HYBE Latin America has revealed the 16 young artists competing to debut in Santos Bravos, the company’s first Latin boy group. The project follows HYBE’s successful K-pop training system, which launched global stars like BTS and ENHYPEN. The contestants, aged 15 to 25, come from Mexico, Colombia, Brazil, Venezuela, Argentina, Peru, Spain, and the U.S. Only five will make the final group after an intense training camp in Mexico.
The reality series, also called Santos Bravos, starts in August 2025. Fans can follow the journey on social media (@santos_bravos) and through interactive digital content. HYBE promises a mix of music, emotion, and personal growth, aiming to create a group that connects with fans worldwide.
Meet the 16 Contestants of Santos Bravos
The contestants were chosen from hundreds of applicants. They bring diverse backgrounds, from acting to professional dancing. Here’s the full list:
- Kenneth Lavill (15, Mexico) – The youngest member.
- Jonah García (23, Mexico) – Known for his strong vocals.
- Leonardo Lotina (23, Mexico) – A dancer with stage experience.
- Pablo Carns (24, Mexico) – Actor and singer from the series Te Quiero Y Me Duele.
- Luigi Cerrada (19, Mexico/Venezuela) – Brings a mix of Latin influences.
- Heider Moreno (23, Venezuela) – Strong performer with a powerful voice.
- Iannis Biblos (21, Argentina) – Singer-songwriter with a unique tone.
- Priano (24, Colombia) – Experienced in urban and pop music.
- Kauê (18, Brazil) – Rising talent with a fresh appeal.
- Lucas Burgatti (23, Brazil) – Actor known for teen dramas.
- Patricio Rodríguez (18, USA/Mexico) – Bilingual with pop and hip-hop skills.
- Alejandro Aramburú (21, Peru) – Strong dancer and vocalist.
- Drew Venegas (25, USA/Mexico) – The oldest contestant with industry experience.
- Jesuale (16, USA/Venezuela) – Young but with impressive stage presence.
- Alex Mandon Rey (20, Spain) – Former Now United member, skilled in dance.
- Diego López (23, Mexico/USA) – Combines Latin and American pop styles.
The training camp will test their singing, dancing, and teamwork. HYBE’s chairman Bang Si-Hyuk said:
“Our goal is not just to create a group, but to guide young Latin artists through a real transformation — artistically and personally. Santos Bravos is about authenticity, emotion, and connection.”
High-Profile Mentors Will Train the Group
The contestants will work with top industry experts:
- Kenny Ortega (High School Musical director) – Creative Director.
- Johnny Goldstein (producer for Shakira, Daddy Yankee) – Music Director.
- RAab Stevenson (vocal coach for Justin Timberlake, Rihanna) – Vocal Trainer.
- Jaime Escallón (The X Factor, Survivor producer) – Showrunner.
The mentors will help shape the group’s sound and performance style. The final lineup will debut as Santos Bravos, aiming to become Latin pop’s next big act.
How Fans Can Follow the Journey
The show will be available digitally, with long-form episodes and real-time updates. A physical exhibition in Mexico City’s Parque Bicentenario will also feature behind-the-scenes content.
HYBE is also working on another Latin music project, Pase A La Fama, with Telemundo. But for now, all eyes are on Santos Bravos as the 16 contestants prepare for their big chance.
Also Read: BTS’ Comeback Rumors Boost HYBE Employee Morale with Generous Bonuses
