Award-Winning Original Series "Vida" Earns Third Season on Starz

Award-Winning Original Series "Vida" Earns Third Season on Starz
"It is a rarity in television today to have a series earn this level of critical praise for two consecutive seasons and spark cultural conversation in the way that 'Vida' has," said Jeffrey Hirsch.

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[via press release from Starz] AWARD-WINNING ORIGINAL SERIES "VIDA" EARNS THIRD SEASON ON STARZ

"'Vida' is an important series - for representation, for diversity, for women" - IndieWire
"It has a setting and a language that are its own, elevating a very good show to something quite vital." - The Hollywood Reporter

Santa Monica, Calif. - May 31, 2019 - Starz COO Jeffrey Hirsch announced today that the STARZ Original series "Vida" from Executive Producer and showrunner Tanya Saracho ("How to Get Away With Murder," "Looking," "Girls") has been picked up for a third season.

"It is a rarity in television today to have a series earn this level of critical praise for two consecutive seasons and spark cultural conversation in the way that 'Vida' has," said Hirsch. "We are proud to continue to tell this story with Tanya and the incredible cast and crew she has assembled."
Winner of the 2019 GLAAD Media Award for Outstanding Comedy series and earning 100% on Rotten Tomatoes for both seasons, "Vida" was created by Tanya Saracho, who executive produces alongside Big Beach TV's Robin Schwartz, Peter Saraf and Marc Turtletaub with Stephanie Langhoff.

"Vida's" Hispanic audience has grown 56% compared to the same period in Season 1,* giving it the highest Hispanic audience composition among premium scripted series in 2019 (Live+3).** Additionally, STARZ Hispanic subs have grown 17% since the series premiered in May 2018*** and the number of new customers who watched "Vida" season two on the app in the first seven days was almost double year over year.

"'Vida' isn't special only because it's putting underrepresented American stories onscreen. It's special because it's doing it so well, mining the epic drama and the discrete experiences of its characters' lives to create something that's elaborate, distinct, and beautiful all at the same time." - The Atlantic
In the second season of "Vida," Lyn and Emma begin the monumental task of rebuilding their mother's business while navigating financial constraints, competing developers, and the growing anti-gentrification movement. Lyn and Emma must contemplate the relationships in their lives, including their own, and are forced to dig deep to unearth what their mother's legacy means to them.
"Vida" stars Melissa Barrera ("Club de Cuervos" and upcoming features In the Heights and Carmen) as Lyn, Mishel Prada ("Fear The Walking Dead: Passage") as Emma, Ser Anzoategui ("East Los High") as Eddy, Chelsea Rendon (Bright) as Marisol, Carlos Miranda (The Bling Ring) as Johnny, and Roberta Colindrez ("I Love Dick") as Nico.

Senior Vice President of Original Programming Kathryn Tyus-Adair is the Starz executive in charge of "Vida."

ABOUT STARZ
Starz (www.starz.com), a Lionsgate company (NYSE: LGF.A, LGF.B), is a leading global media and entertainment company that produces and distributes premium streaming content to worldwide audiences across subscription television platforms. Starz is home to the flagship domestic STARZ(R) brand, STARZ ENCORE, 17 premium pay TV channels and the associated on-demand and online services, including the highly rated STARZ app. With the launch of the STARZPLAY international premium streaming platform and STARZ PLAY Arabia, Starz is expanding its global footprint in a growing number of territories. Sold through multichannel video distributors, including cable operators, satellite television providers, telecommunications companies, and other online and digital platforms, Starz offers subscribers more than 7,500 distinct premium television episodes and feature films, including STARZ Original series, first-run movies and other popular programming.
*Source: Nielsen Live +3 Hispanic HH Reach of Premiere night linear as well as first 5 days VOD viewing of Vida S1 vs S2.

**Source: Nielsen Live +3 Hispanic and Composite HH audience for HBO, Showtime, Cinemax, and STARZ scripted series (based on average episode premieres).
***Source: Nielsen Hispanic HH UE of STARZ in May 2018 vs June 2019. 

Starz Original Series "Vida" Wins Outstanding Comedy Series at the 30th Annual GLAAD Media Awards

Starz Original Series "Vida" Wins Outstanding Comedy Series at the 30th Annual GLAAD Media Awards
The GLAAD Media Awards honor media for fair, accurate, and inclusive representations of LGBTQ people and issues.

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[via press release from Starz] STARZ ORIGINAL SERIES "VIDA" WINS OUTSTANDING COMEDY SERIES AT THE 30TH ANNUAL GLAAD MEDIA AWARDS

Santa Monica, Calif., March 29, 2019 - Starz, a Lionsgate company (NYSE: LGF.A, LGF.B), received the "Outstanding Comedy Series" award for its original series "Vida" at the 30th Annual GLADD Media Awards ceremony at the Beverly Hilton last night.

The GLAAD Media Awards honor media for fair, accurate, and inclusive representations of LGBTQ people and issues. Hip-hop sensation Lizzo opened the ceremony with her self-love anthem "Juice," Sean Hayes was honored with the Stephen F. Kolzak award, while Beyoncé and Jay-Z received this year's vanguard award for their continued work as allies for the LGBTQ community.

