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86 channels
Ecuadorian television, while sharing much with its Andean and Latin American neighbors, maintains a distinct charm, reflecting the country's own blend of traditions and modern life. Commercial powerhouses like Ecuavisa and Teleamazonas dominate the airwaves, alongside the public service broadcaster Ecuador TV, offering a mix that caters to diverse tastes. Primetime kicks off a bit later, usually around 8 PM or 9 PM, a communal experience where families often gather to watch. This late-night slot is usually reserved for the perennially popular telenovelas. Whether they're homegrown productions or acclaimed imports from Colombia and Mexico, these dramatic serials with their intricate plots and passionate characters are a national obsession, driving water-cooler conversations for weeks. Language is almost exclusively Spanish; imported shows, particularly US series or international documentaries, are consistently dubbed, rather than subtitled. This ensures broad accessibility and a more immediate connection for viewers. Live sports, especially football, command immense attention. Local LigaPro matches and international tournaments like the Copa Libertadores or World Cup qualifiers are huge draws, with general entertainment channels often clearing their schedules for critical games. News programming in Ecuador strikes a balance. Morning shows mix serious political discourse with lighter lifestyle segments, while evening bulletins provide a comprehensive overview of national and local events, often delivered with a gravitas that underscores their importance. Compared to some of its larger neighbors, Ecuador's TV market has a more intimate feel, yet it still manages to produce quality content that resonates with its audience, cementing television as a central part of daily life and cultural discourse.