Books & Books in Coral Gables welcomes a unique evening of history, Hollywood and Latin heritage, as Todd S. Purdum discusses his new biography Desi Arnaz: The Man Who Invented Television, in conversation with award‑winning journalist Carlos Frías on Saturday, June 21 at 7 pm. The event marks a rare opportunity to explore the life of television pioneer Arnaz—celebrated as Lucille Ball’s on‑screen partner yet often overlooked for his behind‑the‑scenes innovations.
A Night of biography, culture, conversation
This in‑person session mixes storytelling and insight, anchored by intimate dialogue and expert commentary. It’s a standout forum for fans of Golden Age television, Cuban American history, and anyone curious about the man behind one of TV’s most famous pioneers.
You can choose a paid ticket, which includes a copy of the biography ($29.99 + tax), or opt for free admission without the book. Both options include entry to the 1‑hour conversation. Copies will also be available for separate purchase miamiandbeaches.com.
Who Was Desi Arnaz?
Born in 1917 in Santiago de Cuba, Desi Arnaz fled Cuba after the 1933 revolution, arriving in Miami nearly penniless. His charismatic presence and flair for music soon propelled him to the spotlight—later introducing the conga line craze across America.
Alongside Lucille Ball, he co‑created Desilu Productions, revolutionizing television production through the use of three‑camera setups, live audiences, filmed broadcast (instead of live), and the birth of reruns and syndication—all shaping the sitcom industry.
Yet the biography also reveals Arnaz’s darker chapters—including struggles with alcoholism, infidelity, and personal loss—highlighting both resilience and vulnerability.
About the author
A veteran political and cultural reporter, Todd Purdum spent 23 years at The New York Times before turning to literary biography. His earlier works include acclaimed titles like Something Wonderful: Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Broadway Revolution and An Idea Whose Time Has Come. With his new work, he shines a renewed light on Arnaz—moving beyond sitcom nostalgia to underscore his pivotal role in media history.
About the moderator
Carlos Frías, bilingual journalist and narrator of Sundial on WLRN, brings rich Miami‑area storytelling to the conversation. The two‑time James Beard Award winner also penned the Simon & Schuster memoir Take Me With You: A Secret Search for Family in a Forbidden Cuba. Though his tenure at WLRN ended amid a well‑publicized discrimination dispute, Frías remains a respected voice on heritage and media in South Florida .
Why this event matters
This event celebrates International Cuban Heritage Month and spotlights Arnaz’s under‑recognized role as a cultural pioneer. Though better known as Ricky Ricardo on I Love Lucy, Arnaz reshaped television’s form, structure, and economics—earning new attention in Purdum’s thoroughly sourced account.
Arnaz’s story intertwines with themes of immigration, innovation, entrepreneurship, and cultural identity—echoing in the city’s own legacy of design, diversity, and digital creativity.
What to expect
Engaging dialogue: Hear Purdum share how new archival discoveries reshaped Arnaz’s narrative, and how production needs intersected with personal dramas.
- Bilingual perspective: Frías evokes the immigrant arc and cultural crossroads through his lived experience and journalistic depth.
- Audience Q&A: Guests will have a chance to pose questions—whether about Arnaz’s legacy, modern media parallels, or storytelling craft.
- Book signing opportunity: Attendees with the paid ticket (or those purchasing on-site) can have their copy signed by Purdum, with Frías adding his signature after the discussion.
Event details, logistics
- When: Saturday, June 21, 7–8 pm
- Where: Books & Books, 265 Aragon Ave, Coral Gables, FL 33134
- Tickets: Paid (includes first-edition copy) or free admission (event only)
- Refunds: Available up to one week before the event
- Can’t attend? The book is available online via Simon & Schuster and major retailers.
Why you should attend
- Discover the Real Desi: Move beyond screen persona to uncover a cultured, ambitious innovator—and a man dealing with personal demons.
- Hear from an Insider: Purdum’s decades-long journalistic career brings depth and authority.
- Experience Bilingual Storytelling: Frías uniquely contextualizes Arnaz’s Cuban roots and impact on the US.
- Join the Community: Engage with fellow readers, local intellectuals, and heritage enthusiasts in a space that celebrates culture and conversation.
Mark your calendar, grab your ticket, and prepare for a captivating evening of history, media, music, and identity. In revisiting Desi Arnaz—not just as Ricky Ricardo, but as the powerhouse behind sitcom television—you’ll gain fresh perspective on creativity, resilience, and legacy. Join Todd Purdum and Carlos Frías for an event sure to entertain, enlighten, and inspire.
