The Riveras

Telemundo's original production, The Riveras, is a unique unscripted reality show from 2016 that provides an intimate look into the lives of the famous Rivera family. Renowned for their influence in the Mexican-American music scene, the Riveras have established a star-studded legacy that The Riveras gracefully showcases in each episode. It plays out in the English language, bringing in an audience from all backgrounds, making it a distinctive bilingual depiction catering to a vast demographic.

The Riveras’ primary focus is on the five Rivera siblings: Chiquis, Jacqie, Mike, Jenicka, and Johnny, and their struggles, triumphs, and lives in the public eye following the tragic loss of their mother, the legendary singer Jenni Rivera, in a 2012 plane crash. Often referred to as the "Diva of Banda," Jenni Rivera was a beloved, prolific figure in the Latin music industry, as well as a reality TV star and entrepreneur. Her sudden demise left not only her fans but also her family in deep grief and utter disbelief.

As the Rivera siblings navigate their new reality without their leading figure, the show gives viewers an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at their lives - from their personal relationships and careers to their attempts to uphold their mother's legacy. Like a mosaic of unscripted drama, these raw human experiences make for compelling television and give viewers a real-time look into the highs and lows of the Rivera's journey.

Chiquis Rivera, the eldest daughter, steps into her mother's shoes to carry the family torch forward in music and business confronted by the immense weight of responsibility and expectations. As an aspiring singer, she battles to make her name without the overshadowing fame of her mother. The show captures her journey, revealing her determination, passion, and resilience - all while managing her relationship with her siblings.

Jacqie Rivera, the second eldest, is a loving wife and mother who is undergoing her transformation while trying to keep her family united. Her journey with weight-loss, motherhood, and faith are unravelled, providing intimate insights into her struggles and aspirations. On the other hand, Mike is the sensitive, conscientious brother trying to make sense of his place in the world while keeping the family together.

Jenicka, the youngest daughter, is a talented, free-spirited teenager known for her strength and steadfastness. Her story revolves around her search for identity, dreams, and making her mark with her signature voice. Johnny, the youngest sibling, is coming to terms with adulthood, career choices, navigating his sexuality while also facing the challenge of stepping into the shoes of his father, who was also a major part of the musical legacy.

Each character’s evolution is the heart of the show, as it painstakingly follows them through love, loss, success, failure, and everything in between, making it a powerful narrative of enduring human spirit.

The Riveras portrays real-life situations with raw emotion, showcasing the Rivera family's courageous journey to keep their mother's legacy alive. The series is also an homage to Jenni Rivera's remarkable life and legacy, as it intertwines moments from her life, recollections from her family, and her music.

In a reflection of the family's Mexican-American heritage, the show highlights the cultural aspects, traditions, and values of their background. It’s not just about the glitz and glamour of the musical world but also brings forward family dynamics, personal struggles, and the pressure of belonging to a renowned family – making it an engrossing portrayal of a Mexican-American family grappling with their grief while preserving their unique cultural identity.

The Riveras, with its candid presentation and compelling narrative, doesn’t shy away from the real struggles of family life or the pressures of fame. It's a coming-of-age story for the entire family as they put their differences aside to stick together through the many curves their lives have taken after their mother's tragic passing.

The reality TV show is a deeply human experience, filled with heartbreak, love, loss, success, and unforgettable family moments. It resonates with viewers, particularly those familiar with the Rivera’s public image and Jenni Rivera's contributions to the music industry.

In essence, The Riveras is an emotionally charged and touching series that serves up a mix of raw realism and the resilience of a family, making it a must-watch for fans of unscripted drama and reality television.