Florinda Meza legal challenge chespirito biopic
Latin Times/Video Grab

MIAMI - Florinda Meza, former actress and widow of the celebrated Latin American comedian and actor Roberto Gómez Bolaños, better known as Chespirito, has initiated a legal battle against the producers of the series "Sin querer queriendo", which is set to depict her late husband's life, in a new chapter of the contentious relationship between the her and the children of the Mexican legend.

Meza, who also co-starred in Chespirito in the legendary shows "El Chavo del Ocho," "El Chapulín Colorado," and more, claims infringement of her biographical and personality rights, stirring up a complex legal and emotional debate around the portrayal of the iconic comedian's life story.

The news broke after Max (formerly HBO) confirmed that it had started filming the biopic series with the authorization of Chespirito's eldest son, Roberto Gómez. This move highlights not only the ongoing relevance of Chespirito's work but also the complexities surrounding his legacy.

All about 'Sin querer queriendo'

The title of the series comes from one of Gómez Bolaños' iconic catchprhases. Produced in collaboration with Warner Bros, Discovery, THR3 Media Group, and Bolaños' son, Roberto Gomez Fernandez, "Sin querer queriendo," will explore the life of the beloved artist.

The series, which began production in 2023, stars Mexican actor Pablo Cruz as Gomez Bolaños. Cruz has already played different roles in notable productions such as "Luis Miguel: The Series" and "La Rosa de Guadalupe." However, details about the rest of the cast and characters, such as those who portrayed Don Ramón, Kiko, la Chilindrina, or el Profesor Jirafales, remain unrevealed, along with the series' release date.

"Sin Querer Queriendo" marks the first production of the Chespirito Media Universe, an initiative by Grupo Chespirito, founded by Bolaños and his son. This universe aims to create myriad media content based on Chespirito's characters, including TV shows, animations, and movies. According to Roberto Gomez Fernandez, this venture will extend his father's legacy across generations, fulfilling a dream Chespirito had only imagined.

Florinda Meza's demands

Florinda Meza, who portrayed Doña Florinda in "El Chavo del Ocho," was more than a co-star; she was Chespirito's partner in life and work. Their relationship extended beyond the screen, with Meza collaborating closely with Chespirito on various projects. In 2004, they married, consolidating a partnership that had already been flourishing for decades, even while Gómez Bolaños was still married to the mother of his children.

Meza is currently embroiled in a legal battle over the upcoming series about Chespirito's life. Her claim hinges on the unauthorized use of her biographical rights and personality, as well as concerns about the portrayal of her relationship with Chespirito.

Since Chespirito's death a decade ago, Meza has claimed she has been excluded from all business negotiations regarding her husband's legacy. According to her lawyer, Guillermo Pons, nobody approached her about the series or the use of her name for her likeness.

"There has not been Chespirito without Florinda Meza next to him in the last 40 years of his life," Pons said.

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