October 26, 2022
Willkie’s Latinx Affinity Group recently hosted a Diversity Speaker Series event featuring a presentation by Cris Abrego, Chairman of the Americas of French television production and distribution company Banijay and CEO of Endemol Shine Holdings. Banijay produces and distributes reality TV series such as “Survivor,” “Big Brother” and “MasterChef,” as well as Spanish-language programs such as “La Casa de Los Famosos.”
Cris, who has been profiled in the Los Angeles Times, is one of the leading creators and producers of reality television in the U.S., recognized globally for pioneering celeb-reality. He is also one of the few high ranking Latinx executives in Hollywood. He was recently elected Chairman of the Television Academy Foundation, making him the organization's first-ever Latino chair.
In a discussion moderated by Isabel Araujo, a partner in Willkie’s Executive Compensation and Employee Benefits group, Cris, who is a client of Willkie, addressed his personal journey, how he has advocated for more diversity and inclusion in the entertainment industry, and lessons from his book: Make It Reality: Create Your Opportunity, Own Your Success.
