The cast was filled with memorable characters, each with their distinct peculiarities also played a crucial role. The series also portrayed the harsh reality of the fashion industry, making it the first of its kind to address such themes in a telenovela. The audiences empathized with Betty’s struggles and cheered for her triumphs, teaching a significant lesson that attractiveness is more than physical.
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What was the secret of its success? Firstly, it was the captivating and relatable character of Betty, portrayed brilliantly by actress Ana María Orozco. The original series ran for 169 episodes, from 1999 to 2001, enchanting viewers with its unusual storyline, comic relief, and a powerful message about the value of inner beauty. Translated into dozens of languages, it aired in more than 180 countries and was remade more than 20 times, including the American adaptation, «Ugly Betty». The telenovela was a hit not just in Colombia but worldwide. Actress Ana Maria Orozco poses for a portrait as her character Betty Pinzon in the Telemundo network comedy series «Betty La Fea,» 2000. Yet, Betty won hearts with her kindness, tenacity, and smarts. Landing a job at a fashion house, Ecomoda, Betty’s appearance –hidden behind large glasses, a fringe, and braces–, was often the target of jokes. The story centered on Betty, an economist who, despite her academic credentials, struggled to find employment due to her perceived lack of physical beauty. The telenovela first aired in 1999 on RCN Television in Colombia. Weaved with the threads of comedy, drama, and romance, the tale of an intelligent, yet unattractive woman named Beatriz Pinzón Solano, better known as Betty, broke television records and became a global sensation.
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More than twenty years ago, people all aroun d the globe w as captivated by a peculiar Colombian telenovela: « Yo soy Betty, la fea « («I am Betty, the ugly»).