Univision Axes ‘Planeta Alofoke’ Following Santiago Matías Controversy
What was intended to be one of the most ambitious partnerships in Hispanic entertainment this year has collapsed before ever hitting the airwaves. TelevisaUnivision has reportedly canceled “Planeta Alofoke,” a project led by entrepreneur Santiago Matías, following a series of public disputes that severely strained the relationship between the media mogul and the network.
The project, which aimed to bring a blend of reality television and “disruptive” interviews to the network’s prime-time slot, was originally slated to debut in April with four special episodes. But, the deal fell apart after a heated exchange on Instagram between Matías and actor Julián Gil. What began as a difference of opinion quickly escalated into personal attacks by Matías against Gil, which eventually extended to the network itself.
According to unofficial reports, the situation became untenable when Matías allegedly referred to Univision staff as “empleaduchos” (low-level employees) and described himself as “the messiah” of the media, suggesting the network should be grateful for his presence. Even as TelevisaUnivision executives initially attempted to mediate the conflict by requesting that Matías moderate his public discourse, the lack of agreement led the network’s legal teams and senior executives to intervene. Despite considering a reduction in the number of episodes, the company ultimately opted for a total cancellation of the contract.
Julián Gil took to social media to celebrate the network’s decision, framing it as a victory for professionalism. “Respect won over noise, trajectory over improvisation and the circus,” Gil wrote on Instagram. He further commented that “not everyone who thinks they are a star can handle the spotlight,” and noted that while making noise is easy, staying at the required level when the “screen carries weight” is the real challenge.
For his part, Santiago Matías has offered a different perspective on the fallout. Breaking his silence, Matías asserted that “Planeta Alofoke is an original, authentic project and ours,” claiming that the special was actually “canceled by Santiago Matías.” He further dismissed rumors regarding Televisa, stating that he produces reality content for YouTube rather than traditional television.
Despite the network fallout, Matías is moving forward with his own plans, announcing that “Planeta Alofoke” will premiere on April 12, declaring, “No one can cancel what is not theirs.”
This clash highlights the growing tension between traditional broadcast standards and the unfiltered nature of digital-first creators as they attempt to cross over into mainstream television.