"Certified Fresh" on Rotten Tomatoes with a perfect score of 100% and Audience Award-winner at the 2018 SXSW Film Festival, "Vida" is created and executive produced by Tanya Saracho, Big Beach TV's Robin Schwartz, Peter Saraf and Marc Turtletaub; and Stephanie Langhoff ("Togetherness," The Bronze, The Skeleton Twins). In addition, "Vida" Season Two will make its world premiere as an Official Selection of the 2019 Tribeca Film Festival.

The entire 10-episode second season of the trailblazing series "Vida" will be available on the STARZ app and STARZ On-Demand in the U.S. and Canada and on STARZPLAY in the U.K. and Germany on Thursday, May 23. In addition to its full season release on the STARZ app, STARZ On-Demand and STARZPLAY, "Vida" will premiere on STARZ on Sunday, May 26 at 8 p.m. ET/PT, airing each episode week-to-week.

"Vida" stars Melissa Barrera ("Club de Cuervos") as Lyn, Mishel Prada ("Fear the Walking Dead: Passage") as Emma, Ser Anzoategui ("East Los High") as Eddy, Chelsea Rendon (Bright) as Marisol, Carlos Miranda (The Bling Ring) as Johnny and Roberta Colindrez ("I Love Dick") as Nico. Ra�l Castillo ("Looking") and Adrian Gonzalez ("Superstore") join as guest stars this season.
In the second season of "Vida," Lyn and Emma begin the monumental task of rebuilding their mother's business while navigating financial constraints, competing developers, and the growing anti-gentrification movement. Lyn and Emma must contemplate the relationships in their lives, including their own, and are forced to dig deep to unearth what their mother's legacy means to them.
Executive Vice President of Original Programming Marta Fernandez and Senior Vice President of Original Programming Kathryn Tyus-Adair are the Starz executives in charge of "Vida."
Visit the official @STARZ "Vida" Facebook Page, and follow @Vida_STARZ on Twitter and @VIDA_STARZ on Instagram. Join the conversation with #VidaSTARZ and #STARZ.

ABOUT STARZ
Starz (www.starz.com), a Lionsgate company (NYSE: LGF.A, LGF.B), is a leading global media and entertainment company that produces and distributes premium streaming content to worldwide audiences across subscription television platforms. Starz is home to the flagship domestic STARZ(R) brand, STARZ ENCORE, 17 premium pay TV channels and the associated on-demand and online services, including the highly rated STARZ app. With the launch of the STARZPLAY international premium streaming platform and STARZ PLAY Arabia, Starz is expanding its global footprint in a growing number of territories. Sold through multichannel video distributors, including cable operators, satellite television providers, telecommunications companies, and other online and digital platforms, Starz offers subscribers more than 10,000 distinct premium television episodes and feature films, including STARZ Original series, first-run movies and other popular programming. 

Video: Starz Announces Casting for "Vida" Season Two and Drops New "America to Me" Key Art and Official Trailer for "Warriors of Liberty City"

Video: Starz Announces Casting for "Vida" Season Two and Drops New "America to Me" Key Art and Official Trailer for "Warriors of Liberty City"
Roberta Colindrez will be joining the cast of "Vida" as a new series regular in an expanded 10-episode second season.

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[via press release from Starz] STARZ ANNOUNCES CASTING FOR "VIDA" SEASON TWO AND DROPS NEW "AMERICA TO ME" KEY ART AND OFFICIAL TRAILER FOR "WARRIORS OF LIBERTY CITY"

Beverly Hills, Calif. - July 28, 2018 - Today at the Television Critics Association (TCA) Summer 2018 Press Tour, Starz announced Roberta Colindrez ("I Love Dick," "The Deuce") will be joining the cast of "Vida" as a new series regular in an expanded 10-episode second season during which series creator and executive producer Tanya Saracho will make her directorial debut. Starz also released the official trailer for upcoming docu-series "Warriors of Liberty City" and key art for "America to Me."

Please see below for more information on each series.
"Vida"
The STARZ Original series "Vida" from Showrunner and Executive Producer Tanya Saracho ("How to Get Away With Murder," "Looking," "Girls") centers around two Mexican-American sisters from the Eastside of Los Angeles who couldn't be more different or distanced from each other. Circumstances force them to return to their old neighborhood, where they are confronted by the past and shocking truth about their mother's identity. Season one received wide critical acclaim and was an official episodic selection of the 2018 SXSW Film Festival. The half-hour Latinx series has received a 10-episode second season order. Colindrez will play "Nico" a new bartender at the family bar.
Roberta Colindrez is a
 Mexican-born Argentinean-Honduran actor known for playing a variety of non-traditional roles in television, film, and theatre. Her breakout came in 2015, when she starred as Joan in the five-time Tony(R) award-winning musical, "Fun Home." Most notably, Colindrez delivered a standout performance as Devon in Amazon's "I Love Dick," and Irene in HBO's "The Deuce." Colindrez also stars in Paul Shoulberg's upcoming indie feature, Ms. White Light.
Follow "Vida" Online: Twitter: https://twitter.com/VIDA_STARZ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VidaSTARZ/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vida_starz/ Join the conversation with #Vida and #STARZ

"Warriors of Liberty City"
"Warriors of Liberty City" is a docuseries that explores Liberty City - a crime-ridden neighborhood in Miami and arguably the NFL's largest, most successful football factory. The series follows a season with the Liberty City Warriors, a youth football program founded by an unlikely mentor: hip-hop pioneer Luther Campbell, better known as "Uncle Luke." Beyond football, the Liberty City Warriors Optimist Club is a youth organization that sponsors sports teams, dance, cheerleading, tutoring and academic support. Life, like football, is a contact sport, and for the kids and families of Liberty City, being a Warrior holds the key to both.

