In a surprising shake-up, Telefe has announced significant changes to its programming that shock both viewers and insiders alike. The Argentine television network has decided to part ways with a couple of prominent figures, stirring up a whirlwind of speculation and reactions across the media landscape.
The first to make headlines is renowned chef Rodrigo Cascón who has been a staple of the network's popular cooking show, La Peña de Morfi, since its inception under the helm of Gerardo Rozin. On March 25, 2025, it was revealed that Telefe will not be renewing Cascón’s contract, leading to marked surprise and indignation among his colleagues and fans. As Matías Vázquez, host of Puro Show, announced, "Right now, the channel doesn't want him," emphasizing the unexpected nature of this decision.
Insiders suggest that the network is undergoing a cleanup initiative, distancing itself from personalities perceived as controversial. Cascón’s recent involvement with an adult content platform seems to have played a pivotal role in this decision, effectively sealing his fate at the channel. As he discussed during an interview, "I am surprised, but I am improving. We are a family here. The reality is that the executives of the channel made the decision for me not to continue." He also noted, "There were budgetary issues and changes they wanted to make. I was left in 'Pampa y la vía' when it came to the decision."
Despite his efforts to negotiate a solution, including offering to accept a reduced salary to secure his position, Telefe's management remained adamant. According to reports, Cascón's pleas fell on deaf ears as management reiterated their stance, summarily dismissing the option of retaining him.
In tandem with Cascón's unexpected ouster, fellow media figure Wandara Nara is also facing potential dismissal from Telefe. Hired initially as a judge on the show ¿Quién es la máscara? and later elevated to host MasterChef, Wanda has been in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons recently due to her tumultuous private life marked by public reckonings with fellow celebrity Mauro Icardi. The network's leadership appears to be increasingly uneasy with the ongoing scandals that continue to create waves in the press.
On March 20 and 21, Wanda hinted at a desire to step back from her television commitments to focus on her family. This revelation sparked speculation that her departure might not be entirely voluntary. As Carlos Monti of MAB (TV Pública) reported, there seems to be a divide within Telefe regarding her future role, with some executives reportedly displeased by her association with recent controversies.
Guillermo Pardini, another media insider, noted that Wanda's hiring was contentious from the start. Although her charisma and public appeal won her the position, there were already voices in the network suggesting she might not be the best fit due to concerns over her reputation. "From the beginning, when Wanda Nara's name was mentioned to host MasterChef, there was a large segment saying, 'Not a chance,' while a powerful faction argued, 'Yes, she's popular. She connects with people,'" he recounted.
As whispers of her potential departure gain momentum, Iván de Pineda, who has found success with shows like Escape Perfecto and Pasapalabra, is emerging as a frontrunner to succeed Wanda if her contract is indeed rescinded. With a reputation for a 'clean image' and favorable relations with advertisers, de Pineda could fit the family-friendly profile that Telefe is seeking to reinforce.
Beyond the boardroom decisions and contractual obligations, both Cascón and Nara have publicly faced the fallout in their own ways. Cascón expressed disappointment over the lack of communication about his termination, stating he hadn't even been informed adequately before the announcement. Wanda’s approach appeared more strategic—presenting her potential exit as a personal choice rather than a network decision, perhaps to preempt public backlash regarding her departure.
“She said last Thursday and Friday that she wanted to dedicate herself to her family and wouldn’t work,” added Monti, pondering the implications of her statement on public perception and her long-term career prospects. His assessment aligns with the growing sentiment that Wanda is skillfully managing the narrative to position herself favorably amid these tumultuous changes.
In summary, Telefe's decision to part ways with Cascón and possibly Nara signifies a broader shift at the network aimed at re-establishing a coherent image in a competitive television landscape. Both personalities have encountered the high stakes of public life in the harsh world of television where image and reputation often dictate terms. Their departures could herald new beginnings for both the stars involved and the network itself as it navigates its path forward.
As Telefe prepares for its upcoming programming schedule, audiences will be left to wonder what new directions these shake-ups will lead to, both for the beloved shows and the personalities who have historically appeared at the heart of them.
