There has never been a US prime time sitcom created by, and starring, a Latina…until now. Cristela Alonzo’s new show Cristela just started airing as part of the 2014 fall lineup.

In this extended interview, Maria Hinojosa talks to the Texas native about how she started doing comedy. We hear about how Cristela’s mother used humor. Cristela also discusses her desire to tell the stories she knows.

Cristela Alonzo is the co-creator, co-executive producer and star of “Cristela,” which premiered on ABC on Friday, October 10, 2014. Cristela rose to fame in the world of stand-up and has since topped multiple comedy power-player lists including “Variety’s Top 10 Comics to Watch,” LA Weekly’s “Top 10 Comedy Acts to Watch in 2014,” Time Out’s “Comics to Watch,” and Cosmo’s “13 Female Comedians to Watch For in 2014.” Cristela will next star in Sony’s upcoming animated feature film “Angry Birds.”

Cristela made a deal with Comedy Central to release her debut CD this fall. “The Half Hour,” her first half-hour special in Boston, premiered in June 2013 on Comedy Central to rave reviews. Cristela has also made multiple appearances on “Conan,” Gabriel Iglesias’ “Stand Up Revolution,” Showtime’s “Legally Brown,” “Last Comic Standing” and “Live at Gotham.” In addition, she performed at the Bonnaroo Music Festival and the Just for Laughs Festival in Montreal.

One of the most popular stand-up comedians in the college market, she showcased at the NACA (National Association of Campus Activities) national convention in Charlotte, NC, and was the most requested act of the convention. In the past three years, she has performed for almost 300 colleges.

Originally from San Juan, Texas—Cristela is based in Los Angeles, and when not on the road, can be found performing at various area clubs, including her home club The Comedy and Magic Club in Hermosa Beach.

Photo via ABC