TV Azteca 2014 Upfront: Edith González’s ‘Las Bravo’ Presented, Plus New Programming

Azteca América held its annual Upfront presentation in New York this evening and one of the biggest changes is that it's changing its name. The network has decided to drop the "América" and will only be referred to as Azteca. One of the biggest announcements of the night was the presentation of the new telenovela starring Edith Gonzalez, Saúl Lisazo and Mauricio Islas. The three main actors took the stage to premiere a clip of "Las Bravo" that has been shooting in Mexico since February. "Las Bravo" is the story of Valentina Bravo and her three daughters -- wealthy, privileged, and prejudiced women whose sheltered world falls apart with the death of the family's patriarch. Left behind with an exorbitant debt, the four women are forced to push aside their pride and get their hands dirty managing their newly found cash cow -- a strip club for women. Las Bravo must learn to get along with a group of male performers equally desperate for survival. Along the way, Las Bravo will learn independence, find themselves, and discover plenty of opportunities for love.

Other nee programming include "El Club de Los Chistes," a humorous show starring the classic, infallible joke as the main character in a modern and cosmopolitan setting. "It's no secret that Latinos love comedy," said Margarita Black, Vice President of Programming, "El Club del Chiste will be the first step in a new strategy to create several quality comedy franchises." The Spanish-language network also announced the return of Santos to the Azteca's Liga MX lineup and will create a new sports franchise named "Friday Night Futbol." "We're thrilled to have Santos join our already strong lineup of teams and to bring viewers to what will be appointment television for Hispanic soccer fans," said Manuel Abud, President and CEO of Azteca. Returning favorites include "La Academia Kids" that will hold auditions across the U.S. shortly and entertainment shows "Ventaneando," "Venga La Alegria" and "Al Extremo."

Interactivity with the viewers is a key priority for the evolving Azteca and to keep up with the pace they have partnered with a cutting edge digital content producer. Court Stroud, Executive Vice President of Network Sales and Digital, announced a partnership with Youtoo Technologies, the only social TV platform that allows viewers to participate in television programming from virtually any location. "We are very excited to be working with the inspirational team at Azteca to enable interactive programming," said Cary Wyatt, COO for Youtoo Technologies. "We know Azteca and their viewers will be very pleased with our patented products and service." Likewise, Azteca will bring its multi-channel network IrreverenTV to the US with over 168 million YouTube views that features content from established vloggers who act as promoters for a new generation.