The Rise of Alice Braga: Behind the Scenes with the Star of Queen of the South

In 2016, a dark and intense drama premiered on the USA Network, captivating audiences with its gripping storylines, complex characters, and stunning performances. Queen of the South, a series based on the novel "La Reina del Sur" by Arturo Pérez-Reverte, follows the journey of Teresa Mendoza, a Mexican woman who rises to become the leader of a cartel. At the heart of the show is Alice Braga, the talented actress who brings Teresa to life on screen. In this article, we'll take a closer look at Braga's impressive journey, her experiences on set, and her thoughts on playing such a complex and multifaceted character.

Alice Braga was born in São Paulo, Brazil, in 1983, to a German mother and a Brazilian father. She began her acting career as a child, appearing in several Brazilian films and television shows before moving to Los Angeles in her early 20s to pursue bigger roles. She quickly gained attention for her performances in films like "I Am Legend" and "Predators," showcasing her versatility as an actress.

When it came to playing Teresa Mendoza, Braga threw herself fully into the role, immersed in the world of cartels and crime. "I was drawn to the complexity of Teresa's character, her intelligence and strength, but also her humanity," Braga explains in an interview. "I wanted to explore all facets of her personality, to make her relatable, but also to keep her mysterious and intriguing."

Braga's dedication to the role is evident in each episode of Queen of the South. She worked closely with the show's creator, M.A. Fortin, to ensure that Teresa's transformation from a small-time smuggler to a ruthless and cunning cartel leader felt authentic and realistic. "Alice is a true artist, always pushing the boundaries of what's possible on screen," Fortin praises. "She's an incredible asset to our show, bringing a depth and nuance to Teresa that's truly captivating."

One of the most impressive aspects of Braga's performance is her ability to convey Teresa's emotional vulnerability without ever compromising the character's tough exterior. "For me, it's all about subtlety," Braga reflects. "I want to show that even the strongest, most powerful women have fears and insecurities. Teresa is no exception – she's a product of her environment, shaped by her past experiences and relationships."

Braga's research for the role took her deep into the heart of Mexico's cartel culture, where she met with ex-traffickers, victims of violence, and law enforcement officials. Her experiences had a profound impact on her, shaping her perspective on the show's themes and storylines. "It's a delicate balance between reality and fiction," Braga notes. "We're not glorifying the world of crime – we're exploring it in all its complexity, showing the human cost of violence and desperation."

Throughout the series, Braga's on-screen relationships with her co-stars, particularly Justina Machado and Veronica Falcón, adding a rich layer of drama and tension to the show. "Alice and I have become close friends over the years," Machado shares. "We trust each other implicitly, which makes for some incredible scenes on screen."

Behind the scenes, Braga is known for her professionalism, work ethic, and generosity. "She's a true collaborator, always open to new ideas and willing to take risks," an anonymous crew member shares. "Despite the demands of the show, Alice always shows up with a positive attitude, ready to give her all to the production."

In addition to her work on Queen of the South, Braga has pursued other projects, including a film role in "The Changeover" (2017) and a guest appearance on the hit TV series "Sense8." As an advocate for social justice, Braga has lent her voice to charity campaigns and used her platform to raise awareness about key issues.

As we conclude this look at Alice Braga's journey as the lead actress of Queen of the South, it's clear that her impact on the show extends far beyond her on-screen performance. Braga's dedication, passion, and creativity have made a lasting impression on the cast, crew, and audience alike. As the show continues to captivate viewers with its addictive blend of drama, action, and heart, Braga's talented portrayal of Teresa Mendoza remains at its core – a testament to her skill and a reminder of the transformative power of great storytelling.

Queen of the South Stats and Facts

• Premiered: June 2016, USA Network

• Genre: Crime, Drama

• Number of seasons: 5

• Number of episodes: 56

• Main cast: Alice Braga, Veronica Falcón, Justina Machado, Hemky Madera

Notable Roles and Accolades

• Notable films: "I Am Legend" (2007), "Predators" (2010)

• Notable TV shows: "Sense8" (2017, guest appearance)

• Awards: Winner of the Imagen Award for Best Actress – Television (2017, 2019)

• Recognition: Golden Globe Nomination, Best Actress in a Television Series (2018)