the buzz log

America Ferrera

We've already discussed the buzz around telenovelas that have landed on network TV this fall. But one foreign telenovela has stood the test of time in Buzz. Over the past few years we've seen search spikes on "betty la fea," "yo soy betty la fea," and "la fea mas bella" as the campy, soapy show circulated across sets throughout the world.

With Salma Hayek's backing, a U.S. version of "Betty La Fea" is set to premiere in an ultra-competitive Thursday night time slot. Buzz on the show has been building since it was announced on it would make ABC's fall slate as "betty the ugly." After a name change to "Ugly Betty" and a switch from Friday to Thursday, advance buzz on the show continued to heat up. Searches on the show jumped 75% over the last week, and it's sure to make an initial dent in the ratings thanks to its coveted slot in front of mega-hit "Grey's Anatomy."

The show also might create a breakout star in leading lady America Ferrera. The "ugly" actress is anything but, and her searches are up 162% in the last seven days. We've also witnessed an increase in queries on photos, bios, and the hairdo of the titular star. Taking on a role that requires her to get homely is a risk, but it could pay off if "Betty" translates into a beautiful breakout hit.