Univision sets pricey soap

'Silencio' could become most expensive novela made

By MARY SUTTER

NEW YORK -- In its upfront presentation today, Univision Communications is expected to unveil an original, U.S.-made novela that's produced by chairman-CEO Jerry Perenchio's shingle.

The soap reportedly is called "Te Amare en Silencio" (I Will Love You Silently) and is a production of Paloma Prods., which is backed by Perenchio.

Univision has long relied on its programming supply partners for novelas, and has never before attempted to produce in the popular genre itself.

Spanish-language news service produ.com reported that the novela will break records as the most expensive Spanish-lingo soap to date, at an estimated $70,000 per episode.