Operación Triunfo was a reality-show-cum-talent-contest which first aired on Spain's TVE network in 2002. A kind of cross between Pop Idol and Big Brother, the show aimed to find the country's next solo singing sensation, putting a selection of hopefuls through their paces by getting them to sing a variety of cover versions of popular songs (mainly in Spanish and English, but also in Italian), hone their dancing techniques and even compose a song together. The winning singer would then be selected to represent Spain in the Eurovision Song Contest.

The show was an instant ratings-winner, and ran to at least three series. Finalists were whittled down by a combination of votes from "industry figures" and the general public. All three finalists of the first series ( Rosa - first, David Bisbal - second, David Bustamante - third) released successful debut albums, but while Rosa (accompanied by the runners-up as backing singers) scraped seventh place in the Eurovision Song Contest with the song "Europe's Living a Celebration" it was Bisbal who went on to international success, even winning a Grammy Latino as best newcomer for his album Corazón Latino.

The 2003 Edition was won by Ainhoa Cantalapiedra , while second placed Beth was sent to the Eurovision Song Contest.

The 2004 Edition was won by Vicente, while second placed Ramón was sent to the Eurovision Song Contest.

This TV format has been produced under various names in different countries:

• Operación Triunfo in Argentina, Chile, Mexico and Spain
• Operazione Trionfo in Italy
• Fama in Brazil
• Star Academy in France, Belgium, Greece and Lebanon
• Star Académie in Quebec
• Fame Academy in the United Kingdom

External link

• Operazione Trionfo Italy (in Italian)