Photo Credit: Shelby Goldstein
As of Monday ,telenovela star Jencarlos Canela is back on the small screen, starring on Netflix’s new Latino-themed family comedy, “The Expanding Universe of Ashley Garcia.” The Cuban-American singer, songwriter and actor plays the title character’s ex-football player uncle Victor on the series, which was created by Mario Lopez and guest-directed by Eva Longoria, and tells the story of a 15-year-old robotics engineer and rocket scientist Ashley (played by newcomer Paulina Chávez) who moves across the country to work for NASA and live with her fun-loving uncle. Chavez is joined by a crew of talented young actors including Bella Podaras, Conor Husting and Reed Hortmann. We chatted with Canela, who is also well known for starring on Longoria’s NBC show “Telenovela” as well as playing Jesus Christ in the musical special “The Passion” on Fox, about his new series, being personally cast by Mario Lopez and when we can expect new music from the suave Latin star.
Photo Credit: Netflix
Tell us about your new show, “The Expanding Universe of Ashley Garcia.” What can viewers expect?
“TEUAG” is about a 15-year-old genius that is the youngest person to ever get an internship building robots at a prestigious company. She has to move in with her irresponsible, immature, player, uncle that lives closer to her new job. She teaches her uncle how to be more responsible and her uncle gives her the opportunity to finally be a kid.
What drew you to playing Victor?
The arc of this character is amazing. He’s got some deep issues that are conveyed with a comedic tone. Playing the uncle is fun because you don’t have to be as strict as a parent so it’s more like a friendship with family ties. Working with Netflix was also a desire of mine for a while. The respect I have for our producers, writers and directors made it a no brainer for me to want to play uncle Vic.
