To Adapt or Not to Adapt Series? NBCU Telemundo Exec Explains Why It Isn’t as Easy as You May Think

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The idea that modifying a popular TV series for a new audience is simpler than generating a fresh concept may require reconsideration. This was the point made by Sergio Mendoza, vice president of scripted development at NBCUniversal Telemundo Enterprises, during his talk on the last day of the ninth Conecta Fiction & Entertainment event in Cuenca, Spain.

He expressed that modifying seems easier than composing, but in reality, it’s more time-consuming when looked at from a management perspective,” he stated during the panel discussion on globalizing Spanish content on Thursday.

Creators of widely popular franchises often face challenges, as Mendoza pointed out. “When a franchise enjoys significant popularity and recognition, every decision you make must be cautious,” he said. “You’ll consistently receive feedback from the audience. They might criticize, ‘Why is it so similar to the original?’ or ‘You’ve strayed too far or lost touch with the original.’

This issue may spark intense contemplation, discussion, and even tension within our creative group, possibly causing stress. However, it’s important to remember that such challenges could also serve as a catalyst for inspiration and inventiveness. As Mendoza put it, “Adrenaline often treads very near creativity.

Last year, the executive emphasized that Telemundo obtained the rights to adapt Atresmedia’s 2014 Spanish drama, Velvet, which gained worldwide popularity, and they recently premiered their updated version of it a month ago.

The original series spanned four seasons and took place in the glamorous milieu of a 1950s Spanish fashion house, delving into themes like love, ambition, and family relationships. Telemundo Studios’ remake, titled Velvet: El Nuevo Imperio, however, is set in modern-day New York City. The ensemble includes actors such as Yon González and Samantha Siqueiros.

Mendoza openly showed enthusiasm for the latest series and hinted at exploring potential spin-offs. He shared his affection for thriller genres, stating they tend to resonate strongly in Latin American markets, suggesting he’s open to future thriller projects.

At the same time, fellow panelist María Pinilla, director of international & business affairs at Banijay’s Banijay Iberia division, discussed the trends of “risk aversion” and revamping established formats and brands. She expressed her feelings by saying, “This is quite frustrating for us. We have many creative minds, but not an abundance of fresh ideas. We need to be bold and take risks on novel concepts.

The panel included Alexander Keil, the managing partner of SKP Entertainment based in Germany, José Pastor who is a film and fiction director from RTVE in Spain, Silvia Cotino serving as the deputy director for sales and business development at Mediterráneo within Mediaset España, and Elisa Martin De Blas in her role as the managing director for production & distribution at Contubernio Films based in Spain.

2025’s Connect event featured leaders from Warner Bros. Discovery, Globo (Brazil), Gaumont Television, and Banijay sharing insights about their upcoming original content and the current status of the television industry.

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2025-06-19 13:24