MIAMI - Telemundo's response to the tumultuous drama engulfing the fourth season of its flagship show La Casa de los Famosos (LCDLF4) was carefully crafted, reflecting both concern and determination.
Amidst the storm of allegations swirling around their reality TV property -with Thalí García saying she was "kidnapped" and "drugged" by the show- the network's executives released a statement that seems to balance the need for damage control with the imperative of upholding their commitment to transparency and accountability.
The NBC Universal network was answering the Mexican actress' allegations, made during an Instagram live session.
Telemundo's response to Thalí García's words
"The security and welfare of our talent are of paramount importance to us," said a Telemundo spokesperson through a statement sent to the Latin Times in the wake of the controversy. "We take any allegations of misconduct seriously and are conducting a thorough investigation into the matter."
The accusations made by García, a once-beloved actress and reality TV star, sent shockwaves through the industry. Her claims of coercion, manipulation, and even drugging during her time on LCDLF 4 cast a dark shadow over the network's flagship program.
The allegations against La Casa de los Famosos
"I didn't sign up for this reality show to become famous or seek exposure," the actress declared in a candid Instagram Live session, her voice trembling with emotion. "I did it out of necessity, as my husband was unjustly fired from his job. We needed the work, and we trusted that after years of dedication, we would be taken care of."
"The doctor inside medicates you, suggests taking anxiety pills, and hands out medications without even opening them in front of you," she revealed, recounting her ordeal in LCDLF4 . "There was a day, which Lupillo [Rivera] can confirm when he's out, that I'm sure they drugged me."
García also said that there is an in-house psychologist who allegedly "lied" to her about the wellbeing of her family.
A very controversial reality TV show
Thalí García revelations don't stand alone. Former contestants like Celia Lora, Niurka Marcos, Gaby Spanic, Arturo Carmona, and Ivonne Montero have openly criticized Telemundo's practices in the past, hinting at a pattern of mistreatment behind the scenes.
The show has long been a cornerstone of Telemundo's programming, captivating audiences with its blend of drama, intrigue, and celebrity personalities. The reality show, known for its high stakes and intense competition, followed a group of famous individuals as they lived together under one roof, navigating challenges and alliances in pursuit of fame and a final cash award of $200,000.
The fourth season, currently being broadcast from the Endemol Boomdog Studios in Mexico City, has been particularly controversial. Two contestants, Colombian actor Gregorio Pernía (Sin senos sí hay paraíso), and García (El Señor de los Cielos) herself, left the house voluntarily. Venezuelan reality TV star Carlos Gómez was expelled for using physical force against another contestant.
There have been serious fights, sex on air, and health scares. This week, four more contestants will enter LCDLF4. Two will be revealed this Wednesday, another one on Thursday, and the last one on Sunday.
Lupillo Rivera, Maripily Rivera, Pedro 'La Divaza' Figueira, José Reyes 'La Melaza', Alana Literas, Ariadna Gutiérrez, Clovis Ninow, La Bronca, Alfredo Adame, Cristina Porta, Guty Carrera, Rodrigo Romeh and Aleska Génesis, are the original contestants still playing.
Fernando Lozada, Sophie Durand, Mariana González, Leslie Gallardo, Christian Estrada and Robbie Mora have been eliminated.
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