Netflix's biographical crime drama Griselda, starring Sofía Vergara, has been hailed as a 'masterpiece' by viewers and critics alike, with many calling it a must-watch for fans of the genre.
Series Overview and Reception
The six-episode limited series, which premiered on January 25, 2024, quickly rose to the number one spot in 90 countries within its first week and topped Netflix's Global Weekly Top 10 TV (English) rankings. The show follows the life of Griselda Blanco, the infamous Colombian drug lord known as 'The Godmother of Cocaine'.
Vergara's portrayal of Blanco has been widely praised, marking a dramatic departure from her iconic role as Gloria Delgado-Pritchett in Modern Family. The series is helmed by Colombian director Andrés Baiz and co-created by Ingrid Escajeda, Carlo Bernard, Doug Miro, and Eric Newman, with Escajeda serving as showrunner and Newman and Vergara as executive producers.
Critical and Audience Acclaim
Critics have been effusive in their praise. One reviewer noted: "Although events have been heavily fictionalised, Griselda is a gloriously entertaining watch that's made all the better by Vergara's powerhouse performance as the titular crime boss." Another added: "The series stands out by capturing the complexity of Griselda Blanco, balancing her power and vulnerability. Now Vergara is nearly unrecognizable and sensational in this role."
Viewers have echoed these sentiments, with one writing on IMDb: "Outstanding performance by Sofia Vergara in a fast paced thriller series about Colombia's notorious female narcotics baron Griselda Blanco. This series is every bit as good, or even better than, the Narcos series. Certainly, if you liked Narcos you will enjoy Griselda."
Another fan commented: "Binge-worthy! Intense, dramatic drug cartel series with lots of action, twists, turns and double-crossing. Sophia Vergara is a force to be reckoned with! a 180 degree turn from her previous TV personas!"
Accolades and Availability
Vergara's performance has earned her a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie and a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress – Miniseries or Television Film. The series also features a supporting cast including Alberto Guerra, Martin Rodriguez, Juliana Aidén Martinez, Vanessa Ferlito, and Christian Tappan.
Griselda is available to stream on Netflix.
