A chat with Cristina Saralegui

I, like the majority of Latinos/Hispanics, grew up watching El Show de Cristina every day, but even more so, her Monday night shows. Watching it was like part of being a Latino/Hispanic in this country. She spoke about an array of subjects and I especially liked the shows in which she would interview artists, which is why it was sad to see it get canceled after 21 years of being on the air. I always wanted to go to one of her shows, but never had the chance to do so. So when I found out that she would be having a book signing here in the LA area for her newly launched book, “Rise up and Shine”, I was excited to go see her. I looked into it and requested to cover the event for the blog.

As soon as I arrived at Libreria Martinez Books & Art Gallery in Santa Ana, I was escorted to the back of the library to a room that had been set up for media and her special guests. They had some wine, water and hors d’oeuvres for us. She came into the room about 30 minutes later accompanied by her husband, Marcos, and was very nice with everyone. She chatted with all of us, signed our books and took pictures with all who asked. She was very nice, down-to-earth and friendly.

We later proceeded to the library where she would be chatting with the public that had made it out there to see her. The first two rows were reserved for those of us that were in the back with her so I took seat in the front row. Cristina Saralegui was introduced to all of us there and later came out. She greeted everyone present, which by the way, was packed with people waiting to see and hear her talk. She chatted with all of us for about 30 minutes talking about her book, her family, her career and her current collaborations with several non-profit organizations. Among many of the things she said was that this book is not an autobiography, but rather an inspirational book. She then answered a few questions and started her book signing. Renán Almendárez “El Cucuy” was also present to show his support.

It was a great chat that felt very personal. It didn’t feel like you had this TV legend talking to you. She was like a friend offering her advice on an array of subjects. She is one of the most humble, down-to-earth and nicest persons I have met in the entertainment industry. I have a great amount of respect for her. She is a great inspiration and example for Latinas everywhere. I can’t wait to read her book in its entirety. I might do a book review on it so you can learn a little more about it. I’m glad I had the chance to make it out there to meet her and listen to her inspiring words.

Oh, and if you missed it, Cristina reposted my picture of her on her Instagram account!

Hope you enjoyed all the pictures. I would like to thank her team as well as the publisher’s team for the VIP treatment I received while there. THANK YOU!