Noor Malhotra
‘Selena: The Series’ is a show that takes a look at the hardships and obstacles that the Quintanilla family had to overcome before achieving success in the Tejano music industry. It also showcases many key moments in the life of the late legendary singer, Selena. The themes of family, career, love, financial hardships and sacrifice are dealt with. So, if you’re in the mood to watch something similar to ‘Selena: The Series,’ then here’s what we’d recommend. You can watch most of these shows like ‘Selena: The Series’ on Netflix, Hulu, or Amazon Prime.
5. Narcos (2015-2017)
Who remembers when ‘Narcos’ and Pablo Escobar were the only things that everyone could talk about? Netflix really did a great job with this crime thriller that explores the cocaine trade and how the infamous drug lord made a fortune for himself through the production and distribution of cocaine. Both ‘Narcos’ and ‘Selena: The Series’ are biographical shows that revisit a specific moment in time.
However, we also like to think of the shows as two sides of the same coin since they relay how proactively the protagonists work to make their dreams come true. While the Quintanillas have no criminal aspirations, the family’s patriarch has a certain ambition that reminds us of the ever-so-tenacious spirit of the flawed protagonist of ‘Narcos.’
4. Diary of a Future President (2020-)
Elena is a 12-year-old Cuban-American girl who must successfully navigate middle school before she can even think about making it to the Oval Office. This comedy-drama was created by Ilana Peña, and the story makes use of voice-overs by the girl in which she is reading from her diary. (Gina Rodriguez features in the flashforwards as the adult-Elena who is spearheading her own election campaign).
The reason that this show reminds us of ‘Selena: The Series’ is because, at their core, both these stories are of tenacity and perseverance. No matter how big the dream is, it is attainable if you’re willing to give it your all. Just as Selena and her siblings sacrifice having a “regular” life to achieve success, Elena too must overcome social and personal inhibitions before she can achieve her dreams.
3. Betty (2020-)
Created by Crystal Moselle, ‘Betty’ follows a close group of female friends as they try to make their mark in the male-dominated world of skateboarding. It is inspired by the film called ‘Skate Kitchen,’ and has received rave reviews since its release. But what does it have in common with ‘Selena: The Series?’ Why, the protagonists who break the glass ceilings, of course. Just like the tight-knit group of friends, Selena also has to struggle to survive in the male-dominated Tejano music industry.
2. Better Things (2016-)
Sam Fox is a single mother of three who works as an actress in Los Angeles. The show follows her many escapades as she tries to balance motherhood with work in the hectic city. Family is the central theme of this show, and unsurprisingly, it is also an important motif in ‘Selena: The Series.’ After all, we see the Quintanilla family battle recessions and evictions in the early stages of their careers as well. But no matter what hardship is thrown their way, they stick together. For this reason, we couldn’t help but think of Sam with her own daughters, Max, Frankie, and Duke.
1. The Crown (2016-)
One of the most controversial shows of recent years, ‘The Crown’ takes a look at the life and the reign of Queen Elizabeth II. It has been praised countless times and has even been nominated for the Emmy’s a whopping 39 times! Not only are ‘The Crown’ and ‘Selena: The Series’ biographical annals, but they also feature strong female protagonists who are influential in shaping the culture of the world around them. (There’s also humble irony in the fact that Selena is still referred to as the Queen of Tejano music decades after her death). If you are a fan of ‘Selena: The Series,’ you must check out ‘The Crown’ as soon as possible.
Read More: Fact vs Fiction: How Much of Selena: The Series is True?
