By Bel Hernandez Castillo
In a historic move, Cris Abrego, former co-founder and chief executive of Endemol Shine-owned studio 51 Minds Entertainment and current Chairman of the Americas, Banijay, has signed on to another high profile position as the Chairman of the Television Academy. Abrego, a trailblazer in the television industry, brings a wealth of experience and a groundbreaking vision to his latest role.
As one of the highest-ranking Latinos in television, Abrego has made inclusion a top priority for his team and within the entertainment industry. Under his leadership, Endemol Shine North America launched the global company’s first all-encompassing Diversity and Inclusion resource group in 2019. As a producer and executive, he spearheaded the development of groundbreaking reality shows The Surreal Life and Flavor of Love, which not only captured audiences but also became cultural phenomena.
Abrego’s innovative approach to storytelling and his commitment to diversity and inclusion set him apart in an industry that has recently undergone significant transformations due to a pandemic and the recent strikes by the entertainment guilds and unions..
Born and raised in the predominantly Latino neighborhood of El Monte, California, Abrejo began his career working on reality shows for television right after high school at Bunim-Murray. Some of those shows included The Real World and Road Rules television shows freelancing as a coordinating producer for Fear and Making the Band.
He rose quickly through the ranks and soon became known for his keen eye for compelling content and an innate understanding of the evolving television landscape, he co-founded 51 Minds Entertainment, a production company that played a pivotal role in reshaping reality television.
As the first Latino chairman in the Television Academy’s history, Abrego brings a fresh perspective and an unwavering commitment to fostering inclusivity. His extensive experience in producing diverse content aligns seamlessly with the Academy’s mission to recognize and celebrate the richness of television storytelling.
“I am honored to step into this role and feel the significant weight of responsibility in leading the Television Academy into the future, especially in this transformative moment in our business,” said Abrego. “Our members represent one of the most powerful and exciting industries in the world — our content drives local and global economies and has a formative impact on our culture. As the entertainment ecosystem continues to undergo seismic shifts, I look forward to linking arms with our new officers and governors to lead our Academy and support our membership as we forge the path ahead together.”
Abrego’s future as the head of a major entertainment organization, like the Television Academy, we hope comes with a promises to shape a landscape that is reflective of the diverse stories and voices that make up our global community. Abrego’s leadership can usher in a new era for the Television Academy, emphasizing the importance of representation, equity, and innovation. His unique vantage point, shaped by years of industry experience and a dedication to pushing boundaries, positions him as a catalyst for positive change within the organization.