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Sirius XM Radio, the satellite radio company controlled by John Malone‘s Liberty Media, said Tuesday that it has struck a deal with Spanish-language radio star Eddie “Piolin” Sotelo.
The California-based host, who was featured on Univision Radio for more than a decade but was bumped off the air last month amid controversy, is known as Spanish-language radio’s top personality in the U.S. He will launch a new entertainment channel on SiriusXM, anchored by his four-hour daily morning drive and call-in show, El Show de Piolin.
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The radio host’s move from terrestrial radio to SiriusXM is reminiscent of Howard Stern‘s big move to the satellite service several years ago.
Financial details weren’t disclosed.
“Piolin, credited with popularizing the Spanish-language morning drive format in major Hispanic markets, will now have his first true national platform, reconnecting with his massive base of loyal fans while reaching new listeners nationwide who have heretofore been unable to hear his compelling, entertaining, and unpredictable style of radio,” SiriusXM said.
The channel will add to the company’s SiriusXM Latino suite of channels, which it says is “the most comprehensive lineup of Latino programming in radio today” and allows it to reach “underserved Hispanic listeners.”
SiriusXM’s 10 Spanish-language channels include music, talk, entertainment and sports offerings.
“I am honored SiriusXM believes in me,” said Sotelo. “I can’t wait to fly free and for the first time be truly available coast to coast.”
The Mexico-born radio star’s nickname means “Tweety Bird.”
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Univision Radio and Sotelo ended their long-running relationship in late July without much explanation. At the time, it emerged that a former staff member said the host had sexually harassed him. Sotelo spoke of a smear campaign.
“Piolin’s fans nationwide are loyal and supportive, and we are thrilled to welcome Piolin back to radio,” said Scott Greenstein, president and chief content officer of SiriusXM. “Piolin will draw subscribers and advertisers alike and represents our commitment to bring the best and most comprehensive lineup of Spanish-language radio programming to a nation of listeners.”
SiriusXM said El Show de Piolin would include discussions of the day’s events, interviews with celebrity guests, listener call-ins, pranks, music and more. Sotelo’s previous guests have included President Barack Obama, first lady Michelle Obama, comedian George Lopez, Will Smith, Jennifer Lopez and Pitbull.
He is known for having made such issues as immigration reform and voter registration key topics.
Details on the Piolin channel’s launch date and programming lineup will be announced later.
E-mail: Georg.Szalai@THR.com
Twitter: @georgszalai
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