'Sábado Gigante' Host Don Francisco Joins Telemundo as News Correspondent

Don Francisco, the host of the now-canceled Univision staple Sábado Gigante, is set to become a news correspondent on Telemundo.

According to Deadline, Francisco, real name Mario Kreutzberger, has signed a deal with the biggest rival to his former TV home. The Chilean megastar will serve as a senior news correspondent for Telemundo and also create original content directed at Hispanics in the U.S. as well the broader Latin America audience.

Francisco, 75, who has been one of the most iconic Latinos on television for decades, will cover major international events, such as this summer's Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, the U.S. presidential race and the 2018 FIFA World Cup. He'll also conduct interviews with prominent figures.

During the 50-plus years of variety show Sábado Gigante, Francisco interviewed numerous people, including President Barack Obama.

"Mario has such a unique understanding of the Spanish-language audience both here in the U.S. and abroad," Cesar Conde,  chairman of NBC Universal Telemundo Enterprises, told Variety . "He knows how to adapt and create innovative content that connects with Spanish speakers around the world; that's why we're so excited to be working with him."

This is a big move for Telemundo. Univision surpasses the network in the Spanish-language segment, but the pull from one of the most well-respected figures in Hispanic television could spice up the competition.