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Tag: kimmy dole

  • Sofía Vergara Embraced Spanish For “Griselda” — and Now She’s Making Emmys History

    Sofía Vergara Embraced Spanish For “Griselda” — and Now She’s Making Emmys History

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    Last week, Sofia Vergara made history at the Emmys as the first Latina to be nominated for best lead actress in a limited series for her role in Netflix’s “Griselda.” This nomination comes after years of Vergara battling a double-edged sword: her undeniable talent and her Colombian accent, which were both part of the path she’d carved with her iconic portrayal of Gloria Pritchett on “Modern Family.” Despite the success that “Modern Family” had — winning 22 Primetime Emmy Awards and garnering 85 nominations since its 2009 debut — Vergara has been vocal about the limitations the industry placed on her because of her accent.

    “I’m always looking for characters because there’s not much that I can play with this stupid accent,” she told the Los Angeles Times earlier this year. “I can’t play a scientist or be in ‘Schindler’s List.’ My acting jobs are kind of limited.”

    With Salma Hayek being a rare exception, Latina actresses with accents often find themselves relegated to stereotypical roles like fiery maids or sassy best friends. Take Rosie Perez, for instance. The Puerto Rican actress known for her roles in Spike Lee’s “Do the Right Thing” and “White Men Can’t Jump” has spoken out about how her Puerto Rican Brooklyn accent often limited the roles she landed. Her role in “White Men Can’t Jump” was originally intended for an Italian or Irish American actress, but she eventually proved she was the perfect fit for the role.

    “Yes, my accent was strong. Yes, I was Brooklyn. Yes, I was poor, but did that mean I should be limited to only playing unintelligent, downtrodden, and humiliating stereotypes?” she wrote in her 2014 memoir “Handbook for an Unpredictable Life.

    Americans’ tendency to view accents through a biased lens has always been an uphill battle for Latine actors. Judgment towards people with heavy ethnic accents is a persistent issue and a prejudice that actors with British or Australian accents rarely face. This is a form of discrimination that needs to be dismantled.

    While Perez, Hayek, and Vergara are undeniable stars, such has been the case for many Latina actresses with strong accents. The industry has been hesitant to embrace the full spectrum of what Latina actresses can offer, creating a barrier for those who couldn’t (or wouldn’t) shed their accents.

    As Vergara herself has said, it was frustrating to be considered less intelligent simply because her English wasn’t flawless. “Do you even know how smart I am in Spanish?” is one of her most quoted lines from “Modern Family,” highlighting the unfair assumption that an accent is equated to a lack of fluency or intellect.

    Then came “Griselda,” a limited series on Netflix in which Vergara embraced her heritage and accent, and spoke primarily Spanish. In this role, she wasn’t just allowed — she was encouraged to speak Spanish. It was in this role, portraying the ruthless drug lord Griselda Blanco, that the world finally witnessed the full depth of Sofia’s acting talent. While it was unfortunate that a drug-trafficking narrative became the platform, her performance was incredible and showcased her talent beyond comedic roles.

    This highlights a crucial point. Latinos are an integral part of American society, and Spanish is a widely spoken language. Diversifying representation goes beyond casting; it’s about creating stories where Latine experiences take center stage, even if those stories unfold primarily in Spanish. Latines are not a niche audience; they are the very fabric of America, and Spanish is a primary or secondary language for millions.

    Vergara’s Emmy nomination wasn’t just a personal triumph; it was a beacon for change. Shows like “Narcos,” “La Casa de Papel,” and films like “Roma” have proven that the audience for projects that prominently feature Spanish dialogue not only exists but can indeed be a potent force. It’s time to break the mold and embrace the richness of multilingual storytelling, creating possibilities for more productions featuring talents like Vergara as well as up-and-coming Latine stars.

    Vergara’s historic nomination is a pivotal moment not just for her, but for countless Latine actors yearning for the chance to showcase their full potential. This wasn’t just about an Emmy; it’s a call for Hollywood to embrace the richness of Latine stories and recognize that representation goes beyond just faces. It’s about shattering barriers and paving the way for a future using the power of language reflected around the vibrant tapestry of our diverse voices.

    Kimmy Dole is a contributor for PS Juntos known for her sharp insights and compelling storytelling. An entertainment enthusiast, Kimmy immerses herself in the glitz of the industry, delivering a captivating blend of celebrity interviews, insights from industry experts, and the latest pop culture trends. Her work offers readers a genuine and relatable perspective, especially when exploring the complexities of relationships.

