Fired Univision Host Rodner Figueroa Mum on Possible Return to Spanish-Language Network
Former Univision host Rodner Figueroa is not ruling out a return to the Spanish-language television channel but says that legal proceedings prevent him from commenting further on the matter, El Diario reported.
"Unfortunately, I cannot talk about the subject," the Venezuelan presenter told the New York-based publication.
"But eventually, there will be a moment to do that; I would like to speak with the peace and openness that characterize me. But my lawyers have asked me not to do it," the 42-year-old added.
Figueroa was fired from Univision in March after comparing first lady Michelle Obama to an ape on live television, Deadline Hollywood recalled.
"Well, watch out, you know that Michelle Obama looks like she's from the cast of 'Planet of the Apes,' the movie," Figueroa quipped on the air.
The host later penned a letter to the first lady apologizing for his remarks, according to Latin We.
"I want to clarify that I'm not racist and in no way was my comment directed at you, but rather the work of the (makeup) artist, which left much to be desired," Figueroa said.
When his friend, Carlos Calderón, took Figueroa's spot on "Sal y Pimienta," the Venezuelan host was delighted, he told Los Angeles-based La Opinión. The Mexican TV presenter, for his part, had called his predecessor immediately after receiving the offer.
"I spoke with Rodner, and I told him, 'Listen, they are proposing this (opportunity),'" Calderón recalled. "And he told me, 'How good that they're offering it to you!' We gave each other a virtual hug, and that was the end of the cycle. I, too, have had shows that have come to the end of their cycles, and you have to understand the business, embrace it and love it."
Figueroa, meanwhile, told El Diario that he has enjoyed his break from television and has found ways to keep connected with his fans.
"I am living day to day, doing the things that I like to do," the Venezuelan host said. "I believe that the viewers have asked me to be in touch with them, and that is the only thing that I can do for the moment -- being in touch via social networks," he added.
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