Sofia Vergara laments ‘My Acting Jobs Are Kind of Limited’ Because of ‘This Stupid Accent’: ‘I Can’t Play a Scientist’
Sofia Vergara embraces a challenging role in Netflix’s “Griselda,” portraying the notorious Colombian drug lord Griselda Blanco. This departure from her predominantly comedic career, highlighted by her iconic role as Gloria Pritchett on ABC’s “Modern Family” and films like “Hot Pursuit” (2015) with Reese Witherspoon, offers Vergara a rare chance to explore her dramatic acting capabilities.
Reflecting on the constraints imposed by her distinctive accent, Vergara humorously remarked to the Los Angeles Times, “I’m always looking for characters because there’s not much that I can play with this stupid accent. I can’t play a scientist or be in ‘Schindler’s List.’ My acting jobs are kind of limited.”
Recognizing the scarcity of suitable roles, Vergara saw Griselda as an opportunity to delve into a complex character. However, portraying a ruthless drug lord demanded a shift in her acting approach. To navigate this transformation, Vergara enlisted the expertise of acting coach Nancy Banks, known for her work with acclaimed actors like Margot Robbie and Jennifer Aniston.
Expressing her initial apprehension about the unfamiliar acting process, Vergara revealed, “I had no clue what it meant to have a process.” Despite lacking formal acting training, she drew inspiration from her husband, Joe Manganiello, a classically trained actor. Under Banks’ guidance, Vergara explored her character in new dimensions, pondering questions like, “What does the character need from the other character? What does my character dream about? What makes her laugh?”
As the Times noted, the night before shooting, Vergara grappled with self-doubt, questioning her ability to transcend her comedic persona. Yet, during the intense scenes as Griselda, she tapped into deep emotions rooted in her upbringing and personal experiences. Drawing parallels with her own life, she remarked, “I knew those people. My brother was in that business. I knew those feelings.”
In portraying Griselda Blanco, Vergara sought to understand the complex mindset of individuals who engage in morally questionable actions. She acknowledged the absurdity of their choices while recognizing their belief in doing what they perceive as right. Through this transformative experience, Vergara navigated the challenges of portraying a character vastly different from her comedic roots.
Also Read, MrBeast Unveils Astonishing Ad Revenue Generated from Twitter and X Video Platform
