Marimar is a Philippine television drama romance series broadcast by GMA Network. The series is based on a 1994 Mexican television series of the same title. Directed by Joyce E. Bernal and Mac Alejandre, it stars Marian Rivera in the title role and Dingdong Dantes. It premiered on August 13, 2007 on the network's Telebabad line up. The series concluded on March 14, 2008 with a total of 155 episodes.

Cast and characters

Development

Marimar is a 1994 Mexican television series starring Thalía, broadcast by Televisa. It later aired in the Philippines on March 11, 1996 through Radio Philippines Network.

Casting

The contract with Televisa for the rights stipulated that GMA Network should start the series in 2007. The lead role was originally offered to actress Angel Locsin, which the actress rejected. The network was prompted to host auditions for the lead role. On March 13, 2008, a video of the fifteen actresses – Bianca King, Nadine Samonte, Jennylyn Mercado, Ryza Cenon, Jewel Mische, LJ Reyes, Rhian Ramos, Camille Prats, Pauleen Luna, Katrina Halili, Valerie Concepcion, Nancy Castiglione, Cheska Garcia and Karylle, who all auditioned for the role of Marimar was leaked on YouTube. The role eventually went to Marian Rivera.

Production

Principal photography commenced in July 2007 in Zambales. Filming concluded in March 2008.

Farewell special

A farewell special, "Marimar... Isang Pasasalamat" aired on March 9, 2008.

Ratings

According to AGB Nielsen Philippines' Mega Manila household television ratings, the pilot episode of Marimar earned a 36.6% rating. While the final episode scored a 52.6% rating which is the series' highest rating.

Accolades