Which Shows Global Audiences Are Tuning Into, From Brazilian Telenovelas to Superheroes Created from Red Bean Paste
Not long ago, this publication examined the trend of global dystopian series arriving to audiences across the globe. These shows brought stories of climate catastrophe, violent autocracy, and extraterrestrial attacks from diverse locations such as South America, Nigeria, and Asia. Aside from highlighting worldwide fears about societal breakdown, it also emphasized how linked the television industry has become in 2025. Online services, satellite channels, video platforms, and pirated content can quickly provide regional shows from every continent—excluding Antarctica, though it's interesting to consider if any penguin-themed dramas exist there.
Still, even with the high level of global intermingling in television today, numerous shows remain largely unknown beyond domestic borders despite huge success at home. This week, we set out to spotlight these programs by asking correspondents based in different nations about what people are watching in their regions. Read on for stories of morning shows in Jamaica, soap operas from Brazil, and Japan's sweet bean-filled superheroes.
Brazil | Vale Tudo
Although Brazil's longstanding love affair for soap operas has been slightly influenced by streaming services and competition from K-dramas and shows from Turkey, the most talked-about and highest-rated TV show in Latin America's largest country is, expectedly, a soap opera. Anything Goes is a revival of a series regarded as one of the most important of the genre and a massive success in the late 80s, when Brazil was still recovering from a harsh 20-year authoritarian rule. The first version revolved around the question: "Does it pay to be ethical in Brazil?"
The new version—released during a period of profound political polarisation—has moved away from the original's political focus, but has drawn high viewership and sparked heated online debates. While many viewers enjoy the reboot, with scenes going viral on online platforms, there has also been criticism over alterations to the story and the reproduction of stereotypes commonly linked to Black women in relation to one of the protagonists.
In Nigeria | BBNaija
One could write a compelling dissertation on Nigeria's interest with social dynamics and the nation's ongoing curiosity in watching over twenty strangers confined to a shared home. The current edition of Big Brother Naija is currently airing, and it still manages to drive more conversation, particularly on online networks, than any other entertainment happening aside from soccer matches.
BBNaija enjoys a level of mainstream penetration that makes the show hard to ignore even if you don't watch it. Contestants can still expect their appearances into a career of fame and brand deals, even if short-lived. This is likely to continue for as long as the producers keep up their skill to choose the perfect mix of participants who all seem born for the constant spotlight.
In Japan | Bean Paste Hero
According to the latest figures available, Japan's highest rated consistently aired programme is Anpan. It's the newest in a extensive lineup of short daily series, called asadora, aired in the early hours Monday through Saturday by national network NHK. The show is inspired by the life of a woman named Nobu Komatsu, whose husband, the creator Takashi Yanase, developed the Anpanman (meaning Bean Paste Man) children's books and cartoon show that have entertained and captivated generations of children in Japan.
The series recounts the grit-through-to-glory narrative of a young woman who experiences the atrocities of the World War II and, alongside her spouse, establishes a kind-hearted book collection in the 1970s. Its main character Anpanman—a red-bean-filled pastry with a cape—generously aids those in danger and distress, even giving pieces of his soft, sweet head to feed the hungry. Similar to other asadora, Anpan is soothing viewing, with a touching, uplifting plot that calms the unsettled mood of today's times.
Jamaica | Smile Jamaica
Usually, most people in Jamaica get their media content from the United States, but despite this the domestic station TVJ's Smile Jamaica morning show remains a critical part of the national daily life.
Broadcast from 6-8.30am, with a Saturday edition on the weekend, it offers an eclectic mix of fun segments and sections on serious current topics. Viewers can see viral dance and pilates tutorials, interesting conversations with a local performer and the producers of a new canned curry goat, but also debates on gun regulations in Jamaica and the tough subject of suicide prevention after the country was rocked by the death of a beauty pageant alumna at just 26. The show is a prime illustration of significant funding in its film and TV industry, with multiple annual movie events and the authorities recently announcing millions in local currency for domestic movie projects.
Poland | Chopin Piano Contest
It may not fit the usual definition of a mass-audience show, able to draw millions of viewers. Still, much of Poland will be glued to their screens for the coming weeks following the twists and turns of the new installment of a renowned piano competition honoring Poland's composer and virtuoso the composer Chopin.
The 19th edition of the Chopin Piano Competition started recently. It will include 84 pianists from 20 countries—selected from more than 640 submissions—contending for the first place, often seen as a key opportunity to play in the world's greatest concert halls.
The competition, like the global sports event for keyboard artists, is held every five years and attracts many of music enthusiasts to the Polish capital, with tickets being reserved a long beforehand. This edition, the host nation has thirteen contestants, but pianists from the United States, Canada, and Korea are seen as leading contenders.
The event is televised by Poland's public broadcaster and available via live stream, with the champion's performances beginning in late October.