"Warriors of Liberty City" premieres on STARZ on Sunday, Sept.16th at 8:00 PM ET/PT.

"America to Me"
Academy Award(R)-nominated filmmaker Steve James (Hoop Dreams, Life Itself) examines racial, economic and class issues in contemporary American education in the multipart unscripted documentary series "America to Me." Poignant and funny, epic and intimate, "America to Me" spends an academic year at Chicagoland's elite Oak Park and River Forest High School (OPRF), allowing its students, families, faculty and administration to tell stories of the pressures and challenges teens face today in their own words.
"America to Me" premieres on STARZ on Sunday, August 26th at 10PM ET/PT.

image: http://thefutoncritic.com/images/shows/starz20180728.jpg

About Starz
Starz (www.starz.com) a Lionsgate company (NYSE: LGF.A, LGF.B), is a leading global media and entertainment company that provides premium subscription video programming on domestic U.S. pay television networks and produces and distributes content for worldwide audiences, including its investment in the STARZ PLAY Arabia OTT service. Starz is home to the flagship STARZ(R) brand and STARZ ENCORE channels and provides high-quality, entertaining premium subscription video programming with 17 premium pay TV channels and associated on-demand and online services, including the STARZ app. Sold through U.S. multichannel video distributors, including cable operators, satellite television providers, telecommunications companies, and other online and digital platforms, Starz offers subscribers more than 5,000 distinct premium television episodes and feature films every year and up to 1,500 every month, including STARZ Original series, first-run movies and other popular movie and television programming. 

Starz Greenlights Second Season of Critically-Acclaimed Original Series "Vida" from Showrunner Tanya Saracho

Starz Greenlights Second Season of Critically-Acclaimed Original Series "Vida" from Showrunner Tanya Saracho
The premiere season of the series centered around two Mexican-American sisters from the Eastside of Los Angeles who couldn't be more different or distanced from each other.

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[via press release from Starz] STARZ GREENLIGHTS SECOND SEASON OF CRITICALLY-ACCLAIMED ORIGINAL SERIES "VIDA" FROM SHOWRUNNER TANYA SARACHO

Season One Finale Nearly Triples its Hispanic Household Audience from its Season Premiere*
"'Vida' is making history - and proving to Hollywood that truly diverse, authentic entertainment can be done." - Refinery29

Santa Monica, Calif. - June 12, 2018 - Starz President and CEO Chris Albrecht announced today that the STARZ Original series "Vida" has been greenlit for a second season from Showrunner and Executive Producer Tanya Saracho ("How to Get Away With Murder," "Looking," "Girls").
"Certified Fresh" on Rotten Tomatoes with a perfect score of 100% and Audience Award winner at the 2018 SXSW Film Festival, "Vida" is created and executive produced by Tanya Saracho alongside Big Beach TV's Robin Schwartz, Peter Saraf and Marc Turtletaub with Stephanie Langhoff ("Togetherness," "The Bronze," "The Skeleton Twins").

"Vida"'s Hispanic household viewing has nearly tripled since its premiere on Sunday, May 6, growing by 171% to earn the series the largest Hispanic audience composition for premium series in 2018.* Additionally, on the STARZ app, the series audience grew by more than 60% from season premiere to the finale.**

The premiere season of the series centered around two Mexican-American sisters from the Eastside of Los Angeles who couldn't be more different or distanced from each other. Circumstances force them to return to their old neighborhood, where they are confronted by the past and surprising truth about their mother's identity. In the series finale, Lyn finally realizes the impact she is having on Johnny's life, and Emma learns the true value of the bar, but is it too late for Eddy?

"Vida" stars Melissa Barrera ("Club de Cuervos") as Lyn, Mishel Prada ("Fear The Walking Dead: Passage") as Emma, Ser Anzoategui ("East Los High") as Eddy, Chelsea Rendon (Bright) as Marisol, Carlos Miranda (The Bling Ring) as Johnny, and Maria Elena Laas (Vital Signs) as Cruz.

"'Vida' has delivered on its promise of attracting a young, new Latinx audience to the STARZ platform, as we had hoped it would, and we are pleased to be able to announce a second season of the series," said Albrecht. "With these new episodes, Tanya and her team now have the opportunity to take audiences even deeper into the lives and community of the Hernandez sisters, and we look forward to bringing the next chapter of their story to life."

