On the set of “Griselda,” Colombian director Andrés Baiz revealed that Karol G‘s “authentic” performance prompted the creative team to expand her role as Carla in the Netflix crime drama. Baiz expressed admiration for Karol G’s authenticity, citing her Medellín roots as a significant factor in bringing depth to her character. Luis Balaguer, Sofía Vergara’s manager, played a crucial role in casting Karol G for the series, with the challenge of finding the right role for a newcomer to acting.
“We actually started writing more for her because she was doing so great,” Baiz told TheWrap. “She brought a lot of authenticity to her character. [Karol] is from Medellín, so the way she speaks, the way she expresses herself… Her performance was so, so good,” he said.
The latin Grammy wining singer Karol G, successfully landed the role of Carla, a former prostitute from Medellín enlisted by Griselda (Vergara) in setting up her drug business in Miami. Co-star Juliana Aidén Martinez praised Karol G’s phenomenal performance, noting the authenticity that resonated with Colombian viewers.
Working with Sofía Vergara and Karol G on the project, Baiz emphasized their professionalism, humility, and generosity. He highlighted the enjoyable experience of collaborating with two remarkable women in Latin America who brought energy and fun to the set. “Being able to work with two of the most amazing, admirable women in Latin America [for this project], they were so professional, both of them Sofía and Karol, so humble and so generous,” Baiz said.
This isn’t the first time Baiz has directed a recording artist in their acting debut; he previously directed Bad Bunny in “Narcos: Mexico.” Baiz commended both Bad Bunny and Karol G for their respect, humility, and professionalism on set. “What’s important is that they come to set with the utmost respect for the people around them, and that they come in with that humbleness and professionalism…they were both wonderful.”
On the red carpet, Sofia Vergara and Karol G showcased their glamorous presence, with Sofia wearing a stunning gold strapless Laura Basci dress at the Miami premiere of “Griselda.” The star-studded cast of the highly anticipated series includes Alberto Guerra, Christian Tappan, Martín Rodríguez, Juliana Aidén Martinez, and Vanessa Ferlito.
“Griselda,” a captivating six-episode narrative, delves into the fictionalized portrayal of the life and legacy of Griselda Blanco, a notorious drug lord. The series features an engaging exploration of power dynamics within the world of cartels and includes a special appearance by Colombian singer Karol G, who plays the character Carla, Sofia Vergara’s trusted confidant in the series.
In addition to Sofia Vergara’s stellar performance, the series marks her first scripted live-action project since her divorce from Joe Manganiello. Besides starring in the series, she also serves as an executive producer.
The Netflix series “Griselda” premiered on January 25 worldwide and is created by Eric Newman, Doug Miro, Ingrid Escajeda, and Carlo Bernard, with a limited six 50-minute episodes.