A gripping Netflix crime drama has captivated audiences around the world, with viewers calling it the “best show they’ve ever watched.” Many fans admit to binge-watching all five seasons — more than once.
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| Credit: USA Network |
From its opening episode, the series made a powerful impression. One viewer described it as “the most exceptional show in recent years — packed with action, realism, drama, betrayal, romance, and suspense. It has everything to keep you hooked. The lead cast’s performance is phenomenal!”
Another fan echoed the sentiment: “One of the greatest series I’ve ever seen. It had such a deep impact on me. The acting was flawless. I recommend it to everyone.”
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| Credit: USA Network |
A third viewer wrote, “A friend suggested it to me, and I’m so glad I watched. As the story unfolded, my curiosity grew. It’s absolutely addictive.”
A fourth added, “I’ve been following this show since Season 1, and it has never let me down. The performances are consistently outstanding.”
“It’s my all-time favorite series,” shared another fan. “Brilliant characters, smart plots, and constant twists and turns that keep you on your toes.”
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| Credit: USA Network |
The Making of a Cult Hit
The show was created by director Joshua John Miller and writer M.A. Fortin. It's an American adaptation of the Spanish-language telenovela La Reina del Sur, itself based on the bestselling novel by Spanish author Arturo Pérez-Reverte.
Brazilian actress Alice Braga, known for her roles in Dark Matter and I Am Legend, plays the lead role. She is joined by Peter Gadiot and Mexican actress Veronica Falcón.
The series, originally aired on the USA Network, has earned an IMDb score of 8/10 and holds a 68% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
Plot Summary
According to the show’s official synopsis:
"After her drug-dealing partner is murdered, Teresa flees Mexico and builds a new life in Dallas, where she sets her sights on becoming the nation’s most powerful drug trafficker while seeking justice for her lover’s death."
The drama draws inspiration from real-life events. The novel La Reina del Sur is loosely based on Marllory Chacón, a notorious female drug lord from Guatemala. Nicknamed “Queen of the South” by local media, Chacón surrendered to U.S. authorities in 2014.
Lasting Legacy
The series premiered in 2016 and concluded after its fifth season. Despite ending, it continues to attract new fans on Netflix.
In an interview with Forbes, lead actress Alice Braga highlighted the importance of representation:
"It's essential to have Latinos in front of the camera. Representation matters because when people see themselves on screen, they connect with the story."
She added: “There’s a huge Latino audience, and if we’re not included in decision-making roles like directors, writers, and producers, then we miss out on authentic stories from that point of view.”
Although Queen of the South built a loyal following, USA Network eventually ended the series as part of a broader move away from original programming.
Still, its legacy lives on — and the full series is available for streaming now on Netflix.
About the Author
Kyra is a content editor at IGV, covering film, television, and celebrity news. She holds a degree in Broadcast Journalism and a master’s in Documentary Production from Nottingham Trent University. Her previous experience includes work at ITV Tonight and freelance documentary filmmaking.
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