Alfonso Lizarazo, the creator and host of the influential comedy program “Sábados Felices,” died in Bogotá on Tuesday, April 2, 2026 [1].
Lizarazo's death marks the end of an era for Colombian broadcasting. His work defined the nation's approach to televised humor and provided a consistent cultural touchstone for multiple generations of families across the country [2].
Born Dec. 29, 1940, in Bucaramanga [3], Lizarazo became a central figure in the media landscape through “Sábados Felices.” The program remained on the air for more than five decades [4], serving as a launchpad for numerous humorists and becoming a staple of weekend television. He died at age 85 [5].
Colleagues and industry leaders described Lizarazo as a foundational figure in the arts. Juan Carlos Pérez, director of Caracol Televisión, said, "Alfonso Lizarazo fue un pionero del humor televisivo y su programa marcó la vida de varias generaciones de colombianos" [6].
Beyond the screen, Lizarazo's life touched various sectors of Colombian public life. He served as a senator in the Colombian Senate [7]. His influence extended from the political arena back to the stage, where he maintained a paternal relationship with his cast. César Corredor said, "Fue un papá para nosotros" [8].
Throughout his career, Lizarazo focused on the intersection of comedy and cultural identity. By maintaining a show that lasted over 50 years [4], he created a rare continuity in a rapidly evolving media market. His legacy remains tied to the ability of “Sábados Felices” to mirror Colombian society through satire and wit [2].
“Alfonso Lizarazo fue un pionero del humor televisivo y su programa marcó la vida de varias generaciones de colombianos.”
Lizarazo's influence represents more than just entertainment; he established a blueprint for variety-style comedy in Colombia. Because “Sábados Felices” spanned over half a century, it functioned as a sociological record of Colombian humor and social norms, making Lizarazo one of the most significant cultural architects in the history of the country's television industry.