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    Kimmy Dole

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  • Fabrizio Copano Is Using Comedy to Address Political Wounds

    Fabrizio Copano Is Using Comedy to Address Political Wounds

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    Catalina Kulczar
    Catalina Kulczar

    For Mental Health Awareness Month, we asked Latine comedians and creators we admire how comedy has supported them in overcoming trauma and confronting life’s most significant challenges. Read the pieces here.

    Fabrizio Copano, a rising star in the world of stand-up comedy, isn’t your typical Latine comic. His journey, shaped by his Chilean upbringing under a pos-dictatorship and his subsequent disillusionment with the American Dream, fuels a unique comedic perspective that tackles serious political and cultural themes.

    Copano’s early life in Chile was marked by the tail-end of political turmoil. Growing up, he witnessed firsthand the harsh repercussions of Augusto Pinochet’s dictatorship, a period characterized by repression, human rights abuses, and a stifling political climate. This experience undoubtedly contrasts the idealized image of the US he received through the media.

    “Chile is very Americanized in certain ways, and we look up [to] the US,” Copano says. “The culture shock was when I figured out that we are ahead of the US in so many ways because we have already lived through many of the traumas that the US is just now confronting.”

    When Copano realized America is “just as messy,” it allowed him to view Americans from a more humanistic lens. “The system isn’t as perfect as it pretends to be. I now use this idea in my stand-up, that we’re ahead of the US — we are from the future,” Copano says.

    Indeed, Copano uses comedy to explore the disillusionment that sets in when the romanticized American dream confronts America’s often harsh realities. Copano weaves jokes about America’s obsession with individualism clashing with the collectivist values instilled in him during his Chilean upbringing.

    Unlike many US-born Latine comics who mine humor from the shared experience of navigating American life as a minority, Copano offers a fresh perspective. He injects Chilean history, culture, and political sensibilities into his routines, creating a richer and more nuanced portrayal of the Latine experience.

    Catalina Kulczar

    “A comedian can touch a nerve of [what’s going on in] society. Through laughter, you can open yourself a little bit more to think or view things in a certain way that the comedian is proposing. You can take advantage of the chaos,” he says. “That’s why I like putting little nuggets of my point of view. I think we Latinos are the future. We’re everywhere, but at the same time, we’re always [portrayed as] the victim in a very narrow way that is not the reality.”

    Copano’s achievement as the first South American comedian to land a Netflix special is a testament to his talent and perseverance. But paving this path wasn’t easy. He faced challenges, including limited spaces for comedic exposure or the pressure to conform to stereotypical expectations of Latino humor. However, his success has paved the way for future Latin American comedians, demonstrating the global appeal of their unique perspectives.

    When Netflix approached him for his special “Solo pienso en mi,” which was released in 2017, he wanted his comedy to resonate with viewers no matter where they were from.

    “I have to make comedy travel,” Copano says. “Then doing comedy in English was another layer of a challenge — how do you connect with people who have nothing to do with you and figure out things that are universal or so personal that you bring them to your world and they can connect through their own lens?”

    Copano’s US touring stand-up show “Baby Coup” tackles the concerning resurgence of fascism worldwide. He recognizes the power of humor to disarm audiences and makes complex political issues more accessible. Laughter can create a sense of connection, allowing him to plant critical seeds while keeping the audience engaged. He uses satire to expose the manipulative tactics of fascist leaders and employs dark humor to highlight the dangers of complacency in the face of rising authoritarianism.

    Catalina Kulczar

    “Funny things are universal — misery is everywhere, so you can find the funny things in misery,” Copano says. “Through trauma and experience, you can still see the scars, but if you can find a funny way to talk about these topics and bring it back, you kind of refresh people’s memories and reflect on how absurd it is.”

    Copano looks forward to taping his first-ever hour-long special in English this summer.

    “It’s kind of about my first years in the US, the cultural clash, the disappointments, but also all of the things that were great,” Copano explains.

    Copano’s comedy reminds us that humor can be a powerful tool for sparking dialogue and challenging the status quo. Particularly in Latine communities, humor tends to play a vital role when it comes to survival. It serves as a coping mechanism for dealing with difficult circumstances, a way to bond over shared experiences, and a tool for challenging authority.

    Copano’s unique point of view not only offers valuable lessons but also shows us how to confront darkness with laughter, find strength in shared experiences, and perhaps even inspire change, one joke at a time.

    “I just try to give this perspective that while many Latinos are victims of wrongdoings from our own governments, we are also humans,” he says. “We have our own thoughts, we are super smart, driven, we know what we want, and we know what the US needs now and can be very useful when democracy is in danger.”

