south america

There are 33 versions of the American Idol-style singing competition around the world, in 33 different countries. But, the Idol franchise is about to launch into new territory. Instead of just one country, it will launch Latin American Idol, covering an entire region. It will host auditions in four countries and is open to contestants from Mexico and Central and South America. Except Brazil, which has its own version that launches April 5th.That's an awfully large region to choose from and I imagine it has some smokin' hot talent.

Here are the audition dates:

• Mexico City: April 22-23
• Caracas, Venezuela: April 29-30
• Bogota, Colombia: May 5-6
• Buenos Aires, Argentina: May 16-17

Some South American countries will soon be getting their own Desperate Housewives. Buena Vista Television Latin America is creating Spanish and Portuguese versions of the hit ABC show, complete with their own casts. The Spanish version, called Amas de Casas Desesperades, will air in Colombia, Argentina, and Ecuador while the Portuguese version, called Donas de Casas Desesperades will air in Brazil. Buena Vista says the soap opera-like show is so similar to the Spanish telenovelas that it's bound to be a big hit. There are some cultural differences that will be changed in the show. For instance, the Spanish creators of the show said they'll have to change the occupation of the 'Mike' character because, in South America, there's no way a plumber would live in an exclusive community. Hey, what is that plumber doing there anyway?