Univision announced today that it is ending Sabado Gigante, the popular variety series that has run for an astonishing 53 years.
The series, which was created and hosted by Mario Kreutzberger, known as Don Francisco on the show, will finish up its final season on Sept. 19, which marks the end of the network’s television season.
While the show is ending, Francisco is still going to work on Univision projects and campaigns. He will continue hosting TeletonUSA, an annual event that raises funds for disabled children. He will also develop new projects with Univision.
Sabado Gigante started in 1962 in Chile and quickly became popular throughout Latin America and setting broadcast records for its longevity. It is still the most-watched show on Saturday nights among Hispanics.
The series is known for its mix of talent contests, humor, audience games, interviews with celebrities, family reunions and performances from Latin pop stars.
“I have no words to thank our viewers for the support, loyalty and enthusiasm with which they have honored us through the years and which have allowed the show to become an unprecedented success in the history of this medium,” Kreutzberger said in a statement. “Special and warm thanks to the outstanding production team, technicians, artists and behind-the-scenes collaborators, because without their efforts and sacrifice, we would have never reached this impressive goal.”
screenshot from Univision YouTube Video