executive Cristina D. Sarnoff, a pioneer in multicultural entertainment and branded content. The company focuses on creating original content for global and multicultural audiences, partnering with major talent and strategic advertisers.