The true story behind Sofía Vergara’s Netflix crime series ‘Griselda’

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The true story behind Sofía Vergara's Netflix crime series ‘Griselda’

You have met with the cinematic counterpart of the ruthless Pablo Escobar with Netflix’s Narcos. Now get ready to meet another notorious figure from the time—Griselda Blanco, aka the Cocaine Godmother.

 As Netflix gears up to unleash its first big crime drama of 2024 this January—Griselda, starring Sofía Vergara—viewers are in for a gripping ride into the dangerous underworld of the 1980s Miami drug trade. Directed by Andrés Baiz and produced by Eric Newman and Vergara herself, Griselda is a miniseries based on the tumultuous life of Griselda Blanco, a prominent figure in the cocaine trade during the 1970s through the early 2000s. 

The stellar cast of the series includes Sofía Vergara as Griselda Blanco, who many claimed was a part of the Medellín Cartel. Alberto Guerra stars as her third husband, Darío Sepúlveda, Martin Rodriguez as hitman Jorge ‘Rivi’ Ayala-Rivera, Juliana Aidén Martinez, Vanessa Ferlito, and Christian Tappan.

If you want to know the true story behind Griselda, read on. 

Who was Griselda Blanco?

Griselda Blanco, often referred to as ‘The Black Widow’ or ‘Godmother of Cocaine’, was a prominent Colombian drug lord who ruled the cocaine-based drug trade in Miami, Florida. Known for her ruthlessness and cunning tactics, Blanco played a pivotal role in shaping the criminal landscape of the era.

Blanco was a mastermind, orchestrating intricate trafficking operations and amassing immense wealth. Her notoriety extended beyond her criminal endeavours; she was known for her involvement in violent turf wars and her ability to navigate the dangerous world of narcotics. She was linked to numerous acts of violence, including contract killings and assassinations. 

Blanco earned the moniker ‘The Black Widow’ due to her involvement in the deaths of several husbands, lovers, and associates throughout her criminal career. Blanco’s legacy is one of intrigue, power, and a dark chapter in the history of organised crime.

Who killed Griselda Blanco?

Griselda Blanco met a gruesome end on September 3rd, 2012, when she was shot dead outside a butcher shop in Medellín, Colombia. The circumstances surrounding her death remain shrouded in mystery, with speculations pointing to rival cartels or even former associates seeking revenge.

As she was leaving the butcher shop, an unidentified assailant on a motorcycle drove by, firing two fatal shots at Blanco. The manner of the drive-by motorcycle shooting echoed the same style of assassination that Blanco was frequently associated with and which was believed to have been introduced by her during her reign of terror in Miami.

What happened to Griselda Blanco’s money?

Despite Blanco’s immense fortune, much of it is believed to have been lost, confiscated, or hidden. Blanco’s financial legacy remains a tantalising enigma, with rumours of hidden stashes and unaccounted millions adding to the mystique surrounding her empire.

Is Griselda on Netflix now?

As of now, Griselda is yet to make its debut on Netflix. But viewers will soon have the chance to delve into the dark and riveting tale of Griselda Blanco’s life.

When is Griselda coming to Netflix?

The wait for this thrilling saga is almost over. The highly anticipated miniseries Griselda, is scheduled to premiere on January 25th, 2024.