Starz, which produces the series, retains all domestic multiplatform pay TV and SVOD rights to the series. Lionsgate retains all international and domestic distribution and home entertainment rights.
Senior Vice President of Original Programming Marta Fernandez and Manager of Original Programming Kathleen Clifford are the Starz executives in charge of "Vida."

About Starz
Starz (www.starz.com) a Lionsgate company (NYSE: LGF.A, LGF.B), is a leading global media and entertainment company that provides premium subscription video programming on domestic U.S. pay television networks and produces and distributes content for worldwide audiences, including its investment in the STARZ PLAY Arabia OTT service. Starz is home to the flagship STARZ(R) brand and STARZ ENCORE channels and provides high-quality, entertaining premium subscription video programming with 17 premium pay TV channels and associated on-demand and online services, including the STARZ app. Sold through U.S. multichannel video distributors, including cable operators, satellite television providers, telecommunications companies, and other online and digital platforms, Starz offers subscribers more than 5,000 distinct premium television episodes and feature films every year and up to 1,500 every month, including STARZ Original series, first-run movies and other popular movie and television programming.

*Source: Nielsen NPower, Starz, HBO, Showtime, Cinemax Live +SD (1/1 - 6/10/18), Live +7 (1/1 - 5/27/18), coverage Hispanic HH ratings and Projections (000s) excludes repeats and excludes specials and dramas with <3 telecasts.
**Source: Internal Analytics 

Starz to Offer Free Sampling of New Critically Acclaimed Series "Vida" Beginning May 10 at 12:00AM ET

Starz to Offer Free Sampling of New Critically Acclaimed Series "Vida" Beginning May 10 at 12:00AM ET
Viewers can see what all the buzz is about by sampling the episode in its entirety online on Starz.com, Starz YouTube channel, "Vida" Facebook page, and Remezcla.com.

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[via press release from Starz] STARZ TO OFFER FREE SAMPLING OF NEW CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED SERIES "VIDA" BEGINNING MAY 10 AT 12:00AM ET

"Vida" Series Premiere Episode Available for Free on Starz.com, YouTube, Facebook, and Remezcla.com
"... authentic, grounded and like few other shows on TV." - The Hollywood Reporter
"Starz's Latinx Drama Is Supernovela TV That's Truly Full of Life" - Deadline
"... nearly everything about Vida will make you wish more shows emulated its relentless honesty." - Refinery29

Santa Monica, Calif. - May 9, 2018 - Starz, a Lionsgate company (NYSE: LGF.A, LGF.B), announced today that the premiere episode of the critically lauded STARZ Original Series "Vida," and Audience Award winner at the 2018 SXSW Film Festival, will be made available for free nationwide on THURSDAY MAY 10, 2018 starting at 12:00AM ET, midnight in honor of Dia de las Madres. Viewers can see what all the buzz is about by sampling the episode in its entirety online on Starz.com, STARZ YouTube channel, "Vida" Facebook page, and Remezcla.com.

"100% Certified Fresh" on Rotten Tomatoes, "Vida" is created and executive produced by Tanya Saracho ("How to Get Away With Murder," "Looking," "Girls") alongside Big Beach TV's Robin Schwartz, Peter Saraf and Marc Turtletaub with Stephanie Langhoff ("Togetherness," "The Bronze," "The Skeleton Twins"). The 6-episode season centers around two Mexican-American sisters from the Eastside of Los Angeles who couldn't be more different or distanced from each other. Circumstances force them to return to their old neighborhood, where they are confronted by the past and surprising truth about their mother's identity. "Vida" stars Melissa Barrera ("Club de Cuervos") as Lyn, Mishel Prada ("Fear The Walking Dead: Passage") as Emma, Ser Anzoategui ("East Los High") as Eddy, Chelsea Rendon (Bright) as Marisol, Carlos Miranda (The Bling Ring) as Johnny, and Maria Elena Laas (Vital Signs) as Cruz.

New episodes of "Vida" will premiere weekly at 8:30PM ET/PT on STARZ airing every Sunday night through June 10. Episodes are also available for download and streaming on the STARZ app and STARZ ON DEMAND starting at 12:01AM ET.

Follow "Vida" Online Twitter: @VIDA_STARZ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VidaSTARZ/ Instagram: @VIDA_STARZ Join the conversation with #VidaSTARZ 

Starz Original Series "Vida" Showrunner and Executive Producer Tanya Saracho Inks Exclusive Multi-Year Deal with Starz

Starz Original Series "Vida" Showrunner and Executive Producer Tanya Saracho Inks Exclusive Multi-Year Deal with Starz
Under the pact, Saracho will develop new projects for the network and continue as showrunner and executive producer on "Vida."

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[via press release from Starz] STARZ ORIGINAL SERIES "VIDA" SHOWRUNNER AND EXECUTIVE PRODUCER TANYA SARACHO INKS EXCLUSIVE MULTI-YEAR DEAL WITH STARZ

Beverly Hills, Calif., February 23, 2018 - Starz, a Lionsgate company (NYSE: LGF.A, LGF.B), today announced it has signed STARZ Original series "Vida" Showrunner and Executive Producer Tanya Saracho ("How to Get Away With Murder," "Looking," "Girls") to a three-year overall deal. Under the pact, Saracho will develop new projects for the network and continue as showrunner and executive producer on "Vida."

