If you’re fascinated by intense crime dramas that chronicle the arduous journey of an individual’s ascent to power in a ruthless criminal underworld, then “Queen of the South” is a thrilling and often brutal series. Based on Arturo Pérez-Reverte’s acclaimed novel “La Reina del Sur” (which also inspired a popular Telemundo telenovela), this show follows a woman who builds her own vast drug empire after fleeing for her life.
What is “Queen of the South” about?
“Queen of the South” tells the story of Teresa Mendoza (Alice Braga), a poor young woman from the impoverished barrio of Culiacán, Sinaloa, Mexico. Her life is irrevocably changed when her drug-runner boyfriend, Güero Dávila, is suddenly murdered by a powerful Mexican cartel. Knowing they’re coming for her next, Teresa is forced to flee.
The series then chronicles her remarkable and perilous journey as she seeks refuge and ultimately builds her own criminal empire. Her path takes her from Mexico to the United States (primarily Dallas, Texas) and eventually across international borders. Along the way, she is forced to learn the brutal rules of the drug trade, forming unlikely alliances, making difficult moral compromises, and outsmarting dangerous adversaries.
Teresa’s transformation is central to the show. She evolves from a vulnerable survivor to a cunning, formidable, and ruthless “queenpin,” constantly balancing her ambition with a strong sense of loyalty to those who stand by her. The series is packed with action, betrayals, strategic maneuvers, and high-stakes confrontations as Teresa navigates the treacherous world of cartels, rival gangs, and even corrupt government forces who seek to control or destroy her burgeoning empire. Flash-forwards throughout the series hint at her eventual reign at the top, adding a layer of tragic destiny to her ongoing struggles.
Why “Queen of the South” is a compelling watch:
- Empowering Female Protagonist: Teresa Mendoza’s evolution from a victim to a powerful and intelligent leader is a central draw. She’s a complex character who defies expectations.
- High-Stakes Action & Thrills: The show is consistently suspenseful, featuring intense shootouts, betrayals, and constant threats that keep the audience on the edge of their seats.
- Intricate Plotting: The narrative is complex, with multiple factions, shifting loyalties, and a sprawling network of criminal enterprises that Teresa must navigate.
- Exploration of the Drug Trade: It offers a gritty and often unflinching look at the inner workings of drug cartels, the lives of those involved, and the immense risks and rewards.
- International Scope: As Teresa’s empire grows, the show takes viewers to various locations, adding to the sense of a vast and interconnected criminal world.
- Strong Supporting Cast: The series features memorable characters who become allies or enemies, including the loyal Pote Galvez and the complex James Valdez.
Where to Watch “Queen of the South”:
“Queen of the South” aired on USA Network in the U.S. and concluded after five seasons.
All five seasons are currently available to stream on:
- Netflix
You can also purchase individual episodes or full seasons on digital platforms such as:
- Amazon Prime Video
- Apple TV
- Google Play Movies & TV
- Fandango At Home (Vudu)
If you enjoyed “Queen of the South,” you might also like:
- Narcos (Netflix) / Narcos: Mexico (Netflix): These series offer a more historical, documentary-style look at the rise and fall of infamous drug kingpins and the law enforcement efforts to stop them.
- Ozark (Netflix): A gripping crime drama about a financial planner who relocates his family to the Ozarks to launder money for a Mexican drug cartel, known for its intense suspense and moral ambiguity.
- Snowfall (Hulu): Explores the origins of the crack cocaine epidemic in Los Angeles in the 1980s, following multiple interconnected characters, including a young drug kingpin.
- Breaking Bad (Netflix): A highly acclaimed series about a high school chemistry teacher who turns to manufacturing and selling crystal meth, building a vast criminal enterprise.
- La Reina del Sur (Netflix/Telemundo): The original Spanish-language telenovela adaptation of the same novel, starring Kate del Castillo as Teresa Mendoza, if you prefer the original version or want to see a different take on the story.