08/07/2026 07:16 - Entretenimiento
Argentina's entertainment world was recently rocked after a major on-air error on LUZU TV — one of the country's most popular streaming platforms, founded by media personality Luis Novaresi (known as 'Luzu') and later co-managed by Nico Occhiato. During a live broadcast of 'El show del verano' ('The Summer Show'), actress and host Florencia Peña — a household name in Argentina with decades of career in television, theater, and film — relayed a false report about the death of Jorge Messi, the father of football legend Lionel Messi. The news was quickly debunked, but the damage was done: the show was cancelled and Peña was let go from the platform.
In the midst of the media firestorm, actress and TV host Georgina Barbarossa — a beloved figure in Argentine entertainment known for her humor and candor — addressed the situation during an interview on Marina Calabró's radio show on El Observador 107.9. She sharply criticized Marley (real name: Alejandro Wieczner), one of Argentina's most prominent TV hosts and a close personal friend of Peña, for choosing to remain neutral and continuing business discussions with Occhiato at LUZU.
Barbarossa, with her trademark wit, suggested that Marley may not fully grasp the situation because he 'lives in a cloud of farts, he lives in Narnia' — a humorous Argentine expression implying someone is out of touch with reality. Despite the jokes, she showed unwavering support for Florencia, advising her to lean on her theatrical roots: 'Hold on to theater, which is the rock for artists. Hold on to the audience, who gives you standing ovations.'
For his part, Marley — currently in Miami for work commitments — broke his silence on the show LAM (a popular Argentine entertainment gossip program). The host clarified that his relationship with Peña is in its best moment and that he is acting as a mediator between both parties.
He firmly denied any rift between them, portraying himself as a bridge rather than a bystander.
The conflict has now escalated to the legal arena, with Peña represented by Fernando Burlando, one of Argentina's most high-profile attorneys. According to journalist Barby Franco on the show 'Pasó en América', Peña would take the production company to court seeking 750 million Argentine pesos (approximately several hundred thousand US dollars at current exchange rates), claiming unpaid contract fees and damages for harm to her public image.
Burlando highlighted the distress the actress is going through but also revealed a deeply hopeful gesture: Peña received a message of support from Celia Cuccittini, Lionel Messi's mother, whose response was described as 'restorative' for the actress during a dark moment.
Despite the challenging circumstances, those close to the actress say she is focused on moving forward. The hope is that Florencia Peña — temporarily away from streaming screens — will find her greatest refuge and energy in theater, the art form that has been her foundation throughout her career. In Argentina, theater is considered the most respected and resilient medium for performers, and Peña has a long and celebrated history on stage. Her story is a testament to how artistic talent and resilience can always prevail over adversity.
| Person | Who They Are | Role in This Story |
|---|---|---|
| Florencia Peña | Veteran Argentine actress, comedian, and TV host with a career spanning over 30 years | Fired from LUZU TV after airing false news about Jorge Messi's death |
| Marley | Top Argentine TV host, known for shows like 'Susana Giménez' and various prime-time programs | Close friend of Peña; criticized for staying neutral; claims to be mediating |
| Georgina Barbarossa | Argentine actress and TV host, famous for her comedic style and outspoken personality | Criticized Marley's neutrality; expressed strong support for Peña |
| Nico Occhiato | Co-founder and executive at LUZU TV, a major Argentine streaming platform | Key decision-maker in Peña's departure from the platform |
| Jorge Messi | Father and agent of football superstar Lionel Messi | Subject of the false death report that triggered the entire scandal |
| Fernando Burlando | One of Argentina's most prominent celebrity lawyers | Representing Peña in potential lawsuit against LUZU TV |
Alfredo S. Quiroga
