Recently, UCP, a division of Universal Studio Group, announced that they have extended their overall development deal with Tanya Saracho, the creator of the critically acclaimed series Vida. This new agreement will allow Saracho to develop and produce original projects for broadcast, cable, and streaming platforms. The partnership between UCP and Saracho will undoubtedly bring forth innovative and diverse narratives to the entertainment industry.
As part of the extended deal, Tanya Saracho is currently working on several projects, including a series called The Wild Wild. This series draws inspiration from the lives of Annie Oakley, America’s most famous sharpshooter, and Señorita Rosalie, a renowned trick-rider who both starred in Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show. Saracho will serve as co-creator and executive producer of the project, alongside Jenniffer Gomez. The series has also attracted the talent of Jamie Babbit, known for her work on “Only Murders in the Building” and “A League of Their Own,” who will direct and executive produce. This promising collaboration holds immense potential for delivering a captivating narrative that showcases the talents of these exceptional historical figures.
Tanya Saracho’s previous work on Vida speaks volumes about her creative prowess and dedication to underrepresented narratives. Vida, a series that featured an all Latinx team of writers and directors, received critical acclaim and won the GLAAD Media Award for Outstanding Comedy Series. Furthermore, the series was honored with the 2019 Impact Award by the National Hispanic Media Coalition and received the Audience Award at the 2018 SXSW Film Festival. Its second season premiered as an Official Selection at the 2019 Tribeca Film Festival. These accomplishments highlight Saracho’s ability to create stories that resonate with audiences while shedding light on important issues within the Latinx community.
Tanya Saracho is not only a talented writer but also a passionate advocate for increasing diverse representation in the television industry. She co-founded the Untitled Latinx Project, which aims to amplify Latinx voices in television by championing content created by Latinx writers. Additionally, Saracho co-founded the Writers Access Support Staff Training Program as a means to provide greater opportunities for underrepresented communities within the industry. These initiatives demonstrate Saracho’s commitment to empowering marginalized voices and creating an inclusive industry that accurately represents the world we live in.
In 2021, Tanya Saracho launched the Ojalá Ignition Lab, a program designed to nurture and amplify intersectional Latinx voices. This initiative is set to aid in the development of emerging talent, providing them with the tools and resources they need to succeed in the entertainment industry. By creating spaces and opportunities specifically for intersectional Latinx voices, Saracho aims to break down barriers and ensure that diverse stories are given the platforms they deserve.
UCP’s extended development deal with Tanya Saracho is a testament to the creative brilliance and entrepreneurial approach she brings to her work. Beatrice Springborn, President of UCP and Universal International Studios, commends Saracho and her company, Ojalá, for their rarity in the industry and expresses her excitement about continuing the partnership. Saracho herself expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work with UCP and continue telling brown, queer narratives that are often overlooked. This ongoing collaboration promises to deliver compelling and groundbreaking content that will captivate audiences and reshape the television landscape.
Tanya Saracho’s extended development deal with UCP marks an exciting new chapter in her career, as well as a significant step toward increasing diversity and representation in the entertainment industry. Through her work on Vida and her dedication to empowering underrepresented communities, Saracho has cemented herself as a revered figure in the industry. With UCP’s continued support, we can expect to see even more groundbreaking and critically acclaimed projects from Saracho in the future. The partnership between Saracho and UCP sets a positive example for the industry, showing the importance of amplifying diverse voices and stories.