The documentary series “Menudo: Semper Jovens”, which traces the trajectory of the world’s first boy band since 1977, claims that its young artists have been physically and sexually abused by music entrepreneur Edgardo Díaz.
Available on HBO Max, the documentary is split into four episodes in which 13 former members of the group that split in 2009. Singer Ricky Martin, arguably Menudo’s best-known name, was not interviewed.
The allegations against Díaz include physical, sexual and mental abuse, a grueling work schedule and lack of parental supervision, a formal requirement of Díaz for young people to be part of the group.
Ângelo Garcia, a Menudo member, claims he was raped several times between 1988 and 1990. He says he was drugged with alcohol by an unidentified man, who was part of Menudo’s entourage, and passed out. When he woke up, “he was naked and bleeding, so I knew I was being penetrated,” he said. He also says he was groped in an elevator by other team members.
Andy Blázquez and Jonathan Montenegro, members of the band in the 90s, tell almost identical stories of threats from the production team to touch the private parts of the boys, in a sort of “rite of passage” for the group. Blázquez adds that there has always been an atmosphere of extreme sexualization, with comments on anal sex.
“I remember Edgardo saying, ‘Do you know the pleasure you get when you poop? That’s anal sex,'” Blázquez said.
Finally, members like Montenegro and Rawy Torres still describe a miserable existence in the group, with no jokes, laughter or fun. They were forced to act even if they were sick.
Accused, Díaz did not respond to requests for interviews from the documentary team, but denied all allegations relating to abuse or mismanagement.
The documentary series “Menudo: Semper Jovens” is an original production by HBO Max and is directed by Ángel Manuel Soto, responsible for the upcoming film “Besouro Azul”, and Kristofer Ríos (from “Havana Skate Days”).
Watch the trailer below.
Source: Terra
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