BTN News: Mariela Fernández is set to rejoin “Bendita,” the popular news and humor program on Argentina’s El Nueve channel, as a regular panelist. Her return, confirmed on Friday afternoon, comes a month after the exit of Tamara Pettinato under controversial circumstances. Fernández, a well-known journalist and host on Crónica TV and La 100 FM 99.9, will be on the show twice a week, bringing her back to a familiar role she left in January 2018. As Fernández steps in, questions continue to swirl around Pettinato’s sudden departure and subsequent legal actions against the show.
A Familiar Face Returns: Mariela Fernández Joins Bendita’s Panel
Fernández’s return to “Bendita” comes with much anticipation. She is expected to appear on the show every Tuesday and Thursday, with a flexible schedule as required. “Yes, I am back at Bendita,” Fernández told La Nación. “I’ll be on Tuesdays and Thursdays for sure, except next week, when I’ll be on Monday and Tuesday because Beto [Casella] won’t be there one day. Officially, no one has told me I’m replacing Tamara [Pettinato], but it seems to be implied. However, I know there’s a planned mix and rotation within the panel.”
The Exit of Tamara Pettinato: A Cloud of Controversy and Legal Action
Tamara Pettinato’s exit from “Bendita” remains surrounded by ambiguity and speculation. Initially, it appeared Pettinato decided to “step aside” after videos surfaced showing her with former Argentine President Alberto Fernández. Beto Casella, the show’s host, and the production team reportedly suggested she take some time off until the situation calmed down.
However, Pettinato recently revealed she has initiated legal action against “Bendita,” alleging they “deny that she ever worked there.” She has also stated that no one from the show has contacted her since her departure.
Legal Battle and Pettinato’s Claims: “No One Communicated with Me”
In an interview with Socios del Espectáculo on El Trece, Pettinato confirmed the legal dispute, stating, “Yes, it has gone to the legal stage.” When asked if she received any notification from the network, she replied, “No, no one has ever contacted me again.” She further mentioned that she had sent a legal notice but had yet to receive a response: “If they never notify you, you have to find a way to close it yourself.”
Beto Casella’s Perspective: “It’s a Matter for Human Resources”
Beto Casella, the charismatic host of “Bendita,” addressed the controversy during an appearance on “Dante de 10,” a radio show on Radio 10. “There were several communications… The production spoke with her, and she took it the wrong way, saying she felt neglected by us. We treated her with the utmost care, but she claims otherwise,” Casella explained. He added that he has since distanced himself from the situation: “I don’t need to mediate this. It’s a task for Human Resources or Programming.”
What’s Next for Pettinato and Bendita?
While Mariela Fernández begins her new stint at “Bendita,” it remains unclear what will happen with Tamara Pettinato. The ongoing legal battle, Pettinato’s claims of mistreatment, and the lack of communication from the show’s producers have created a complex and unresolved situation. Pettinato hinted that she might not return to the show, expressing frustration at the network’s handling of her exit.
Tamara Pettinato’s Frustration: “When They Fire You, That’s It.”
In another interaction with Alejandro Castello from LAM, Pettinato reiterated her confusion and disappointment: “They asked me to take a week off, and then I never heard from them again. That’s their way. I have no idea about a replacement because, for me, when they fire you, that’s it.”
Fernández’s New Role and the Future of Bendita
As Fernández steps into her new role at “Bendita,” the future of the show remains uncertain. Will Pettinato’s legal battle result in further changes? For now, Fernández’s return brings a familiar face back to the panel, while the controversy around Pettinato’s departure continues to unfold.
Concluding Thoughts: A Shifting Landscape on Argentine TV
With its blend of humor and hard-hitting commentary, “Bendita” has long been a staple of Argentine television. The introduction of Mariela Fernández and the legal wrangling surrounding Tamara Pettinato highlight the ongoing shifts and challenges facing the show. As viewers tune in to see how these changes play out, one thing is certain: “Bendita” continues to captivate audiences with its mix of entertainment and real-life drama.