"Tanya Saracho's unique voice brings a fresh and real perspective to Latinx programming," said Starz President of Programming Carmi Zlotnik. "We're thrilled to have an overall deal with this tenacious playwright-turned-TV writer/executive producer who doesn't pull any punches when bringing these characters - who are not usually seen in mainstream media - to life."

"I was a playwright who was still learning the ropes when Starz took a chance on me to create and showrun 'Vida,'" said Saracho. "They nurtured and supported me during every step of the strenuous process and that is a debt that cannot be repaid. They now open their doors and offer me a home - a fertile ground to grow and amplify my voice as I continue my mission of bringing Latinx and Queer characters to the screen and I am steeped in gratitude. Building 'Vida' with Chris [Albrecht], Carmi [Zlotnik] and Marta [Fernandez] has been a downright joy and I can't wait to deepen and strengthen our collaboration."

Premiering on Sunday, May 6, "Vida" is a half-hour drama series focusing on two Mexican-American sisters, Emma (Mishel Prada) and Lyn (Melissa Barrera), from the Eastside of Los Angeles who couldn't be more different or distanced from each other. Circumstances force them to return to their old neighborhood, where they are confronted by the past and surprising truth about their mother's identity. The Starz-owned series is based on a format by Richard Villegas, Jr. ("I [Heart] Babylon," "La M�sica Rom�ntica") and executive produced by Big Beach TV's Robin Schwartz, Peter Saraf and Marc Turtletaub with Stephanie Langhoff ("Togetherness," "The Bronze," "The Skeleton Twins").

Saracho was born in Los Mochis, Sinaloa, México and raised along the Texas border, spending the better part of her adult life in Chicago. Named "Best New Playwright" by Chicago Magazine, Saracho has had plays produced at New York City's Primary Stages and 2nd Stage, as well as Victory Gardens Theatre, The Denver Theatre Center, Oregon Shakespeare Festival, The Goodman Theater, Steppenwolf Theater, Teatro Vista, Teatro Luna, Fountain Theater, Clubbed Thumb, NEXT Theater and 16th Street Theater. Saracho was named one of nine national Latino "Luminarios" by Café magazine and given the first "Revolucionario" Award in Theater by the National Museum of Mexican Art. She is the founder of Teatro Luna (the first all-Latina Theatre Company in the nation, now defunct) as well as the founder of ALTA (Alliance of Latino Theatre Artists). She is currently in development with South Coast Repertory and Two River Theatre.

Saracho is represented by UTA and Mark Orsini at Bret Adams, Ltd.

About Starz
Starz (www.starz.com) a Lionsgate company (NYSE: LGF.A, LGF.B), is a leading global media and entertainment company that provides premium subscription video programming on domestic U.S. pay television networks and produces and distributes content for worldwide audiences, including its investment in the STARZ PLAY Arabia OTT service. Starz is home to the flagship STARZ(R) brand and STARZ ENCORE channels and provides high-quality, entertaining premium subscription video programming with 17 premium pay TV channels and associated on-demand and online services, including the STARZ app. Sold through U.S. multichannel video distributors, including cable operators, satellite television providers, telecommunications companies, and other online and digital platforms, Starz offers subscribers more than 5,000 distinct premium television episodes and feature films every year and up to 1,500 every month, including STARZ Original series, first-run movies and other popular movie and television programming. 

Starz Announces 2018 Premiere Dates for Originals "Howards End," "Vida" and "Sweetbitter"

Starz Announces 2018 Premiere Dates for Originals "Howards End," "Vida" and "Sweetbitter"
Half-hour dramas "Vida" and "Sweetbitter" will premiere on Sunday, May 6.

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[via press release from Starz] STARZ ANNOUNCES 2018 PREMIERE DATES FOR ORIGINALS "HOWARDS END," "VIDA" AND "SWEETBITTER"

Pasadena, Calif. - January 12, 2018 - Today at the Television Critics Association (TCA) Winter 2018 Press Tour, Starz President of Programming Carmi Zlotnik announced premiere dates for three new originals including the eagerly-awaited STARZ Original Limited Series "Howards End," premiering on Sunday, April 8. Half-hour dramas "Vida" and "Sweetbitter" will premiere on Sunday, May 6.
Often considered E.M. Forster's masterpiece, "Howards End" is the story of Margaret (Hayley Atwell) and Helen Schlegel (Philippa Coulthard), two independent and unconventional sisters seeking love and meaning as they navigate an ever-changing world. Academy Award(R)-winning screenwriter Kenneth Lonergan (Manchester by the Sea, Gangs of New York) brings a fresh take to this adaptation directed by BAFTA winner Hettie Macdonald (White Girl, Fortitude). Matthew Macfadyen, Julia Ormond and Tracey Ullman also star in the limited series adapted for television which consists of four hour-long episodes. "Howards End" is a Playground production in association with City Entertainment and KippSter Entertainment.

