ChimeTV, Character Media team up for unforgettable Gala broadcast

For the first time in its 21-year history, the Unforgettable Gala, or UNFO, will be televised and streamed throughout North America in partnership with ChimeTV, America’s only 24/7 English language AAPI-focused entertainment television network.

“As an attendee and sponsor of the Unforgettable Gala for many years, it has been one of my personal ambitions to share this event with the world,” said Takashi Cheng, Chief Executive Optimist at ChimeTV. Cheng believes that the live broadcast will give audiences an opportunity to join the celebrations. He adds, “UNFO has always had a strong community and industry following, and we want to build on that through ChimeTV’s distribution platforms. We believe this event has international appeal.”

Founded by James Ryu and produced by veteran media publishing company Character Media (formerly KoreAm Journal, Audrey Magazine and Kore Asian Media), the annual event attracts more than 700 attendees by invitation only.

“While Nielsen reports show that API representation on cable TV is on the rise, ChimeTV is committed to strengthening the presence of underrepresented Asians and Pacific Islanders on and behind TV screens and our coverage of UNFO will ensure the night’s award winners receive the recognition they deserve for their incredible achievements,” adds Bob Rose, President of ChimeTV.

The ChimeTV broadcast is led by a diverse veteran team including production head DebbieLee Ruiz, Augie Max Vargas, an Emmy award-winning producer with over two decades of experience in the live television field and credits that include The Oscars, The Grammys, Super Bowl Halftime Show, as well as Narumi Inatsugu, producer, director and editor who has earned nominations for four primetime Emmys, working on some of the biggest televised shows including American Idol, the Super Bowl and The Voice; and Brett Ostro with credits on live events like Grease: Live, Annie Live!, the NHL Awards, iHeartRadio Festival and Kids’ Choice Awards. Business Wire