U.S. writers have borrowed ideas from television shows from around the world for years and brought them to our TV screens. Here are just a few you may not have known began overseas.

1. “Survivor”

This long running reality show started its life in Sweden in 1997 as “Expedition Robinson.” The show was showing for nine seasons, and it was one of the biggest TV successes in Scandinavia. Like it’s American version, 16 contestants are put into a survival situation and compete in many different physical challenges. At the end of each show others vote off one contestant in the “Island Council” meetings (similar to Survivors “Tribal Council”).

2. “Ugly Betty”

The soap opera originated in Columbia under the name, “Yo Soy Betty, la Fea.” The success of this show in Columbia is why U.S. producers developed Ugly Betty. The American version of this show is not only a remake of the original, but also a continuation of the storyline.

3. “Three’s Company”

This classic was based upon the UK show “Man About the House.” The UK series was considered daring when it first premiered due to its subject: a man sharing an apartment with two single women (and yes it is a young single man with both a brunette and a blonde). In 1977, this show was made into its American replica, “Three’s Company.”

4. “The Ex List”

The new show beginning this fall on CBS, began as a fan favorite in Israel. Both of these shows share the plot of a woman trying to find her true love in one of her exes.

5. “Kath and Kim”

Australia’s hit show, “Kath and Kim,” is coming to America under the same title, and story line. NBC is airing this show chronicling the lives and family mishaps of the title characters: Kath, a dysfunctional mother, and Kim, her equally dysfunctional daughter.