Jeff Valdez(I)
- Writer
- Producer
- Director
Multi-talented comic/writer/producer, Jeff Valdez knew show business
was his calling. Born in Pueblo, Colorado, in a large Hispanic family,
he wanted to see Latinos represented in television beyond subservient
or demeaning caricature portrayals. Following several years as a
stand-up comic, he actively changed the face of TV. Blocked by much
opposition, his relentless efforts ultimately culminated in Sí TV. As
co-founder and executive producer of the Latino-themed cable network,
Valdez brought English-language programs to television that appealed to
Latino audiences and had cross-over appeal. As of 2000, Sí TV's Talent
Advisory Board was composed of such luminary figures in the
entertainment industry as Cheech Marin, Jimmy Smits, Hector Elizondo,
Erik Estrada, Maria Conchita Alonso, Roseanne, Geraldo Rivera, Daisy
Fuentes, Mario Lopez, and Carlos Mencia. Valdez was listed in the "Los
Angeles Times 36 Faces To Watch in 97" and "100 Most Influential
Hispanics by Hispanic Business." He received a 1998 Hispanic
Achievement Award in the Entertainment category by "Hispanic Magazine"
for his positive impact on the Hispanic community. Valdez also received
the 1998 ALMA Award for pioneering bilingual programming that portrayed
positive images of contemporary Hispanics in the United States.
