Sofia Vergara and Netflix Face Lawsuit Over Griselda Blanco Portrayal in “Griselda” Series

On January 17, Michael Corleone Blanco, the late Griselda Blanco’s son, sued Sofia Vergara and Netflix, alleging unauthorized use of his family’s identity and artistic literary work in the recently released limited series “Griselda.”

Blanco claims that Netflix used information from private interviews without his permission and refused to compensate him. The lawsuit emphasizes Blanco’s commitment to documenting his mother’s life for a book and a Spanish soap opera, to accurately depict the family’s story.

Eric Newman, Netflix’s creator and executive producer, dismisses the lawsuit, citing similar legal challenges encountered during the production of “Narcos.” Legal expert Albert Soler observes that these lawsuits are common, emphasizing the conflict between protecting loved ones and profiting from projects.

While public figures like Griselda Blanco have fewer legal protections, Soler points out that Blanco’s family is not considered public figures, which may make the lawsuit more difficult for Netflix. The lawsuit seeks more than $50,000 in damages and a temporary injunction, despite the series being available on Netflix as of Thursday.

Sofia Vergara, an executive producer and series lead, claims she was unaware of the lawsuit but respects Michael Blanco. Despite Blanco’s offer to consult during production, he claims exclusion from the project is “disrespectful.”

Blanco’s attorneys issued a cease-and-desist letter to Netflix and Vergara’s representatives, alleging commercial exploitation. Michael Blanco, Griselda’s only living son with life rights agreements, emphasizes the importance of showing respect when telling his mother’s story.

Netflix claims in court that Blanco previously agreed to use his information, which Blanco’s attorney disputes. Benjamin Mordes insists that Netflix is drawing on ideas from interviews documented in notes and writings unique to Blanco.

Netflix’s “Griselda” follows the rise and fall of infamous cartel leader Griselda Blanco, also known as “the female Pablo Escobar.” As legal battles play out, the series continues to captivate viewers with its depiction of Blanco’s turbulent life.

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Talia M.

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