"Don Francisco" to Receive Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Entertainment/Television Editors

MIAMI--(ENTERTAINMENT WIRE)--June 22, 2000

Mario Kreutzberger, better known as Don Francisco - the animated host of Sabado Gigante - was awarded a star for television on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Don Francisco was one of the entertainers chosen from among hundreds of nominations by the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce Walk of Fame Committee. The ceremony for the unveiling of the star will take place in 2001.

The star is awarded based on a performer's professional achievement, public and peer appreciation, longevity and contributions to the community

Don Francisco, who began hosting Sabado Gigante in Chile in 1962, brought the variety show to the U.S. in 1986. Sabado Gigante is currently viewed in 42 countries and in 90% of Hispanic homes in the U.S. In 1993 the Guinness Book of World Records recognized Sabado Gigante as the longest running television program in the Americas.

Aside from his life in TV entertainment, Don Francisco has been very involved with community efforts both in the U.S. and abroad. In December 28, 1978 his "Let's Achieve a Miracle" Telethon - raised $2.5 Million and helped build hospitals for disadvantaged children in Chile. The telethon will be expanded to include 14 countries in by the end of the year 2000.

In 1984, he also headed "Los Hispanos Se Dan la Mano" to help Hurricane Andrew's victims in South Florida. Don Francisco was the first Hispanic ambassador for UNICEF - serving for six years.

The Walk of Fame lines both sides of Hollywood Boulevard from Gower to La Brea, and both sides of Vine Street, from Yucca to Sunset. To be honored with a star in Hollywood's Walk of Fame is a tribute coveted and sought after as any of the entertainment industry's equally prestigious awards.