In a television industry often criticized for its lack of diverse representation, Gloria Calderón Kellett has carved a space for herself, unapologetically writing and producing content that celebrates Latine culture and puts a spotlight on the narratives of Latinas.
Born to Cuban immigrant parents, Calderón Kellett's personal journey as a Latina woman in the United States has heavily influenced her professional trajectory. She has often spoken about how her family stories, cultural heritage, and the experiences of her community shaped her understanding of the world and, by extension, the narratives she presents in her work.
Gloria Calderón Kellett got her start in the industry writing for acclaimed shows like "How I Met Your Mother" and "Rules of Engagement". But it wasn't until she took on the role of executive producer and co-showrunner of "One Day at a Time" that she started to make waves in the industry. The show, a modern reimagining of the Norman Lear sitcom from the 1970s, was praised for its portrayal of a Cuban-American family dealing with issues of mental health, immigration, sexism, homophobia, and racism, all while maintaining a heartwarming and humorous tone.
She continued to use her platform to amplify Latina voices with her semi-autobiographical show, "With Love." The show is a beautiful, nuanced exploration of the Latino experience in the United States, blending romance, comedy, and family drama. It also presents a multi-generational Latine family at the core of its storytelling, a rarity in mainstream television.
Calderón Kellett's work is critically acclaimed not only for its high-quality storytelling and memorable characters but also for its cultural authenticity. From language nuances to cultural rituals, her shows provide a genuine depiction of the Latina experience, capturing the hearts of both Latine and non-Latine audiences alike.
Ready to dive headfirst into Calderón Kellett's universe of vibrant Latine stories? Grab your favorite snacks and prepare for a binge-watch journey with these sensational shows!
One Day at a Time
Via: IMDB
This innovative reboot of the 1970s sitcom revolves around the lives of the Alvarez family, a multi-generational Cuban-American clan living under one roof. At the heart of the family is Penelope, a divorced Army nursing corps veteran who is balancing her career, her two strong-willed children, and her vivacious, traditional Cuban mother Lydia. Each episode is a delightful blend of comedy and poignant social commentary, as it skillfully addresses relevant issues such as mental health, LGBTQ+ rights, racism, and immigration. What sets this sitcom apart is its unique blend of warmth, wit, and the authentic portrayal of Latine culture and experiences.
The series has been widely acclaimed for its delicate balance between humor and heart, ensuring that you laugh just as often as you reach for a tissue. Catch it on Netflix or on Prime Video.
With Love
Via: IMDB
Imagine celebrating the major American holidays with the Diaz family, a lovable, close-knit Latine family in Oregon. That's precisely the premise of "With Love". The show takes us through a year in the life of the Diaz family, with each episode focusing on a specific holiday. The narrative cleverly intertwines the love lives of its characters with the holiday theme, serving up ample amounts of romance, comedy, and family drama. While the series is peppered with lighthearted and fun moments, it also doesn't shy away from addressing deeper issues that impact the Latine community.
"With Love" is a celebration of family, culture, love, and the rich tapestry of Latine heritage, making it a joyous, binge-worthy experience. Watch it now on Prime Video!
The Horror of Dolores Roach
Via: IMDB
"The Horror of Dolores Roach", adapted from the popular Spotify podcast of the same name, is a modern urban legend with a chilling twist. Justina Machado shines as Dolores Roach, a woman fresh out of a 16-year prison stint, who returns home to a dramatically gentrified Washington Heights. She rebuilds her life in the most unlikely of places - the basement of an empanada shop run by her old friend, Luis (Alejandro Hernandez). But when her newfound peace is jeopardized, Dolores is driven to unthinkable extremes to survive. Brought to life by creator Aaron Mark and co-executive producer Gloria Calderón Kellett, this series promises a suspenseful journey into survival, morality, and the harsh realities of gentrification. Ready for some spine-tingling suspense with your empanadas? Then you can't afford to miss this one!
Mark your calendar! The new series will be available exclusively on Prime Video on July 7.
Gloria Calderón Kellett is a true force in the television industry. Her dedication to sharing narratives that resonate with Latinas and her continuous efforts to amplify Latine voices make her a role model for aspiring creators everywhere.
Through her work, Calderón Kellett sends a powerful message: Latinas are not just a part of the story; they are the story. And they are here to stay.
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