Univision, a cornerstone of Spanish-language television in the United States, is embarking on a significant programming shift, venturing into the realm of true crime for the first time. This move signifies a departure from the network’s traditional reliance on telenovelas, a genre that has long been a staple of its primetime lineup. The new program, C.D.I. (Código de Investigación/Investigation Code), will replace the long-running telenovela El precio de amarte, taking over the coveted 10 p.m. ET/PT slot Monday through Friday. This strategic decision comes on the heels of a challenging year for TelevisaUnivision, marked by leadership changes, layoffs, and the departure of prominent figures like veteran anchor Jorge Ramos. The network hopes this bold move will attract a broader audience, particularly younger viewers, and solidify its position in the increasingly competitive television landscape.
The introduction of C.D.I. reflects Univision’s commitment to innovation and adapting to evolving viewer preferences. While the network’s extensive library of Televisa telenovelas remains a valuable asset, Univision recognizes the surging popularity of true crime, particularly among Hispanic audiences. This new genre allows Univision to diversify its programming, offering a fresh and engaging alternative to its traditional content. The network aims to capitalize on this trend, attracting new viewers while retaining its existing audience by providing a strong lead-out from its novela programming. This strategic decision emphasizes Univision’s dedication to understanding and catering to the evolving tastes of its viewers, ensuring its continued relevance in the dynamic media landscape.
C.D.I., hosted by Borja Voces, co-anchor of Noticiero Univision Edición Digital, will be produced in Miami and will delve into a wide array of compelling crime stories, both past and present. The program will feature a mix of historical analysis and live updates on ongoing investigations, offering viewers a comprehensive and engaging look at each case. Exclusive interviews, expert commentary, and cutting-edge technology will further enhance the storytelling, providing in-depth insights into the complexities of criminal investigations. The show aims to respect the experiences of victims while offering a captivating narrative that explores the human stories at the heart of each case.
The show’s producers emphasize that C.D.I. is an entertainment program, not an investigative one. While the program will discuss and analyze criminal cases, it will not conduct its own investigations. A panel of experts will provide analysis and insights, offering different perspectives on each case. This approach allows for a more comprehensive exploration of the complexities of crime and the justice system, engaging viewers without compromising the integrity of ongoing investigations. The focus is on providing a compelling narrative and thought-provoking analysis, rather than breaking new ground in investigative journalism.
The premiere episodes of C.D.I. will tackle some of the most high-profile crimes that have captured public attention, including the murder of soldier Vanessa Guillén, a case that brought to light systemic issues of sexual harassment within the military, and the Félix Verdejo case, involving the former Olympic boxer convicted of murder. The show will also explore other significant cases from the United States and Latin America, offering a diverse range of stories that resonate with a broad audience. The production team is committed to extensive research, aiming to identify 50 cases for the season and delving into up to 100 cases. This meticulous approach ensures the accuracy and depth of the narratives presented, allowing for a more impactful and informative viewing experience.
Univision executives are optimistic about the potential of C.D.I. to succeed in the competitive primetime slot. They believe the show will not only attract new viewers but also strengthen audience retention following the network’s telenovela programming. This strategic placement aims to capitalize on the existing viewership and introduce them to a new genre, thereby broadening the network’s appeal and solidifying its position as a leader in Spanish-language television. The network is confident that this innovative programming will resonate with audiences, further cementing Univision’s place as a prominent force in Spanish-language media. The move signifies a bold step toward modernization and a willingness to adapt to the evolving preferences of its viewers, ensuring its continued success in the ever-changing media landscape.
