The Viña del Mar Festival continues to generate buzz, not just for the performers taking the stage, but also for the playful jabs exchanged amongst Chilean entertainment figures. Comedian Rodrigo Villegas’s recent performance included a pointed reference to television personality José Antonio Neme, marking the second time Neme has been the subject of a comedian’s routine at the festival.
The trend began with Stefan Kramer, who delivered an impression of Neme during his own set, considered a highlight of his performance. Villegas followed suit, referencing past criticisms leveled at him following a previous appearance at the Quinta Vergara venue. When Villegas displayed a photo of Neme on the giant screen, the audience responded with a mix of applause, cheers, and some boos.
“I like Neme. I especially like him when he shows up like *this*, with that face like he’s been smelling something bad all day, like he’s missing something… joy! Joy!” Villegas quipped, eliciting laughter from the crowd and sparking conversation on social media.
Villegas’s overall performance, his third time at the festival, appears to have resonated with the notoriously critical audience. He described his approach as delivering “jokes about poop, farts, and pussy,” and brought back the popular “Blondon Boys” segment. Like Kramer before him, Villegas was awarded both the Silver and Gold Gaviotas (seagull statues), the festival’s top honors.
However, the reception wasn’t universally positive. While the live audience showed approval, viewers at home were reportedly more critical, expressing their opinions on social media platforms. This split reaction mirrors a pattern seen throughout the festival, where stage performances often differ in impact from the televised experience.
The inclusion of Neme in both Kramer’s and Villegas’s routines suggests the Mega television host has become a recognizable and potentially good-natured target for comedic commentary within the Chilean entertainment landscape. Neme himself has been actively involved in the festival coverage, appearing in pre-festival promotions for Mega and reportedly navigating some tense moments during the Gala event, according to recent reports.
Specifically, Neme reportedly disclosed a “commented moment” between Priscilla Vargas and José during the pre-festival events, hinting at behind-the-scenes dynamics. He also mentioned tension during the Gala itself, though details remain scarce. Further, Neme was featured in a TikTok video showcasing his appearance at the Gala, demonstrating his prominent role in the festival’s media presence.
The dynamic between performers and personalities like Neme highlights the interconnectedness of the Chilean entertainment industry. Comedians drawing inspiration from current events and recognizable figures is a common practice, and Neme’s visibility makes him a natural subject for such routines. The audience’s reaction, both positive and negative, underscores the power of these moments to generate conversation and shape the narrative surrounding the festival.
Rodrigo Villegas’s successful navigation of the “monstruo” – the nickname for the Viña del Mar audience – suggests a keen understanding of what resonates with the crowd. His willingness to embrace self-deprecating humor and engage with current figures like Neme appears to have been a key factor in his triumph. The comedian’s ability to secure the coveted Gaviotas, despite a lukewarm response from some television viewers, demonstrates the enduring influence of the live audience in determining the festival’s success stories.
The festival continues through , with further performances and potential for additional comedic references. The interplay between performers, personalities, and the audience promises to keep the conversation flowing both on and off the stage.
Kramer dejó la vara muy baja, por eso villegas estuvo relativamente chistoso pero tampoco tan chistoso tuvo sus momentos buenos (como el final de la rutina) y momentos malos (el inicio) #Viña2026
— Santiago Recondo (@SantiagoRecond2) February 24, 2026