    Kimmy Dole is a contributor for PS Juntos known for her sharp insights and compelling storytelling. An entertainment enthusiast, Kimmy immerses herself in the glitz of the industry, delivering a captivating blend of celebrity interviews, insights from industry experts, and the latest pop culture trends. Her work offers readers a genuine and relatable perspective, especially when exploring the complexities of relationships.

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    Kimmy Dole

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  • Revisiting Jennifer Lopez’s 2011 Album “Love?” and What It Signifies Today

    Revisiting Jennifer Lopez’s 2011 Album “Love?” and What It Signifies Today

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    As the anniversary of Jennifer Lopez’s sixth studio album “Love?” approaches, it’s a fitting time to reflect on this album’s significance within J Lo’s career, its impact on fans, and its continued relevance in light of her recent endeavors.

    Released on April 29, 2011, “Love?” came at a time when Lopez was already a multifaceted force in entertainment. Music, film, and fashion—she’d conquered them all. Yet, “Love?” transcended mere career markers. It delved into love, a theme central to Lopez’s personal narrative.

    This wasn’t just an album; it was a declaration. Through “Love?” Lopez explored her own quest for love and fulfillment. The title track, “(What Is) LOVE?” beautifully captures this yearning. Lopez laid bare her vulnerabilities through her music, creating an emotional connection with her audience. Take the poignant question — “Is this just a dream / Is this what it seems?” — which echoes a longing for validation, her desire to be someone’s girlfriend, and the fulfillment of romantic love.

    Fast forward to 2024. Lopez’s recent projects, including her latest album and musical film by the same name, “This Is Me… Now,” and the documentary “The Greatest Love Story Never Told,” were released on Amazon in March and offer a deeper look into her relationship with self-worth, love, and her ex-fiance turned husband, Ben Affleck.

    The documentary sheds light on the last two decades of Lopez’s personal life, including her struggles with self-love and the pressures of fame. Although the documentary has been arguably overshadowed by a viral clip where she references being from the Bronx, Lopez is still very raw about her emotions throughout the doc. She shares why she had been constantly searching for love and highlights her self-love journey. She also admits that her back-to-back marriages and relationships resulted from not being in a good place with herself.

    Similarly, her musical film underscores her journey toward self-acceptance and empowerment. In these works, Lopez confronts the need for validation head-on, emphasizing the importance of self-love and resilience.

    While “Love?” may not be Lopez’s biggest commercial success, its strength lies in its raw honesty. The album humanizes her, connecting listeners with her experiences and emotions. Debuting at number five on the US Billboard 200 chart, it holds immense significance in J Lo’s journey of love, self-love, and healing for a few key reasons. Produced while she was pregnant with her twins Emme and Max, “Love?” marked a period of introspection for Lopez and served as a platform for her to shed her usual glamorous image and expose her vulnerabilities.

    “Love?” explored Lopez’s own needs and desires but marked a crucial step in her journey towards self-love and understanding. She seemed to prioritize honesty over mainstream appeal, baring her insecurities and desires for love. The themes Lopez explored in “Love?” laid the groundwork for her recent documentary and self-love music video/album, echoing the messages of self-acceptance and resilience first seeded in this album.

    In many ways, the album served as a turning point for Lopez, allowing her to explore her inner world and pave the way for her continued growth and self-discovery. Despite all of Lopez’s accolades throughout her career, some still question her talents, as she openly shared in her 2022 documentary “Halftime.” Lopez’s achievements speak volumes. Her multifaceted success includes her influence on the Latine community, her role as a businesswoman, and her contributions to pop culture through film, music, fashion, and beauty.

    Ultimately, “Love?” is a testament to Lopez’s authenticity and resilience as an artist. It reminds us that even the most celebrated figures crave love and acceptance. As we celebrate the album’s anniversary, let’s appreciate its honesty, acknowledge its impact, and recognize J Lo’s continued significance as an artist and cultural icon.

    Kimmy Dole is a contributor for PS Juntos known for her sharp insights and compelling storytelling. An entertainment enthusiast, Kimmy immerses herself in the glitz of the industry, delivering a captivating blend of celebrity interviews, insights from industry experts, and the latest pop culture trends. Her work offers readers a genuine and relatable perspective, especially when exploring the complexities of relationships.

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  • Shakira’s Rock en Español Journey: From “Pies Descalzos” to International Stardom

    Shakira’s Rock en Español Journey: From “Pies Descalzos” to International Stardom

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    Colombian singer Shakira is often referred to as the queen of Latin music. She’s credited as the pioneer who extended the global reach of Latin music singers. Since her breakup with ex Gerald Piqué in June 2022, Shakira has become an ever-stronger artist, releasing several hits, including “Monotonía” and her history-making diss track “Bzrp Music Sessions, Vol. 53.” Shakira has also received a number of accolades and is nominated for several Latin Grammy Awards this year.

