Dish Latino subscribers are the first to benefit from the thaw in U.S.-Cuba relations, bringing TV programming from the island to viewers in the 50 states and Puerto Rico.
CUBAMAX TV, a new Miami-based TV channel featuring shows, movies and cultural content imported from Cuba, joined satellite-TV provider DishLATINO's lineup in mid-June.
“Connecting viewers with their heritage and culture is at the heart of the Dish Latino brand promise, and [this] marks an important milestone as we deliver movies and TV shows from Cuba that were previously unavailable,” Dish Latino vice president Alfredo Rodriguez said. “With an estimated 2 million Cubans living in the U.S. and many others eager to learn about the island’s rich culture, we’re excited to provide a window into the arts and entertainment world of Cuba.”
Amarilys Nuñez, director of marketing for CUBAMAX TV, noted that Dish Latino was specifically selected as a launching point for the nascent network.
“We looked for a provider with a nationwide reach and a strong connection to U.S. Hispanic audiences,” she said. “Dish Latino is the perfect fit for our channel launch, and we look forward to growing together as we deliver quality Cuban entertainment.”
Among the programs airing on CUBAMAX TV are Vivir del Cuento, regarded as the most popular television show in Cuba. It features comedian Luis Silva as 80-year-old character “Pánfilo,” who tries to navigate the realities of life in Cuba. The show recently gained additional notoriety when President Obama appeared in a sketch with Pánfilo shortly before his trip to Cuba.
Also airing on CUBAMAX TV is Sonando en Cuba, a singing competition in which artists perform popular Cuban music for a chance to be coached by directors from the most renowned bands, and Al compás del son, a novela centered on the love story of Aurora and Lino, separated by strong social prejudices and circumstances.
CUBAMAX TV will be available to customers of the co-owned Sling Latino OTT platform in the coming weeks.
