29/06/2026 07:15 - Entretenimiento
Lawyer Fernando Burlando, one of Argentina's most prominent celebrity attorneys, spoke publicly for the first time about the conflict between Florencia Peña and Luzu TV during an interview on Mirtha Legrand's show on June 28, 2026.
"She's not doing well, she's truly very hurt, going through pain", Burlando expressed regarding his client's emotional state after being fired from Luzu TV following the spread of false information about Jorge Messi, father of soccer legend Lionel Messi, on June 18, 2026.
Context for international readers: Mirtha Legrand, known as "La Chiqui," is Argentina's most legendary TV host, having hosted her talk show since 1968. At 97 years old, she remains a cultural icon. Florencia Peña is a beloved Argentine actress and TV personality, while Luzu TV is a popular digital streaming channel owned by Nicolás "Nico" Occhiato, a well-known influencer and entrepreneur.
Burlando explained that a signed contract existed between Flor Peña and Luzu TV, establishing specific conditions for employment termination.
"There was a signed contract. That contract somehow established certain conditions for termination. In this case, they simply told her 'don't come back'", the lawyer argued.
When Mirtha Legrand asked about the possibility of a lawsuit, Burlando was clear: "She will most likely sue. However, we are still talking with Luzu's authorities", leaving the door open for a potential out-of-court settlement.
Mirtha Legrand didn't avoid the thorny topic and directly asked about the sum involved in the claim: "I heard a large sum".
Burlando kept the exact figure confidential but clarified: "Well, it's a significant figure. The amount has to do with what she earned, the benefits she had, and we haven't even begun to evaluate the damages caused because she is very hurt".
According to Clarín, Argentina's largest newspaper, this would be a millionaire figure including not only pending fees but also damages caused by the abrupt contractual termination.
The scandal erupted on June 18, 2026 when Florencia Peña spread false information during her program about Jorge Messi, father of the captain of Argentina's national soccer team. The news turned out to be completely false and generated a strong media controversy.
| Key Date | Event |
|---|---|
| June 18, 2026 | Fake news about Jorge Messi aired on Flor Peña's program |
| June 18, 2026 | Flor Peña fired from Luzu TV |
| June 28, 2026 | Burlando's statements on Mirtha Legrand's show |
Guido Záffora, an entertainment journalist, confirmed days later that there's an economic agreement under negotiation between lawyers for both parties, with no direct communication between Flor Peña and Nico Occhiato, owner of Luzu TV.
Juan Otero (17 years old), the host's son, revealed in later statements that his mother was "bitter" about losing her job and is very regretful, ruling out a return to Luzu TV.
Burlando also revealed how Flor Peña reacted immediately after the controversial program: "After the sad news that was given, which was a big mistake that she recognized immediately, she called the Messi family as soon as the program ended. She couldn't speak, she only cried".
According to previous reports, Flor Peña contacted Celia Cuccittini again, Lionel Messi's mother, and a pending meeting could take place in Rosario during the theater tour "Las hijas" (The Daughters).
Geographic context: Rosario is Argentina's third-largest city, located in Santa Fe province. It's the hometown of Lionel Messi and his family. Celia Cuccittini remains a highly respected figure in Argentine society.
Marley (Alejandro Wiebe), who was the show's producer, clarified from the United States that his relationship with both Flor Peña and Nico Occhiato remains intact after the scandal: "With Florencia I have the best relationship", he assured.
The host also confirmed that his bond with Occhiato remains good, distancing himself from any personal conflict amid the contractual dispute.
Who is Marley? Marley is one of Argentina's most successful TV hosts and producers. He has hosted major shows like "El Hotel de los Famosos" and is known for his close relationships with many Argentine celebrities.
Fake news refers to deliberately false or misleading information presented as real news. In Argentina, spreading false news can have legal consequences, especially when it affects the reputation of public figures. In this case, spreading false information about Jorge Messi generated a contractual conflict that could result in a millionaire lawsuit. For international audiences, it's important to understand that Lionel Messi is not just a soccer player in Argentina—he's a national hero, and any news about his family carries enormous social weight.
Alfredo S. Quiroga
