The Snitch Cartel: Origins

Inside the Rise of The Snitch Cartel: Origins: Netflix’s Gritty Colombian Crime Saga

The Snitch Cartel: Origins (2022) isn’t just another cartel drama—it’s a deep dive into Colombia’s criminal underworld, told through the lens of real-life events. Created by Camilo Villamizar and produced by Caracol Televisión, the series landed on Netflix with a bang, offering 60 episodes of high-stakes crime, betrayal, and moral ambiguity . But what’s the story behind the story? latestnetflix.com's take is that here’s what we know about the making of this addictive thriller.

From Real Life to the Screen: The Series’ Dark Inspiration

The Snitch Cartel: Origins is a prequel to the 2008 series El Cartel de los Sapos, itself based on the memoir of Andrés López López, a former drug trafficker turned informant. The new series traces the rise of two brothers navigating Colombia’s violent drug trade, blending fact with fiction to create a tense, immersive narrative . While the original Snitch Cartel focused on López’s later years, Origins rewinds to the 1980s and 1990s, exploring how the cartel’s empire was built—and how loyalty was its first casualty.

The show’s gritty realism is no accident. Villamizar and the writers leaned heavily on López’s accounts, though creative liberties were taken to heighten drama. The result? A series that feels uncomfortably authentic, from the lavish excess of cartel bosses to the brutal street-level violence .

The Cast: Bringing Colombia’s Underworld to Life

Juan Pablo Urrego, who plays one of the lead brothers, has called The Snitch Cartel: Origins the “whole package”—a mix of raw emotion, high production value, and a story that resonates beyond Colombia’s borders . Urrego’s co-star Sebastián Osorio, who portrays the other brother, delivers a performance that’s equal parts charismatic and chilling, embodying the moral decay of a man seduced by power.

But the ensemble doesn’t stop there. Gustavo Angarita Jr., Patricia Tamayo, and Estefanía Piñeres round out a cast that brings depth to a world where no one is truly innocent. Behind the scenes, the actors reportedly immersed themselves in the era, studying archival footage and even meeting with former cartel associates (under strict supervision) to nail the mannerisms and slang of the time .

• Juan Pablo Urrego (lead brother): Known for his role in Narcos, Urrego’s casting was a coup for the series, lending it instant credibility .
• Sebastián Osorio (co-lead): A rising star in Colombian TV, Osorio’s portrayal of a man torn between family and crime has drawn praise for its nuance.
• Gustavo Angarita Jr. (cartel heavy): A veteran of Colombian crime dramas, Angarita’s menacing presence adds weight to the series’ darker moments.

Netflix’s Gamble: Why This Series Stands Out

With 60 episodes, The Snitch Cartel: Origins is a marathon, not a sprint—and Netflix was betting big on its international appeal. The streaming giant has a history of snapping up Latin American crime dramas (Narcos, Griselda), but Origins distinguishes itself by focusing on the origins of the cartel, not just its downfall. The series’ pacing, which balances slow-burn tension with explosive violence, has kept viewers hooked .

Production wasn’t without challenges. Filming in Colombia meant navigating real-world security concerns, especially in locations tied to the country’s violent past. The crew reportedly worked closely with local authorities to ensure safety, though specifics remain scarce . What’s clear is the result: a visually stunning series that captures the opulence and squalor of Colombia’s drug trade, from neon-lit nightclubs to rain-soaked slums.

The Verdict: A Must-Watch—or Overhyped?

The Snitch Cartel: Origins has all the ingredients of a hit: a gripping true-crime backbone, a powerhouse cast, and Netflix’s global reach. But does it live up to the hype? Early reactions suggest it’s a mixed bag. Fans of Narcos will find familiar territory, but the series’ slower first act and sprawling episode count have divided audiences . Still, for those willing to commit, Origins delivers a rare blend of historical weight and binge-worthy drama.

One thing’s certain: this isn’t just another cartel story. It’s a character study of ambition, betrayal, and the cost of survival in a world where trust is the most dangerous currency of all.