While The Bachelor [1] and its spin-off Bachelor in Paradise have captivated American TV audiences [2] and seem to now be synonymous with drama, we can't help but feel like telenovelas still reign supreme with their over-the-top and borderline-cheesy plot lines [3].
Sure, the roses, sexy hookups, and Chris Harrison leave everyone tuning into the long-running ABC show, but our favorite Spanish-language soaps [4] have even more captivating qualities: namely, the drama — hot guys, mean girls [5], epic staredowns, and total turmoil — Eva Longoria [6] so perfectly re-created for her NBC show [7], Telenovela. Keep scrolling to discover all the ways novelas make The Bachelor seem arguably tame.
The Intros
Mini-movies worthy of an Oscar for best drama on their own. And the catchy theme songs [9] that, to this day, we still can't forget.
The Storylines
Who? What? When? Where? Why? HOW?! Don't try to guess, because you'll be wrong.
The Gossip
Thanks to those crazy storylines, the chisme is extra juicy.
The Dramatic Moments
*faints*
The Temper Tantrums
So. Many. Slaps.
The Facial Expressions
And subsequent camera zooms.
The (Shirtless) Men
Like Gonzalo García Vivanco . . .
. . . and David Chocarro.
The Romantic Scenes
Hotter than anything you'll see anywhere else, no doubt.
The Staredowns
Who will blink first?
The Mean Girls
No one can compare.