Don Francisco says emotional goodbye on last “Sabado Gigante” broadcast

The Univision show’s host and creator Mario Kreutzberger – better known as Don Francisco – welcomed entertainment figures and returning faces throughout the live, three-hour episode. Everyone from Selena to Psy was featured on the show, helping Sabado Gigante remain a pop culture staple. Francisco held more than 150,000 interviews, including chats with US presidents and first lady Michelle Obama.

On Sunday, the day after the last show airs, Kreutzberger says that he’ll sit down to plan future projects.

Kreutzberger himself will be given several awards including one from a USA congresswoman. He also received a Guiness World Record certification – “Sabado Gigante” is the longest-runing weekly variety show in TV history.

Recurring guest Gloria Benavides will appear in character as “La Cuatro” and there will be a contest featuring “El Chacal de la Trompeta”.

He said he was very proud of his team, whom he thanked for their professionalism at a press conference around midnight after the show.

Sábado Gigante, which first aired in Chile in 1962 and moved to Miami in 1986, is known for its dizzying array of performances, musical acts, skits and games. Everything from massive high heeled shoes to brightly-colored pastries, Sabado Gigante’s props were imaginative and added a fun atmosphere to the program. And, in keeping with the show’s theme of having contests and prizes, three brand-new cars were given away.

“We’re going to miss Don Francisco”, said Mexican singer Espinoza Paz, who – along with many others – called him a “legend”.