A modernized adaptation of the renowned Spanish series Velvet, Telemundo's Velvet: The New Empire brings together a stellar cast for its American debut. Featuring Yon González and Samantha Siqueiros in leading roles, with Danilo Carrera and Carolina Miranda as antagonists, this new version sets the story in contemporary New York City instead of 1950s Madrid. Both actors and seasoned veterans like Humberto Zurita and Chantal Andere relocated temporarily to Miami for filming. While González embraces his character’s resolute nature, Siqueiros faces emotional challenges playing her role. Meanwhile, Carrera struggles with portraying a villain, whereas Miranda finds joy in it.
The narrative revolves around the lives of the owners and staff at an upscale fashion department store. The production team has invested heavily in casting and production quality, including pivotal performances from Sonya Smith, Luciano D’Alessandro, Lupita Ferrer, and others. Set against the backdrop of today's bustling metropolis, the series promises drama, passion, and intrigue as it premieres on Telemundo.
Characters and Casting Challenges
In Velvet: The New Empire, the main characters are brought to life by an ensemble cast who faced various challenges both personally and professionally. Yon González portrays Don Alberto, a serious yet determined figure, while Samantha Siqueiros takes on Ana, a strong but emotionally troubled woman. Their journey involved relocating to Miami for the shoot, alongside other established talents such as Humberto Zurita and Chantal Andere. These experienced performers also encountered difficulties adapting to their roles, especially when stepping into unfamiliar territory or tackling morally complex characters.
González highlights his pride in representing such a successful project in the U.S., despite never having seen the original Spanish version. He emphasizes the effort put into crafting his portrayal. On the other hand, Siqueiros discusses how demanding her role was, particularly due to the emotional toll of embodying Ana’s struggles. She found transitioning back to reality after shedding so many tears challenging. Additionally, veteran actress Chantal Andere shares her experience missing traditional villains while playing Doña Blanca, calling it one of her most painful roles due to prolonged separation from family during filming.
Modern Setting and Production Highlights
Set in present-day New York City, Velvet: The New Empire reimagines the classic tale within a vibrant urban environment. This shift not only updates the setting but also introduces fresh elements that resonate with contemporary audiences. By relocating the action from 1950s Madrid to today's bustling cityscape, the show offers viewers a unique perspective on timeless themes of love, ambition, and betrayal. Moreover, Telemundo has spared no expense in assembling a top-notch cast and ensuring high production standards.
With key players including Sonya Smith, Luciano D'Alessandro, and Lupita Ferrer contributing to the storyline, the series aims to captivate audiences through compelling narratives and visually stunning presentations. Each episode delves deep into the personal and professional lives of those connected to the fashionable clothing department store at the heart of the drama. As the first episode airs at 9 p.m. ET/PT (8 p.m. CT), anticipation builds for what promises to be an enthralling exploration of relationships amidst the glitz and glamour of the fashion world. Through careful attention to detail and commitment to excellence, Velvet: The New Empire seeks to establish itself as a standout addition to Telemundo's lineup.