Episode 2: The Drink That Helped Create Streaming Syndication

Before Desi Arnaz reengineered television, he learned a family lesson in Cuba: if you make something great, bottle it—then share it again and again. In this episode, Wilmer Valderrama traces Desi’s roots from Santiago high society and the Bacardí legacy to the brilliant idea that turned I Love Lucy into the blueprint for syndication (and today’s streaming). From filming on 35mm to owning the negatives at Desilu, Desi transformed one-and-done TV into a business that lives forever in reruns. Along the way, Wilmer weaves in his own childhood Zorro dreams, immigrant journey, and why Desi’s vision still powers hits like NCIS.

Featuring: Wilmer Valderrama (That ’70s Show, NCIS, Encanto)
Topics: Desi Arnaz, Bacardí, Cuba, TV history, I Love Lucy, Desilu, syndication/streaming, immigrant success stories, representation in media, Hollywood business. Starring: Desi Arnaz and Wilmer Valderrama is produced by WV Sound in partnership with iHeart’s My Cultura Podcast Network.

Starring: Desi Arnaz and Wilmer Valderrama is produced by WV Sound in partnership with iHeart’s My Cultura Podcast Network.
Starring: Desi Arnaz and Wilmer Valderrama is written by Erick Galindo and narrated by Wilmer Valderrama. It is produced by Sophie Spencer-Zavos and Leo Klemm, with special help from Angel Lopez Galindo.

Executive producers are Wilmer Valderrama and Erick Galindo.

This episode was edited and engineered by Sean Tracy and features original music by Halo Boy and Madison Davenport. Cover art illustration by Lindsey Mound.

For more podcasts from iHeart, visit the iHeartRadio app or wherever you listen to your favorite shows.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.