Menudo was arguably the first international boy band and one of the most successful. Starting from humble roots in 1970s Puerto Rico, the group conquered the pop world in the 1980s and 1990s.  As the boys grew older and their voices started changing, they soon discovered that they were easily replaceable – by a steady stream of 12- to 15-year olds waiting in the wings, ready to chase their dreams of stardom.  Such success came with an unnecessary price. As revealed by former members, the boys were often overworked, neglected, emotionally and physically abused. Separated from their parents, they also became easy targets for sexual predators.  Menudo: Forever Young (2022), HBO Max’s four-part docuseries, brings to life the uplifting, as well as tragic story of Menudo. Award-winning filmmakers Angel Manuel Soto and Kristofer Ríos co-directed the docuseries. Rios, who is also co-executive producer, joins us to discuss the allegations made in the film, and how the band still has a fond place in the hearts of millions. Watch the episode at https://factualamerica.com “What we were attempting to do is celebrate Menudo, but also have everyone understand the cost the band members paid to be in the band.” – Kristofer Ríos What is Covered: 00:00 – The trailer for Menudo: Forever Young.04:40 – Where you can watch the docuseries. 05:20 – How the fans of Menudo have reacted the documentary. 07:48 – The historical significance of Menudo.15:25 – The importance of the band singing in Spanish.18:24 – The conditions the band members had to work in.22:22 – The physical and mental abuse the boys were put through.25:25 – The issue of the band members being sexualised.30:05 – How Kristofer got involved in the making of Menudo: Forever Young.36:25 – The challenges of interviewing former members of the band.41:43 – What it was like meeting the ex-members of Menudo.43:45 – What we can take away from this documentary.  Resources: Menudo: Forever Young (2022) Fusion Media Group MovieMaker Magazine Innersound Audio Alamo Pictures Connect with Kristofer Ríos:IMDb Website Twitter Instagram Connect with Matthew Sherwood: Facebook LinkedIn Twitter  Connect with Factual America: Facebook Instagram Twitter More from Factual America:  Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road - Director's Take Under the Volcano: The Secret Birthplace of the 80s Greatest Hits Mary J Blige: The Unheard Story of the Album 'My Life' HBO's Revolution Rent: Broadway in Cuba