Skip to main content
Celeb Net WorthsCELEBNETWORTHS

'Narcos' Favorite Damián Alcázar Trades Drug Cartels for Detective Work in New Thriller-Comedy 'Rookies'

3 min read 8

Damián Alcázar is swapping the drug wars for detective work in 'Rookies,' a new thriller-comedy that marks the TV directorial debut of acclaimed Colombian filmmaker José Luis Rugeles.

A New Direction for Alcázar

Damián Alcázar, the Mexican actor who became a household name playing the cunning Cali drug lord Gilberto Rodríguez Orejuela in Netflix's hit series 'Narcos,' is taking on a completely different kind of role. The veteran performer has signed on to star in 'Rookies,' an upcoming Latino thriller-comedy that puts a fresh spin on the classic gumshoe detective story. This marks an exciting evolution for Alcázar, who has built his reputation portraying some of Latin America's most notorious criminal figures.

A Dream Team Assembly

Alcázar won't be flying solo on this project. Joining him is Colombian actor Christian Tappán, whose credits include the wildly popular telenovela 'La Reina del Sur' and the gripping Netflix series 'The Hijacking of Flight 601.' Together, these two accomplished performers are expected to bring gravitas and sharp comedic timing to what creators are describing as a noir-tinged comedy with plenty of twists and turns.

Behind the Camera

The series marks a significant milestone for acclaimed Colombian director José Luis Rugeles, who will be making his television debut as both writer and director. Rugeles first turned heads at the 2015 Cannes Film Festival when his drama 'Alias María' premiered in the prestigious Un Certain Regard section. Since then, he's established himself as one of Colombia's most versatile filmmakers, directing 2022's 'Rebellion' and the critically acclaimed 'The Awakening,' which became a bestseller at December's Ventana Sur market in Buenos Aires.

What to Expect

'Rookies' is being positioned as a buzzy new entry in the Latino content space, blending the intrigue of a detective story with the humor of a comedy. While details about the plot remain under wraps, industry insiders suggest the show will explore the misadventures of two unlikely partners navigating the criminal underworld. though this time from the investigative side of the equation. With talent like Alcázar and Tappán leading the charge, and Rugeles bringing his distinctive cinematic vision to the small screen, 'Rookies' is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated Latin American series in development.

A Growing Trend

The announcement comes as streaming platforms continue to invest heavily in high-quality Spanish-language content. Shows featuring Latino casts and stories have found massive audiences worldwide, and 'Rookies' appears poised to ride that wave. With its blend of established stars and fresh creative talent, the series could mark another breakthrough moment for Colombian television on the global stage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is starring in 'Rookies'?
Damián Alcázar and Christian Tappán are attached to star. Alcázar is best known for his role as Gilberto Rodríguez Orejuela in 'Narcos,' while Tappán has appeared in 'La Reina del Sur' and 'The Hijacking of Flight 601.'
Who is directing 'Rookies'?
José Luis Rugeles, an acclaimed Colombian film director, is making his television debut as both writer and director. He previously gained international recognition with 'Alias María' at Cannes 2015.
What is 'Rookies' about?
The series is described as a noir-tinged thriller-comedy with a gumshoe detective theme. While plot details remain scarce, it's expected to follow two unlikely partners navigating investigative work in the criminal underworld.
What other projects has Damián Alcázar been in?
Alcázar is best known for playing Cali cartel boss Gilberto Rodríguez Orejuela in Netflix's 'Narcos.' He has appeared in numerous Mexican films and television productions throughout his career.
When did José Luis Rugeles gain recognition as a filmmaker?
Rugeles broke through at the 2015 Cannes Film Festival when his film 'Alias María' premiered in the Un Certain Regard section. He later directed 'Rebellion' (2022) and 'The Awakening,' which was a bestseller at the 2023 Ventana Sur market.