Vadhir Derbez’s latest project is expanding across Latin America.
Netflix has snapped up Yo No Soy Mendoza, starring the 34-year-old Mexican actor, for Latin America.
The humorous drama is the last original story from Fernando Gaitán, the late Colombian screenwriter and producer who created some of the most popular telenovelas, including Yo Soy Betty, La Fea.
The Sony-produced and distributed series is set in Mexico City.
It turns on the story of Julian Garcia, an unassuming debt collector whose life takes a shocking turn when he is kidnapped and forced to assume the identity of a wealthy businessman with a dangerous past.
The synopsis elaborates: Thrust into a world of luxury and deadly secrets, Julian must navigate Mendoza’s complicated life, including a forced marriage to Laura Santander and the powerful enemies who want him dead.
Derbez plays the dual roles of Garcia and Mendoza. Laura Londoño stars as Laura.
Gaitán had inked a development deal with Sony shortly before he suffered a fatal heart attack in 2019. He created scores of shows including Yo Soy Betty, La Fea, which aired in 180 territories and was adapted in numerous markets, including the U.S.
Yo No Soy Mendoza is made by Sony Pictures Television, which also handles international sales and cut the Netflix deal. The streamer has acquired the series and will play it across its LatAm footprint.
“With its blend of drama, humor, and intricate storytelling, Yo No Soy Mendoza is poised to captivate audiences and pay tribute to Gaitán’s enduring legacy in television,” said John Rossiter, EVP, Distribution, Networks & Production, Latin America, SPT. “We can’t wait for viewers throughout the region to get to know these unforgettable characters.”
Alejandro Garcia executive produces Yo No Soy Mendoza alongside Carlos Quintanilla Sakar who is also creative director. It’s developed by Miguel García Moreno, Mariana Palos, Alejandra Rodriguez, Luis Gamboa and Celia Kim.