"Vida" is a half-hour drama series focusing on two Mexican-American sisters, Emma (Mishel Prada) and Lyn (Melissa Barrera), from the Eastside of Los Angeles who couldn't be more different or distanced from each other. Circumstances force them to return to their old neighborhood, where they are confronted by the past and surprising truth about their mother's identity.

Tanya Saracho ("How to Get Away With Murder," "Looking," "Girls") serves as showrunner and executive producer. Alonso Ruizpalacios (Gueros, Verde) directs the series premiere episode. Big Beach TV's Robin Schwartz, Peter Saraf and Marc Turtletaub executive produce with Stephanie Langhoff ("Togetherness," "The Bronze," "The Skeleton Twins"). Emmy(R) award-winning Chrisann Verges ("Girlboss," "Getting On," "Warm Springs") produces.

"Sweetbitter" tells the story of Tess (Ella Purnell), a 22-year-old who arrives in New York City ready to pursue a new life. When she finds herself interviewing for a position at one of the best restaurants in the city, she thinks she's found a steady income and a safe place to wait. But Tess is quickly intoxicated by the chaotic, adrenalized world behind-the-scenes, tasting expensive wine, exploring dive bars, and learning who she can trust.

"Sweetbitter" illuminates the sensory journey of developing a palate. How the sweet, sour, salt, bitter, and umami threaten, complement and ultimately need each other so that we can learn to taste. "Sweetbitter" is a show about the life that happens to you while you're waiting.

"Sweetbitter" is adapted from the best-selling novel of the same name by series creator Stephanie Danler who serves as executive producer and writer on the series. She is joined as an executive producer by Stu Zicherman ("The Americans," "The Affair," "Six Degrees") who also serves as showrunner and director of the finale episode and Richard Shepard (The Matador, Dom Hemingway, "Girls," "Criminal Minds," Ugly Betty") who directed the series premiere episode. Plan B Entertainment's Dede Gardner, Jeremy Kleiner and Sarah Esberg also executive produce the series.
Starz is the studio for "Vida" and "Sweetbitter."

About Starz
Starz (www.starz.com) a Lionsgate company (NYSE: LGF.A, LGF.B), is a leading global media and entertainment company that provides premium subscription video programming on domestic U.S. pay television networks and produces and distributes content for worldwide audiences, including its investment in the STARZ PLAY Arabia OTT service. Starz is home to the flagship STARZ(R) brand and STARZ ENCORE channels and provides high-quality, entertaining premium subscription video programming with 17 premium pay TV channels and associated on-demand and online services, including the STARZ app. Sold through U.S. multichannel video distributors, including cable operators, satellite television providers, telecommunications companies, and other online and digital platforms, Starz offers subscribers more than 5,000 distinct premium television episodes and feature films every year and up to 1,500 every month, including STARZ Original series, first-run movies and other popular movie and television programming. 

Starz Announces Cast for Half-Hour Drama Series "Vida" from Latinx Showrunner Tanya Saracho

Starz Announces Cast for Half-Hour Drama Series "Vida" from Latinx Showrunner Tanya Saracho
Mishel Prada, Karen Ser Anzoategui, Chelsea Rendon, Carlos Miranda and Maria Elena Laas have been cast as series regulars alongside Melissa Berrera.

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[via press release from Starz] STARZ ANNOUNCES CAST FOR HALF-HOUR DRAMA SERIES "VIDA" FROM LATINX SHOWRUNNER TANYA SARACHO

Mishel Prada Cast in Lead Role Opposite Melissa Barrera with Karen Ser Anzoategui, Chelsea Rendon, Carlos Miranda and Maria Elena Laas Added as Cast Regulars

Beverly Hills, Calif. - November 14, 2017- Starz announced today that Mishel Prada ("Fear the Walking Dead: Passage," Tell Me How I Die), Karen Ser Anzoategui ("East Los High," "Crazy Ex-Girlfriend," "The Fosters"), Chelsea Rendon (A Better Life, McFarland, USA, "The Fosters"), Carlos Miranda (The Bling Ring, Grandma, "Chicago PD") and Maria Elena Laas ("Suffering Man's Charity," The Hot Chick) have been cast as series regulars alongside Melissa Berrera ("Club de Cuervos," "La Mujer de Judas") in the new STARZ Original series "Vida" from Showrunner Tanya Saracho ("How to Get Away With Murder," "Looking," "Girls").

Alonso Ruizpalacios (Gueros, Verde) directs the series premiere episode. Big Beach TV will produce the Latinx series with Robin Schwartz, Peter Saraf and Marc Turtletaub, serving as executive producers. Stephanie Langhoff ("Togetherness," "The Bronze," "The Skeleton Twins") is also executive producing with Emmy(R) award-winning Chrisann Verges ("Girlboss," "Getting On," "Warm Springs") producing. Series casting by Emmy(R)-winning Casting Director Carmen Cuba ("Stranger Things," STARZ Original limited series "The Girlfriend Experience," The Martian).
"Vida" is a half-hour drama series focusing on two Mexican-American sisters, Emma and Lyn, from the Eastside of Los Angeles who couldn't be more different or distanced from each other.

Circumstances force them to return to their old neighborhood, where they are confronted by the past and shocking truth about their mother's identity.

