10 great Hispanic TV characters

Too often television represents Latinos as sadistic gang members or saucy sexpots, but occasionally there's a breakthrough.

Neal Justin

Desi Arnaz practically invented the exasperated TV husband, not to mention the structure of the modern-day sitcom.

Erik Estrada's sparkling-white teeth probably did more for toothpaste than Colgate.

What would Freddie Prinze have accomplished if he hadn't died so young? One of TV's great mysteries.

The series was struggling in both ratings and tone until Edward James Olmos marched in and whipped everyone into shape.

The show was quickly canceled, but Wilson Cruz's portrayal of an abused gay teenager will last forever.

Few play tough but sensitive guys better than Jimmy Smits. Who can forget Simone's stoic deathbed scene?

Currently voiced by Caitlin Sanchez, Dora is a welcome heroine to young Latinos and may have taught a few Anglos some Spanish as well.

Far less well-known than her co-stars, Eva Longoria quickly became a fan favorite with her take on suburban princesses.

How fitting that an actress named America Ferrera would be such an outstanding representative for both Latinas and underdogs.

She's smarter — and richer — than she looks. Sofia Vergara is now the highest-paid actress on TV.