From the recording studio to the set of a hit Netflix series, Bad Bunny, the global music sensation, has made a surprising and impactful leap into acting. Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, the artist behind Bad Bunny, marks his acting debut in the gritty world of Narcos: Mexico Season 3, stepping into the shoes of a complex and real-life figure within the tumultuous drug trade. This season of the acclaimed crime drama offers Bad Bunny a platform to showcase his versatility beyond music, immersing himself in a narrative that has captivated audiences worldwide. While known for commanding stages and wrestling rings – with appearances in WWE Raw and WrestleMania 37 – Narcos: Mexico Season 3 presents a different kind of stage, one where he embodies the character of Everardo Arturo “El Kitty” Paez.
Who is El Kitty in Narcos: Mexico Season 3?
In Narcos: Mexico Season 3, Bad Bunny embodies Everardo Arturo “El Kitty” Paez, a character that adds a layer of youthful exuberance and danger to the series. El Kitty is depicted as a privileged young man who gets drawn into the dark underbelly of the drug cartels. As a member of the “Narco Juniors,” he becomes a crucial henchman for the notorious Arellano Félix family, significantly contributing to their operations. His primary role involves the transportation of drugs, leveraging his connections and perceived untouchability due to his social status.
El Kitty isn’t just involved in logistics; he’s also deeply entrenched in the violent enforcement side of the cartel. The series portrays him as being responsible for numerous deaths, highlighting the ruthless nature of his character. His youthful energy and connections become assets for the Tijuana cartel, especially during the escalating war against the rival Sinaloa cartel. Working closely with the imposing drug lord Ramón Arellano Félix, El Kitty’s contribution extends to recruiting other affluent youths into the cartel’s operations, expanding their reach and influence across borders. This portrayal showcases a chilling aspect of the drug trade, where privilege and youth are weaponized in the pursuit of power and profit.
The Real-Life Persona Behind El Kitty
The character of El Kitty in Narcos: Mexico is not merely a work of fiction; it’s rooted in the grim reality of the Mexican drug war. Everardo Arturo Paez was indeed a real figure who operated within the orbit of the Arellano Félix cartel. His involvement spanned years, making him a significant player before his eventual capture by Mexican authorities in 1997.
The real El Kitty faced serious charges. Reports from The Los Angeles Times at the time of his arrest detailed six counts of directing cocaine trafficking into the United States. His case led to extradition to the U.S. in 2001, where he faced the consequences of his actions. In 2002, The San Diego Tribune reported his sentencing to a 30-year prison term after pleading guilty to charges of cocaine trafficking and money laundering. This real-life counterpart to Bad Bunny’s character underscores the authenticity that Narcos: Mexico strives for, blending dramatization with factual events and figures. The series doesn’t just entertain; it offers a glimpse into the lives and consequences of those involved in the drug trade, making El Kitty’s story all the more impactful.
Bad Bunny’s Perspective on Portraying El Kitty
Bad Bunny’s decision to take on the role of El Kitty was fueled by a genuine appreciation for the Narcos franchise. As a long-time fan of the original Narcos series, he expressed enthusiasm for Narcos: Mexico from its inception. Speaking with Entertainment Weekly, Bad Bunny shared his excitement: “I loved the original Narcos, so when they announced Narcos: Mexico, I was sold; I’m honored to be a part of the show.”
He also found a personal connection with his character, particularly El Kitty’s persona. “Kitty is a charismatic guy who loved looking fresh. He likes nice things, and I can really relate to that!” Bad Bunny remarked, highlighting a point of relatability with the character’s flamboyant style and charisma, despite the dark context of his actions.
The casting of Bad Bunny was also a strategic move by the show’s creators. Showrunner Carlo Bernard recounted the office’s reaction to the casting, telling Entertainment Weekly, “Everybody under 30 in the office lost their s**. I was like, ‘Oh, I should probably pay more attention to this!'” This anecdote underscores Bad Bunny’s massive appeal and the show’s savvy decision to tap into his fanbase, bringing a fresh audience to Narcos: Mexico* Season 3.
Dive into the world of Narcos: Mexico Season 1-3, now streaming on Netflix.