Mishel Prada will portray "Emma" who, estranged from both her sister and her mother, reluctantly returns for her mother's funeral and to deal with the family business. Previously cast, Melissa Barrera will play her sister, "Lyn," a care-free party girl, who has figured out how to live a pretty worry-free life in the Bay Area.

Karen Ser Anzoategui will portray "Eddy," a sensitive soul who is trustworthy, generous and passionate but also intimidating looking upon first glance. Chelsea Rendon will play "Marisol" who is the expression of east side youth culture: woke, politicized, and deep in the resistance. Carlos Miranda will play "Johnny," a stand-up guy who runs his ailing dad's auto shop and is engaged to his pregnant girlfriend but has a history with Lyn. Maria Elena Laas will portray "Cruz," an enigmatic lesbian who has a checkered history with Emma.

Newcomer Mishel Prada starred in the acclaimed Emmy(R)-nominated digital series "Fear The Walking Dead: Passage" and has appeared in several indie films.

Karen Ser Anzoategui (Ser) is a non-binary Latinx/Chicanx actor/playwright/artivist. Originally from Huntington Park, Calif., they grew up in various East Los Angeles and San Gabriel Valley communities. Upon graduating with a BA in Communication and Fine Arts as a theatre major in 2005, Ser wrote their first solo show at Casa 0101 in Boyle Heights. Ser's second solo which centers on queer and trans issues, "Catholic School Daze," sold out in theatres throughout Los Angeles. Ser's highly successful theatre recognition led to being cast in a recurring guest star role on Hulu's Emmy(R)-nominated "East Los High" as openly queer character "Daysi Cantu." Following "East Los High," Ser landed additional roles on "Crazy Ex-Girlfriend," "The Fosters," "Shameless," and other projects. They appeared as themself, a comic on LATV's "Latino 101." Ser was a selected playwright for the 2017 Maria Irene Fornes Playwrighting workshop at Notre Dame in Chicago.

Chelsea Rendon started acting at the young age of six, jumping in head first and booking the lead of a feature film less than a year later. She won multiple awards for her role as Cristina in No Turning Back. As a child she worked on shows such as "E.R.," "The Shield" and "Judging Amy." More recently she's worked on the Oscar(R)-nominated film A Better Life and Disney's McFarland, USA. On television she was featured on "The Bridge," "Major Crimes" and "Code Black." This year she worked on Netflix's "Bright" directed by David Ayer and she is currently recurring on "The Fosters" on Freeform.

Born and raised in San Francisco, Carlos Miranda got his first taste of acting at the age of 13 where he booked a short film. He continued acting in his high school's theatre productions before moving to LA at the age of 23 to pursue his dream. Miranda appeared in feature films Warrior directed by Gavin O'Conner; The Bling Ring, directed by Sofia Coppola and opposite Emma Watson; and recently Grandma opposite Lily Tomlin. His television credits include "Chicago PD," "How to Get Away with Murder" and "Dallas."

Maria Elena Laas was born in Puerto Rico and raised in Saudi Arabia and Japan. She later moved with her family to Los Angeles where she began her career and garnered several film credits including Alan Cumming's "Suffering Man's Charity," the blockbuster The Hot Chick starring Rob Schneider and Anna Faris, and has starred in indie favorites Kill The Habit, Lunatics, Lovers, and Poets, Sold and Pastor Shepherd opposite Danny Trejo.

Lionsgate (NYSE: LGF.A, LGF.B) will retain all domestic and international multiplatform rights, including broadcast, home entertainment and digital for the series.

Senior Vice President of Original Programming Marta Fernandez and Manager of Original Programming Kathleen Clifford are the Starz executives in charge of "Vida."

About Starz
Starz (www.starz.com) a Lionsgate company (NYSE: LGF.A, LGF.B), is a leading global media and entertainment company that provides premium subscription video programming on domestic U.S. pay television networks and produces and distributes content for worldwide audiences, including its investment in the STARZ PLAY Arabia OTT service. Starz is home to the flagship STARZ(R) brand and STARZ ENCORE channels and provides high-quality, entertaining premium subscription video programming with 17 premium pay TV channels and associated on-demand and online services, including the STARZ app. Sold through U.S. multichannel video distributors, including cable operators, satellite television providers, telecommunications companies, and other online and digital platforms, Starz offers subscribers more than 5,000 distinct premium television episodes and feature films every year and up to 1,500 every month, including STARZ Original series, first-run movies and other popular movie and television programming. 

Starz Greenlights Original Series "Vida" from Showrunner Tanya Saracho

Starz Greenlights Original Series "Vida" from Showrunner Tanya Saracho
"Vida" is a half-hour drama series focusing on two Mexican-American sisters from the Eastside of Los Angeles who couldn't be more different or distanced from each other.

