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What Spanish-Speaking Television Programs Do You Recommend for Someone Who is Learning Spanish?

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Whether you are a language enthusiast or looking for a fun way to improve your Spanish skills, the right TV shows can be a valuable tool in your arsenal. Below, we provide recommendations tailored for learners, with insights from a fluent Spanish speaker.

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Recommended Shows for Language Learners

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If you enjoy Friends, you might want to check out Extra en Espa?ol, which you can find for free on YouTube. The premise is similar, but in a different setting. For a more fully immersive experience, start with your favorite shows from your own language, watch the Spanish dubbed version with subtitles. This is a great way to build your vocabulary and improve your overall understanding.

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Popular Spanish-Language Shows

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Here are some of my top picks:

" "" "La Casa de Papel (Money Heist): A captivating and thrilling series with complex characters and storylines." "E: A drama series centered around a high school with a mix of crime and conspiracy." "Vivir sin permiso (Living Without Permission): A coming-of-age series dealing with the challenges of young adulthood in a big city." "Intimidad (Intimacy): A drama series focusing on the lives of a group of friends who share a house." "Estoy vivo (I’m Still Alive): A series about a man who wakes up after a coma, struggling to remember who he is." "Faria: A drama series about the life of a beat cop in a gritty urban setting." "Hierro: A series about a detective in a corrupt city, trying to do the right thing." "El Príncipe (The Prince): A political drama series about a young man rising to power." "Patria (Homeland): A series about a woman’s journey towards finding her identity and reclaiming her life." "" "

Besides these well-known series, there are many excellent options like Tierra de Reyes (Land of Kings), Reina del Sur (Queen of the South), and Pablo Escobar el Patrón del mal (Pablo Escobar: King of Cocaine). These shows, while not all newly produced, offer deep insights into Spanish culture and history, making them highly educational.

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Learning Tips for Beginners

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When starting your language journey, it can be overwhelming to tackle complex series. That’s why it’s a good idea to begin with something you already know from your native language—watch it with Spanish subtitles. This way, you familiarize yourself with the Spanish audio while following the script in English. Gradually, transition to Spanish subtitles and then turn them off completely. This method helps in memorizing vocabulary and improving comprehension.

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Children’s Programming as a Starting Point

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If you’re struggling with the complexity of adult programming, consider beginning with children’s shows. They often use simpler vocabulary and slower speech, making them easier to understand. Once you’ve built your confidence and vocabulary, gradually move on to more advanced shows. Popular children's series in Spanish include Mary Poppins en espa?ol and Peppa Pig en espa?ol (Peppa Pig in Spanish).

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Remember, consistency is key in any language learning journey. Regular viewing and active engagement will enhance your skills over time.

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