Univision Rebrands Deportes Network, Unveils 2019-20 Slate

Univision Communications Inc. has revealed its 2019-20 programming lineup, as well as its move to rebrand Univision Deportes as TUDN and launch the streaming service TUDNxtra.

Through a collaboration with Grupo Televisa, TUDN will introduce new programming, talent and enhanced production capabilities and will continue to deliver more live soccer than any other U.S. outfit. When TUDNxtra is introduced later this year it will offer access to even more live soccer matches in conjunction with its distribution partners at no extra cost. Further, Univision has extended its partnership with the Mexican National Team through 2022. It also has rights to the 2019 CONCACAF Gold Cup, Euro 2020, Liga MX, UEFA Champions League, the U.S. men’s and women’s national teams, MLS and more.

In addition to sports, Univision’s live programming slate includes all-new unscripted programs like Enamorándonos (Love is Calling), which will air on UniMás. Competition shows Mira Quién Baila (Look Who’s Dancing), Pequeños Gigantes (Little Giants), Reto 4 Elementos and a reimagined edition of Reina de la Canción (Queen of Song) will air on the network, as will live event programs such as Premio Lo Nuestro, Premios Juventud and the 2019 Latin Grammy Awards.

Univision’s scripted portfolio for the 2019-20 season features new titles like Jezabel (Jezebel), Cita a Ciegas (Blind Date) and El Dragón (The Dragon); and the return of Televisa’s Rubí, La Usurpadora (The Usurper), Cuna de Lobos (Den of Wolves) and El Maleficio (The Evil One), among others.

As for news, Univision’s investment includes the launch of Noticiero Univision Edición Nocturna, a new network newscast on UniMás with Enrique Acevedo and Patricia Janiot.

Vince Sadusky, CEO of Univision, said: “U.S. growth is being driven by Hispanics and Univision is the undisputed leader in Hispanic media and marketing. Our brand is more powerful and relevant than ever before as we serve the Hispanic community of 62 million strong, delivering the best in sports, news and information, entertainment and live events across all of our media platforms.”

Steve Mandala, president of advertising sales and marketing at Univision, added: “Univision is the gateway to reaching Hispanic consumers. Our reach and expertise provide a direct connection to America’s growth engine, speaking to them in-language and in-culture, reinforcing the power of our brand. No other media company delivers the end-to-end capabilities for engaging Hispanics, at scale and with impact, like Univision.”