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[via press release from Starz]

    

STARZ GREENLIGHTS ORIGINAL SERIES "VIDA" FROM SHOWRUNNER TANYA SARACHO

Veronica Osorio and Melissa Barrera Cast in Lead Roles with Alonso Ruizpalacios Directing First Episode

Lionsgate Retains all Domestic and International Rights
Beverly Hills, Calif. - September 13, 2017 - Starz President and CEO Chris Albrecht announced today that the development project "Vida" (formerly titled "Pour Vida") has been greenlit to series.
Tanya Saracho ("How to Get Away With Murder," "Looking," "Girls") will serve as showrunner with Alonso Ruizpalacios (Gueros, Verde) directing the first episode. Big Beach TV will produce the series with executive producers Marc Turtletaub, Peter Saraf and Robin Schwartz. Lionsgate (NYSE: LGF.A, LGF.B) will retain all domestic and international multiplatform rights, including broadcast, home entertainment and digital for the series.

"Vida" is a half-hour drama series focusing on two Mexican-American sisters from the Eastside of Los Angeles who couldn't be more different or distanced from each other. Circumstances force them to return to their old neighborhood, where they are confronted by the past and shocking truth about their mother's identity.

"Tanya explores identity, culture, gender and sexuality through the lens of a Latinix family and their community. It's a deeply personal and relatable series about coming back home and finally growing up," said Albrecht. "'Vida' reflects the intersecting worlds of Latin and American descendants of all genders and sexualities and speaks to the heart of Starz's programming commitment to present compelling stories for traditionally underserved audiences. We are very proud to work with Tanya and help bring her vision to life."

Veronica Osorio (Hail, Caesar!, "The Carmichael Show," "Girlboss") has been cast in the role of Emma; and Melissa Barrera ("Club de Cuervos," "La Mujer de Judas") will play her sister, Lyn.
Veronica Osorio is a Venezuelan improviser and actress who moved to New York City to perform at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre in 2008. She has since relocated to Los Angeles and starred in the Coen Bros feature Hail, Caesar!, the upcoming Soderbergh project "Mosaic," and several television projects including a guest star role on NBC's "The Carmichael Show" and Netflix's "Girlboss." She also co-created and stars in the Broadway Video digital series "Diego + Valentina" with Julio Torres. Osorio co-hosts the new podcast with Alice Wetterlund, "Treks and the City," an episode by episode dissection of "Star Trek: The Next Generation" from a feminist perspective.
Melissa Barrera can be seen in the upcoming third season of "Club de Cuervos" on Netflix. She started her career in Mexico in the popular singing reality show "La Academia." After the success of "La Academia," Barrera went on to star in the TV Azteca soap operas "La Mujer de Judas" and "La Otra Cara del Alma" after which she landed her first leading role in the renowned "Siempre Tuya Acapulco" and consequently "Tanto Amor." Her musical theater training at New York University allowed her to land the leading roles in "Spring Awakening," "Young Frankenstein," and the Spanish pop-rock musical "Hoy No Me Puedo Levantar" at the Teatro Aldama in Mexico City. Her past film credits include Manual de Principiantes para ser Presidente and El Hotel. She leads in Prima and Sac�dete Las Penas, which premiere in 2018.

Currently based in Mexico City, director Alonso Ruizpalacios is a graduate of the London School of Dramatic Arts. Alonso is in post-production on his new film Museo which stars Gael Garcia Bernal. He is also currently in production on the new Gael Garcia Bernal series "Aqui en La Tierra" for Fox International. His feature film Gueros swept the 2015 Ariels (Mexican Oscars(R)) - winning Best Picture, Best First Feature, and Best Direction. The film is also the recipient of the Golden Tomato Award for Best Reviewed Film of 2015.

Senior Vice President of Original Programming Marta Fernandez and Manager of Original Programming Kathleen Clifford are the Starz executives in charge of "Vida."

About Starz
Starz (www.starz.com), a Lionsgate company (NYSE: LGF.A, LGF.B), is a leading global media and entertainment company that provides premium subscription video programming on domestic U.S. pay television networks and produces and distributes content for worldwide audiences, including its investment in the STARZ PLAY Arabia OTT service. Starz is home to the flagship STARZ(R) brand and STARZ ENCORE channels and provides high-quality, entertaining premium subscription video programming with 17 premium pay TV channels and associated on-demand and online services, including the STARZ app. Sold through U.S. multichannel video distributors, including cable operators, satellite television providers, telecommunications companies, and other online and digital platforms, Starz offers subscribers more than 5,000 distinct premium television episodes and feature films every year and up to 1,500 every month, including STARZ Original series, first-run movies and other popular movie and television programming.

About Big Beach
Founded in 2004 by Marc Turtletaub and Peter Saraf, Big Beach produces and finances independent films, television and theater. In the decade since the company's founding Big Beach has produced over a dozen acclaimed independent films including Academy Award nominated Little Miss Sunshine, Everything Is Illuminated adapted from the novel by Jonathan Safran Foer, Jesse Peretz's Our Idiot Brother, Philip Seymour Hoffman's directorial debut, Jack Goes Boating, Colin Trevorrow's Safety Not Guaranteed and Jordan Vogt-Roberts The Kings Of Summer. Most recent films include About Ray starring Naomi Watts, Elle Fanning and Susan Sarandon, and Loving, directed by Jeff Nichols. Loving follows Richard and Mildred Loving, the couple behind the seminal 1967 civil rights case, Loving vs. Virginia.