Menudo Back On The Menu

• After 12 years of dormancy, the iconic Menudo brand is returning to the world stage, as a global talent search is now underway to find “the new Menudo.”

Auditions for talented teens between the ages of 12 and 16 will begin online this month, followed by live auditions in various cities, starting in San Juan, Puerto Rico on September 17. The audition process will be hosted by actor/entertainer/radio personality Mario Lopez, who will invite fans to follow weekly highlight videos on Menudo streaming platforms to discover, comment, and share their favorite contestants. Entrants will also be able to upload their video auditions to a Menudo audition app when Lopez announces the kickoff of the auditions in two weeks. “Like so many people across the globe, I grew up as a huge Menudo fan,” Lopez said. “I’m so excited and honored to be part of bringing this iconic Latin boy band back to the world!”

Menudo remains the most popular Latin boy band of all time. From its beginning in 1977 until 2009, Menudo dominated the Hispanic pre-teen and teen markets, sold more records than BTS and One Direction combined and broke concert attendance records. Menudo also famously adhered to a formula of introducing a new talent as older talent graduated from the group; however, unlike previous group incarnations, the new Menudo members will be sharing in all concert, merchandise, and music revenue. Menudo’s Miami-based management and coaching team will consist of seasoned and vetted professionals.

Paul Tarnopol, CEO of Menudo Productions, stated, “By utilizing social media, the metaverse, and A.I., Menudo will connect with fans in ways unimaginable just a decade ago. More importantly, our management team is committed to the safety, well-being, and financial security of each-and-every member of Menudo; This is what we mean by ‘A New Beginning.” Industry veteran Angel Zamora, who is overseeing the project, stated, “Working with Mario Lopez, Paul Tarnopol, and Menudo’s completely new management team to discover and develop the next generation of superstars is the honor of a lifetime.”