Daddy Yankee, AKA the “King of Reggaeton,” has signed on as an executive producer for the reggaeton comedy series NEON. Along with his role as an EP, he will also make a cameo on the Netflix series.
Created by best-selling author Shea Serrano (Primo), the 8-episode series will follow three friends who move to Miami to become reggaeton stars. According to a press release from Netflix, NEON “chronicles not only their larger-than-life dreams but the harsh comic realities of attempting to make it in the music industry.” Currently in production in Puerto Rico, the series stars Tyler Dean Flores (The Falcon and the Winter Soldier), Emma Ferrerira (Unstable), Jordan Mendoza (Kaleidoscope), and Courtney Taylor (Insecure).
When the series was first announced, Netflix received some pushback because they allegedly did not include Puerto Ricans in the roles of producers, writers, or consultants. “For Puerto Ricans, writing a reggaeton series without them is not only a slap in the face, it’s pretty impossible if you’re looking for an authentic storyline that has their popularized signature sazón,” wrote Hyperallergic.
It seems like Netflix heard Puerto Ricans’ concerns with the addition of Daddy Yankee to the show. But more importantly, a Netflix representative told Remezcla that NEON “will showcase a range of stories and voices” and “is employing local crew, talent and vendors” from Puerto Rico in addition to having Latine writers in the writer’s room.
Last month, Daddy Yankee announced that his final concerts before he retires would take place in San Juan, Puerto Rico, from November 30 to December 3, 2023. “Puerto Rico, we are now getting ready to say farewell to my musical career as it deserves,” he shared on social media. “This will be my greatest achievement, to be with my people and with all those who will visit my beautiful island for my retirement.”
NEON is scheduled to premiere on Netflix this year.
