Sofía Vergara, renowned for her vibrant and comedic roles, has embarked on a dramatic journey as she transforms into the notorious Griselda Blanco for the limited drama series “Griselda.” The actress, who not only stars in but also executive produces the show, has left audiences awe-struck with her unrecognizable portrayal of the infamous cocaine godmother.
Before the release of all six episodes on Netflix on January 25, Vergara opened up about the meticulous process that went into becoming the formidable “La Jefa.” Expressing her delight at the buzz surrounding the series, she shared, “It’s really amazing to see how people are reacting to it. I’m very proud of it.”
Vergara’s commitment to authenticity is evident in the dedication she poured into the role, spending an impressive “three hours a day in hair and makeup.” The transformation included the application of prosthetics to achieve the distinct appearance of Griselda Blanco.
During the Toty brand launch last June, Vergara emphasized the importance of not resembling her well-known character Gloria Pritchett, stating, “I didn’t want it to look like Gloria with a fake nose. I wanted the people to forget about Gloria — that was the main thing.”
A lighthearted exchange with Kelly Clarkson on her talk show revealed Vergara’s passionate response to any suggestion that her transformation was “slight.” Settling the matter with humor, Vergara playfully insisted, “It was a wig! Shut up!”
Netflix, recognizing the significance of Vergara’s physical transformation, released a video showcasing the behind-the-scenes efforts. Director and executive producer Andrés Baiz underscored the importance of capturing the historical essence of Miami in the ’70s and ’80s for the series.
The process was not merely physically demanding but also emotionally challenging for Vergara, who had to navigate acting in Spanish, embracing a dramatic role, and stepping into the shoes of a real-life persona. Yet, witnessing the audience perceive her as an entirely different person affirmed the success of her extraordinary effort.
Sofía Vergara’s portrayal of Griselda Blanco in “Griselda” stands as a testament to her commitment to authenticity, showcasing her versatility as an actress who can seamlessly transition from comedy to drama, leaving an indelible mark on the portrayal of this notorious figure.
