A scripted drama inspired by the true-to-life story of Sonora, Mexico, native Dasahev López Saavedra, known to regional Mexican music fans as “El Dasa,” has started production ahead of an anticipated debut this spring on NBC Universo.
El Vato, a 10-episode series chronicling an aspiring singer of the same name as he navigates life in Los Angeles and ultimately lands a recording contract, is NBC Universo’s first original scripted series created expressly for U.S. Hispanic audiences. It is produced by Endemol Shine Latino and Boomdog.
“We are excited to offer our growing audience, including our loyal regional Mexican music fans, fresh and vibrant programming,” Bilai Joa Silar, NBC Universo’s senior vice president of programming and production, said. “This series promises to showcase El Dasa’s versatility as an artist, and his fans can expect to fall in love with his character El Vato and his entourage as they embark on their journey to stardom.”
Cris Abrego, co-chairman of Endemol Shine Americas, added that his firm is thrilled to be producing NBC Universo’s first scripted series along with Boomdog. “We’ve assembled an amazingly talented cast and El Dasa’s inspirational, true-life story and all the fun that ensues on his rise to stardom should make 'El Vato’ quite a ride for the network’s viewers,” Abrego said.
El Dasa was discovered in 2011 by legendary Mexican entertainer Vicente Fernández when his band asked him to listen to his chauffeur, Saavedra, sing. Fernandez was so impressed by the young singer’s talent that he invited him onstage to sing a duet at the Gibson Amphitheatre in Los Angeles. The audience gave the pair a standing ovation, with Fernández asking the audience to help support El Dasa.
Since then, El Dasa has regularly charted both in the U.S. and in Mexico on the regional Mexican airplay and sales charts and is considered one of the genre’s top recording artists.
