Ismael Cala Returns to Television After Four Years

August 1, 2020

Cuban journalist Ismael Cala, known for his "Cala" program on the CNN network, decided to return to television after almost four years away due, in part, to the effects of the pandemic on his business ventures, reported the Efe news agency.

"In the last four years I became a kind of nomad. There were years when I didn't spend more than three days at my house. It was something I loved. It gave me new tools, I went to wonderful places and met incredible people," he explained from his apartment in Miami.

"We created companies that revolve around the principles of 'mindfulness', mental health and wellness, which have helped me throughout my life. Meditation, self-knowledge and self-help".

However, after the arrival of coronavirus to South Florida, a "tsunami" of cancellations broke loose.

"I was in Costa Rica when we realized what was coming and Mega TV had been talking to me for some time about returning to television," he recalled. "I realized that this was the moment to explore the possibility and the result has me very happy".

Cala returns to television with MegaTV, owned by Spanish Broadcasting System (SBS) Inc., with a one-hour variety program, where he plans to combine journalism, opinion, advice and entertainment.

"The concept is to offer the public content that makes them go to sleep with a smile on their face," he revealed. "At these particular moments it's important to know what's happening (…) it's all a matter of perspective".

Although most television stations have decided to broadcast their programs live from home, the Cuban journalist decided to "offer the public a high-quality product". This involves sets, lights, sound and professional cameras, so he will travel daily to the studios.

The first program, broadcast on July 20, featured the presence of Miami's first entertainment couple, Emilio and Gloria Estefan, who cut a green ribbon around the set. Among the first guests were also: José Luis Rodríguez "El Puma", Natalia Jiménez, Lucía Méndez, Aymée Nuviola and Alexis and Fido.