Which Shows the World Is Watching, From Brazilian Telenovelas to Superheroes Made of Sweet Bean Filling

Recently, this publication examined the surge of global post-apocalyptic dramas making their way to viewers across the globe. These shows brought tales of environmental disaster, harsh dictatorships, and extraterrestrial attacks from various countries such as Argentina, Africa, and Asia. Beyond revealing worldwide fears about institutional collapse, it also emphasized how linked the TV landscape has become in 2025. Online services, broadcast networks, YouTube, and unofficial streams can quickly provide regional shows from every continent—excluding Antarctica, although one might wonder if any penguin-themed dramas exist there.

However, despite the high level of international exchange in TV today, many shows remain largely unknown outside their home countries even though massive popularity locally. Recently, we set out to highlight these programs by inquiring journalists based in various countries about what audiences are viewing in their regions. Read on for stories of Jamaican breakfast television, Brazilian telenovelas, and Japan's red bean paste-based superheroes.

In Brazil | Anything Goes

Even if Brazil's traditional love affair for soap operas has been somewhat affected by online platforms and rivalry from K-dramas and shows from Turkey, the most discussed and most watched television program in Latin America's largest country is, expectedly, a soap opera. Vale Tudo is a reboot of a production regarded as one of the key in its category and a huge hit in the late 80s, when Brazil was still recovering from a brutal 20-year authoritarian rule. The original version centered on the question: "Is it worth to be honest in Brazil?"

The updated series—launched during a period of profound political polarisation—has moved away from the original's political focus, but has achieved strong ratings and sparked intense discussions on the internet. Although numerous fans like the new version, with clips going viral on online platforms, there has also been criticism over alterations to the story and the portrayal of cliches commonly linked to Black women in relation to one of the protagonists.

In Nigeria | BBNaija

One could conduct an in-depth study on Nigeria's interest with neighborly boundaries and the nation's ongoing curiosity in watching over twenty strangers locked in a communal house. The current edition of Big Brother Naija is currently airing, and it still manages to generate more discussion, particularly on social media, than any other pop culture event except for Premier League football.

BBNaija enjoys a degree of mainstream penetration that makes the drama difficult to avoid even if you don't watch it. Participants can typically leverage their appearances into a career of fame and brand deals, even if short-lived. This will endure for as long as the producers keep up their skill to select the ideal combination of participants who all seem born for the 24-hour stage.

In Japan | Bean Paste Hero

Based on the latest figures available, Japan's highest rated consistently aired programme is the series Anpan. It's the latest in a extensive lineup of 15-minute dramas, called asadora, aired in the early hours on weekdays by public broadcaster NHK. Anpan is based on the life of Nobu Komatsu, whose spouse, the creator Takashi Yanase, developed the Anpanman (meaning Bean Paste Man) picture books and animated series that have entertained and captivated generations of children in Japan.

Anpan recounts the rags-to-riches story of a young woman who experiences the horrors of the second world war and, alongside her spouse, creates a kind-hearted picture book series in the 1970s. Its main character Anpanman—a red-bean-filled pastry with a cape—generously aids those in peril and distress, offering parts of his own head to nourish the hungry. Like most asadora, Anpan is visual comfort food, with a touching, inspiring story that soothes the anxious atmosphere of today's times.

In Jamaica | Smile Jamaica

Usually, most people in Jamaica get their media content from the US, but despite this the domestic station TVJ's the show Smile Jamaica morning show remains a essential part of the country's routine.

Broadcast from early morning, with a weekend version on Saturdays, it offers an diverse range of fun segments and segments on serious current topics. Audiences can see popular dance and pilates tutorials, interesting conversations with a Jamaican Michael Jackson impersonator and the makers of a recent food product, but also debates on gun regulations in Jamaica and the tough subject of suicide prevention after the country was shaken by the passing of a former Miss Universe Jamaica contestant at just 26. The program is a prime illustration of significant funding in its entertainment sector, with several annual movie events and the authorities recently announcing substantial funds for domestic movie projects.

Poland | International Fryderyk Chopin Piano Competition

It may not fit the usual definition of a TV blockbuster, able to draw millions of viewers. Nevertheless, much of Poland will be tuned in for the coming weeks following the excitement of the new installment of a renowned piano competition celebrating Poland's musical genius Fryderyk Chopin.

The 19th edition of the Chopin Piano Competition started recently. It will feature 84 pianists from 20 countries—narrowed down from more than 640 submissions—vying for the first place, widely considered a golden ticket to play in the top international venues.

The event, like the Olympic Games for pianists, takes place every five years and draws thousands of music enthusiasts to the city of Warsaw, with admissions being reserved a long beforehand. This time, the home country has thirteen contestants, but pianists from the US, North America, and Korea are regarded as leading contenders.

The competition is televised by Poland's national TV and available via live stream, with the champion's performances starting in the latter part of the month.