    There’s no denying that 2023 became the year of Shakira. Through this collection of stories, we are honoring Shakira’s current success, where she started, and the impact she continues to have on the Latine community.

    In the ever-evolving landscape of Latin music, Shakira’s rise to global stardom is legendary. While many may know her for her signature belly-dancing moves and chart-topping English hits such as “Hips Don’t Lie,” it is important to explore the early chapters of her career and how she has captivated the hearts of fans beyond her native Colombia through the world of rock en español.

    Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll, professionally known as just Shakira, is a Colombian-born singer-songwriter of Spanish and Lebanese descent. Her first two studio albums, “Magia” and “Peligro,” were released in Colombia in 1991 and 1993. Both albums had low sales and were deemed commercial failures.

    But that didn’t stop Shakira. A pivotal moment in her career came in 1995 with the release of her groundbreaking third album, “Pies Descalzos.” The 11-track album, which translates to “bare feet,” was cowritten by Shakira, showcasing her immense talent while simultaneously laying down the foundation for her future success.

    I was introduced to Shakira’s music through two older cousins, Delmis and Maricela, and I can vividly recall the impact that “Pies Descalzos” had on them. Even at a young age, I recognized the album’s significance; it filled a void for those in search of an alternative from the prevalent “fresa” (overly polished and posh) mainstream pop music of the time.

    Her edgy, less pretentious sound set her music apart from the glossy pop trends of the era and filled a critical gap for women artists in the rock en español genre. This breakthrough paved the way for women in the Latin music industry to express themselves authentically and transcend conventional pop stereotypes.

    The cover art for “Pies Descalzos” is an iconic image that features a close-up of a young Shakira, with long dark hair as she is gazing down. The vulnerability on the cover conveys the album’s themes of innocence and simplicity.

    Shakira’s unique sound on “Pies Descalzos” combines rock influences with captivating melodies and a Middle Eastern flair delivered through her distinctive voice. This fusion of cultures and sounds resonated with a vast audience worldwide.

    “Pies Descalzos” became a commercial success, reaching platinum status in the US, and featured chart-topping songs like “Estoy Aquí” and “¿Dónde Estás Corazón?” These songs became known for their symbolism and metaphors, which added depth to their themes. The album reached multiplatinum status in various Latin American countries, including Brazil, Mexico, Chile, and Venezuela.

    Shakira’s music videos blended strong narratives with visually striking artistry, while showcasing her unique musicality that propelled her to chart-topping success beyond Colombia.

    Her 1998 album, “¿Dónde Están los Ladrones?,” marked another turning point in her career. It fused rock, pop, and folk elements, and, like her previous release, showcased her songwriting abilities. The single “Ciega, Sordomuda” peaked at No. 1 on several Billboard charts, including Hot Latin Songs and Latin Airplay. While “Ojos Así,” which seamlessly merges Middle Eastern rhythms and unique vocals, landed her a performance at the first annual Latin Grammys in 2000.

    The album cover for “¿Dónde Están los Ladrones?” is a memorable image of Shakira in front of a pink wall with a red shirt and dirty hands. The cover art reflects the album’s themes, which include social and political commentary, rebellion, and the search for freedom.

    Shakira’s ability to connect with her audience on a personal level helped pave her way to stardom even before she transitioned to English and mainstream markets. Her lyrics touched on topics including love, identity, and empowerment, while her performances exuded a passion that was hard for audiences to ignore. Her charisma and stage presence made her music come to life and captured the hearts of people from all walks of life.

    Her ability to embrace her cultural roots while experimenting with a variety of sounds and influences enriched her music and opened the door to global appreciation. It proved that her success in the music industry was not based on a particular formula for success but on authenticity, genuine talent, and creativity.

    Shakira’s ability to effortlessly switch between languages and musical genres is a testament to her versatility and is why she’s become one of the most recognizable artists in the world. She continues to evolve within the ever-changing landscape of both English and Spanish music while still incorporating some elements from her roots in rock en español that have shaped her into the icon that she is today.

    Her journey from “Pies Descalzos” to “¿Dónde Están los Ladrones?” proved to be a formative period when she honed her unique sound and songwriting skills and established herself as the most successful woman Latin singer of all-time, with three Grammys and over 80 million album sales under her belt. Her rock en español days laid the groundwork for her trajectory and serve as a reminder that embracing your cultural roots while staying true to your artistic vision can lead to widespread success.

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    Kimmy Dole

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