La gata (1970 TV series)

La gata is a Mexican telenovela that aired in 1970. It was produced by Valentín Pimstein and starred María Rivas in the lead role as Esmeralda, nicknamed "La Gata" (The Cat).

The story centers around Esmeralda, a young woman living in poverty who is ostracized and mistreated by society due to her impoverished background and wild, unkempt appearance. She earns the nickname "La Gata" because of her scrappy nature and her habit of scavenging for food. She falls in love with Pablo Martinez Negrete, a wealthy young man who defies his family's wishes to be with her.

The telenovela explores themes of class differences, prejudice, love, and redemption. La gata gained popularity for its dramatic plot and the portrayal of its main character, who struggles against societal obstacles. It was a remake of the radio novel of the same name, and it has since been remade several times with different casts and settings, including a well-known 2014 version. The 1970 version is considered a classic of the Mexican telenovela genre.