Ugly Betty

The legacy of a bold, pioneering telenovela adapted for US television.

Ugly Betty (ABC, 2006–10) erupted onto the US network television scene as the first telenovela successfully adapted for American audiences. The series features a Latina protagonist, her family, and a diverse cast navigating contemporary American social issues, such as gender and beauty norms, immigration, racial and ethnic difference, sexuality, and class. Infused with the show's trademark humor, dramatic contrasts, and bold aesthetics, Ugly Betty boasted a complex narrative and representation of how one community chases the American Dream, which sustained the multi-award-winning show through four celebrated seasons. David R. Coon conducts detailed character and scene analysis, alongside insights from the executive producers on the same scenes, for a deep read of the development and impact of the show.