Which Shows the World Is Watching, Including Brazilian Telenovelas to Heroic Characters Created from Sweet Bean Filling

A short time ago, this publication explored the trend of international dystopian series making their way to viewers worldwide. These series delivered tales of climate catastrophe, violent autocracy, and alien invasions from various countries such as South America, Nigeria, and Asia. Beyond revealing global anxieties about societal breakdown, it also emphasized how linked the TV landscape has become in 2025. Streaming platforms, satellite channels, YouTube, and unofficial streams can quickly provide regional shows from every continent—except Antarctica, though it's interesting to consider if any Arctic series exist there.

Still, despite the extent of international exchange in television today, numerous programs remain largely unknown beyond domestic borders even though massive popularity at home. This week, we set out to highlight these programs by asking journalists covering various countries about what audiences are viewing in their areas. Continue for accounts of morning shows in Jamaica, soap operas from Brazil, and Japanese red bean paste-based superheroes.

Brazil | Vale Tudo

Even if Brazil's traditional passion for telenovelas has been somewhat affected by online platforms and competition from Korean series and shows from Turkey, the most talked-about and most watched TV show in Latin America's largest country is, expectedly, a telenovela. Anything Goes is a reboot of a production considered as one of the key of the genre and a huge hit in 1988 and 1989, when Brazil was recovering from a brutal two-decade military dictatorship. The first version revolved around the question: "Does it pay to be ethical in Brazil?"

The updated series—launched 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. Although numerous fans enjoy the new version, with scenes spreading widely on online platforms, there has also been criticism over changes to the original plot and the reproduction of stereotypes commonly linked to Black women in relation to one of the main characters.

In Nigeria | BBNaija

You could write a compelling dissertation on Nigeria's fascination with social dynamics and the country's continued interest in watching over twenty unknown individuals locked in a shared home. The current edition of BBNaija is on now, and it continues to drive more conversation, particularly on social media, than virtually every pop culture event except for soccer matches.

BBNaija experiences a level of cultural breakthrough that makes the show hard to ignore whether or not you don't watch it. Contestants can typically leverage their time on the show into a life of fame and brand deals, even if short-lived. This will endure for as long as the creators maintain their incredible ability to select the ideal combination of contestants who all seem destined for the constant spotlight.

Japan | Bean Paste Hero

Based on the latest figures available, Japan's highest rated consistently aired show is Anpan. It's the latest in a long series of short daily series, called asadora, aired in the morning Monday through Saturday by public broadcaster NHK. The show is inspired by the life of Nobu Komatsu, whose spouse, the creator Takashi Yanase, created the Anpanman (literally Red Bean Bun Man) children's books and cartoon show that have amused and captivated generations of Japanese kids.

The series recounts the rags-to-riches story of a female protagonist who experiences the atrocities of the second world war and, alongside her spouse, creates a kind-hearted book collection in the 1970s. Its hero Anpanman—a red-bean-filled pastry wearing a cape—generously aids those in peril and distress, even giving pieces of his soft, sweet head to feed the hungry. Like most asadora, Anpan is visual comfort food, with a touching, inspiring story that calms the unsettled mood of today's times.

In Jamaica | Smile Jamaica

Usually, most people in Jamaica access their television shows from the US, but despite this the local channel Television Jamaica's the show Smile Jamaica morning show remains a essential part of the national daily life.

Airing from early morning, with a weekend version on Saturdays, it offers an diverse range of light entertainment and segments on heavy topical issues. Viewers can see popular dance and exercise guides, interesting conversations with a local performer and the producers of a new canned curry goat, but also debates on Jamaica's firearms laws and the difficult topic of mental health awareness after the nation was rocked by the death of a beauty pageant alumna at just twenty-six. The show is a great example of significant funding in its entertainment sector, with several annual movie events and the authorities just pledging substantial funds for domestic movie projects.

Poland | International Fryderyk Chopin Piano Competition

It's perhaps not the usual definition of a mass-audience show, able to draw huge audiences. Nevertheless, a large part of the country will be tuned in for the next three weeks following the twists and turns of the latest edition of a renowned piano competition celebrating Poland's musical genius the composer Chopin.

The nineteenth iteration of the Chopin Piano Competition started recently. It will include 84 pianists from twenty nations—selected from more than 640 submissions—contending for the top prize, often seen as a key opportunity to perform in the top international venues.

The competition, resembling the global sports event for pianists, takes place every five years and attracts many of classical music lovers to the Polish capital, with tickets selling out a long beforehand. This edition, the home country has thirteen contestants, but pianists from the US, North America, and Asia are seen as some of the favourites.

The event is televised by Poland's national TV and available via live stream, with the champion's concerts beginning in late October.